The next generation of ways for Aggie alumni to connect is here, and it’s redefining what it means to be an NMSU alum!
New Mexico State University alumni span the globe. From Phoenix to Florida, Chihuahua to Guam — and even outer space — Aggies are leaving their mark. And no matter where life takes them, the desire to stay connected runs deep.
Enter the NMSU Alumni Networks, reenergized, reimagined, and ready to build community in bold new ways.
Led by a dynamic alumni team, NMSU Alumni Networks are transforming its approach to engagement — revitalizing established networks (formerly known as chapters), launching new ones, and empowering volunteer leaders worldwide.
Whether it’s tailgates, networking mixers, student recruitment events, or service projects, these networks are more than social circles: They’re engines of impact.
“Our goal is to link Aggie passion with purpose,” said Mayra Marquez, assistant vice president for Alumni Relations and Annual Giving. “By inviting generations of Aggies to connect with each other, expand educational access, and create opportunities, we’re living out the true spirit of NMSU.”
New Networks, New Leaders
More recent alumni are stepping into leadership roles, while digital
platforms are making it easier than ever to connect across time zones. For Jose Zavala ’17, a College of Business grad and one of three new co-chairs of the El Paso Alumni Network, the alumni experience was personal. “As I was about to graduate, a fellow Aggie visited campus and recruited me to work at her firm. That opportunity led to a six-month internship with a Fortune 1000 company, so I wouldn’t have the career I have today without her reaching out to me.”
His experience showed Jose the impact alumni relations can have on the next generation. “That’s why it’s so important to bring young people together, offer guidance, and mentor 
others,” he says.
Jose reaches out to hundreds of NMSU alumni in El Paso through LinkedIn to make sure they are involved. “Being part of a network can benefit your career whether you’re established or exploring new opportunities — it puts you in touch with fellow Aggies who can offer support. Many join this group because they’re looking for talent, and that shared NMSU connection makes them eager to connect.”
Since launching this past summer, the El Paso Aggie Network has already hosted two events with fellow Aggies. Other networks around the country that have successfully launched include Albuquerque, Denver, and Florida. There are also several networks in the works with plans to launch in the next few months, Marquez said.
More than Simply Social
While the social component is key to a successful network, there’s more to membership than the fun events. Network members are encouraged to actively promote NMSU and provide support during various fundraising campaigns throughout the year, such as Founders Day | 1888 Minutes of Giving and Giving Tuesday.
With more than 147,000 living alumni around the globe, there are so many opportunities for an Aggie Alumni Network. All it takes is a small group of proud Aggies joining forces to reconnect with their alma mater and pay it forward for future generations of Aggies.
Anyone interested in starting a new Alumni Network or joining an existing one can visit the page https://alwaysanaggie.org/alumni/nmsu-alumni-networks/
“We’re excited for what’s ahead — from thriving regional networks to new ways of giving back,” said Sylvia Y. Acosta ’10, CEO of the NMSU Foundation. “A healthy, connected NMSU Alumni Network strengthens our reputation as a top-tier R1 university and ensures future generations of students can follow in the footsteps of those who came before.”