Photo credit: WNMU
DEMING – Western New Mexico University will celebrate its Fall 2025 Commencement Ceremony on Friday, December 12, at 2 p.m. in the Fine Arts Center Theatre in Silver City. The event will honor the achievements and perseverance of the university’s newest class of graduates.
Interim President Chris Maples, Ph.D., praised the Fall 2025 class for its commitment and resilience, saying it represents the determination that defines WNMU. “Earning a degree is a profound personal achievement, and we are immensely proud of our graduates who persevered to reach this milestone,” Maples said. “We look forward to celebrating their success and seeing the positive impact they will have on their communities.”
A total of 308 degrees and certificates will be awarded during the ceremony, including 94 master’s degrees, 135 bachelor’s degrees, 52 associate degrees, 25 graduate certificates, and two Fast Track degrees.
The program will include a posthumous degree honoring a former student and a keynote address by acclaimed author and WNMU faculty emerita Sharman Apt Russell. The ceremony will open with a welcome from President Maples, a convocation by Manual Bustamante, Ph.D., and the presentation of colors by the Honor Guard of the Marine Corps League Gaffney-Oglesby Detachment 1328. The national anthem will be performed by Mariachi Plata de WNMU.
WNMU invites the public and surrounding communities to take part in celebrating the accomplishments of the Fall 2025 graduates and to share in recognizing their dedication and success.