UNCONVENTIONAL

These graduates are serious about their atypical careers.

esternerWW N M U A l u m n i M a g a z i n e F a l l 2 0 1 2 V o l 1 I s s u e 2

FUTURES

It’s not just an education

It’s a lifestyle

1-800-872-9668www.wnmu.edu/admissions

BOARD OF REGENTSJerry Walz, ChairJanice Baca-Argabright, Vice-ChairKelly Clark, Secretary/TreasurerTony Trujillo, MemberCharles (Randy) Briggs, Member

ADMINISTRATIONJoseph Shepard, Ph.D.PresidentFaye Vowell, Ph.D.Provost & Vice President for Academic AffairsSherri BaysVice President for Business AffairsIsaac BrundageVice President for Student Affairs & Enrollment ManagementLinda Kay Jones, CEcDVice President for Institutional Advancement

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARDJack Howell, PresidentGuadalupe Cano, Interim Vice PresidentOlivia Morales, TreasurerSandy Moore, SecretaryVictor Carbajal, Past PresidentGuadalupe Cano, Eugene Gomez, Ron Hall, Al O’Malley, Elisa SanchezDr. Linda Baldwin, Faculty RepresentativeAdele Springer, Staff RepresentativeJason Lucas, Student GovernmentJames Hill, WNMU Foundation Representative

CHAPTER LEADSRosina Romero, Albuquerque, NMAbe Armendariz, Mesilla Valley, NMIris Nevarez, Luna County, NMAlan Carl, El Paso, TXAbe Villarreal, Grant County, NMSteven Maloney, IndianaAlfred Ogas, Phoenix, AZ Charlie Wright, Tucson, AZBailey Noble, CA

Westerner is published each year in spring and fall by the Office of Alumni Affairs.

To receive issues or send letters to the Westerner please contact:alumni@wnmu.edu or PO Box 680, Silver City, NM 88062

Alumni Affairs OfficePO Box 680Silver City, NM 88062575-538-6675alumni@wnmu.edu

www.wnmu.edu/alumniwww.facebook.com/WNMUAlumni

Life sometimes offers us opportunities in unexpected ways. In this issue you will hear from two alumni about how they have grabbed the opportunities life has presented, and yet still hung tight to their dreams.

Our first year of Dr. Shepard’s presidency at Western New Mexico University has brought many opportunities. In this issue you will hear from new Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management Isaac Brundage, about how some of these are playing out for students in the new style of student life: The Mustang Village.

Also in this issue you will find new alumni discounts from Connect Your Home. We have partnered with this corporation in order to offer alumni discounts on everyday home services such as television, internet, phone and more. I will continue to look for additional opportunities to show our appreciation for the Mustang Nation. If you have suggestions, please share them with me. I am always looking for ideas.

The past several months have been filled with activity at your alma mater! The Mesilla Valley Chapter restored its monthly dinner meeting; Grant County alumni helped welcome students back for Spring semester with the first annual Downtown Dash; your Alumni Association sponsored an Alumni Appreciation Night at Mustangs basketball in February; and alumni from several states gathered to enjoy the 45th annual Great Race. This first year of Dr. Shepard’s presidency several alumni chapters held ‘Welcome’ events for him and Mrs. Shepard. Thank you goes out to the following chapters for this: Grant County, Albuquerque, Mesilla Valley, and Indiana. Good times for all!

Preparations are underway for Homecoming 2012. Alumni are sponsoring an inaugural Alumni Scholarship Golf Tournament during Homecoming! Please join us in supporting students in this friendly, fun golf challenge. Come out and swing the club or simply send your pledges and sponsorships to show your support! The class of 1992 alumni will celebrate the induction of their volleyball team into the Athletic Hall of Fame this year. Join the fun! While planning Homecoming events, we want to hear from all of you from the class of 1962…after all, it’s your 50th Reunion!!! Let’s make it memorable. You have made the most of life’s opportunities since your graduation 50 years ago, so let’s celebrate those memories as we look toward the future.

Making the most of today’s opportunities can allow us to transform the future. I continue to feel proud to share our Mustangs future with all of you!

Danielle MoffettDirector of Alumni Affairs

Grabbing life’s opportunities

Westerner Vol 1 Issue 2

2011

t 26 years of age, Cisco Valenzuela hasn’t landed his dream job. In an economy that has created challenges to recent college graduates, it’s not that he’s not trying.

The football player broke his shoulder during his senior year in high school which shortcutted his dream of playing in the Division I arena. After a year at Pima Community College, he transferred to WNMU and played for the Mustangs as an offensive lineman. Valenzuela earned a degree in criminal justice with a minor in chemical dependency in 2008.

“It seems like my life’s successes have originated from accidents,” joked Valenzuela.

From his career in football, to how he met his fiancée (by confusing her for her older sister), Valenzuela knows that life is filled with surprises.

“It was an accident,” Valenzuela said as he recounted his origin in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) sports. “I walked into a training room at Silver High School while coaching wrestling and started training one day.”

Valenzuela was a high school wrestling coach during his senior year at WNMU. He met with other coaches who were MMA trainers. They encouraged him to train the MMA way, a physical workout that creates a dramatic impact of the entire body.

“I started training there and about half hour into it I realized I was out of breath,” explained Valenzuela. “The MMA trainer invited me back and three weeks later I had my first fight.”

Initially, Valenzuela returned to the workouts as a way to build him up for the football season. He had been named All-Conference his junior year and wanted to reach All-American status for his final year as a Mustang.

He stuck to it and in about 21 days he was in the octagon, fighting El Toro Jimenez from El Paso in a match that saw him lose by just one point.

“My opponent congratulated me and mentioned that I was one of the tougher fighters he had experienced,” said Valenzuela.

Those words of encouragement motivated Valenzuela to continue with the sport and he has stood out in a small field of fighters in southwest New Mexico.

Recovering from a hand injury, Valenzuela was on hiatus from training and recently received the medical clearance to return to the gym. He plans to build on his winning 8-3 record but like his athletic interests, his career outlook is also mixed.

“I’m going to move to Phoenix for work and MMA,” he said. “You have to expand and I can’t find people here in my height and size.”

“I’m hoping to get into the Boys and Girls Club or the YMCA,” added Valenzuela. “My passion is working with kids so maybe even a coach.”

Diversifying his career field may be a smart strategy for Valenzuela with a job market that has been brutal to college graduates.

For Devin Stroman, having two career opportunities has proved necessary.

Stroman earned a degree in elementary education in 2010 but has yet to step foot into the teacher’s lounge. Shortly after graduation he was scouted by a modeling agent while strolling the Tucson Mall.

