This spring, 449 students earned degrees 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, 212 chose to participate in the graduation ceremony on Friday, May 5, with 151 walking across stage at Ben Altamirano Field and 61 participating virtually.
WNMU awarded 87 associate degrees, 157 bachelor’s degrees, 172 master’s degrees, 74 graduate certificates, 29 certificates and 10 fast track certificates.
Additionally, a number of students graduated with honors. To earn the distinction, students in a graduate program must receive a 4.0 GPA, and those earning an undergraduate degree or certificate must receive a 3.5 GPA or higher.
At the ceremony, outgoing Board of Regents member Janice Baca-Argabright was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters to celebrate her professional accomplishments and devoted service to the university. Baca-Argabright is a former educator and current owner of the Owl Bar and Café in San Antonio, NM.
“Earlier this year she completed 12 years of service, steering WNMU in the positive direction you see today,” said WNMU President Joseph Shepard at the ceremony, “In her two terms she has been a remarkable steward of your taxpayer dollars [and] of your desire to see that our graduates are properly educated.”
An archived recording of the commencement ceremony is available at wnmu.edu.
