SANTA FE – More than 250 professionals representing 29 New Mexico colleges and universities attended the Second Annual Higher Education Technical Summit April 28 and 29 at Central New Mexico Community College.
The two-day event provided opportunities for professional development, support, and the exchange of best practices in administrative and financial operations within the state's higher education system.
Participants engaged in sessions covering critical topics such as capital outlay and heard presentations on financial aid, finance, academic policy, planning and research, and adult education.
“This outstanding event showcased HED’s commitment to excellence,” said Charles Ansell Complete College America, Vice President of Research, Policy, and Advocacy. “As we celebrate NMHED's 20th anniversary, it's evident that continued investment in colleges and universities remains crucial for advancing the State's mission of promoting efficiency, accountability, and student success across New Mexico's educational landscape."
Attendees also participated in specialized trainings delivered by both national and state partners, including organizations like Excelencia in Education, Escala Education Services, Inc., Complete College America, and the New Mexico Legislative Finance Committee. This collaborative approach ensured a rich and comprehensive learning experience for all participants.
“The New Mexico Higher Education Department was excited to offer trainings, a place to connect, and support for academic progress and institutional support,” said Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez. “The Higher Education Technical Summit offered a unique set of trainings and informational sessions for the state's public colleges and universities, empowering leaders in higher and adult education,”
The summit featured presentations that addressed key bills passed during the recent New Mexico legislative session and provided the latest information on FASFA (spell out on first reference). Attendees also had the opportunity to learn from college programs, including the New Mexico Basic Needs Consortium.
“Thank you to the New Mexico Higher Education Department for inviting Excelencia in Education to participate in this year’s summit,” said Dr. Jennifer Gomez-Chavez, Vice President for Institutional Engagement at Excelencia in Education. “We are honored to highlight our network of common cause and share resources available to institutions working to transform higher education to more intentionally serve Latino, and all, students,”
To strengthen connections and celebrate a significant milestone, a reception was held in collaboration with Complete College America. The event provided a preview of Complete College America Photo Library, which showcases Northern New Mexico College. In addition, a celebration of the 20th anniversary of the New Mexico Higher Education Department as a cabinet-level agency also took place.
Partners and sponsors included Complete College America along with 17 other local and national organizations. A full list can be found at hed.nm.gov.