MISSION
The New Mexico Council of University Presidents represents seven public universities through collaboration, advocacy, and a unified voice on the issues that matter most to New Mexico — from student success and workforce development to research, economic investment, and community vitality.
Seven universities
One shared mission
Advancing New Mexico
HISTORY
The New Mexico Council of University Presidents was established in 1997 to advance the shared interests of the state's public universities — built on the understanding that working together on unified priorities can have greater impact statewide.
The Council's role is to engage and align New Mexico stakeholders — and its history includes notable accomplishments toward that goal. Its Executive Director spearheaded the creation of the Higher Education Unified Budget Request, which brings together New Mexico's public universities and colleges, including those independently governed. NMCUP also publishes Annual Accountability Reports that reflect institutional performance and long-term outcomes.
Three decades later, NMCUP is still building on the same founding idea.
The Executive Director
Marc H. Saavedra
With more than three decades of experience in higher education and government relations, Executive Director Marc H. Saavedra has helped strengthen the collective voice of New Mexico's public universities on issues central to the state's educational and economic future.
Championed the Higher Education Unified Budget Request to strengthen understanding and coordination among university presidents, state lawmakers, higher education advocates, and the public during legislative and interim sessions.
Coordinated statewide higher education support for the Opportunity Scholarship initiative, helping align New Mexico's public universities in support of one of the nation's most expansive tuition-free higher education programs.
Advanced the Higher Education Major Projects Fund, securing historic capital investment in academic, research, student housing, and campus infrastructure.