Yvette Wilkes
August 20, 2019
Las Vegas, N.M. – There will be more students in the residence halls at New Mexico Highlands University this fall, thanks to what the university’s housing director, Yvette Wilkes, calls a record number of both new and renewal applications for fall semester 2019.
The university is opening a new wing of the previously closed Connor Hall to be ready for them.
“My housing staff is working hard at showing hospitality and creating a welcoming environment,” said Wilkes. “We had an excellent turnout for our check-in barbecue on Aug. 18.”
Kimberly Blea, dean of students at Highlands, said the residence hall news is a sign that Highlands is an institution of choice for students.
“Highlands is a place where students want to live and learn,” Blea said. “Having students live on campus helps the university achieve one of its goals of having a vibrant campus life, which supports students’ social wellbeing.”
Blea said retention research suggests that students’ connections to their campus helps them persist and stay in school.
“At Highlands, we’re working collectively and diligently to ensure we have a great academic year for our students,” Blea said.