For nearly eight decades, the Physical Science Laboratory at New Mexico State University has stood at the forefront of the nation’s national security innovation. Since 1946, PSL has supported America’s defense, aerospace and technology missions, powered by the people who built the laboratory, advanced its capabilities and strengthened its reputation as one of the nation’s oldest and trusted university-based applied research labs.
This Giving Tuesday, PSL invites former employees, long-time partners, alumni and supporters to help launch the PSL @80 Campaign, a year-long initiative leading to PSL’s 80th anniversary in 2026. Guided by the theme Legacy Built, Future Driven, the campaign honors PSL’s historic impact while investing in the spaces and infrastructure that will support the next era of mission-focused innovation.
As part of the launch, PSL aims to raise $50,000 to begin revitalizing key collaboration spaces in Anderson Hall on the NMSU main campus. These modernized environments will support national security research, interdisciplinary partnerships and workforce development programs that drive impact across the defense and aerospace ecosystem.
“For nearly 80 years, PSL has supported our nation’s defense and advanced technologies. The PSL @80 Campaign ensures our facilities continue to foster the creativity and collaboration that drive innovation in support of national security,” said Patricia Sullivan, interim PSL director.
The PSL @80 Campaign will culminate in a special Homecoming 2026 celebration, bringing alumni, former staff, partners and friends back to Las Cruces to reconnect, reflect and look ahead to PSL’s next era of excellence.
“PSL’s story is one of constant evolution,” said Marcella Shelby, PSL strategic initiatives officer. “The PSL @80 Initiative is an opportunity for our community of alumni and supporters to come together to shape the next chapter of that story, through both investment and engagement.”
Supporters can make their Giving Tuesday contributions through the NMSU Foundation and sign up to receive ongoing updates about the campaign and the 2026 80th anniversary celebration.
To donate, visit https://alwaysanaggie.org/donate/psl. To join the 80th Anniversary Celebration Interest List at https://psl.nmsu.edu/giving_tuesday/index.html.
PSL is the state’s premier university-based applied national security research laboratory, advancing technologies that support the nation’s defense and aerospace missions. Established in 1946, PSL combines cutting-edge research with hands-on education, supporting partners across federal agencies, industry and academia. With expertise spanning telemetry, aerospace systems, cybersecurity, electronic warfare and unmanned aircraft systems, PSL serves as a cornerstone in building southern New Mexico’s growing national security and innovation ecosystem. Learn more at https://psl.nmsu.edu/.
-30-
PHOTO CAPTION: On Giving Tuesday, the Physical Science Laboratory at New Mexico State University is launching its PSL @80 Campaign, a year-long initiative leading to PSL’s 80th anniversary in 2026. Guided by the theme Legacy Built, Future Driven, the campaign honors PSL’s historic impact while investing in the spaces and infrastructure that will support the next era of mission-focused innovation. (NMSU photo by Josh Bachman)
IMAGE DESCRIPTION: Building profile photo