“I was very nervous,” explained Stroman about his first experience as a model. “I had never thought much of myself to be honest, and the thought of being seen by tons of people made my stomach turn.”

If he were nervous, you wouldn’t know it by the pictures he takes. Stroman has appeared as an underwear and jeans model in print and runway modeling projects. He often appears shirtless in campaigns.

“Doing this gave me confidence,” said Stroman. The professional model and future teacher also found approval from his fiancée Vanessa Isela ’12.

“My fiancée has been very supportive throughout my modeling career and I am very blessed to have her by my side,” explained Stroman. “Her love means everything to me.”

Stroman considers his modeling experiences fun and adventurous. He receives calls from his agent to travel to other states and appear in campaigns by major designers including American Eagle and Calvin Klein but his ultimate calling is to teach elementary students.

Being in the business also helped shape Stroman’s perception of who society believes is a model.

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Finding their own A difficult and competitive job market has led two recent grads to get

creative, find their passions and be successful in their own ways.

Valenzuela faces off an opponent prior to one of his 11 contests.

Spotlight

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“I thought it would be mindless people sitting around thinking they were better than others,” said Stroman. “Other models are usually struggling actors out on the grind and they’re all about promoting their careers but most of them are humble.”

Stroman works at Silverado, a health food shop in Silver City that caters to body builders and workout enthusiasts.

“During the process it makes you really appreciate what you’ve worked hard for. It’s about being healthy.”

A Silver City native, while at WNMU, Stroman was a member of the Mustang Tennis team.

“I am very anxious to finish my further education and become a teacher,” he said. “This is my goal for the future and if modeling is still an option for me during my time as a teacher, I would not turn it down.”

Stroman hasn’t been quick to get behind the teacher’s desk. Instead he is back in the classroom at WNMU focusing on earning a certification in Reading. His true passion is teaching in just one discipline.

“The school in which I did my student teaching had students with very low reading levels which affected their scores in other subject areas,” said Stroman. “That awakened me.”

“Reading is the center for everything.” W

Photos of Devin Stroman by Gonzales Photography

The Western New Mexico University women’s golf team continued its successful play this season with strong a showing at regionals and a performance that led them to the nationals tournament in Kentucky.

This 2011-2012 team featured some of the top players in the country. Junior Faylyn Beyale was named the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Golfer of the Year and junior Haley Raymond landed on the All-RMAC First-Team.

The team collected several strong finishes in the season leading up to the end of the year, including a first place finish at the RMAC #2 tournament hosted by Chadron State College in which the Lady Mustangs beat out nine teams. Arrianna Estrada and Beyale tied for the top overall spot with 155’s. The team carded several second place finishes in other tournaments including RMAC #1, Grizzly Invitational and at the RMAC Championships.

The Mustangs still had to finish in the top-three at regionals in order to advance to the National Championships. WNMU opened the first round in second and then remained in the third spot over the final two days to advance to Louisville. The regionals were hosted by the Mustangs at the

Sierra del Rio Golf Course in Elephant, Butte, N.M.

Beyale had another impressive outing. She remained among one of the top golfers throughout the three days and ended up tying for first with a 232. Raymond was just four-strokes behind the leaders placing fourth with a 236 to help pace WNMU.

This marked a string of three consecutive years that the Mustangs had advanced through regionals and into the National Championships. In the 2009-10 season, the team finished second at regionals when it took place in Minnesota and again they played well in Minnesota the following year placing third.

Last season, the team placed eighth at nationals and this year they finished 12th. Raymond was the top finisher for the squad this time around coming away with a 329 to place in a tie for 39th. Beyale was five-strokes behind landing in a tie for 44th.

The 2012-2013 team will feature a veteran squad, with Beyale and Raymond both being seniors. Estrada and Bianca Dominguez will be juniors. The men’s team advanced to regionals thanks to a second place finish at the RMAC Championships. The Mustangs carded a 915 to tie with Colorado Mesa and finished 15-strokes behind champion Colorado Mines. David Metz had a strong showing finishing in a tie for second with a 221, which was just one-stroke off the top spot. Michael Lopez also landed in the top ten thanks to his 228. Ben Nelson was two-strokes behind Lopez and tied for 13th.

The team claimed some solid finishes during the regular season, including a third place finish at the RMAC #1, second place at its own Cactus Thaw!, second at the Mustang Intercollegiate in Albuquerque and finishing off the regular season with a second place at the RMAC Championships.

The team will feature a new look this year with two current players, Anders Friman and Ryan Pitzel, set to be seniors.

Lady Mustang golfers visit National stage again

Because of a partnership with America One, Mustang fans won’t miss a single game this season. Fans can catch home or away games live by purchasing single, monthly, season or all-access passes to the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.

Mustang football, volleyball and basketball games can be streamed live online from your home or office computer. Visit www.b2tv.com and click on the team you would like to watch.

Live score updates are also available through the Mustang Athletics website at www.WNMUMustangs.com.

A free e-newsletter is available for subscription at the Mustang Athletic website: www.wnmumustangs.com

Do you follow Mustang Athletics on Facebook or Twitter? Keep up-to-date on Mustang news, events, scores and photos through our social networks.

www.twitter.com/WNMUAthleticswww.facebook.com/WNMUAthletics

Watch the Mustangs live on-line, follow scores on Twitter

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Sept 1 @ Sul Ross State 12pmSept 8 @ University of San Diego 7pmSept 15 vs CSU-Pueblo 12pmSept 22 vs Fort Lewis 12pmSept 29 @ Colorado Mines 12pmOct 6 vs Colorado Mesa 1:30pmOct 13 @ Western State 1pmOct 20 vs Adams State 12pmOct 27 @ Chadron State 1:30pmNov 3 vs Black Hills State 12pmNov 10 @ NM Highlands 12pm

Questions from the 50-yard line: Coach Adam ClarkQ: How has your team grown since you started coaching here?A: We have grown in many ways. I know our image in the community and on campus has improved dramatically based on the community service we have put in and our efforts in the classroom. We have also improved on the field. Last year we were within a few plays of having seven or eight wins, but just made too many mistakes. Our program has grown in every aspect since our staff arrived and I believe 100% that we are on track to become a championship program.

Q: What attracted you to WNMU? A: I thought the location gave us great access to Arizona and Southern California which are both talent rich areas. I also liked the fact that we are able to offer an affordable education.

