Leadership Shakeup at Western New Mexico University
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has called for the immediate resignation of the regents at Western New Mexico University (WNMU) in light of allegations of financial mismanagement and inadequate oversight. This demand, outlined in a year-end letter to the five-member board of regents, emphasizes the need for new leadership to restore stability at the Silver City-based University. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham urged for a “clean slate” to realign the institution’s focus on its students. This request comes on the heels of the board’s chairwoman stepping down earlier in the week.
The turmoil stems from the recent resignation of WNMU President Joseph Shepard, following an investigation by the state auditor’s office. The probe revealed that university leaders and regents failed to meet their fiduciary obligations. Concerns about Shepard’s lavish spending on international travel, luxury furniture, and misuse of a university credit card by his wife, Valerie Plame, further fueled the controversy. Plame, a former CIA operations officer, is also known for her unsuccessful bid in the 2020 Democratic primary for New Mexico’s 3rd Congressional District.
Controversial Severance Package Under Scrutiny
Shepard’s resignation as president came with a highly contentious agreement approved by the regents. The deal guarantees Shepard a six-figure faculty position, a one-time payment of $1.9 million, and continued financial benefits. This arrangement has drawn sharp criticism and is under investigation by the State Ethics Commission. Additionally, Attorney General Raúl Torrez formally inquired whether the board of regents fulfilled their fiduciary duties in approving the package.
Despite growing scrutiny, both Shepard and the regents have defended their actions. However, dissent is mounting among university faculty. On Thursday, faculty members overwhelmingly backed a no-confidence vote against the regents and called for immediate state intervention to overturn Shepard’s resignation arrangement. Phillip Schoenberg, a professor and faculty senate president, labeled the vote as a strong public expression of faculty dissatisfaction with university leadership. Schoenberg also expressed appreciation for the governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s initiative, highlighting the urgent need for decisive and accountable leadership.
Historical Institution Faces Uncertain Future
The remaining four regents are anticipated to resign by Friday, as WNMU faces pressure to overhaul its leadership and regain public trust. University administrators have yet to respond to inquiries about the potential for additional resignations.
Shepard, who had been at the helm of WNMU since 2011 after a 16-year administrative career at Florida Gulf State University, leaves behind a legacy marred by controversy. Founded in the 1890s, WNMU has a long history predating New Mexico’s statehood. However, recent events cast a shadow over its reputation and future.
As the university navigates this turbulent period, the call for accountability and transparency resonates strongly among its stakeholders, with hopes that new leadership will restore the institution’s core mission of prioritizing students and academic excellence.
