NMSU introduces President’s Mentoring Program: Connecting Students with Faculty and Staff
By: Hannah Saltman
As students prepare for the fall 2026 semester, New Mexico State University (NMSU) is launching a new mentoring program aimed to help students build connections and find support during their first year of college.
The President's Mentoring Program was started by NMSU president Valerio Ferme. This program pairs undergraduate students with faculty and staff members who can provide guidance through a student's first two semesters.
For students, having someone they can go to for support and questions can make navigating college a little bit easier. These mentors will help students connect with campus community, resources, and explore career opportunities.
This program emphasizes five specific area where mentors can support students including:
- Connection to NMSU
- Academic Guidance
- Career Development
- New Opportunities
- NMSU Support
Faculty and staff with volunteers for the program will be paired with a small group of three to five students for the 2026-27 academic year. Mentors will meet with their full group at the beginning and of each semester, with meetings with their individual students monthly.
The 2026-27 academic year serves as the programs first year, giving mentors an opportunity to help shape and build the program. Mentors and volunteers can expect to commit up to 6 hours per month. Volunteers will receive training on how to successfully support their students.
For students feeling overwhelmed starting college, this program gives them a mentor and guide to help with general questions and support from someone who knows how to help and guide you in the right direction.
Creating connections between students and members of the community, the President Mentoring Program aims to make a student's first two semesters feel a little less overwhelming and reminds students that navigating college is not something they have to do alone.
To sign up as a mentor and RSVP for August 21. session, please visit https://nmsu.link/PMP by Thursday, August 20.
Contact for us at DACC
Dr. Jesse Haas
575-527-7648
Associate Vice president of Student Engagement
DACC
Jhaas@dacc.nmsu.dacc