DEMING – After the resignations of Western New Mexico University’s five-member Board of Regents, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham criticized the board’s $1.9 million severance payout to outgoing university president Joe Shepard, calling it “tone-deaf.” The governor vowed to work with the Legislature to prevent excessive severance packages at public institutions.
Meanwhile, New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez filed an emergency restraining order to block the payment ahead of Shepard’s Jan. 15 departure. A hearing is set for Jan. 13 before 6th District Court Judge Jarod Hofacket.
The board, under scrutiny for alleged wasteful spending, canceled a planned meeting Tuesday due to a lack of quorum. Provost Jack Crocker may still be considered as interim president until a new board is appointed and confirms leadership.
State Sen. Siah Correa Hemphill expressed optimism for new leadership to better address fiduciary responsibilities and the university community’s needs.