Government Relations Office

Portales 2027 Legislative Requests

838 Agriculture – Animal Education and Research Center, $450,000

This request encompasses the acquisition of essential agricultural equipment to support sustainable agriculture education and research, including a utility tractor and trailer, a liquid sprayer, a rotary tiller, a conservation seeder, and a disk harrow, as well as associated equipment for agronomy and horticulture field trials. These resources will support the development of the new Agriculture Education and Research Center, enhancing students' hands-on learning experiences and faculty research opportunities in sustainable agriculture, crop production, and resource management in eastern New Mexico.

839 Interactive Simulation and Treatment Lab for Speech Language Pathology, $350,000

This lab will serve as a dynamic educational, clinical, and research hub, benefiting both on- and off-campus undergraduate and graduate students by improving workforce training through the provision of technical skills training via Simlabs and student-to-student practice options with diagnostic and therapy equipment. This lab will expand educational resources to support skills development, provide multiple opportunities for student-faculty research, and expand clinical services for the Eastern New Mexico region. Ultimately, this lab will enhance recruitment, retention, completion, and career readiness by providing extensive access to practice procedures with this equipment over multiple semesters

841 Information Technology Systems – Infrastructure Upgrades, $1.2 million

The request is to replace aging core infrastructure and maintain essential technology services across the ENMU System. Key items include replacing a router that is more than 10 years old, expanding and securing wireless services, upgrading switches and DNS/domain controllers, improving data center rack infrastructure, and refreshing employee endpoints, computer labs, and smart classrooms. These investments are necessary to ensure ENMU’s network remains secure, reliable, and aligned with modern academic and operational needs.

844 Department of Public Safety – Police Units, $300,000

This request supports the replacement of aging, high-mileage campus police vehicles that are essential to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment across ENMU campuses. Reliable police units are critical for rapid response to emergencies, routine patrols, student safety escorts, and coordination with local law enforcement. Updated vehicles improve officer safety, reduce maintenance downtime, and ensure consistent public safety coverage for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

845 Expanding STEM Education and Research, $575,000

The funds would support the purchase of a Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS) system to strengthen student training, research capacity, and competitiveness for federal funding. The GC-MS enables precise molecular identification and enhances instruction in Chemistry, Biology, Agriculture, and Forensic Science, while supporting research in biomedical sciences, algal biofuels, organic solar cells, and environmental toxicology. The request also includes a confocal microscope and cryostat for sample preparation. Confocal microscopy will elevate STEM instruction by moving students from qualitative observation to quantitative analysis. Together, these tools support recruitment and retention through hands-on experience in advanced imaging and data analysis, improve student readiness for graduate study and high-demand careers, and enhance faculty success in securing external funding and partnerships, maximizing institutional impact and cost-effectiveness.

846 Fine Arts Technology – Facilities & Equipment Upgrade, $425,000

ENMU College of Fine Arts seeks investment to become a regional leader in arts technology. We envision enhanced technology (e.g., TV studio cameras, animation programs, virtual reality lab, music technology equipment, theatre lighting, and film production equipment) to support learning and career readiness in broadcasting, visual art, music, theatre, and film. The requested equipment will enhance the career readiness of our students in existing arts careers and will support new academic programs in music technology, 3D animation, and game design.

847 Allied Health Education & Research – Anatomy and Imaging Systems, $300,000

The requests include (1) Anatomage Virtual Cadaver Table, (2) iDXA imaging bed, and (3) Doppler ultrasound. The equipment will support education and research efforts in the allied health fields. Specifically, the equipment will facilitate development of an anatomy and imaging center critical to supporting the research and training needs of faculty and students pursuing degrees in pre- professional programs (e.g., medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, veterinary, and physical therapy), Biology, Communicative Disorders, Animal Science, Forensic Science, Nursing, and Health and Physical Education.

850 Blackwater Draw National Historical Landmark – Security Upgrades, $490,000

The request is for fencing, security cameras, and associated infrastructure to enhance security for the site, visitors center, interpretive center, and residence. The BWD site is part of the Anthropology and Archaeology program and serves as both a historical landmark and an active research site. The site attracts over 1,500 visitors annually, offering hands-on teaching and research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, and hosting archaeological field schools and visiting research teams from across the U.S.

851 Greyhound Sound – Marching Band Uniforms, $225,000

The Greyhound Sound Marching Band uniforms are nearing the end of their functional and aesthetic lifespan, and replacement is necessary to maintain the quality and public image of the ensemble. The Greyhound Sound serves as one of the university's most visible and active ambassadors, performing at athletic events, community events, and regional festivals. The band's appearance and professionalism reflect the institution's commitment to excellence and school pride. Investing in new uniforms will also contribute to recruitment and retention.

