Chancellor James Johnston to Deliver 2026 State of Eastern Address at ENMU-Portales

2026 State of the University

Chancellor James Johnston to Deliver 2026 State of Eastern Address at ENMU-Portales

PORTALES, N.M. — March 4, 2026 — Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) is proud to announce the 2026 State of Eastern Address, featuring Chancellor James Johnston. This annual gathering serves as a cornerstone event for the University system, bringing together students, faculty, staff, and the community to celebrate institutional milestones and outline the strategic path forward.

Under the 2026 theme, "One Eastern, One Family, One Detail at a Time," Chancellor Johnston will provide an in-depth look at the progress of the One Eastern initiative. The address will highlight how the system is streamlining its efforts to foster student success and opportunities across the Portales, Roswell, and Ruidoso campuses.

Event Details

  • What: 2026 State of Eastern Address
  • When: Thursday, March 19, 2026 | 3–5 p.m.
  • Where: Campus Union Building (CUB) Ballroom, Portales, NM
  • Admission: Free and open to the public; RSVP available for live event

Attendees will enjoy a reception featuring hors d'oeuvres, refreshments, and a specialty cake created by the ENMU-Portales Department of Culinary Arts. The event is designed to foster connection among the "Greyhound" community and provide a firsthand look at the University's trajectory for 2026 and beyond.

How to Participate

To ensure an exceptional experience for all guests, ENMU offers both in-person and virtual attendance options:

  • In-Person: Attendees are encouraged to RSVP by visiting enmu.edu/StateofEasternRSVP to assist with guest count and catering preparations.
  • Virtual: For those unable to attend in Portales, a live broadcast will be available. Supporters can visit enmu.edu/StateofEastern to access the stream on the day of the event.

"I am very excited to share the progress across the System and the opportunities on the horizon," Johnston said. "This year I will also share some of the details and stories that represent the lives we are changing one family, one person at a time."

For more information regarding the event, contact:
Shaun Banther, Director of University Communications
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 575.562.2032