Q: What are your team’s greatest strengths? A: Talent and enthusiasm. Our team is young but they all see the talent we are bringing in so that aids in creating excitement within our program. From a pure talent standpoint I believe we are bringing in as good or better talent compared with the rest of the RMAC.

Q: What are your team’s areas of opportunity to grow? A: Experience and maturity. Because I got the job in May of my first year I did not have much impact on recruiting that year. The reality is this year we will bring in only our second recruiting class, so we are still very young and will play with a lot of players who are only in their first or second year in our program. We do have some players going into their third year, but not a lot of them. We need to grow up fast.

Q: What players should we keep our eyes on this year?A: Marquis Sumpter was All Conference last year and was named pre season All-American this year by one publication so we have big expectations for him. Our receiving core in general is very talented and should be fun to watch with Ronnell Pompey, Donald Byrd, Brent Courtney, Shamone Fletcher among others expected to make plays. Defensively, Bernard Williams is a lock down corner who was All-Conference last year and will also see some time on offense. He is a great player. Our defensive backfield is our most experienced area on defense with Kameron Drawhorn, Anthony Phillips, Nick Cook, Shaun Licudine, Eldrick Bright and Deshaun Hathorn all expected to contribute.

Q: Are there any recruits that we should be watching?

A: We are really expecting some freshmen to compete on both offesive and defensive lines. But they have to show they are ready to play early on.

Q: What is your vision for the program? A: The vision for this program is that our core values of Integrity, Accountability, Discipline, and Mental Toughness will be the foundation of what we do on a daily basis. If we as a group will use these values to guide our actions the end result will be success. The success we are looking for is as follows: 1) Our program will make the town of Silver City a better place for everyone. 2) Our players will leave our program

having learned positive habits that help them become better people who are well prepared to be successful

and to make our world a better place. 3) We will compete every year for RMAC championships, national rankings, and earn a spot in the national playoffs so we can compete for a national championship.

Q: How has community service benefited your team? A: It helps us on multiple fronts. Community

service is at the core of creating a special atmosphere for both the town and our players at our

games. We want our team to be a source of pride for the Grant County area. We want the community to care about us. The only way that will happen is if we show we care about them. With such a large group of young men who are in great shape ready to help out where needed, we really can have a tremendous impact in the community. It obviously helps our program in terms of support and it helps our players grow their understanding of how they can make a difference through servant leadership. The time we put into the community makes so much sense in a positive for everyone involved.

Q: How is a successful athletic program beneficial to a university? A: A successful athletic program can help the university in about everyway possible. It can unite the university and the town in a common cause. People like to support successful teams. It is also as simple as giving people at the university and in the community good entertainment. It can help with promotion of a university. It can help get alumni involved in the university. It can help with fundraising efforts. At the most basic level it will make the university a better place if the program brings in quality individuals who will work hard and care about being a positive influence.

We want the community to care about us. The only

way that will happen is if we show we care

about them.

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AlumniSeason Ticket

Offer!

$80Contact

575.538.6214

9

Both Western New Mexico University tennis teams recorded successful seasons, especially in the case of the Lady Mustang team as it recorded its best season yet claiming ten wins and an RMAC Tournament Championship.

This year’s tennis teams didn’t know who their head coach would be until school had already started. Along came Guillaume Dupont, who had spent time at the University of New Mexico as a volunteer assistant. He quickly came on board and helped transition the program to a success.

It took until the eighth match of the season when the Lady Mustangs caught their stride. After defeating New Mexico Military Institute in Silver City, they would parley that into a three-game win streak, which was the win total for the squad all of last year. Following a few setbacks, WNMU caught fire when they needed it most, collecting four-straight conference victories to claim the third-seed in the conference tournament.

The Lady Mustangs then upset the RMAC world in the tournament after handily defeating Colorado Christian, they rolled through the No. 2 team in the conference Colorado Mesa and then a tight 5-4 win over the top seed Nebraska-Kearney in the title game to claim its first RMAC Tournament title. This was all done with a fairly young team, featuring just one senior and three freshmen, including one that played at the top flight in every match, Ganna Tiurina and Ashley Newell who played at the number three position.

Tiurina not only posted a 12-9 record in singles, she also went 12-11 at the top doubles slot with teammate Nikolina Vukadin. Her success led to being named RMAC Freshman of the Year.

The men continued their strong success of previous seasons winning yet another RMAC regular season title and their third-straight RMAC Tournament title. They went 6-0 in conference matches during the season and posted a 2-0 mark in the tournament. They once again defeated St. Cloud State in regional action to advance to the NCAA Championships.

Rodrigo Almeida had a season to remember being just a sophomore. The Brazilian went 19-3 in singles matches, including an impressive 9-1 mark at the top flight. He went 14-10 in doubles matches and was named the RMAC Player of the Year after being named the Preseason Player of the Year.

The Mustangs rolled out a remarkable 85-48 overall singles record and went 41-31 in doubles matches. The Mustangs had six players with winning singles records, one that was even and one that was just one match under .500.

The men’s team features players from all over the globe. In addition to Almeida being from Brazil, Jean Benoit Belin and Matthieu Covizzi are from France, Juan Pablo Fuentes and Omar Lopez from Mexico, Alvaro Nunez from Spain, Johan Weich from Sweden and Roy Ulibarri from New Mexico. The women’s team also features a variety of players from around the world, with three New Mexico players in Davida Aragon, Dena Irvin and Erica Rasmussen. Newell was from Las Vegas, Nevada, Tiurina from Kiev, Ukraine; Vukadin from Pale, Bosnia and Herzegovina; and Doris Berberic from Lower Hutt, New Zealand. Being able to make this all work begins with the head coach who is from France originally.

Tennis teams reign the RMAC &

Students showcase their Mustang Pride at the tennis regional tournament.

The men’s team celebrates after winning the RMAC regional tournament.

Ganna Tiurina was named RMAC Freshman of the Year.

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Make History

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Western New Mexico University is set to benefit from $4,000,000 in infrastructure updates if New Mexico voters approve General Education Bond C on November 6.

The General Obligation Bond for Education, also known as Bond C, is placed on the ballot in November every two years by the New Mexico State Legislature. For 2012, $120 million in capital improvements at colleges, universities and constitutional special schools throughout New Mexico will take place upon voter approval. Nearly every institution of higher education in New Mexico will be a beneficiary.

For WNMU, students will benefit with improvements or renovations to infrastructure, updated fire alarm systems and paving, drainage and repairs of sidewalks.

Improved educational settings equate to better students, more graduates and a better skilled workforce that will attract higher paying jobs to New Mexico.

