LAS CRUCES, N.M. – The New Mexico State University (NMSU) Foundation began its new fiscal year on July 1, 2025, with Louis A. Vega ’91, president of Dow North America, returning for a second term as board president and chair of the Executive Committee. Joining Vega on the Executive Committee are Margaret Hardin ’94, vice chair; Amy E. Hummer, secretary; and Judy E. Johnson ’12, treasurer.
The 33-member board provides strategic oversight and fiduciary stewardship for the NMSU Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising and managing private support for New Mexico State. The board meets quarterly, twice in person and twice virtually, and plays a vital role in guiding the Foundation’s investments and governance practices.
“Our board members bring deep expertise from a wide range of industries and represent distinct, valuable perspectives that help guide the foundation’s direction,” said Louis A. Vega, NMSU Foundation board chair. “What unites us is our unwavering dedication to this university. The board’s leadership, grit, and passion for student success are essential to building a bright, bold future for NMSU.”
Joining the officers, directors for the 2025-2026 fiscal year include:
- Dino Camuñez ’80, Phoenix, AZ
- Orlando A. Castañeda ’06, Phoenix, AZ
- Kevin Conroy ’91, ’99, Denver, CO
- John Cordova ’81, ’83, Marietta, GA
- Abel Covarrubias ’96, ’98, Las Cruces, NM (Campaign Committee Chair)
- Jack E. Davis ’68, ’73, Santa Fe, NM
- Sue Dintelman ’72, Salt Lake City, UT
- Bob Dintelman ’73, ’74, Salt Lake City, UT
- Christopher Dulany ’05, ’12, Las Cruces, NM (Audit Committee Chair)
- Del Esparza ’91, Albuquerque, NM (Development and Communications Committee Chair)
- Sue Gerber ’84, Corrales, NM (Compensation and Benefits Committee Chair)
- Joel Granger ’98, Phoenix, AZ
- Michael Law ’04, Las Cruces, NM (Alumni Committee Vice Chair)
- Nicole Louvar ’99, Houston, TX
- Bob A. Martinez ’65, ’67, Palisade, CO
- Ross A. McCallister, Jr. ’75, Tucson, AZ (Investment Committee Chair)
- Manny Mora ’84, Issaquah, WA
- Mike Packard ’64, Carlsbad, CA
- Susan Plantz ’83, Brentwood, TN
- Brenda Porter ’83, ’87, Las Cruces, NM
- Eric S. Powell ’80, Cave Creek, AZ (Finance Committee Chair)
- Thom Price ’88, ’92, Las Cruces, NM
- Marc Reyes ’00, Henderson, NV
- Jim Rhodes ’78, Farmington, NM
- Kyle Rhodes ’81, Farmington, NM (Governance Committee Chair)
- Joseph Salopek ’04, Las Cruces, NM
- Frank Seidel ’81, Corrales, NM
- Carol Smallwood ’83, Las Cruces, NM (Alumni Committee Chair)
- DeAnza Valencia ’96, Albuquerque, NM
Departing Members
Rotating off the board are Jagdev “Jag” S. Cheema, director, and Christian Hendrickson ’97, immediate past chair, both of whom have completed their nine-year terms. “We are deeply grateful to Jag and Christian for their years of dedicated service to NMSU,” added Vega. “Their insight and loyalty leave a lasting legacy at NMSU.”
About the NMSU Foundation
Established in 1959, the Foundation is a privately governed, non-profit corporation. The mission of the NMSU Foundation is to foster long-term relationships with alumni, supporters, and the community to secure, manage, steward, and protect a sustainable source of private resources that will enhance the ability of New Mexico State University to fulfill its land-grant mission.
About NMSU
New Mexico State University, a Carnegie R1 university, is known for its outstanding academic programs, highly respected faculty, and nationally recognized research. The university takes pride in its history of consistently producing exceptional degree candidates, providing a high-quality education, and equipping students with the skills and confidence needed to navigate and positively shape the future.