Graduation brings a swirl of emotions: excitement for what’s next, nerves about that first “real” job and the joy of celebrating with family, friends and fellow Aggies.
With finals, checklists and ceremonies filling every hour, it’s easy to overlook details like a class ring or diploma frame. Yet these aren’t just graduation-day extras. They’re lasting reminders of your journey at New Mexico State University, symbols you’ll carry long after the cap and gown are stored away. Both can be purchased and ordered at the Grad Fair on March 24 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the NMSU Bookstore.
The Ring: A Symbol You Can Wear
An NMSU class ring carries the spirit of crimson into every next chapter. Designed with enduring Aggie symbolism, it represents far more than jewelry:
A milestone achieved: A daily reminder of the discipline, growth and persistence that brought you to graduation.
A tradition shared: Each ring reflects generations of Aggies who came before — and those still to come.
A network recognized: Across airports, boardrooms and cities nationwide, fellow Aggies spot the ring instantly. It’s a conversation starter and a quiet signal of belonging.
Class rings aren’t only for current graduates. Many alumni choose to purchase their rings years later, reconnecting with a chapter that shaped them.
For Susan Swope ’94, ’97, ’26, the ring represents the culmination of a 30-year educational journey. After earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the 1990s, finances made a ring impossible.
Career and family took priority.
When she returned decades later to complete the doctorate she once set aside, she knew the timing was right. She purchased her Aggie ring the day she began her dissertation.
“When I wear my ring, I reflect on my experiences spanning 30 years,” Susan said. “I wanted something meaningful; something that represents where I started, how far I’ve come and the people who helped me get here.”
No matter your year of graduation, you can order rings here: New Mexico State University – Class Rings, Yearbooks and Graduation | Balfour.
The Frame: Protecting What You’ve Earned
Once your diploma is in hand, it’s tempting to slide it into a drawer or a standard frame. But a diploma is more than a piece of paper. It reflects years of late-night study sessions, financial commitment, resilience and discovery. For many Aggies, it’s one of the most important documents they will ever receive.
A professionally crafted NMSU diploma frame preserves that achievement and displays it with pride. Hand-built with acid-free mats, UV-protective glass and official university insignia, including the NMSU land-grant symbol, these frames protect and elevate your credential.
Why framing matters:
Professional presence: A framed diploma signals credibility and pride in your office or home.
Long-term protection: Quality materials guard against fading, creasing, dust and deterioration.
A visible celebration: It transforms a document into a daily reminder of hard-won success.
Las Cruces–owned Picture Frame Outlet and Gallery has framed NMSU diplomas since 1988, offering customizable styles for every graduate.
“We’re proud to help preserve these milestones so you can feel just as proud 20 years from now as you do today,” said owner Greg Groves. “It’s especially meaningful to our family, since my father once served as president of the NMSU Alumni Board. This work is close to our hearts.” Order your custom NMSU diploma frame here: https://alwaysanaggie.org/alumni/graduation-news.
A Legacy You Can See
Because when you cross the commencement stage, you leave with more than a diploma. You carry the Aggie spirit for life.