Our students deserve to learn in the best and safest facilities. Upgrading the campus will ensure a better education experience for our future leaders.

It is estimated that a multiplier of 2.5 to 4 times the amount of money received by an institution can be used to estimate how the larger community will be impacted by the approval of the bond.

Bond C is funded by a modest property tax assessment of a property’s taxable value.

General Obligation Bond C for Education$4 million to WNMU for infrastucture and safety

How will Bond C benefit WNMU?

Improved infrastructure, updated fire alarms, paving and drainage of sidewalks

How does Bond C help the economy?

It is estimated that a multiplier of 2.5 to 4 times the amounty of $ received impacts the larger economy

How will Bond C get approved?

NM Voters must vote to pass Bond C on November 6 during the general election

An exciting photo display of more than 100 years of Mustang Athletic history is available for preview at the Brancheau PE Complex on the main campus. Individual or group sponsorship of individual years on the display wall is necessary to help continue this visual retrospective.

Sponsorship remains available for the 2011 and 2012 academic years as well as other years. A one time fee of $150 helps sponsor one of the 119 years on display. If you’d like to have your name displayed on these walls of history, please contact Linda McArthur at mcarthur@wnmu.edu or 575.538.6342.

Sponsor your favorite Mustang Athletic team

2011-2012 Lady Mustang Volleyball Team

D r a n g m e i s te r S c h o l a r s h i p n e e d s yo u r s u p p o r tOne of the many scholarships waiting to be endowed is the Richard Drangmeister Scholarship. Drag’s Court honors his accomplishments on the basketball floor at WNMU and his dedication to student success is the goal of the scholarship established in his name. Richard Drangmeister ’61 and ’62 served as Head Basketball Coach at WNMU from 1969 to 1982 and again from 1992 to 1995. It is so important that current and future students receive financial assistance from Drag’s scholarship. We are asking anyone and everyone that benefited from the excitement created during Drag’s tenure as basketball coach to assist in making contributions to this fund so that students of today and tomorrow can continue to feel the benefit of Coach Drag’s influence. We need $4,000.

The WNMU Foundation currently maintains more than 15 accounts that have not yet reached endowed status, and are not awarded to students. To endow a scholarship requires a minimum balance of $5,000 within a five year period. Your assistance in donating to these scholarships, making them endowed, would be greatly appreciated by the students who benefit from the scholarships and your fellow donors.

The principal means of raising funds are fundraising campaigns, private solicitations, grants, matching fund programs and the like. Currently, private donations from people like YOU are the primary source of funds received by the WNMU Foundation.

Development of endowed status is essential for scholarships. Once donated funds are endowed, the principle amount of money remains in perpetuity and the earnings are utilized for student scholarships at Western New Mexico University. Managing donations this way allows the endowed scholarship to be available each year, forever, for our students. Let’s pay it forward!

The Western New Mexico University Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt independent organization engaging in fund raising activities to provide scholarships, capital improvements, programs and other activities to promote and benefit the University and our students. Anyone interested in this scholarship or other accounts that are not yet endowed can contact the WNMU Foundation office at 575.538.6310 or foundation@wnmu.edu for additional information.

Every year, just before Memorial Day weekend, WNMU hosts people from around the state, throughout the country, and occasionally from other countries to learn about economic development. The course, guided by leading experts in their field, celebrated its 20th year this past May, and has now trained over 700 people in the techniques and resources for enhancing their communities.

This year Dr. and Mrs. Shepard, along with about 40 campus and community folks, welcomed the 31 participants with a reception at their newly renovated campus home. Among those who attended the five-day course were two gentlemen from Ghana, four WNMU students, and Alumni Affairs Director Danielle Moffett. All attendees receive University credit with WNMU.

Along with WNMU, sponsors include the New Mexico Economic Development Department, The New Mexico Rural Alliance, NMIDEA, and the Small Business Development Center. The course is a first step in the process of becoming a certified economic developer. It is accredited by the International Economic Development Council and is one of 19 in the United States. WNMU also presents the course in various cities in México.

Want to know more? Contact Linda McArthur ’83 at 575.538.6320 or mcarthur@wnmu.edu.

Economic Development Course marks

The 2012 Basic Economic Development Course class.

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20 yearsCoach Drangmeister with players.

Pay It Forward

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Alumni Notes

Charlie Alfero ’74 & ’81 delivered the commencement speech for WNMU’s spring 2012 ceremony. Mr. Alfero is the Executive Director for Health Innovations at Hidalgo Medical Services.

Gail Estrada was named Assistant Principal at Valley View Elementary School in Las Cruces, NM. She has a master’s degree in educational leadership from WNMU.

Christina Gonzales ’96 has been named associate vice chancellor for student affairs and dean of students for the University of Colorado. She previously served as associate dean of students at the University of California at Berkeley.

Al Hall ’69 received commendation from the State House of Representatives of Mississippi in May 2012 for impressive and noteworthy success as an African-American poet.

Laura Krol ’08 & ’12 recently published her first book Deming as the latest in the popular Images of America series by Arcadia Publishing. The 128-page book includes more than 200 photos, some of which have never been published. She is a member of the Historical Society of New Mexico and spoke in Santa Fe in May at the society’s Statehood History Conference.

Mark Lackey ’97 & ’99 was

named one of Alaska’s Top Forty Under 40 by the Alaska Journal of Commerce. He was chosen out of 200 nominations.

Debra (Bruessel) McReynolds ’76 is the author of two recently published novels under her pen name of Marva Dale. Death of a Flapper from Oak Tree Press is the first in the Death by the Decade mystery series.

Bob Ogas ’63 was honored as a Local Legend for his passion and dedication in education and the community in the 2012-2013 Life is Good in Las Cruces Community Guide.

Arthur Jeffrey Perales ’10 married Katherine Melissa Nickerson in Silver City, NM in May.

Mark Alan Singer ’04 earned a Ph.D. in History from the University of Missouri on May 12, 2012. Pictured is Mr. Singer with his partner Larry Bauer at left.

Juanita Skillman ’75 was named president of the Institute of Certified Records Management (ICRM) in January. She is past president of ARMA International.

Angela Slaugh ’05 & ’12 married Billy Corliss in Ruidoso, NM.

Charlie Alfero

Christina Gonzales

Laura Krol

Mark Lackey

Debra McReynolds

Jeffrey Perales

Juanita Skillman

Angela Slaugh

Mark Singer

October 5: Alumni Golf Tournament*

October 5: Alumni Association Meeting

October 5: Campus Tours / Mustang Village

October 5: Registration/Reception

October 5: Dinner / Dance Social

October 6: Athletic Hall of Fame Breakfast*

October 6: Homecoming Parade

October 6: Pre-game Tailgate

October 6: Homecoming Game!

