Board meetings, strategic plans, and buyer signals from Michelle Bencomo’s organization
Sep 11, 2026·BoardMeeting
Board
New Mexico Highlands University Board Of Regents Special Meeting
The board discussed the presidential search process, rescinding prior actions in favor of a new institutionally administered national search. This included establishing a new search committee, defining the search framework, and approving a detailed search profile guidance that emphasizes strategic planning experience and shared governance. The board also authorized a budget of $60,000 for third-party professional support and retained special counsel for the search. An executive closed session was held to discuss personnel matters related to the search and pending litigation.
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New Mexico Highlands University Board of Regents Special Virtual Meeting
The Board of Regents held a special meeting to address the presidential search process. Key actions included approving the agenda and convening an executive session to consult with legal counsel regarding the search process and pending litigation. Following the executive session, the Board approved a motion to pursue the engagement of a presidential search firm, specifically AGB Search or Isaacson, Miller, contingent upon availability and compliance with procurement regulations. The Board also discussed, but took no formal action on, the formation of a Presidential Search Committee, opting to wait for input from the selected search firm.
Jul 20, 2026·BoardMeeting
Board
New Mexico Highlands University Board of Regents Special Meeting
The Board discussed the procurement of presidential search services, evaluating available firms and potential budget requirements estimated at $150,000, ultimately deciding to table these items for future review. An executive session was held to discuss personnel matters related to the Interim President’s employment contract and performance. Additionally, the Board scheduled a follow-up meeting to further consider the presidential search process.
Jun 12, 2026·BoardMeeting
Board
New Mexico Highlands University Board of Regents Special Meeting
The board meeting addressed several key operational and administrative items, including the approval of a Doctor of Nursing Practice tuition adjustment and the Lora Shields infrastructure project. The Interim President provided comprehensive updates on organizational initiatives, student success programs, and community partnerships. Financial updates included a discussion on a forthcoming forensic audit, the reinstatement of scholarship acceptance processes, and corrective actions taken in response to Higher Education Department budget inquiries. The General Counsel provided an update regarding state audit cooperation. Furthermore, the Board formally initiated a presidential search process and conducted an executive session to discuss an interim leadership evaluation and legal risks.
Extracted from official board minutes, strategic plans, and video transcripts.
