Southeast New Mexico College

On March 17, 2025, students and community members gathered at Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) for a colorful and creative evening at the latest Paint Party, hosted by the HSI Grant Services Department. This event, one of several held throughout the semester, provided participants with an opportunity to unwind, socialize, and express themselves through art. Open to both the campus and the broader community, the Paint Party welcomed artists of all skill levels. With paint supplies provided, attendees were free to explore their creativity on canvas. At the end of the event, they proudly took home their unique artworks as a reminder of the fun-filled experience. The HSI Grant Services Department has made these events a regular part of the semester, fostering a sense of community while encouraging artistic expression. As the semester continues, students and locals alike look forward to more opportunities to gather, paint, and create lasting memories at SENMC.

On March 13, 2025, Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) hosted a festive Pi Day celebration, bringing together students, faculty, and staff for a fun-filled event organized by the Learning Assistance Center (LAC). Pi Day, typically observed on March 14 (3/14) in honor of the mathematical constant (pi), was celebrated a day early at SENMC with a variety of delicious pies available for free to attendees. Students and staff alike enjoyed the opportunity to take a break from their studies, indulge in a sweet treat, and celebrate one of math's most famous numbers. With great participation and positive feedback, Pi Day at SENMC was a delicious success!

On March 6, 2025, Southeast New Mexico College hosted an insightful author event featuring Miguel Briones, the author of Macho No Machismo. Sponsored by the HSI Grant Services Department, the event brought together students and community members for a meaningful conversation about emotional awareness, masculinity, and the power of breaking down harmful stereotypes. Briones' book challenges traditional views of machismo, advocating for a new definition of strength-one that values emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and supportiveness. His thought-provoking discussion focused on dismantling the toxic norms tied to masculinity, encouraging attendees to embrace healthier, more inclusive ideals of manhood.

A group of students from Southeast New Mexico College participated in the Territorium Electronic Proficiency Profile (ePP) test during the Spring 2025 semester. The test, designed to measure key academic skills in critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and written communication, is part of the college's commitment to improving student learning outcomes and preparing graduates for future success. The ePP provides valuable insight into students' academic progress and helps the institution align its curriculum to meet evolving educational standards. By assessing a range of competencies, the test also serves as a tool for students to better understand their strengths and areas for growth. A special thanks goes out to the students who took part in the test. While participation was voluntary, their contribution is greatly appreciated and will help further enhance the educational experience at Southeast New Mexico College. We also want to express our gratitude to the faculty and staff who supported the testing process, ensuring it was administered smoothly and efficiently. Southeast New Mexico College remains committed to providing students with the tools they need to excel both in their academic careers and beyond.

On February 26 and 27, 2025, Southeast New Mexico College offered two enriching yoga and meditation classes designed to promote balance, strength, and inner peace. Sponsored by the HSI Grant Services Department, these sessions provided an opportunity for participants to discover the transformative benefits of these practices. The sessions helped participants connect with their bodies and minds, enhancing both physical flexibility and mental clarity. By the end of each class, attendees left feeling more centered, relaxed, and rejuvenated. For information about upcoming yoga and meditation classes, contact Rebeca Galindo at 575.234.9236 or rgalindo@senmc.edu.

Students at Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) had the chance to unwind and get creative at a paint party hosted by the HSI Grant Services Department on February 24, 2025. The event, one of several held throughout the semester, was designed to promote relaxation and positive mental health among students. Held in a welcoming and stress-free environment, the paint party provided students with all the necessary supplies to create their own artwork while enjoying a break from their academic responsibilities. For more information about paint parties, students should reach out to Rebeca Galindo at 575-234-9236 or rgalindo@senmc.edu.

Students swapped stress for paintbrushes at a Paint Party held on February 18, 2025. Hosted by the HSI Grant Services Department, the event aimed to promote mental health by encouraging students to express themselves creatively while taking a break from academic pressures.

On February 11, 2025, students gathered for an engaging and informative financial wellness workshop titled "Financial Future: Financial Feud Edition." Hosted by the HSI Grant Services Department, the event aimed to equip students with essential money management skills in a fun and interactive way.

Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) honored Black History Month with a special event on February 20, 2025, in the campus library. Presented by the SENMC Diversity Committee in partnership with the NAACP Carlsbad Chapter, the celebration focused on the theme African Americans & Labor, highlighting the contributions of Black workers throughout history. The event featured guest speakers who shared insights on the struggles and achievements of African Americans in the workforce. Students, faculty, and community members attended the event, showing support for the theme and engaging with the presentations. The event was open to both the campus and the public, reinforcing SENMC's commitment to diversity, education, and community engagement.

On February 6, 2025, Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) hosted an APA Citation Workshop to help students improve their academic writing and research skills. The workshop was led by Dr. Jonathan Wilson, an Assistant Professor of English at SENMC, and sponsored by the HSI Grant Services Department. For those who could not attend, SENMC recommends using the Purdue Online Writing Lab (owl.purdue.edu) for a detailed guide on APA formatting and citation rules.

On January 22, 2025, Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) hosted a LinkedIn Workshop aimed at enhancing students' professional online presence. The event, sponsored by the HSI Grant Services Department, was part of SENMC's ongoing commitment to providing career development opportunities for its students. Students who attended the LinkedIn Workshop gained valuable insights into optimizing their profiles, networking effectively, and using LinkedIn's job search tools. Participants left with greater confidence in leveraging the platform for career success.