October 6: Post-game party

October 7: Farewell Breakfast

Honored at Halftime

October 5-7, 2012

Tim Bravo ‘85

‘92 Volleyball Team

Aaron Rogers ‘00

Marshall Moore ‘62

Sandy Moore ‘67

Register Onlinewww.wnmu.edu/alumnihomecoming

575.538.6675alumni@wnmu.edu

Registration Fee: $50 p/ person*Golf Tournament is $100 and Hall of Fame Breakfast is $15. Cost for these

events is not covered by registration fee.

Alumni Lodging Deals

Silver City 1.888.388.4515

Pinos Altos575.388.4501

Silver City575.956.9400

Student Affairsis getting a

Since the selection of Isaac Brundage to Vice President of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management in October 2011, things have been moving and shaking in this important division of the university.

Brundage was born and raised in Fort Myers, Florida. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology/Education from Florida A&M University and later received his Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU). Prior to arriving at WNMU he served as the Interim University Ombudsman and Assistant to the President at FGCU.

He recently sat down with us and shared his vision for the future of Student Affairs at WNMU.

Q: Why did you decide to apply for this opening at WNMU?A: Initially, my attraction to WNMU was the ability to continue working with my mentor, Dr. Joseph Shepard. After doing some homework on the University and surrounding community, I knew WNMU was the place for me. I was especially impressed with the University’s mission statement, which states its commitment to “teaching and learning.”

Another area that attracted me was the open admissions process and that a student could come to WNMU earn a vocational certificate, an AA or AS degree, a Bachelors degree, and a Master’s degree. We take students where they are academically and develop them into high achieving and high performing professionals.

Q: Had you ever been to the southwest? A: Only to visit, never to live.

Q: What is your vision for the division of Student Affairs?A: My vision for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management is that we will become the premier division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management for the state of New Mexico and eventually the country.

Q: What are some challenges you see for students in higher education

or at WNMU specifically and how can we address them?A: Preparation – many students come to college lacking the skills needed to be successful. Some are lacking in specific academic areas. Others are lacking in their ability to manage their time and some still have not

grasped how to study for specific subject areas. The solution is to provide resources and programs to assist students with these areas.

Another challenge is financial resources – many students are not maximizing their opportunities through financial aid and scholarships. A solution is to educate students and families on the financial aid and scholarship process, making sure they understand the importance of completing this process early and correctly the first time.

Just as important are jobs – Many students have to work while attending college and this makes school a second and sometimes third priority. We need to offer more work study opportunities for students and to help students realize what is important and what should be a priority.

Q: Dr. Shepard plans to grow WNMU enrollment. What kind of new opportunities does this goal provide in the Student Affairs area?A: This reality will mean expanded programs, more visibility and participation in the surrounding community.

Q: What are some exciting opportunities for WNMU in the future?A: We are creating new residence halls, known as the Mustang Village, with vibrant residence education programs, leadership development and training opportunities for students, a vibrant student life, with programs and activities designed to reach all students. In addition, we are working on providing an enhanced new student orientation program, and an exciting first year freshman experience.

The Student Affairs Division oversees student services offices including financial aid, business affairs, registrars, residence life, admissions, dual enrollment, disability services, health services and the office of the first year experience.

Student Affairs Division team members.

Student Ambassadors participate in the Mustang Village residence apartment complex groundbreaking. Floor plan shown above.

makeover

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Alumni Snapshots

Pictured in clockwise order: Tenchie and Charlie Overcash ’51 celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary; Former Mustang volleyball players reunited for the annual alumni volleyball game; Grant County alumni pose in front of Hunter Hall; 1994 Great Race team members held a reunion during the 45th

annual race; new alum Jaime Ramirez at the spring commencement ceremony; Al O’Malley ’51 speaks during the May graduation ceremony; Mark and Rhonda Lackey ’97 and ’99 pictured with their three boys in Alaska; Felix ’69 and Lupe Armijo ’69 visit with Marv Schmitt ’70 and ’76 and his wife Susie during a recent golf outing in Silver City; and Trinidad Tolar ’06 and her family pose at a recent Great Race alumni social.

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September1-3: Rolling Stones Gem & Mineral Show, Grant County Convention Center, 575.538.57068-9: Gun Show, Grant County Convention Center21: Jason Coleman - Legacy of Floyd Cramer Concert, 7:30 p.m., WNMU Fine Arts Center Theater, 575.538.586226: TheIRSNon-ProfitWorkshop-StayExempt(SBDC event), 575.538.632026-30: 30th Annual Gila-Cliff County Fair, 575.388.155929: Tapestry of Talent Fashion Show, WNMU Global Resource Center, 575.538.5733

October5: AlumniAssociationBoardMeeting&AnnualGeneral Membership Meeting, 575.538.66755: 17thBiennialMogollonArchaeologyOpeningSymposium, Celebrating the NAN Ranch Collection, Global Resource Center, 8:30 a.m., 575.538.63865-6: RedDotArtTour/GalleryWalk,SilverCity,10:00a.m.6: WNMU Homecoming Game, 1:30 p.m., 575.538.66756: TheNANRanchCollectionVIPExhibitionOpening, WNMU Museum, 7:00 p.m., 575.538.638613-14: ShakespeareGhostTownGuidedTour,Lordsburg, 575.542.9034

December8-9: ShakespeareGhostTownGuidedTour,Lordsburg, 575.542.903411: HistoricMiningDistrictTour,10:00a.m.,575.537.332714: WNMU Fall Commencement, Fine Arts Center Theater

January7: SpringSemesterBegins18-20: Red Paint PowWow, WNMU campus, 575.534.137925: YanaReznikmusicalperformance,WNMUFineArtsCenter Theater, 7:30 p.m., 575.538.5862

February

Year–Round:

WNMUMuseum(FlemingHall):Monday-Friday 9am-4:30pm, Saturday-Sunday 10am-4pm

WNMU McCray Gallery: Monday-Friday 10:30am-4:30pm

*Everymonth

Calendar of Events

Athletic Hall of Fame:Deadline:March1annually

Contact:BrianKortz(575)538-6214orkortzb@wnmu.eduhttp://wnmumustangs.com/sports/2009/2/20/_0220095145.aspx

Distinguished Alumni & Outstanding Alumni:Deadline:June1annually

Contact:DanielleMoffett(575)538-6675oralumni@wnmu.eduNominationform:http://www.wnmu.edu/alumni/

