Varela’s journey was forged through life’s grueling trials. Her story as a WNMU Mustang is one of persistent strength, beginning in the shadow of a challenging marriage and an exceptionally difficult divorce process. Throughout those years, Varela dedicated herself to her children’s well-being, often setting her own aspirations aside to put her children first as she navigated the complexities of single parenthood.

The decision to return to college was born from a fierce desire to reclaim her narrative and provide a visible roadmap for her children’s futures. In the wake of her divorce, while facing intense financial strain and emotional exhaustion, Varela was confronted with words meant to diminish her spirit, “You are not going to do anything in your life, and you are nothing without me.” Those words stayed in her mind, but rather than breaking her, she turned them into a personal challenge. She decided to prove that her worth was not defined by another’s estimation, but by her own determination to succeed.

The academic journey that followed was far from easy. Sandra faced significant health hurdles, managing a seizure disorder alongside the invisible but heavy burdens of depression and anxiety. Despite these persistent challenges, she committed to her education “little by little,” often taking only one or two classes per semester to balance her rigorous coursework with her responsibilities at home. This deliberate pace allowed her to remain a present, supportive role model for her children while she slowly but surely pursued her calling as an early childhood educator.

“My time at WNMU has been about sacrifice and stubborn hope,” Varela shared. “Raising my children while enduring so much hardship, I tried to give them guidance and love, especially when times were darkest. Going back to my courses after the divorce was my way of showing them what it means to fight.”

Varela’s choice of major—Early Childhood and Family Support—is a direct reflection of her life’s work. Having spent years advocating for her own family and navigating the intricacies of child development as a devoted parent, Varela is uniquely prepared to support other families in the Silver City community. Varela’s degree is more than a professional credential; it is a formal extension of the empathy, patience, and resilience she has practiced every day within her own household.

As the Varela family prepares for graduation day, they stand as a powerful symbol of the “Mustang Way”—a community where persistence is rewarded, and family is a foundational strength.

Mancilla is a fine arts major who will receive her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and an Associate degree in Graphic Design in May. When she walks across the WNMU commencement stage, Mancilla concludes a transformative five-year journey that began with athletic aspirations abruptly derailed.

“I actually came here to play volleyball,” Mancilla recalls. “And on my third day in Silver City, I tore my ACL—on the very first day of preseason practice.”

What at first felt like a devastating setback turned out to be the space Mancilla needed to reconsider her path. Initially pursuing education, she began to engage deeply with Silver City’s artistic community and the surrounding wilderness, which inspired her to redirect her studies.

She immersed herself in the fine arts program, finding key mentors in professors Matt Drisell (painting), Ed Brandt (graphic design), and Jim Pendergast (photography).

Mancilla credits the small class sizes at WNMU for fostering invaluable, one-on-one mentorship—especially in the visual arts. “They get to know you,” Mancilla said. “When you conceptualize, they understand where you’re coming from and help you find your vision.”

One of Mancilla’s most significant experiences was classes with Brandt. His emphasis on visual communication and brand identity reshaped her understanding of graphic design. Mancilla used what she learned in Brandt’s classes when marketing the university’s 2023 outdoor summer program.

Mancilla designed a new logo and developed comprehensive brand guidelines after realizing many students were unaware of the program’s offerings. “Getting to have those meaningful experiences like backpacking and whitewater rafting for free—learning how to do that—was special, and I wanted more students to know what they could experience. Coming from Phoenix, I didn’t have seasons or access to the wilderness just 20 minutes away,” Mancilla explained. The connection to the land and Silver City community became a central theme in her life and art.

Mancilla’s impact at WNMU extended beyond the arts and outdoor programs; she served in student government for three years, serving as vice president her senior year. In this role, Mancilla helped advocate for the campus environment, and successfully supported lobbying for a $220,000 request for irrigation infrastructure. Mancilla also began collaborating with the WNMU urban forestry program to help design a campus arboretum.

Her commitment to environmental advocacy grew after an apprenticeship a few years ago with the Semilla Project in Albuquerque. There, Mancilla focused on watershed management, wildfire mitigation, and indigenous-based principles of reciprocity.

