We've had four names: Normal School, New Mexico State Teacher's College, New Mexico Western College, Western New Mexico University (1963)
Five buildings are registered as cultural properties: Fleming Hall, Graham Gymnasium, Hunter Hall, Light Hall, Ritch Hall
Longest tradition: the Great Race, established in 1967
We've had 15 Presidents. Dr. Joseph Shepard was inaugurated in 2011.
Demographics
More than 3,700 students attend our five campuses and online
50% of our undergrads are Hispanic and we are designated as an Hispanic Serving Institution
Classes on average are about 18 students in size
500 degrees are awarded each year
18 countries are represented in our student body
Our mascot is Rawhide. Our colors are Royal Purple and Golden Yellow.
Distinguishing Factors
More than 70 fields of study are offered from accounting to zoology.
Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools, the Professional Standards Commission of the State of New Mexico, and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
We offer fully online master and bachelor degrees.
The world's largest permanent collection of Mimbres pottery is found in our University Museum.
Life on Campus
Our main campus is spread across 83 acres on a hill.
We have hills, sunny skies and awesome views.
Historic traditions like the Great Race and Painting of the W are celebrated each year.
Mustangs compete in RMAC Division II with teams in softball, volleyball, football and men's and women's basketball, golf, cross country and tennis.