UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release December 18, 2007 

GALLUP—The University of New Mexico-Gallup will be closed for the winter break, from December 24 through January 1. The campus will reopen on January 2, and spring classes will start January 22.

Students may register during the break, by going online at http://my.unm.edu, or by calling 505.246.2020. Current and updated course information is available at http://schedule.unm.edu; the UNMG course schedule is available on the UNMG website at www.gallup.unm.edu.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release Nov. 5, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup’s Student Veterans Club will host the following activities this week in honor of local veterans:

On Monday, November 5, student vets will have a table set up in the Gurley Hall Commons for students to sign a veterans’ appreciation card. There will be pictures, articles or other information on veterans in their families on display.

On Tuesday, November 6, veterans will give out “Support Our Vets/Service Members” ribbons at the table in Gurley Hall. Also, there will also be an opportunity to sign the appreciation card.

Headlining the Veterans Day program set for Wednesday, November 7, will be Medal of Honor recipient Hershey Miyamura, Korean War hero and prisoner of war. Among the other keynote speakers will be Mary Ann Bullhead, investigator with McKinley County Sheriff’s Office and an Army National Guard member. The program will be held at 9 a.m. in Gurley Hall and will also feature recognition of UNM-Gallup student veterans and their families. Refreshments will be served.

Call Cassandra Morgan, 863-7553, for more information.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release Nov. 6, 2007

GALLUP—Trio New Mexico, an artist faculty Ensemble-in-Residence in the Department of Music at the University of New Mexico, will perform in concert Monday, Nov. 19, at 7 p.m. in Calvin Hall Auditorium. Trio New Mexico consists of Keith Lemmons, clarinet; Kevin Vigneau, oboe; and Kim Fredenburg, viola.

The artist faculty members of the Trio combine distinguished teaching careers with active solo, chamber and orchestral performances, having held positions in chamber ensembles and orchestras throughout Europe, Mexico, Canada, South America and the United States. Individual solo performances have taken them around the world, with concerts in Sweden, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Canada, Mexico, South Africa, Puerto Rico and the United States.

Trio New Mexico was recently chosen for the opening concert of the 2006 International ClarinetFest. They have also been guest artists at the Roswell Museum, the East Mountain Music Series, the 2003 International Double Reed Society Conference, and at numerous universities and colleges, music festivals and series throughout the Southwest and the United States. The trio has commissioned and premiered new works from UNM Composer-in-Residence William Wood, UNM Emeritus Professor/Composer Scott Wilkinson, Michigan State University composer Sam Merciers and Davidson College Composer-in-Residence Jennifer Stasack.

The Trio is noted for its innovative programming and its efforts to expand the literature for this unique instrumental combination. The group is also noted for its youth concerts. Programs also include music by Bach, Montelli, Etler and Holst.

Lemmons is a professor of clarinet and is a Presidential Teaching Fellow; Vigneau is associate professor of oboe; and Fredenburg is assistant professor of viola.

The event is sponsored by funding from Achieving the Dream, an initiative of the Lumina Foundation to help improve the success of under-represented community college students nationwide.

Call 863-7771 for more information on the concert.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release November 15, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup invites the community to attend its Illumination Celebration—at 5:15 p.m. on Tuesday, November 27, in front of Gurley Hall.

The college has been preparing for the holidays by installing luminarias on the roofline of Gurley Hall and Zollinger Library. Faculty, staff and friends of the college are invited to attend as the luminarias are turned on, and then those attending will go inside for cider or hot chocolate. There will be holiday music, as well as a visit from a famous person from the North Pole.

“We hope the entire community will join us for this special event, and that it will be a traditional stop on everyone’s tour of the local holiday lights,” said Beth Miller, executive director.

Miller also announced that concurrent with the launching of the Holiday Lighting, the college was putting to rest a long-time tradition – Holiday Magic.

“Holiday Magic in recent years has outgrown our capacity to accommodate it, both in terms of space and manpower,” Miller said. “We appreciate the years of support from local families, and we are glad we were able to provide this activity for so long. However, it was time to reassess costs and our ability to manage the event, and the decision was to put it to rest. We hope that families who looked forward to Holiday Magic will join us as we initiate this new ‘tradition.’”

Call the Public Affairs office, 863-7565 or 863-7687 for more information.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release November 16, 2007

GALLUP—The community is invited to attend a reception on Monday, Nov. 26, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Ingham Chapman Gallery at the University of New Mexico Gallup.

The reception is for artists participating in the UNM-Gallup Faculty and Staff Exhibition.  They include Robert Koops, Ken Van Brott, Isabel  Deschinny, Milan Sklenar, Chad Adelhardt, Ken Roberts, Michael Gambill, Kari Lorensen, Jack Tixier, Melissa Henry, and John Zimmerman. 

Refreshments will be provided. 

Call John Zimmerman, gallery manager, at 863-7774 for more information.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release November 29, 2007

GALLUP—James Bilagody, a Diné musician, will perform at UNM-Gallup’s Calvin Hall Auditorium on Thursday, December 6, at 7 p.m.