Reflecting on her growth over the past five years, Mancilla said, “I am such a different person. I am much more resilient in many ways. I feel like I have a voice now.”

Looking to the future, Mancilla plans to continue working with her hands and serving the environment through creative solutions. She emphasizes that the outdoor program at WNMU is a keystone program and hopes that future students will continue to build a relationship with the unique and beautiful environment surrounding the campus.

Guerrero’s professional life began in 2004, immediately following her high school graduation. She stepped directly into the high-stakes environment of emergency services, serving as a 911 dispatcher. For ten years, she was the steady, calm voice on the other end of the line during the community’s most critical moments. This foundational decade in public safety instilled in her a unique ability to remain composed under pressure and gave her a front-row seat to the challenges facing local families. While this role provided a vital service, Guerrero eventually felt a pull toward a different form of advocacy—one that focused on long-term guidance and the proactive development of the next generation rather than immediate crisis response.

Guerrero attended WNMU as an undergraduate in 2015 and successfully earned her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. During this period of academic growth, she transitioned into the educational sphere, accepting a position as an IT technician at her local high school in Deming. Although her official duties were technical, Guerreros’ natural inclination toward mentorship and student support quickly became evident to those around her. Students found themselves stopping by her office not just for hardware fixes, but for the supportive environment Guerrero naturally created. Even during a brief period working with the New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department (CYFD), Guerrero’s heart remained tethered to the unique energy and potential found within the high school setting.

“I genuinely love helping students, families, and anyone who needs support,” Guerrero said. “I feel that helping others is simply part of who I am. People often feel comfortable opening up to me, and I have always valued being someone who listens without judgment. I especially try to support those who may not have a strong support system elsewhere.”

It was this inherent empathy and the rapport Guerrero built with the student body that caught the attention of the school’s professional counseling staff. Recognizing that she was already making a tangible impact on student well-being through her positive engagement and reliable presence, they encouraged her to formalize her natural talents. They saw a counselor long before she held the title. Their belief in her potential led Guerrero to apply to the graduate counseling program at WNMU, a decision she notes she has never regretted.

Currently working as a counselor for academics at Deming High School, Guerrero plans to take the state school counseling practice exam to become licensed as a high school counselor. She sees her role as more than a career. For Guerrero, it is a lifelong commitment to the “adopted” students she has mentored. “The ultimate reward is watching these young adults graduate and become independent, knowing I played a part in their stability.”

Guerrero’s story is a cornerstone of the WNMU mission: empowering individuals to transform their own lives so they, in turn, can transform their communities. Her transition from 911 dispatch to the counseling office represents a significant shift from crisis intervention to crisis prevention. By providing students with the emotional tools and support systems necessary to navigate the complexities of young adulthood, Guerrero is helping to build a more resilient regional community.

For Hendren, the path to May 2026 was fueled by a drive to prove that dedication brings transformation. This milestone means more than words can express because it is bigger than a degree; it shows what’s possible for her family and her community. She wanted her children to see that commitment makes any goal attainable, no matter the obstacles.

Hendren’s path was anything but traditional. While at WNMU, she has been a ‘quadruple threat,’ successfully managing the roles of a full-time student, as well as a mother, a track coach, and an active community member. The discipline required to balance academic rigor with parenting and coaching now guides her leadership philosophy.

Hendren often reflects on the “lightbulb moments” she experienced in the classroom, particularly in her upper-level mathematics courses. She recalls how the complexity of the subject matter initially felt daunting, yet the structure and logic of math eventually became a source of empowerment. This journey from uncertainty to mastery is exactly what she intends to share with her future students. “I want my children, athletes, and students to see that real accomplishments come from sustained hard work and the courage to ask for help,” Hendren says.

Hendren mentioned the residency program while taking classes at WNMU as particularly instrumental for her as it allowed Hendren to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world classroom setting. During her residency, Hendren also discovered that her background as a coach gave her a unique edge in classroom management and student engagement, allowing her to connect with learners who might otherwise struggle with the abstract nature of mathematics.

