Community News

Jo Lynn Guerrero receives her master's degree in counseling from WNMU in May and plans to continue her work with and support of students at Deming High SchoolSILVER CITY, NM — When hybrid (online and in person) Deming student Jo Lynn Guerrero crosses the stage at the Western New Mexico University (WNMU) Spring Commencement this May, her walk will mark a profound evolution in her lifelong commitment to service. Guerrero's journey, spanning two decades of community dedication, serves as a powerful testament to the idea that success is rarely a straight line but rather a series of purposeful, courageous steps toward one's true calling.

Guerrero's professional life began in 2004, immediately following her high school graduation. She stepped directly into the high-stakes environment of emergency services, serving as a 911 dispatcher. For ten years, she was the steady, calm voice on the other end of the line during the community's most critical moments. This foundational decade in public safety instilled in her a unique ability to remain composed under pressure and gave her a front-row seat to the challenges facing local families. While this role provided a vital service, Guerrero eventually felt a pull toward a different form of advocacy—one that focused on long-term guidance and the proactive development of the next generation rather than immediate crisis response.

Guerrero attended WNMU as an undergraduate in 2015 and successfully earned her bachelor's degree in criminal justice. During this period of academic growth, she transitioned into the educational sphere, accepting a position as an IT technician at her local high school in Deming. Although her official duties were technical, Guerreros' natural inclination toward mentorship and student support quickly became evident to those around her.

ANIMAS – New Mexico's Judiciary on Tuesday honored a high school mock trial team from Hidalgo County for winning this year's state championship.

Sixth Judicial District Chief Judge Jarod Hofacket presented certificates of recognition to Animas High School mock trial team members and advisors at the school in southwestern New Mexico.

"It was a pleasure to celebrate this remarkable team in person," said Chief Judge Hofacket. "The reason for their success became clear — they are bright, confident and hardworking. I look forward to their bright futures, and hope many of them choose a legal profession. We would all benefit from their company."

Western New Mexico University (WNMU) announces open registration for the Summer 2026 and Fall 2026 semesters. Current and prospective students are encouraged to register early to secure their preferred course schedules and ensure a seamless start to the upcoming academic year.

Summer Session: 

Classes Begin (Session A and B): Monday, Jun 1

Classes Begin Session C: Wednesday, July 1

First Generation graduate Shoni Hendren will receive a double Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education and Mathematics from WNMU in May.SILVER CITY, NM — When Shoni Hendren crosses the graduation stage at Western New Mexico University (WNMU) this May, she won't just receive a diploma; she will carry her family's dreams with her. Hendren, a WNMU online student living in Belen, New Mexico, will graduate with a double Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education and Mathematics, becoming the first in her family to earn a college degree. 

For Hendren, the path to May 2026 was fueled by a drive to prove that dedication brings transformation. This milestone means more than words can express because it is bigger than a degree; it shows what's possible for her family and her community. She wanted her children to see that commitment makes any goal attainable, no matter the obstacles. 

Hendren's path was anything but traditional. While at WNMU, she has been a 'quadruple threat,' successfully managing the roles of a full-time student, as well as a mother, a track coach, and an active community member. The discipline required to balance academic rigor with parenting and coaching now guides her leadership philosophy. 

During the recent Wild and Scenic Rivers Hill week, two residents of Grant County traveled to Washington D.C. to meet with legislators to ensure long term protection of the Gila River. Nicholas Saiz and Elysha Montoya joined members of the Fort Sill-Chiricahua-Warm Springs-Apache Tribe and met with many of New Mexico's congressional members including Senator Ben Ray Luján and Congressman Vasquez. All 10 community members attending the meetings urged passage of the M.H. Dutch Salmon Greater Gila Wild and Scenic River Act.

This month, we're excited to highlight some incredible WNMU students: Kiya, Jude, Dara, Nick, Vince, Emma, Xavier, Trevor, David, Hunter, and more who have been volunteering with us this semester!

Most of these students are volunteering for individual or group projects for their communications classes with Professors Heather Frankland and Benjamin Cline. Every week they show up ready to help— distributing food to clients in the Choose Your Own Pantry; restocking the shelves of the CYO; distributing food at the Mining District pantry; doing outdoor clean-up and garden maintenance; and serving at our community dinners.

We also have another crew of WNMU students, Moses, Alicia, Chitembeya, and who will be assisting with outreach and promotion of The Commons as a part of a project in their public speaking class. They will focus on engaging young adults and students in our community, informing them of our programs and encouraging them to get involved in whatever ways they can.

(Silver City, NM) – Thanks to significant ongoing financial support from their Foundation, the Silver City Public Library is in the process of implementing major building upgrades. On March 20, the library completed the replacement of flooring in the large meeting room and the staff work room area. The large meeting room's carpet, installed 13 years ago, has been replaced with vinyl flooring. "The new flooring in the meeting room looks great, and it will be much easier to clean," said Lillian Galloway, library assistant director. "Many of our children's activities happen in that space, so easy clean up after crafts is helpful."

Chris Cochran walks at WNMU commencementSILVER CITY, NM — For some, the path to a college degree is a straight line, but for Western New Mexico University (WNMU) alum Chris Cochran, it was a 35-year journey defined by resilience, Mustang pride, and a life-changing connection to Silver City. Cochran, a former Mustang quarterback and successful Oklahoma entrepreneur, returned to his roots to complete his MBA, proving that the door to higher education at WNMU never really closes.

Cochran's story began in 1988 when he transferred from an Oklahoma school to play football for the Mustangs. Seeking to leave the small town he grew up in and create a fresh start for himself, Cochran thrived in the unique environment of Silver City. He credits Silver City and WNMU with helping him "straighten up" and focus on his future. During his time on campus, he excelled both on the field and in leadership roles, serving as a Junior and Senior Senator for the student body.

On the gridiron, Cochran led the Mustangs as quarterback during the 1988 and 1989 seasons. He was a central figure in one of the most storied wins in the university's history: the 1989 upset of the Division I Northern Arizona University, a team ranked third in the nation at the time. Decades later, Cochran was instrumental in reuniting his teammates to honor that achievement at the New Mexico Bowl, where they were celebrated as the "Late 80s Gang".

After graduating in 1990 with a 3.7 GPA and a business degree in marketing, Cochran launched a highly successful career. He initially worked in public relations for Delta Dental in Albuquerque—where his very first professional presentation was delivered to his own former WNMU professors—before returning to Oklahoma. There, he owned and operated a commercial insurance agency for 25 years while raising four sons with his wife of 36 years.