SILVER CITY – Former New Mexico State Senator Steve Neville is now serving as the Chairman of the Western New Mexico University Board of Regents. Neville, who was appointed to the board in March, brings more than two decades of legislative experience and says his focus is on guiding the university through current challenges while helping shape its future leadership.
Neville represented the Farmington area in the New Mexico Senate beginning in 2004. After retiring from the legislature, he said he still felt called to public service and welcomed the opportunity when approached by the Governor’s Office to join WNMU’s Board of Regents. His work on the Senate Finance Committee provided him with years of familiarity with the university’s operations and funding needs.
Neville said the board’s immediate priorities include reviewing a special audit requested by the State of New Mexico and taking a closer look at university policies. He noted that Interim President Chris Maples has been actively working to stabilize the institution following an enrollment downturn connected to a recent cyber-incident. Neville and Regent J. Dean Reed, along with Maples, are currently meeting with state legislators to secure operating funds needed to support the university.
One of the most significant responsibilities ahead is selecting a permanent president. Neville said the new leader must understand the close connection between Western and the Silver City community. He emphasized that the university is a major employer and will need a president who is capable of community engagement, fundraising, and working with the legislature to support university programs and expansions.
Neville also highlighted the importance of preparing students to fill essential roles across New Mexico, including educators, nurses, accountants, and skilled workers in trades like welding and construction. He pointed to the success of WNMU’s online degree programs, noting that many recent graduates completed their studies fully online, and said expanding those offerings will continue to be an important strategy moving forward.
This article is part of an ongoing series introducing members of the WNMU Board of Regents and sharing their priorities for the university’s future.