Great Teams in Mustang Sports History:Deadline:June1annually

Contact:DanielleMoffett(575)538-6675oralumni@wnmu.eduGreat Moments in Mustang Sports History:

Deadline:June1annuallyContact:DanielleMoffett(575)538-6675oralumni@wnmu.edu

School of Education Hall of Fame:Deadline:March1annually

Contact:SpriWheatley(575)538-6418orwheatleys@wnmu.eduNominationform:http://www.wnmu.edu/academic/schedu/

11: WNMUFoundersDay:Happy120thBirthday!11: WNMUAlumniAssociationBoardMeeting,9:00a.m., 575.538.667523: TerryBarbermusicalperformance,WNMUFineArtsCenter Theater, 7:30 p.m., 575.538.5862 *SanVicenteArtWalk/Self-guidedtours,575.388.4854

November *ArtMarket,EverySaturday,703N.BullardSt, Silver City, 575.313.6468 2: 42Five musical performance, WNMU Fine Arts Center Theater, 575.538.5862

Thinking of nominating someone? Here’s your list.

October1isthedeadlinetosubmitnominationsinadvancefortheAlumniAssociationBoardofDirectors.

Termsofserviceareasfollows:Members-at-large:3years;Officers:2years,whichmaybeextendedoneadditionalyearwhenindicated.

Positions currently available for nomination: Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, threeMembers-at-largefromNewMexico,withoneofthemeligiblefromGrantCounty;andTwoMembers-at-largefromstatesotherthanNewMexico.

BoardMembersparticipateinatleasttwomeetingsperyear,inpersonorbyalternate means. Nominations will be accepted during the General Association MeetingonOctober5,2012,atwhichallAssociationLifeMembers(formerstudents and graduates of WNMU) will vote.

Nominationformsavailableatwww.wnmu.edu/alumnioryoucanrequestonebycontactingAlumniAffairsat(575)538-6675oralumni@wnmu.edu.

Alumni Association Board

f

What are alumni saying on Facebook? What is the best thing you ever did for Spring Break?

c Rick Hendrix: In the early 70s our Biology Club took a trip to Guaymas, Mexico. We slept under the stars and studied the tide pools and sea life during the day.

f What is your favorite WNMU memory?

cJimmy Maldonado: The dances at “The Cooler” back in the late 70s.

www.facebook.com/WNMUAlumni

PassagesKatherine A. Brown passed away February 6, 2012 at her home in the Mimbres Valley, NM. Her favorite pastime was riding her horse with her friend, often in the 4th of July parade. Katherine enjoyed dancing and sometimes sang with the band. She worked as a draftsman for Mountain Telephone and Telegraph and was co-owner of W T Telephone for several years. More recently Kathy was a volunteer dispatcher for Mimbres Valley EMS and the Lower Mimbres Volunteer Fire Department. She is survived by her husband of four years, Bruce; daughter, Heather; son, Will; grandson, Ethan; and her mother, Willa Jean.

Harold “Whitey” Dowden Coffman ’57, passed away June 12, 2012. Harold

attended WNMU on a basketball scholarship where he was a four-year letterman playing for Coach Harve Oliphant. Whitey earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Western New Mexico University in Education. He served two years in the US Army stationed in Frankfurt, Germany. Whitey was the head basketball coach for Las Cruces High School for 24 years. During this time he was named Coach of the Year twice before retiring in 1988. He also enjoyed traveling, bird hunting and fishing. Mr. Coffman is survived by his wife, Jeanne; children, Mark Coffman, Mike and Debbie Coffman, Lori and David Sours, Jeff and Melony Coffman, and Jim Coffman; grandchildren, Ryan, Scott, Grant, Kylie, Nichalous, Dillon, Kathryn, Zackery, and Katie (deceased); five brothers, Jack, David, Ralph, Roger, and Jerry; and one sister, Jean Fore.

Connie Contreras ’49 & ’63, completed her long journey through life on January 24, 2012. Connie was a dedicated teacher and is remembered as fun-loving and generous. She was a teacher for 33 years with Las Cruces Public Schools, Gadsden Independent School District, and Anthony Independent School District. Connie was a supportive person who enabled her loved ones to follow their life choices. She is survived by her 94-year old sister, Elizabeth Horcasitas; children, Sammy, Terre and Mary; granddaughter, Dr. Karen Cress; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Danny R. Eaker ’91, passed away May 18, 2012. Danny valued education, graduating from Ft. Scott Community College, Eastern New Mexico University, and earned his master’s degree in Education Administration from WNMU. He was a History teacher at Tohatchi High School in NM. He also taught at Valley View Elementary School, was assistant principal at Mesa Middle School in Roswell, and principal at Edgewood Elementary. Danny was passionate and talented in the sport of wrestling. He competed in high school and coached at Tohatchi HS, Roswell High, and Goddard High. He held his dream job, Roswell Schools Athletic Director, until the time of his retirement in 2010. Danny and his wife, Sylvia, enjoyed world travel together, visiting Mayan ruins in Mexico, the Pyramids in Egypt, the Taj Mahal, and the Great Wall of China. He is survived by his wife, Sylvia; daughter, Teresa; granddaughters, Alyssa and Alia; sisters, Tina, and Shelly; brother, Kent; step-father, Norman; and many other beloved family members.

Bonnie Jo Ferrell entered eternal life on February 29, 2012. In 1966 Bonnie and her husband moved to Durango where she held jobs such as a bookkeeper, office manager in real estate and construction industries. In the early 70’s Bonnie and Mr. Ferrell developed Lone Pine Mobile Park which both managed until a few years ago. She actively involved herself in the Hermosa Sanitation District spending 23 years as a board member, as well as spending 35 years as a member of Animas Valley Garden Club. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Jack; son, Renn, brother, Paul; two grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

David Gallear ’68, passed away on December 29, 2011. After graduating from WNMU, he married the love of his life, Kae Stump, on July 30, 1976. Mr. Gallear worked as a pressman at RR Donnelley for 30 years until his retirement in 2007. He was a member of First Christian Church and Montgomery County Historical Society. He is survived by his wife Kae; son, Mike; daughters, Teresa and Lisa; sister, Jacqueline; and seven grandchildren.

