I am really delighted to join the NMSU community as our new president. As I stated shortly after accepting the role, my family and I are honored to become part of the land-grant institution of the state of New Mexico. I am humbled by the responsibility that this role entails toward our campuses and communities around the state.  

NMSU has already become an amazingly welcoming place. I appreciate the affection and encouragement I have received so far to take on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. By working together, we will advance our mission as a land-grant, as well as the centrally important work to educate our students and grow the knowledge base of our research and creative works. Most importantly, we will grow our ability to build up and serve the people of New Mexico.  

Finally, we will continue the purposeful engagement with our communities in Las Cruces and Doña Ana County, Alamogordo and Grants; across our Extension offices in 33 counties; and in our relationships with tribal communities. And, by working together, we will ensure our efforts are truly community-based and in service of everyone’s needs. 

Valerio Ferme, Ph.D.
NMSU Incoming President

Dear fellow Aggies,
I hope you were able to join us for this year’s outstanding Aggie Homecoming weekend. The air was crisp, our Aggie footballers played their hearts out, and thousands of Aggie alums gathered to celebrate and cheer on our beloved university.

NMSU’s strength comes from the enduring bonds formed over decades between alumni and their alma mater. Your Alumni Association is dedicated to nurturing these connections, helping Aggies support one another while building a stronger NMSU for future generations. 

In line with this vision, we recently welcomed Patrick Stewart to the Foundation as our new vice president of philanthropy and alumni relations. One of his fundamental roles will be revitalizing, reenergizing and reinvigorating alumni networks across the country. So many passionate Aggies have expressed how much they have enjoyed connecting at the Alumni Association mixers, tailgates and Homecoming events — stay tuned, there’s much more to come.

As the year draws to a close, we count our blessings that NMSU alumni, donors, volunteers and supporters continue to make our institution an exceptional place where students can follow their curiosity, talents, passions and dreams. 

I wish you a happy, healthy and safe holiday season. Go Aggies!

Sylvia Y. Acosta, Ph.D. ’10
CEO, NMSU Foundation