852 College of Fine Arts – Supporting Fine Arts Performance, $360,000

Requests include (1) Digital Interface for the Pipe Organ and (2) Steinway Model D piano. The pipe organ was redesigned during the renovation of the Music Building (2008). The requested funds would enable an upgrade to a digital interface, ensuring the instrument is always in tune and performance-ready. The current Steinway piano is over 20 years old and reaching the end of its optimal performance level. This heavily used instrument has been well-maintained, but needs to be replaced as the primary instrument for supporting live performances in ENMU's Buchanan Hall.

853 KENW – Equipment, $400,000

The request includes three Audio Mixing Board Systems for KENW Studio A, B, and C. The boards allow for the mixing of audio along with video. Each studio needs its own audio mixer, along with video equipment. These boards have been in service since 2006 and have been slowly deteriorating in performance. The audio quality is currently minimal at best for production purposes. The optimal quality of audio is required for a production to be a total success.

1437 Athletics – Turf Baseball Outfield, $1,000,000

To provide a consistent playing surface and reduce annual cost for care of the natural grass outfield, an artificial surface outfield is required. An artificial surface will minimize care expenses and increase the ability to play contests in various weather conditions. It will also permit ENMU to host baseball events such as showcase events, camps, and tournaments. These events will bring potential students, student-athletes, and parents to campus and will likely enhance the enrollment numbers for the University. Additionally, it will provide equity in the baseball and softball facilities.

Roswell 2027 Legislative Requests

23 Information Technology Infrastructure and Equipment $250,000

This request supports modernization and replacement of aging IT infrastructure essential to instruction, cybersecurity, data reliability, and campus operations. Updated network, server, and instructional technology will support online and hybrid learning, protect sensitive data, and ensure continuity across academic and administrative functions at ENMU-Roswell.

24 Health Sciences Immersive Scenario-Based Simulation Digital Platform $125,000

This request enhances health sciences instruction through high-fidelity, scenario-based simulation that allows students to practice clinical decision-making in a controlled environment. The platform aligns with accreditation standards, improves readiness for clinical placements, and supports workforce preparation for regional healthcare employers facing staffing shortages.

29 Automotive Technology Program Air Conditioning Training Units $100,000

This request funds air-conditioning system trainers to provide hands-on instruction with modern automotive climate control systems. Updated equipment is necessary to align curriculum with industry standards, improve student employability, and meet employer expectations in the regional automotive workforce.

25 Aviation Maintenance Program Forklift $ 60,000

This request supports the purchase of a forklift needed to safely move heavy aircraft components and equipment used in aviation maintenance instruction. The forklift is essential for meeting safety requirements, reducing injury risk, and supporting FAA-aligned training in a high-demand workforce program.

26 Welding Program Metal Break Press $ 60,000

This request provides a metal brake press to support advanced welding and fabrication instruction. The equipment will allow students to gain hands-on experience with metal forming techniques used in manufacturing and construction, strengthening alignment with employer needs and industry standards.

31 Biology Program New Microscopes $ 50,000

This request replaces outdated microscopes that no longer meet instructional needs. Updated microscopes are essential for biology and pre-health coursework, supporting student success, laboratory safety, and transfer readiness with equipment consistent with current scientific practices.

33 Physical Plant Sewer Jetter $ 64,000

This request supports the purchase of a sewer jetter to proactively maintain campus wastewater infrastructure. The equipment will allow staff to address blockages in-house, reducing emergency repairs, preventing service disruptions, and lowering long-term maintenance costs.

32 Physical Plant Aerial Lift Replacement $ 50,000

This request replaces an aging aerial lift that is no longer reliable or cost-effective. A new lift is essential for safe maintenance of lighting, roofing, HVAC systems, and exterior facilities, supporting staff safety and timely campus upkeep.

36 Physical Plant Vehicle Replacements $ 50,000

This request supports replacement of high-mileage Physical Plant vehicles used for daily maintenance and facilities operations. Reliable vehicles are necessary to respond efficiently to work orders and maintain a safe, functional campus environment.

Ruidoso 2027 Legislative Requests

742 Pickup Truck & Trailer $180,000

This request supports the acquisition of a pickup truck and trailer for ENMU-Ruidoso’s College Rodeo Team.  The team needs a pickup truck and a trailer for hauling team members, competition horses, practice livestock, and equipment to college rodeos.

745 Physical Plant UTV $60,000

This request funds a utility task vehicle (UTV) to support Physical Plant operations across varied campus terrain and outdoor spaces. The UTV will improve efficiency and safety for grounds maintenance, snow removal support, utility access, and rapid response to facilities issues.

744 Agriculture Meat Processing Equipment $100,000

This request supports the purchase of specialized meat processing equipment for the planned agriculture program, providing hands-on training aligned with regional livestock, food production, and value-added agriculture workforce needs. The equipment will support instructional quality, food safety standards, and industry-recognized skills, strengthening local workforce pipelines in a key rural economic sector.

747 Graphic Design Program Equipment $50,000

This request replaces outdated instructional equipment with industry-standard hardware and software used in graphic design and digital media. Updated equipment is essential for developing relevant technical skills, producing portfolio-quality work, and preparing students for competitive creative, marketing, and communications careers, including remote employment opportunities.