While Hendren’s personal resolve was the engine of her success, she credits the WNMU faculty with providing the fuel. She highlights the university’s unique environment, where support transcends departmental lines. “The professors at WNMU made all the difference because they didn’t just teach content; they taught resilience,” explained Hendren. She indicated that professor Hendren encountered believed in her, challenged her, and encouraged her to grow. They often saw potential in Hendren that she didn’t see in herself, especially during those semesters when balancing her residency with home life felt nearly impossible. That support extended beyond the classroom to Hendren’s family, as her professors understood the gravity of her commitment as a first-generation student and a parent.

Beyond the campus walls, Hendren points to her husband as the cornerstone of her academic journey. From late-night study sessions at the kitchen table to the stress of final exams, she emphasizes that this achievement is a shared victory. Her husband’s willingness to step in with the children and manage the household during her most demanding weeks allowed her to focus on the high-level coursework required for her double major. “This achievement belongs to him and my children just as much as it belongs to me; we all sacrificed time together so I could reach this goal,” Hendren said.

Graduation in May is a transition for Hendren, not an exit. Driven by her passion for education and a desire to deepen her expertise, she has already committed to continuing her studies at WNMU. Following her double bachelor’s, she will begin her Master’s degree program, further cementing her role as a leader in New Mexico’s educational landscape. As a first-generation graduate, Hendren is blazing a trail for her family, students, and the Silver City community, proving that the finish line is only the beginning of a new chapter.

• One Stop Pantry: Closed April 3.
• Fitness Center: Closed April 3-5.
• Museum: Closed April 3.

For some, the path to a college degree is a straight line, but for Western New Mexico University (WNMU) alum Chris Cochran, it was a 35-year journey defined by resilience, Mustang pride, and a life-changing connection to Silver City. Cochran, a former Mustang quarterback and successful Oklahoma entrepreneur, returned to his roots to complete his MBA, proving that the door to higher education at WNMU never really closes.

At the heart of��Ground Truthing��is a radical collaboration with the living world. Blanchette moves beyond traditional representation. She uses “biological participants”—specifically bacterial and yeast cultures (SCOBY)—grown with water drawn from the Gila River. By using these local water cultures, the artist lets the river act as a primary creator, not just a subject.

The exhibition features a striking mix of materials reflecting Silver City’s history. Blanchette pairs rocks from Boston Hill—a site known for its industrial mining legacy—with mycelium. Mycelium, the root-like structure of fungi, can reclaim and repair compromised soil. This pairing creates a dialogue between rigid extraction history and the flexible potential for healing.

For Blanchette, New Mexico’s visible environmental dualities sparked immediate interest. “Having the Gila Wilderness next to a mining town is interesting,” she said. “We have to extract to exist, but we can consider other ways to impact ecosystems.”

The aesthetic of��Ground Truthing��is defined by visceral, skin-like membranes. Blanchette uses hanging panels to show organic textures that metaphorically express the desert’s fragile state. These “skins” were as unpredictable as the environments they represent. During installation, several mycelium panels curled and twisted in reaction to Silver City’s arid, high-altitude air. Blanchette did not correct these movements. Instead, she embraced them, citing the unpredictability of living organisms as central to her method.

“I view these organic membranes as both a protective layer and a symbol of vulnerability,” Blanchette said. “You must be attuned to your materials to fit your concept, especially when working with natural materials.”

Blanchette also connected with local environmental organizations, including the Gila Resources Information Project (GRIP), as part of her research for the exhibition. This community-centric approach mirrors the unique culture she found during her time in the region. Compared to larger urban hubs, Blanchette noted a sense of real community in Silver City and a WNMU. “It feels like there are more things happening here—a lot of community events. I’ve never experienced a community so close-knit before,” Blanchette said.

[Pictured: Lightboxes filled with water from the Gila River, spotlighting the live growth of SCOBY (bacteria and yeast cultures), lit from below.]

This partnership represents more than a change in apparel—it marks a university-wide branding evolution and a renewed commitment to competitive excellence. Beginning in July, every Mustang student-athlete will take the field, court, and course outfitted in Nike’s industry-leading performance gear, featuring the iconic swoosh recognized across the global sports landscape.