Roberto A. Garcia, passed away April 22, 2012 in Hurley, NM. He was only 22 years old, but had made an impact on life already through his political activism, involvement in LULAC, and passion for the arts. “Berto” studied art at the Academy of Art in San Francisco, CA before returning home to family and enrolling at WNMU. He was an active member of the Native American Church. “Berto” enjoyed skateboarding, reading, and spending time with family and friends. He is survived by his twin sister, Camila; mother, Kathy Benavidez; father, Peter Garcia; sister, Yvette; nieces, Brianna, Jasmione, Mhia, and Celest; maternal grandparents, Ubaldo and Josephine; paternal grandparents, Armando and Vera; and many cousins, aunts and uncles.

Raul M. Gonzales “Ruly” passed away April 25, 2012. Raul attended Western New Mexico University on a football scholarship and later the Ruly Athletic scholarship fund was established in his name at WNMU. He was well-known for his Golden Gorditas. Ruly is survived by his wife of 47 years, Mona; daughters Renee and Barbara; sons, Raul and Christopher; sisters, Pricilla and Irma; 14 grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.

William Frank “Billy” Grimes Jr. ’70 & ’73, passed away on March 16, 2012. Billy

received his master’s degree in business education from Western New Mexico University. After graduation, he joined the National Guard and later Air Force, where he received a medical discharge after 10 years as a sergeant. Some of his diverse career choices included truck driving, working on the trail crew, fire fighting, farming and teaching. He taught business math, typing and was a wrestling coach for 12 years. He is survived by sons Nolan, Paul and Dale; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; sisters, Ellen Libby, and Jo Ann; brother, Ves; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mary I. Herrera passed away on February 19, 2012. Mary was known for her love of animals, helping those in need and having a diverse choice in careers.

She had been an instructional assistant with Cibola Municipal Schools in Grants, NM and Carlsbad Municipal Schools in Carlsbad, NM. She was also a “Seasonal” park ranger at Carlsbad National Caverns in Carlsbad, NM. She is survived by daughter Krystal Marie Herrera; mother, Mary Jane Anaya; brothers, Charlie and Simon; sister, Veronica; three aunts, one uncle, and many close family and friends.

Kaye J. Jordan ’83, passed away on February 1, 2012. She graduated with honors from WNMU earning a degree in accounting. After working for the US Census Bureau she moved to Las Vegas, NV where she started a business, Merry Maids, with daughter Debra. After 16 years with the franchise she retired in Truth or Consequences. Kaye loved to be outdoors enjoying all that nature offered. She is survived by five children, Scott, David, Sandra, Debra, and Robert; 10 grandchildren, and 27 great-grandchildren.

Barbara M. Koons ’87, passed away on September 20, 2011. Barbara served as an RN for the Air Force during the Vietnam

War. After the war she and her husband of 46 years, Gerald, settled in Silver City in 1971. While in Silver City she obtained her degree in Elementary Education in 1987. She is survived by her husband, Gerald Koons; three children, and six grandchildren.

Peggy Sue Larisch ’83 & ’84, passed away March 20, 2012. Peggy married her husband Johannes in 1969 and they moved to Germany for his military career. After four years they returned to the U.S. She earned a bachelor’s degree in teaching and a master’s degree in Teaching from WNMU. Peggy taught at Silver High School from 1983 until February 2012. She is survived by her husband, Johannes; children, Mischa and Bianca; and five grandchildren, Samantha, Ryanne, Khonner, Johanna and Dakota.

Anita L. Levario (Lopez) entered eternal life on February 3, 2012. She received her bachelors degree in Spanish and Writing from WNMU. Anita was a loving wife, wonderful mother, and a great person to everyone she knew. She touched the hearts and lives of so many people, she will truly be missed by many. She is survived by her children, Hector, Kristal and Maria; parents, Mary Perrault and Nino Lopez; brothers, Joe, Steven and Ernie; sisters, Lupe, Rose and Susie; and five grandchildren.

Mary Edwina “Wina” Manning passed away April 30, 2012 in Midland, TX. Wina attended WNMU after graduating from Cliff High School with honors. Mrs. Manning studied archaeology and enjoyed Native American culture. She served as bookkeeper for her many business ventures, to include trucking, mining, agriculture, and ranching. Wina is survived by a son, Richard; daughter, Kim; grandchildren, Kade, Skye, Cameron, and Philip; 12 great grandchildren; sister, Darlene; brother, Darrell; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Javier M. Milo ’98, passed away March 3, 2012. He graduated from Deming High School with a determination to better his community through education and leadership. Javier earned a B.A. degree in Elementary Education, followed by an M.A.

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degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, and was working on a Ph.D. at NMSU. His happiness and cheerful demeanor will continue to live in the hearts of those he influenced. He is survived by his parents, Henry and Rosa; brothers, Danny and Henry; sister, Sally; and seven nieces and nephews.

Donney Morris passed away May 26, 2012. Donney graduated from Capitan High School in Capitan, NM and from

New Mexico Western College. He served in the US Marine Corps. Mr. Morris worked as a teacher in Reserve and Roswell, NM. He later worked for Exxon and Stubbs Petroleum. Donney was a member of Denman Avenue Baptist Church. He is survived by his wife Linda; daughter, Tasha Marlow; son, Clinton; grandson, Josh Kimmey; sister, Ruth Pierce; brother, Kenney; and a number of nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Ruth V. Nicholson ’40, passed away on January 5, 2012. In 1940 she received her teaching certificate from WNMU and began teaching in Lordsburg, NM. While in Lordsburg she met her husband James Ralph Nicholson. She spent most of her life in Santa Fe, New Mexico where she began teaching at Kaune Elementary School. For over 30 years she taught Sunday school at Immanuel Lutheran Church. She is survived by daughters, Joanne and Janice; grand-daughters, Tammy, Kim and Lori; grandsons, Zane and Kyle; and six great-grandchildren.

Israel P. Nuanes ’99, passed away May 12, 2012 as a result of injuries caused by an

explosive device in Afghanistan. Israel was an Army Staff Sergeant Explosive Ordinance Disposal Team Leader. Previously he worked in the Cobre Mines, for Unitech at White Sands Missile Range, and at Hatch Valley Public Schools. “Iz” earned his associate’s degree in Computer and Network Technology from WNMU. He enjoyed music, camping, hiking, biking, kayaking, and long rides on his motorcycle. He often said, “Live well, love much, and laugh often.” Two of the many recognitions he earned in the military include the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart. Israel is survived by his wife, Rosina; son, Israel; daughter, Laurissa; grandmother, Trinidad; aunt, Betty, and cousins, Diane and Andy.

Michael L. Nuez passed away May 28, 2012. Michael earned his associate’s degree in welding and was working toward a bachelor’s degree when he became ill recently. He will be missed by so many. Michael is survived by his mother, Helen; daughter, Deandra; uncle, Steve, and many cousins.

