The Board of Regents met on Tuesday, October 14 and approved two agenda items with unanimous votes.
Regents voted to begin the process of introducing a new Master of Science degree in Clinical Nurse Leadership. Administered by the School of Nursing, the new graduate program will be the first such program in the state of New Mexico. Courses will be administered through a partnership with New Mexico State University and the University of New Mexico.
“We have had tremendous support from the community, including HMS (Hidalgo Medical Services),” said Dr. Sherry Bassi, associate professor of nursing. “The program is completely online and includes 400 to 500 hours of clinical immersion.”
The Board also approved a new four-year contract for President Joseph Shepard. The contract extends the President’s tenure through June 30, 2018.
A long list of community leaders attended the meeting and spoke in favor of President Shepard’s performance since his appointment in 2011.
“WNMU has become the partner we always dreamed we could have,” said Faye McCalmont, Executive Director of the Mimbres Region Arts Council. “Since Dr. Shepard has come here to Silver City, WNMU has become the most supportive, enthusiastic and engaged partner.”
Scott Terry, Executive Director of the Silver City-Grant County Chamber of Commerce echoed similar thoughts. “The gentlemen has a great vision for the university and for this community,” said Terry.
Others speaking favorably of President Shepard’s leadership on campus and in the community include representatives from Gila Hike and Bike, the Arts and Cultural District, the Recovery Management Center, La Frontera New Mexico, and Silver Regional Sexual Assault Support Services.
The Board of Regents is scheduled to next meet in December.