The collaboration also ensures that WNMU Athletics aligns itself with one of the most respected and innovative brands in sports. From advanced moisture-wicking fabrics to thermoregulated designs, Nike’s cutting-edge technology will directly benefit Mustang athletes competing in the unique high-altitude and desert climate conditions of Southwest New Mexico. Whether battling the elements at Ben Altamirano Field or competing across Lone Star Conference venues, WNMU athletes will be equipped to perform at the highest level.

“This partnership represents a defining moment for Mustang Athletics,” said Interim Athletic Director Matt Enriquez. “Nike sets the standard in competitive athletic apparel and footwear, and we’re proud that our student-athletes will compete in top-tier gear while representing Purple and Gold. This expanded partnership was made possible through BSN Sports, our trusted equipment and apparel provider, with whom we will be partnering for five years.”

Through BSN Sports, WNMU Athletics will also enhance its connection with fans and the broader community. The partnership introduces new opportunities for engagement, including the launch of customizable online pop-up stores. These platforms will allow fans, alumni, and supporters to purchase official Nike-branded Mustang gear, while individual teams will also have the ability to create sport-specific merchandise offerings throughout the year.

In addition to apparel and equipment upgrades, the partnership includes a comprehensive visual rebrand across WNMU Athletics facilities. Fans can expect to see Nike branding integrated throughout key venues, including Ben Altamirano Field, Drag’s Court, The Yard, and the Mustang Tennis Complex. The university will also roll out updated banners, enhancements within the PE Complex, and new visual elements that unify the Mustang identity.

The transition reinforces WNMU’s “One Mustang” philosophy, bringing a cohesive and professional look to all athletic programs. Each team will compete in custom-designed uniforms that honor the university’s traditional purple and gold colors while elevating the overall brand presence across the region and beyond.

Fans will not have to wait long for a first look at the new era. Sneak peeks of updated branding elements and apparel will be unveiled in the coming weeks, with full uniform reveals scheduled for the summer ahead of the July 2026 launch.

Beyond aesthetics, the partnership underscores a broader institutional investment in student-athlete success. By aligning with Nike and BSN Sports, WNMU strengthens its ability to recruit, develop, and support athletes competing at the NCAA Division II level. The agreement complements ongoing efforts to modernize facilities, enhance training environments, and elevate the overall student-athlete experience in Silver City.

“This is about more than uniforms,” Enriquez added. “It’s about building a culture of excellence and positioning WNMU Athletics for sustained success. Our student-athletes work tirelessly, and they deserve resources that match their commitment. This partnership helps us deliver on that promise.”

For brand requests or permissions related to the new partnership and updated identity, please contact Dakota Spillers at��Dakota.Spillers@wnmu.edu.

As WNMU Athletics prepares to enter this exciting new chapter, one thing is clear: the future of Mustang Athletics will be defined by innovation, unity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence—now powered by Nike.��

Story courtesy of WNMU Athletics.

A highlight of this year is the $1,825,100 increase in the university’s Instruction & General (I&G) appropriation. This crucial funding supports daily academic operations that affect the student experience. The appropriation includes: $1,598,600 from the state’s funding formula ($171,500 as a non-formula adjustment for specific institutional needs), and $55,000 specifically for the expansion of the WNMU nursing programs.

The legislature’s House Bill 2 (HB2) provides a 1% compensation increase for all faculty and staff hired before March 1, 2026.

The Associated Students of Western New Mexico University (ASWNMU) helped secure $440,000 for student-focused improvements, including $220,000 for campus-wide irrigation infrastructure to boost sustainability and beautification, $120,000 for a new university vehicle to support student travel and activities, and $100,000 for a Student Collaborative Learning Hub offering a modern, technology-ready space for peer academic support.

WNMU Athletics secured $1,000,000 for essential athletic field improvements, providing safe, competitive facilities for Mustang student-athletes. The department also received nearly $1,000,000 for operating expenses over three years, ensuring stable financial support for sports programs.

Some initiatives faced challenges. A bill was introduced for $3,000,000 to modernize the university’s record-keeping systems, but the proposal did not receive a committee hearing and did not advance.

The university is preparing for the November 2026 General Election, a General Obligation Bond (GOB) year. If approved, WNMU will receive $3,000,000 for essential infrastructure improvements at the Silver City campus.

