The New Mexico State University College of Business has named Anthony Casaus its new assistant dean for development and alumni relations. Casaus has more than 17 years of experience in development at NMSU, having overseen development for KRWG-TV and later for both KRWG-TV and FM.
An NMSU alumnus, Casaus received his bachelor's degree in broadcast journalism in 1988 and began his career as a news and sports reporter and anchor in Roswell, N.M. He served for six years as a fundraising executive for the Boy Scouts of America in southern New Mexico and Arkansas before returning to his alma mater and KRWG. Casaus also earned a Master's of Administration degree in 2006.
Casaus is also active in the Las Cruces community through organizations including Rotary, Sertoma and the Hispano Chamber of Commerce. He was appointed by Gov. Gary Johnson to the New Mexico Commission for Community Volunteerism, on which he served for 10 years.
"One of the things I've always enjoyed about development is the opportunity to meet people, and learn about what drives them and motivates them to contribute - to hear about their passions," Casaus said.
"I truly believe in the mission of public media, and I've really valued this experience in supporting public media in this way," he continued. "Now is a good time to do this in another area. The College of Business has been quite successful in garnering support. I think it's going to be exciting to build on that foundation."
College of Business Interim Dean Kathy Brook said Casaus' connection to NMSU is an important strength.
"Anthony has a strong background in fundraising and years of experience with development at NMSU," she said. "He knows NMSU well, as both an alumnus with two degrees and as an employee, and he is dedicated to the institution."
Casaus said he understands why many business alumni choose to support the college with gifts of all kinds.
"Many times, students feel so inspired that they want to come back," he said. "They feel like they discovered themselves, thanks to the faculty members who inspired and motivated them. These alumni know they wouldn't be where they are today if not for that support, and they want to contribute so that the same thing can happen for today's students."
Casaus will build on the work of Andrea Tawney, who held the position for more than two years and is now directing donor relations and development in the President's Office. Tawney worked closely with NMSU President Garrey Carruthers during his time as dean of the College of Business, developing support for several endowed chairs and student scholarships, as well as the Domenici Public Policy Institute.