The Western New Mexico University Board of Regents met for their annual first meeting of the new calendar year in Santa Fe on Thursday, January 29.
The January meeting occurs each year in the capital city to coincide with the activities of the state legislature and to allow board members to hear updates on higher education initiatives by cabinet makers and other statewide leaders.
Regent members listened to presentations by Dr. Dan Lopez, President of the Council of University Presidents (CUP); Dr. David Lepre, Executive Director of CUP; Dr. Barbara Damron, NM Higher Education Department Secretary Designee; David Abbey, Legislative Finance Committee Director; and Clayton Abbey, New Mexico Independent Community Colleges Executive Director.
In regular business, the Board approved the university’s financial audit report for the 2013-2014 year. The audit was considered unqualified, meaning that the independent auditor found the university’s financial statements sound and free from material misstatements.
Two members were recognized for their service on the Board. Student Regent Camille Hawkins, a graduate student from Show Low, Arizona was presented with departing gifts for serving her final meeting. Regent member Tony Trujillo also served his last meeting after 12 years of service to the Board. He will be honored with a doctorate degree of humane letters at the May commencement ceremony. Trujillo is a WNMU alum and has served in many leadership positions for WNMU and several community entities.
New member Dr. Daniel Patterson was introduced to the Board. Patterson has a 41-year career in education as a coach, principal and superintendent.
