Western New Mexico University Faces Leadership Shake-up After Wasteful Spending Revelations

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has called for the immediate resignation of Western New Mexico University (WNMU) regents following revelations of mismanagement and wasteful spending. This call for new leadership comes in the wake of a year-end letter sent to the board, urging them to prioritize student welfare and restore stability to the university.

The university has been plagued by controversy since the resignation of President Joseph Shepard, who announced his departure alongside the chairwoman of the board of regents, who also resigned on December 31. An investigation by the state auditor uncovered significant financial mismanagement, including questions raised by lawmakers over Shepard’s spending on international trips, luxury furniture, and the use of a university credit card by his wife, Valerie Plame, a former CIA officer and failed Congressional candidate in 2020.

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The board approved a controversial resignation agreement for Shepard, including a substantial faculty salary, a new position, and a one-time payment of $1.9 million. Both the State Ethics Commission and the Attorney General are currently reviewing the deal, with investigations into whether the regents acted within their responsibilities. While Shepard and the regents have defended their actions, the situation has sparked widespread criticism.

The university faculty has expressed their dissatisfaction with the board, voting “no confidence” in the regents and calling on state officials to annul Shepard’s financial deal. Faculty Senate President Phillip Schoenberg emphasized the importance of responsive leadership, supporting the governor’s call for new regents to guide the university forward. It is anticipated that the remaining four regents will resign by the end of the week.

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Shepard, who had served as WNMU president since 2011 after a previous tenure at Florida Gulf Coast University, leaves behind a turbulent legacy. Founded in the 1890s, WNMU has seen multiple name changes throughout its long history, but it now faces a critical juncture in its leadership and governance.