New Mexico Highlands University announced the appointment of two members to its Board of Regents, reinforcing the board with experienced leadership and a strong student voice.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has appointed Grace Herrera as Student Regent, and Elaine V. Luna has been appointed to a full term on the Board of Regents following her prior service filling an unexpired term. Both appointments were confirmed by the New Mexico State Senate on Friday, February 6.
“These appointments reflect a thoughtful balance of experience, continuity, and student representation,” NMHU President Neil Woolf said. “Regent Luna brings a deep understanding of Highlands and a lifelong commitment to education and community service, while Student Regent Herrera offers an important perspective shaped by her experiences as a nontraditional student and community member.”
Elaine V. Luna was initially appointed to the board in 2025 to complete the remainder of a vacant term. Her subsequent appointment to a full term reflects confidence in her leadership and contributions during that initial period of service.
A native of Española, New Mexico, Luna moved to Las Vegas at age 16 to attend New Mexico Highlands University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work in 1981 and a Master of Social Work in 1982. She began her career as a medical social worker at Northeastern Regional Hospital, mentoring NMHU student interns for more than a decade.
Luna later served as executive director of the Rural Health Care Workforce Development Program at Luna Community College’s Montañas del Norte Area Health Education Center and spent 25 years guiding students into health careers through partnerships with the University of New Mexico Office for Community Health. She also served for 10 years on the Las Vegas City Schools Board of Education and remains active on several community boards.
“I am honored to continue serving New Mexico Highlands University,” Luna said. “Highlands shaped my life and career, and I remain committed to expanding access to education and opportunity for future generations.”
Grace Herrera, appointed as Student Regent, is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Gender and Women’s Studies and is expected to graduate in May 2026. Originally from Maxwell, New Mexico, she has lived in Las Vegas most of her life and maintains strong ties to the community.
After a 28-year career as a cosmetologist and small business owner, Herrera returned to higher education with a focus on service and advocacy. A first-generation college student, she brings a student perspective informed by her experiences as a working adult, parent, and grandmother.
“It is an honor to represent Highlands students on the Board of Regents,” Herrera said. “I look forward to advocating for students and contributing to decisions that strengthen our university and community.”
The New Mexico Highlands University Board of Regents oversees the governance and strategic direction of the university and includes members appointed by the governor of New Mexico, including one student regent.