NMSU graduate students recognized for impact across New Mexico

Leaders in Las Cruces and New Mexico issued proclamations this week recognizing graduate students at New Mexico State University for their scholarly achievements and contributions to communities across the state. 

The proclamations coincide with Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week, which celebrates the impact and value of graduate and professional students on campuses throughout the United States. 

The City of Las Cruces issued a proclamation Monday, April 6, recognizing the invaluable contributions of NMSU graduate and professional students to the city, state and beyond. It highlights the impact of NMSU graduate students and their diverse talents, perspectives and contributions to a dynamic and inclusive society. 

“New Mexico State University stands as a beacon of higher education statewide, fostering innovation, research and intellectual growth,” the proclamation states. “Its graduate students serve as integral pillars of academic excellence, driving forward the frontiers of knowledge with dedication, perseverance and intellectual curiosity.” 

Ranjit Koodali, dean of the NMSU Graduate School; Karen Kopera-Frye, associate dean; Anna Harmon, president of the NMSU Graduate Student Council; and Jay Choate, vice president of the council, attended the Las Cruces City Council meeting to receive the proclamation. 

“Graduate students make substantive contributions to teaching, research and creative scholarship, outreach and service at NMSU, positively impacting communities locally, regionally and nationally,” Koodali said. 

Similarly, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham issued a separate proclamation acknowledging Graduate and Professional Student Appreciation Week. 

“Graduate and professional students come from across the state and around the world, enriching our communities and contributing to the cultural fabric of New Mexico; and graduate students play an indispensable role in advancing and preserving their institutions’ missions through teaching, research and public service,” the governor’s proclamation states. 

Harmon said that as a graduate student, she sees firsthand the dedication and resilience that define NMSU’s graduate student community. 

“This week is an opportunity to pause and recognize that behind every publication, project and milestone are individuals committed not only to their work and personal success but also to supporting one another and the collective success of our community,” Harmon said. “Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments, contributions and spirit of our graduate student community. We have so much to be proud of.” 

Kopera-Frye praised NMSU graduate students as scholars and leaders who enrichen lives and communities through research and outreach. 

“Through their outstanding work in research, teaching and service to NMSU and their communities, they make our lives richer and elevate the prominence of our university, city and state,” Kopera-Frye said. “We honor and celebrate their achievements and are proud of them.”

This week, the Graduate School will host several activities to celebrate graduate students. For detailed information, follow the Graduate School on Instagram. For more information about NMSU Graduate School, visit https://gradschool.nmsu.edu.