Western New Mexico University

Transforming the Future Together Since 1893

Demographics

  • More than 3,500 students attend our campuses and are enrolled online.
  • 50% of our undergrads are Hispanic, and we are designated as an Hispanic Serving Institution.
  • Classes have 18 students each, on average.
  • 500 degrees are awarded each year.
  • 18 countries are represented in our student body.
  • Our mascot is Rawhide. Our colors are Royal Purple and Golden Yellow.

History

  • Established on February 11, 1893
  • We've had four names: Normal School, New Mexico State Teacher's College, New Mexico Western College and Western New Mexico University (1963).
  • Five buildings on campus are registered as cultural properties: Fleming Hall, Graham Gymnasium, Hunter Hall, Light Hall and Ritch Hall.
  • Longest tradition: the Great Race, established in 1967
  • We've had 15 presidents. Dr. Joseph Shepard was inaugurated in 2011.

Distinguishing Factors

  • WNMU offers more than 70 fields of study, from accounting to zoology.
  • WNMU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, New Mexico State Board of Education, Association of Collegiate Business Schools and National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
  • We offer fully online master's and bachelor's degrees.
  • Our University Museum houses the world's largest permanent collection of Mimbres pottery.
  • WNMU is a member of the American Association of University Women, the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities and the American Library Association.

Life on Campus

  • Our main campus is spread across 83 acres on a hill.
  • Silver City has mountains, sunny skies and awesome views.
  • WNMU carries on historic traditions like the Great Race annually.
  • Mustangs compete in the Lone Star Conference, and WNMU has softball, volleyball, football, and men's and women's basketball, golf, cross country and tennis teams.

Life in Silver City

  • Silver City is home to dozens of artists and galleries. Art is everywhere.
  • Foodies are in for a treat. Local restaurants serve up everything from traditional New Mexican to dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
  • Coffee corners are a staple here. Order up a custom latte or a brew made with imported beans.
  • Metropolitan hubs like Tucson, Albuquerque and El Paso are only a drive away.
  • WNMU Cultural Affairs brings first-rate musicians and performers to campus frequently. Plus, this town boasts a myriad of free events like the Silver City Blues Festival and Tour of the Gila.

Gila National Forest

Western New Mexico University

Western New Mexico University

Phone(575) 538-6011
Emailnews@wnmu.edu
Location1000 W College Ave, Silver City, NM 88062
Websitehttp://wnmu.edu

WNMU History

Silver City Chamber of Commerce

Silver City Tourism

Campus Map