The New Mexico State University Foundation has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise $13,675 in support of Mariachi Orgullo de Nuevo México, the university’s vibrant and growing mariachi ensemble. Funds will be used to purchase much-needed instruments and uniforms to help the group expand its reach and impact.
The goal is to raise funds for the purchase of a new vihuela and a Guitarra de golpe—traditional, Mexican-made string instruments essential to the rich rhythm and harmony of the ensemble. The remaining funds will go toward outfitting the group in traditional “trajes,” or mariachi suits, headpieces and sombreros. Each full traje costs more than $1,300.
“Mariachi Orgullo de Nuevo México is a living celebration of culture, pride, and community,” said Mayra Marquez, associate vice president of alumni relations and annual giving at the NMSU Foundation. “We invite the entire Aggie family to help us raise the funds needed for new uniforms, upgraded instruments, and a stronger, expanded ensemble so this treasured group can keep inspiring audiences and mentoring the next generation of mariachi musicians at NMSU.”
Formed in 2022 as the newest addition to The PRIDE of New Mexico, NMSU’s Mariachi Orgullo combines Mexican culture and music with new and exciting performances. From the football field to the stage, members perform traditional mariachi repertoire, accompany the NMSU Ballet Folklórico, and execute custom arrangements that allow the group to perform with the PRIDE of New Mexico and other musical ensembles throughout the region.
“Mariachi Orgullo has been my home since 2022, when a small but unstoppable group of us stepped on stage with nothing but heart, pride, and a dream,” said Ashley de la Rosa, a senior majoring in biology and microbiology and an undergraduate research assistant in wildlife. “Since then, I’ve watched us grow into a powerful family, carrying the heartbeat of our culture and the stories of our roots in every song we play.”
De la Rosa, who served as mariachi captain from 2024 to 2025, calls the role an honor that allowed her to witness the magic the performers create together. “Our music doesn’t just celebrate who we are, it unites the Aggie community in pride, tradition, and love for mariachi.”
Mariachi Orgullo not only accompanies the NMSU Ballet Folklórico dancers but performs at more than 40 events per year, including NMSU football games, NMSU Day in Santa Fe and many other New Mexico community events. The ensemble is available to perform for private events as well.
Seasonal performances this fall include each home football game, including special performances throughout Homecoming Weekend, November 7 and 8, plus Hispanic Heritage Day on September 6 at 7 p.m. in Aggie Memorial Stadium.
To support the Mariachi Orgullo de Nuevo México campaign and explore giving options, visit https://alumni.alwaysanaggie.org/g/mariachi-orgullo-de-nuevo-m-xico/.
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. For more information on the NMSU Foundation, see alwaysanaggie.org.