Community News

Students present their findings at the Spring Student Research SymposiumSILVER CITY, NM — Western New Mexico University (WNMU) conducted its annual spring symposium in late April; the two-day event showcased academic excellence, creative scholarship and the diverse research initiatives of the university's faculty and students. The event provided a comprehensive platform for the university community to engage with emerging insights on topics from local historical preservation to advancements in environmental science. 

In total, the symposium featured 93 presenters and drew an audience of 381 participants over the course of the two-day schedule. The event began with a series of in-person presentations held at the J. Cloyd Miller Library. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the library's corridors and study spaces were transformed into vibrant hubs of intellectual exchange. Students and community members gathered to view poster sessions and attend live lectures that highlighted the university's dedication to rigorous inquiry and regional development. 

Silver City, NM – May 26, 2026 – Hidalgo Medical Services (HMS) is proud to announce the upcoming launch of Vision Services, marking a significant step forward in the organization's commitment to delivering comprehensive, integrated care across southwest New Mexico.

This expansion will introduce optometry services at HMS clinics in Lordsburg and Silver City, increasing access to essential vision care for patients in both Hidalgo and Grant Counties. Many individuals in these rural communities face geographic and transportation barriers that can make routine eye care difficult to obtain. By bringing these services closer to home, HMS is helping ensure patients receive the care they need to maintain their health, independence, and quality of life.

Listen to National History Day students talk about their exhibit, "Tierra o Muerte: The Tierra Amarilla Conflict" at the Palace of the Governors.

What: The New Mexico History Museum is proud to host three special National History Day student guests from Cobre High School, Elias Guadiana, Cheyanne Medrano, and Mateo Salcido, for a talk about their exhibit, "Tierra o Muerte: The Tierra Amarilla Conflict." The exhibit explores the historic 1967 Tierra Amarilla land grant conflict and its lasting impact on New Mexico's cultural and political landscape. The students will be interviewed about their research process, the challenges of interpreting a complex historical event, and the experience of designing their exhibit. This conversation will be held in person at the Palace of the Governors, as well as livestreamed on the History Museum's Instagram, @newmexicohistorymuseum.

Silver City Theatre (SCT) is pleased to announce a new chapter in its leadership, marked by a
blend of continuity, experience, and renewed creative vision, according to incoming President
Jim Charleston.

"Our leadership team represents a strong and invigorating commitment to honoring the theatre's
roots, 12-year history and to expanding its future."

"After years of dedicated service, MaryAnn Marlar has been named President Emeritus,"
according to Charleston. "In this role, she will continue to serve on the board, offering guidance
and institutional knowledge that has helped shape the organization's growth and community
impact. Her leadership has been instrumental in establishing SCT as a vital cultural presence in
Grant County."

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, keynote speaker for the WNMU Spring Commencement 2026SILVER CITY, NM — Hundreds of graduates crossed the stage Friday evening, May 8, at the Western New Mexico University spring 2026 Commencement in front of a standing-room only audience at the university's Ben Altamirano Stadium. The keynote address was given by New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham.

The ceremony honored students graduating with degrees and certificates across various academic levels. While degrees and certificates will be officially conferred following a final audit of academic records, 

notable preliminary highest degrees awarded included: 

left to right is Dr. James "Butch" Rosser, MD, FACS and Dr. Maximus L'Amour, MD, FACS.Silver City, NM — Physicians at Gila Regional Medical Center are earning international recognition for advancing a less invasive approach to treating a serious abdominal condition.

James "Butch" Rosser, MD, FACS, and Maximus L'Amour, MD, FACS, presented their research at the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons (SAGES) Annual Meeting, held March 25–28, 2026, in Tampa, Florida. Their work was selected for poster presentation among leading surgeons worldwide.

Silver City, NM — The Silver City Regional Association of REALTORS® is proud to announce Christopher Bennett as the recipient of the 2026 REALTOR® Family Scholarship. Christopher is a current student at New Mexico State University, maintaining a 4.0 GPA while pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.

In addition to his academic excellence, Christopher has demonstrated exceptional leadership through his service as a New Mexico FFA State Vice President. He is currently a candidate for State FFA President, continuing his commitment to agricultural education and youth development across New Mexico.

In his application, Christopher shared a powerful perspective on what makes a community thrive:

"An ideal community is one where youth are supported in every way possible. It's a place where adults care enough to show up, guide, and set an example. When a community invests in its youth, it invests in itself."

Sstudents from the Grant County area graduated from New Mexico Connections Academy today. The 303-student class eagerly moved their tassels from right to left as their teachers, family, and friends cheered them on. Local graduates include:

• Isaiah Cordova
• Alicia Clark
• Cooper Young

*NOTE: Not all students from the area may be included for privacy reasons.

Graduates across the state are headed to college, vocational programs, the military, or the workforce.

New Mexico Connections Academy Celebrates the Graduating Class of 2026

More than 300 seniors from across the state were honored at in-person ceremony in Rio Rancho

Santa Fe, N.M. (May 21, 2026) – New Mexico Connections Academy, atuition-free, online public school serving students in grades 4-12, celebrated its graduating class on Thursday, May 21. Graduates joined their friends and families for an in-person commencement ceremony at the Rio Rancho Events Center, marking the completion of their high school journey.