Forever Cowboy Student Award 2022: Carmelita Sanchez

When Carmelita Sanchez enrolled at New Mexico Highlands University in the fall of 2019, she had no idea she would complete her entire undergraduate education during a pandemic. Despite her unusual college experience, Sanchez said taking online classes helped her...

Distinguished Young Alumnus Award 2022: Justin Montoya

Justin Montoya attended Highlands University for both his bachelor’s degree in exercise science and his master’s degree in exercise physiology. A Las Vegas native, Montoya hoped to use his degrees in his hometown. “When I got out of college and sought out employment...

NMHU Spirit Award 2022: Rosemarie Montoya

When the Hermits Peak Fire started, Rosemarie Montoya, a Highlands University alumna and long-time agent with State Farm, began working with the many community members who lost property. “Every day since April 6 I’ve cried with people because they lost their homes,”...

Distinguished Alumnus Award 2022: Max Baca

Max Baca has been a fixture of the New Mexico Highlands University community since he enrolled at the school in 1982 on a football scholarship. Although he has now served as the Vice President of Finance and Administration for nine years, Baca is responsible for...