On January 30, 2025, students and faculty gathered for an engaging and informative pizza party hosted by the CLIFF Scholars Honors Program. Zane Biebelle, the director of the CLIFF Scholars Honors Program, led the session by providing valuable insights into the benefits of becoming a CLIFF Scholar. Biebelle outlined the entry process, eligibility requirements, and the numerous advantages that come with participation in the program. Students interested in joining the program are encouraged to reach out to Zane Biebelle (zbiebelle@senmc.edu) for more information on upcoming contract deadlines and requirements.

At the Mind CTRL Mental Health Workshop on January 30, 2025, participants learned mindfulness techniques, breathing exercises, and stress-relief strategies to help manage daily stress and enhance well-being. This was the first of several mental health workshops scheduled for the spring semester and sponsored by the HSI Grant Services Department. Contact Erick Dominguez (edominguez@senmc.edu) for more information about upcoming workshops.

Participants of the STEM Club Esports NIght battled it out on screen while enjoying pizza on January 30, 2025. This was the first of several Esports Nights scheduled for the spring semester. Contact Gage Garza (ggarza1@senmc.edu) for more information.

Students relaxed and unleashed their creativity on January 29, 2025, at the Paint Party. HSI Grant Services sponsored the event and has several more Paint Parites scheduled for the spring semester. Contact Rebeca Galindo (rgalindo@senmc.edu) for more information.

Students learned how to create their own monthly budget and set financial goals for the year on January 16, 2025, at the first Financial Future Workshop of the spring semester. The session emphasized the importance of financial planning, provided actionable tips for managing money effectively, and encouraged participants to develop habits that support long-term financial wellness. The Financial Future Workshops are sponsored by HSI Grant Services. Contact Raymond Dominguez (rdominguez@senmc.edu) for more information.

The Learning Assistance Center welcomed students back and kicked off the spring semester with a two-day Spin to Win event that started on January 21, 2025. Students stopped by the LAC and answered campus trivia questions for chances to win great prizes.

Students were welcomed back on the first day of the spring semester at SENMC with a Welcoming Faculty and Peer Mentor Meet & Greet on Wednesday, January 15, 2025. Students gained valuable information for the semester while visiting with faculty and peer mentors.

At SENMC's first Pop-Up Course Boutique event, students shopped for interesting "boutique" courses while enjoying food, prizes, and a bubbly ambience. The two-day event began on December 4, 2024, and gave students and faculty a chance to discuss classes and programs before the spring semester.

On December 10, 2024, students celebrated the end of the semester with a holiday themed Karaoke Party. Spirits were high as favorite holiday hits were belted out by students, faculty, and staff members.

Students attended the Mind CTRL Mental Health Seminar on December 12, 2024, given by Honor Medina. This month's seminar focused on managing difficult personalities. The Mind CTRL Mental Health Seminars at Southeast New Mexico College are sponsored by HSI Grant Services. They are always free to attend and open to the community. Contact Erick Dominguez at edominguez@senmc.edu for more information.

SENMC students enjoyed an opportunity to relax and recenter at the Yoga & Meditation Class sponsored by HSI Grant Services on November 21, 2024.

Students participated in a Paint Party sponsored by HSI Grant Services on December 4, 2024. The students were able to express themselves and relax through the process of creating art. They unleashed their creativity and left with their own masterpiece. This was the last of three Paint Party sessions scheduled this semester. More Paint Parties will be scheduled during the spring semester. Contact Rebeca Galindo at rgalindo@senmc.edu for more information.

Students participated in a Paint Party sponsored by HSI Grant Services on November 13, 2024. The students were able to express themselves and relax through the process of creating art. They unleashed their creativity and left with their own masterpiece. This was the second of three Paint Party sessions scheduled this semester. The next session is scheduled for December 4. Contact Rebeca Galindo at rgalindo@senmc.edu for more information.

Students participated in a Paint Party sponsored by HSI Grant Services on October 29, 2024. The students were able to express themselves and relax through the process of creating art. They unleashed their creativity and left with their own masterpiece. This was the first of three Paint Party sessions scheduled this semester. The next sessions are scheduled for November 13 and December 4. Contact Rebeca Galindo at rgalindo@senmc.edu for more information.

On November 7, 2024, students enjoyed an incredible STEM Movie Night featuring the film Gravity. The event brought together 25 attendees who enjoyed an evening of cinematic adventure and engaging discussions. The movie's thrilling portrayal of space exploration sparked curiosity and provided a fantastic platform to celebrate National STEM Day. This event was sponsored by HSI Grants Services. Contact Erick Dominguez at edominguez@senmc.edu for information about upcoming events.

Students looking to advance their careers in the Oil and Gas Industry attended the Chevron Recruitment Event presented by Sergio Urias on November 5, 2024. The students were given the opportunity to ask industry related questions and bring their resumes to interview for job opportunities at Chevron.

Student workers at SENMC participated in the Hallowpalooza event on October 31, 2024. Hallowpalooza is an annual event at Southeast New Mexico College that is highly attended by the community. Attendees show off their creative costumes, receive plenty of candy, and enjoy department decorations throughout the college. In addition to dressing up and handing out candy at the event, the student workers participated in decorating their departments.

The STEM Club Esports event on October 24, 2024, was a fantastic success. Students had a great time connecting over games, with friendly competition and lots of laughs along the way. Club members showcased impressive skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship, making it an exciting and enjoyable evening for everyone. Erick Dominguez, the STEM Program Manager, said, "Thank you to all who joined us and made the night memorable - we're already looking forward to the next event!" Students interested in joining the STEM Club can contact Erick at edominguez@senmc.edu or (575) 302-4923.

On September 16, 2024, SENMC students, faculty, and staff, along with community members, participated in the much anticipated HSI Talent Show celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. The lively crowd enjoyed a wide range of talented displays, including music, dance, poetry, and more!