The New Mexico State University (NMSU) Foundation has been named a 2025 Angeles Higher Education Impact Award honoree by Angeles Investors, a national investment group dedicated to harnessing Latino-driven growth to find, fund, and fuel high-potential ventures across the U.S. This prestigious award recognizes higher education institutions that are making meaningful impact through visionary leadership, innovative programs, and dedicated support of entrepreneurs and changemakers.
“We are honored to be recognized by Angeles Investors for our investment performance and disciplined stewardship in support of New Mexico State University, our students, and the generous donors who make our work possible,” said Sylvia Y. Acosta ’10, CEO of the NMSU Foundation.
The award will be presented to the NMSU Foundation at the Angeles 3rd Quarter Summit and Awards Event on August 22, 2025, at Wintrust Grand Banking Hall in Chicago. In addition to the awards ceremony, the day will feature startup case studies, panel discussions, and networking opportunities with industry leaders, investors, and innovators.
“Our mission at the NMSU Foundation is to support student success, academic innovation, and new opportunities through raising philanthropic resources and growing them for a sustainable source of support,” said Louis A. Vega, NMSU Alumni ’91, Chair of the NMSU Foundation Board. “The Higher Education Impact Award recognizes the vision and dedication of those who believe in NMSU’s ability to positively shape students’ futures and our Foundation Board’s dedication to ensuring a strong governance model for the most effective investment of those funds.”
This year’s honorees exemplify the vital role Hispanic-Serving Institutions play in empowering Latino entrepreneurs and strengthening the startup ecosystem through visionary leadership, impactful programs, and strategic endowment growth.
“New Mexico State University’s economic development impact draws on its entire system —main campus, community colleges, research and extension stations, and its alumni network. The NMSU Foundation’s support of entrepreneurs and changemakers fuels an innovation ecosystem for New Mexico and beyond,” said Luis Cifuentes, Vice President for Research, Creativity and Economic Development, New Mexico State University.
More than 20 colleges and universities — representing Hispanic-Serving Institutions and Hispanic-Emerging Institutions — received awards for their role as accredited, degree-granting institutions with at least 25 percent full-time equivalent undergraduate Hispanic student enrollment, according to the U.S. Department of Education. HSIs play a crucial role in providing educational opportunity and culturally responsive support for Hispanic students across the country.
“Every award recipient reflects the very best in higher education, driving impact through leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship,” said Guillermo Diaz, Jr., Chair of the Angeles Higher Education Impact Awards. “New Mexico State University stood out for its exceptional role as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and its strategic investment approach through the NMSU Foundation.”
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 www.alwaysanaggie.org.
About Angeles Investors
Founded in 2020, Angeles Investors is dedicated to finding, funding, and growing Hispanic and Latino ventures. With a mission to elevate Latino business leaders and innovators, the organization provides investment opportunities, mentorship, and resources to drive long-term economic success. For more information on the Angeles Higher Education Impact Awards, see www.angelesinvestors.com/higher-education-impact-awardees-2025.