Note: The following letter was addressed to New Mexico state legislators who expressed concern about a decision by the NMSU Board of Regents to only permit interim executive appointments until a new Chancellor takes office at New Mexico State University this summer.
Commentary: This letter shall acknowledge receipt of your correspondence dated February 14, 2018 referencing action taken by the Board of Regents on February 12, 2018 regarding Senior Management Positions.
As we believe all of the undersigned are aware, pursuant to the Constitution of the State of New Mexico, and as provided by implementing legislation, the control and management of New Mexico State University is vested in the NMSU Board of Regents. The Board exercises control over the institution through its policies and directives to executive administration.
In accordance with the Bylaws of the Regents of New Mexico State University, decisions and directives temporal in nature, effective for only a finite period or single point in time, may be made in the form of a motion or resolution.
The resolution referenced in your correspondence directs the Chancellor to make interim appointments for positions that become vacant during his remaining term. The duration of the appointments will be determined in consultation with the Chair of the Board. This is a best practice of universities as they position for leadership transition. Given our opportunity to improve student outcomes in enrollment, retention and graduation rates – it is critical that the new chancellor has the ability to select as many members of his or her team as possible to ensure long-term success for growing NMSU. Chancellor Carruthers, as you noted, is indeed an accomplished and respected individual and there is no desire to have his or the university’s reputation questioned as a result of end of term transactions.
We deeply appreciate the long and passionate support that you and others have provided the university as well as your long term personal friendship with Chancellor Carruthers.
In the Fall of 2017 members of the Board of Regents traveled across the state holding Listening Sessions specifically addressing the challenges New Mexico State University must overcome for a sustainable future. Specific metrics were provided for enrollment, retention, graduation, research, and productivity as compared to peer institutions.
Members of the board work diligently through regents committees alongside private sector members, staff, faculty and administration to seek out best practices other universities are incorporating in this revolutionary shift in higher education to address the same issues we face at NMSU. Nationally recognized experts have been brought in as guest speakers.
This Board of Regents has and will continue to roll up their sleeves, dedicate countless hours and tackle these hard issues. As I know you are all aware, it is definitely frustrating when these efforts go unacknowledged. This Board is passionate about the challenges facing NMSU, they have a passion for change and are willing to take on the hard issues.
We welcome the opportunity to have an honest discussion concerning the facts regarding this or any matter before the Board of Regents and we remain optimistic about the possibilities and opportunities NMSU can seize in the decades ahead.
Sincerely,
Debra P. Hicks, PE/LSI
Chair, Board of Regents of NMSU
Kari Mitchell
Vice Chair, Board of Regents of NMSU