As 2025 draws to a close, the NMSU Foundation celebrates a season of giving that reflects the heart and spirit of Aggie Nation.  

During the fall semester, alumni, friends and supporters came together to raise more than $390,000 through crowdfunding campaigns for programs and traditions that make New Mexico State University extraordinary.  

From the legendary Pistol Pete to the vibrant sounds of Mariachi Orgullo and the excitement of NMSU Giving Tuesday, the results speak for themselves: 

• Complete the Pete: 104% of goal with $10,349.02 raised 

• Mariachi Orgullo de Nuevo México: 110% of goal with $14,928.86 raised 

• NMSU Giving Tuesday: 127% of goal with $365,500.88 raised 

Across six decades of graduating classes, Aggies showed once again that grit and generosity run deep in our DNA.
 

Complete the Pete: Keeping Tradition Alive 

For Aggies everywhere, Pistol Pete is more than a mascot: he’s a living symbol of pride and tradition. Each year, five dedicated students step into Pete’s boots, balancing academics with the demanding schedule of representing NMSU at more than 90 events annually. But being Pete comes with a cost: attire and travel expenses total about $2,500 per student. 

Thanks to gifts to the Complete the Pete campaign, these students can focus on what matters most: spreading Aggie spirit far and wide. Every donation helps preserve a tradition that connects generations of Aggies. Want to help outfit Pistol Pete? Visit alumni.alwaysanaggie.org/g/complete-the-pete.   

Mariachi Orgullo de Nuevo México: A Cultural Legacy 

Established in 2021, Mariachi Orgullo de Nuevo México has quickly become a cherished NMSU tradition. This student ensemble blends artistry and heritage, performing alongside the Pride of New Mexico and sharing the rich musical legacy of mariachi with audiences across the region. 

This fall, donors ensured Mariachi Orgullo continues to thrive by funding traditional trajes, headpieces, and instruments for student performers. Their support goes beyond music; it invests in cultural preservation, student success, and the future of mariachi at NMSU. Keep the music alive with your gift at alumni.alwaysanaggie.org/g/mariachi-orgullo-de-nuevo-m-xico/. 

Giving Tuesday: One Day, Big Impact 

On December 2, Aggies united for the 10th annual NMSU Giving Tuesday, a 24-hour celebration of generosity. This year’s theme, “More Cowbell • More Impact,” called on Aggies everywhere to ring in the spirit of giving by supporting scholarships, student success and programs that transform lives. 

With more than 360 donors from 24 states contributing to initiatives across campus, the campaign spotlighted programs from student internships to athletics, the Aggie Innovation Space and more. Matching challenges and real-time updates kept the excitement high, amplifying every gift’s impact. 

NMSU’s Giving Tuesday is our annual reminder to give back with gratitude and help provide the vital support needed to make a meaningful difference for our students and the Aggie community. You can still make an impact at alumni.alwaysanaggie.org/g/nmsu-giving-Tuesday.

Thank You, Aggie Nation 

The NMSU Foundation’s fall 2025 success is a testament to the power of community. Every dollar raised strengthens NMSU traditions, supports student dreams and builds a brighter future. As we look ahead to 2026, one thing is clear: when Aggies come together, incredible things happen.