Among the earliest luminaries was Fortuna Guerrero, whose presence at the Normal School represented an essential bridge between the institution and the rich Hispano heritage of the Southwest. Graduating in 1912—just months before New Mexico achieved statehood—Guerrero overcame significant systemic barriers to complete the territory’s rigorous teacher-training curriculum. Her achievement was a landmark for the Silver City community, signaling a shift toward a more inclusive educational landscape.

Guerrero’s academic journey eventually led her to become the first Hispanic woman to receive a Master of Arts degree from the institution. This degree in pedagogy served as a foundation for future generations as she dedicated her career to teaching in the rural schools of Grant County. By educating the children of local mining and ranching families, she provided a vital link between the Spanish-speaking community and formal education, elevating local literacy through a lifetime of dedicated public service.

In the realm of physical education and athletics, few figures loom as large as Arlene Kilpatrick. A true trailblazer of the mid-20th century, Kilpatrick was the first woman physical education instructor in the state of New Mexico to earn her doctorate. Her commitment to the “sound mind in a sound body” philosophy transformed the department, ensuring that female students had the same access to rigorous physical training and scientific instruction as their male counterparts. Her legacy is etched into the very gymnasium floors where generations of New Mexican educators trained under her exacting standards.

The intellectual heartbeat of the university was often found in the English and Humanities departments, led by women of immense stature. Professor Cathie Bower and Mrs. Ruth Myra, an associate professor of English, were more than just educators; they were the guardians of the school’s literary standards. A fierce dedication to critical thinking marked Bower’s tenure, while Myra was known for her ability to connect classical literature to the evolving American experience. Together, they cultivated a campus atmosphere where they treated the written word with the highest reverence.

Similarly, Emma Marble Muir contributed a vital historical and literary perspective to the institution. Her work documenting local history and her involvement in Silver City’s cultural life ensured that the university remained deeply rooted in its geographic context. Muir understood that for WNMU to thrive, it had to honor the unique tapestry of the High Desert. These women ensured that the school was not just a training ground for teachers, but a sophisticated center for the arts and humanities.

The influence of WNMU women extended far beyond the campus gates. Anita Scott Coleman, an alum of the Normal School, rose to prominence as a significant voice in the Harlem Renaissance. Through her prolific short stories and essays, Coleman addressed themes of racial identity and social justice, proving that the education received in the quiet hills of Silver City could resonate on a national stage. Her success remains a point of immense pride for the university, serving as a reminder that WNMU has always been a springboard for world-changing talent.

The women who helped build WNMU also include the unnamed many—the registrars, the librarians, and the student leaders—who kept the university functioning during world wars and economic depressions. Their administrative grit and visionary leadership allowed the institution to evolve from a small teacher-training college into a comprehensive regional university. These women recognized that education was the most potent tool for social mobility and community development, and they worked tirelessly to keep the doors of opportunity open for all.

Associate Professor of Psychology, Jennifer Johnston, Ph.D., analyzed historical rosters of female faculty at WNMU and compared them to U.S. National Center for Education Statistics on gender representation in higher education. She said, “from 1890 to 2025, the percentage of women faculty at WNMU was always higher than the national average. From 1890-1910, more than half of faculty at WNMU were women, whereas colleges across the U.S. had only 20%. In the 1970s, even after including male-dominated majors, WNMU boasted 25% to 31% nationwide. Today, the gap has shrunk, but we have 54% women faculty, compared to the U.S., who is just below 50%. I was pleased to find that women were always leaders and major stakeholders at WNMU.”

From the first WNMU doctoral degree in physical education to the poetic resonances of the Harlem Renaissance, these women did more than teach; they built a foundation. They fostered a spirit of resilience that defines the university to this day.

Special thanks to Cecilia Jensen Bell, instrumental in providing photos and materials for the book Celebrating a Century of Higher Education in Southwest New Mexico��for the 1893 to 1993 Centennial. Photos for this article were sourced from this book. Bell is a past president and current Vice President of the Bayard Historic Preservation Society, and is also on the Oregon California Trail Association Board, and previously served as an adjunct professor at WNMU.