This spring, 535 students earned degrees or certificates from Western New Mexico University, and the Mustang community celebrated their achievement through a hybrid commencement ceremony that once again allowed for the participation of graduates on campus as well as those living and attending WNMU at a distance. Of the graduates who received diplomas from WNMU this spring, 408 chose to participate in the graduation ceremony on Friday, May 3, with 355 walking across the stage at Ben Altamirano Field and 53 participating virtually.
WNMU awarded 106 associate degrees, 163 bachelor’s degrees, 148 master’s degrees, 67 graduate certificates, 14 certificates and 37 fast track certificates.
Additionally, 67 baccalaureate students graduated with honors. To earn this distinction, undergraduate must receive a 3.5 GPA or higher. Three graduating students were selected to the Student Hall of Fame: Itzela Darkenwald, Trent Jones, and Stephen Lindsey.
Faculty Excellence Awards were given to Associate Professor Shiva Kyasa for teaching and Assistant Professor Sundar Tamang for research. The ASWNMU Outstanding Teacher Award was presented to Assistant Professor Zully Villanueva-Gonzales.
An archived recording of the commencement ceremony is available.