Glen D. Pierson passed away February 25, 2012. Glen attended WNMU on a football scholarship after graduating from Flint Central High School in 1971. Glen worked for Allison Transmission in Indianapolis and retired from General Motors in 2006. He served several years as the deacon at ClearNote Church. Mr. Pierson is survived by his wife of 24 years, Rachel; daughters, Jill, Lisa, Holly, and Lydia; his father, Richard; brothers, Richard and Thomas; and grandchildren, Tori, Nick and Jake.

Joan A. Robbins passed away March 6, 2012. Joni graduated with a B.A. in Music Education and an

M.A. in Education from University of Phoenix. She loved children and taught K-6th music, orchestra, theatre, band, and piano in Douglas County School District from 1972-2009. She was named Teacher of the Year in Douglas County in 1985. Joni enjoyed gardening, attending musicals, and helping out at her church. She played a significant role in the lives of so many students over her career. Joni is survived by her husband, Larry; children, Kip, Kevin, and Keith; grandchildren, Stella, Marin, and Sage; siblings, Pamela and Dale.

Albert Amador Sedillos ’72, passed away May 8, 2012 at his residence. After receiving his bachelor’s degree in education from WNMU, Mr. Sedillos began his teaching career in Ridgecrest, CA, where he received Coach of the Year honors in basketball. He later returned to teach and coach at his high school alma mater, Cobre H.S. Mr. Sedillos also earned a master’s degree in counseling from Western New Mexico University and then became the guidance counselor at Cobre from 1981-2003. Albert also worked as a guidance counselor for Lordsburg High School and after retiring he continued counseling with the Head Start Program at El Grito. In 2008, WNMU inducted Mr. Sedillos into the Education Hall of Fame for his excellence and dedication to teaching. He is survived by his wife, Lorraine, daughter, Allison; six sisters, Aurelia, Ramona, Margaret, Jennie, Susie, and Mary Lou; brothers, Manuel, Joe, and Jesus; and numerous nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Gary Mitchell Sparks ’73, of Portland, Oregon, passed away June 27, 2012 in an

airplane accident. Mr. Sparks served in the Marines and Navy and taught music at Tularosa High School. Most recently he worked as a flight instructor and taught ground school at Portland Community College. Gary is survived by his wife, Martha Ann Moorehouse Sparks; four siblings, Wyatt, Twana, Keith, and Darla Daigle; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Ramona Sterling (Young) ’77, passed away March 15, 2012. Ramona grew up in Hanover, NM. She earned a bachelor’s degree from WNMU and then a master’s degree from the University of Arizona. Ramona worked as a teacher and then went on to civil service, ultimately retiring from the USPS in 2000. Those who knew her note that her perseverance and commitment were attributes that came naturally to her. She is survived by her mother, Chonita; daughters, Cathleen, Sherri, and Misti; sisters, Mary Ellen, Lilly, Sally, and Julie; brother, Sonny; and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren nieces and nephews.

Daniel L. Terrazas passed away June 14, 2012 in Las Cruces, NM. Daniel played College football. He owned a furniture store in California, was a Real Estate Broker and then went into the spice packing business. Mr. Terrazas was President of El Guapo Spices for 10 years. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Nancy; son, John; three grandchildren, Jimmy Diaz, Mark, and Vanessa; one great grandchild, Kimberly Diaz; four brothers, Jesus, Raul, Amador, and Jose; three sisters, Rachel Baca, Elvira Molina, and Elpedia Vasquez; and many nieces and nephews.

Earl L. Wheat of Silver City passed away June 20, 2012. Mr. Wheat served his

country in the US Navy during World War II and received several commendations, reaching the rank of seaman first class. While working for Kennecott Copper Corporation, Earl earned his degree in Industrial Technology from WNMU. He was later promoted at Kennecott to Maintenance Supervisor and retired in 1985. Mr. Wheat enjoyed hunting and competitive shooting. He is surved by two sons, Michael and Steven Wheat; three grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

William “Bill” D. Young of Daytona Beach, Florida passed away June 14, 2012. Mr.

Young joined the Air Force in 1950 and was sent to New Mexico Western College for military classes. When he completed Bill transferred overseas to the Panama canal Zone. He was discharged as Staff Sgt. in 1954. After 32 years of US Government employment, he retired as Deputy Personnel Director of the Panama Canal Commission in 1984. Afterward, Bill spent several years as an adjunct instructor of Business at a community college. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Virginia; two sons, William D. Young II and Stephen.

FRIENDS OF WESTERN

E. Richard Criscione, WNMU School of Business faculty, passed away June 20, 2012 with family in Girard, Ohio. After 22 years with General Electric, Mr. Criscione retired to pursue his passion in teaching. He was an accounting professor with WNMU’s School of Business for the last two years. His dedication to teaching was matched only by his equal dedication to his family. Students of his have shared many positive comments about his kindness and patience. He is survived by his loving former wife, Margaret Criscione; three children, Shawn, Jeffrey and Timothy; three grandchildren, Ryan, Fionn and Jacob; one brother, Joseph; and many nieces and nephews.

Denotesmilitaryorlawenforcement service.

Donationsinthememoryof any alum can be sent to the WNMU Foundation. To establish a scholarship or

designate annual donations, please contact

575-538-6310 or foundation@wnmu.edu.

18

WNMU Online o�ers over 100 courses available each semester anytime, anywhere.8 fully online degrees.

www.wnmu.edu/online

WNMU Online o�ers over 100 courses available each semester anytime, anywhere.8 fully online degrees.

www.wnmu.edu/online

The Western Institute for Lifelong Learning (WILL) approaches learning as a lifetime adventure for continued intellectual and

personal discovery in a supportive, expansive, and informal environment.

We encourage eager learners of any age to join. If ongoing learning outside the traditional classroom appeals to you,

then become a member.

MEMBERSHIP For a yearly fee of $75, choose courses from a wide range of offerings. Expore a topic in a single session or one extended over multiple weeks.

Find us online at www.will-learning.com

or call 575-538-6835

WILL is a grass-roots organization created by Grant County residents and is a partner of Western New Mexico University in Silver City.

Parents: If this issue of the Westerner is addressed to your daughter or son who has established a separate permanent address, please notify us of the new address: alumni@wnmu.edu 1.800.872.9668 ext. 6675 575.538.6675

WNMU Non-ProfitOrganizationOfficeofAlumniAffairs U.S.PostagePOBox680 PAIDSilver City, NM 88062 Silver City, NM 88062 Permit No. 39