Bilagody, who was exposed to traditional Navajo singing as a child, played rhythm guitar in a country band in his youth. After being introduced to the music of Elvis Presley, he became interested in rock and roll. Throughout his career, he has fused rock and roll and traditional songs. He sang on Douglas Spotted Eagle’s “Sacred Feelings” and “Canyon Speak” as well as Sound of America Records Sampler I and II with various other artists. He also contributed to vocals on “Wolf Moon” with Little Wolf, “Contact from the Underworld of Red Boy” with Robbie Robertson and “One Nation” with Brule.  His own albums include “Beauty Ways” and “Sing for Me,” the latter of which was nominated for a Grammy for Best Native American Music Album.  He has been extensively involved in the Native rock band, The Cremains, with whom he collaborated on a fusion-style CD called “Sacred Stage.” The tracks consist of Native vocals backed by traditional drumbeat  with a progression to full rock set with vocals in Navajo by Bilagody. Bilagody has performed with The Cremains at many locations throughout the Southwest.

This performance is a part of the UNM-Gallup Cultural Series, and is underwritten with funds from the Lumina Foundation’s Achieving the Dream initiative.

For more information, contact Bernadette Fontenelle, Achieving the Dream coordinator, at 863-7771.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release October 10, 2007  

Gloria Dyc, UNM Gallup professor of Arts and Letters, is among finalists for the 2007 New Mexico Book Awards in the poetry book division. Her work, East West and Beyond, was released earlier this year by Plainview Press.

One hundred and twenty-four books have been selected as finalists in this year’s awards program in 30 categories. The winners will be announced at the New Mexico Book Awards Banquet on Nov. 9 at the MCM Elegante Hotel in Albuquerque.

Dyc was named a UNM Regents Professor in English earlier this year. She has been with UNM-Gallup since 1988. Her fiction work has been published in numerous journals and anthologies.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release October 15, 2007

A former mayor of Gallup, Emmett Garcia, who was abducted in 1973 by two Navajo University of New Mexico students, Larry Casuse and Robert Nakaidene, in a notorious and high-profile incident, will speak to the Native American Studies class of Dale Mason at the University of New Mexico, on October 25, at 12:30 p.m. in Calvin Hall 207.

Garcia’s abduction took place in a time of intense Native American activism. Casuse and Nakaidene allegedly staged the abduction as a protest against Garcia’s support of the Gallup Intertribal Indian Ceremonial and a saloon in Tse Bonito owned by Garcia. The men, members of the UNM KIVA Club, a Native American organization, took Garcia to a local sporting goods store. Garcia was freed, and then a shootout ensued between Casuse and Nakaidene and local law enforcement officers at the store. Nakaidene surrendered, but Casuse was killed.

A firestorm of controversy broke out regarding culpability in Cause’s death as well as the men’s motives. Garcia, who was defeated for re-election after the shooting, has recently stepped forward and announced that he wishes to tell his version of the events of that day.

Call Dr. Mason for more information at 863-7677.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release October 15

The University of New Mexico-Gallup Student Senate and area veterans services are sponsoring a Women’s Veterans Conference on Friday, Oct. 19, in Calvin Hall, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Women veterans can learn about benefits for education, health and compensation. All women veterans and their families are invited.

A continental breakfast and luncheon will be sponsored by the Student Senate.

For more information, contact Cassandra Morgan, cass1341@unm.edu, or at 863-7553.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release Oct. 22, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup Cultural Arts Council will present Blackhorse Mitchell, artist, musician and storyteller, on Thursday, Nov. 8, at 7 p.m. in Gurley Hall 1124.

Born in Tsezhin Bidaat’i’i’ near the Colorado border, Mitchell grew up herding sheep on Palmer Mesa and in Salt Creek Canyon. He left for boarding school in Colorado in 1951, and then went to study art at the Institute of American Indian Art in Santa Fe. In 1963 he wrote a chronicle of his life titled Miracle Hill. The biography is available through the University of Arizona Press. Mitchell conducts workshops on pottery, basketry, and moccasin-making at Diné College. He is a full-time Navajo language teacher at Shiprock High School. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from UNM.

The presentation is free and open to the public.

For more information contact Gloria Dyc, chair of the Department of Arts and Letters, 863-7566

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release October 24, 2007

The Northside Campus of the University of New Mexico-Gallup will present "El Dia de los Muertos," a celebration representing the rich traditions of students and neighbors of Hispanic heritage on Friday, Nov. 2, from 3-7 p.m. El Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, is celebrated primarily in Mexico, and encompasses religious holidays observed by Catholics and some other liturgical churches of All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1 and All Souls’ Day on Nov. 2. Emphasis is on a joyful celebration and remembrance of the departed, and recognizing that life continues after death.

Although El Dia de los Muertos has its origin in a religious holiday, many persons in the United States today from a wide range of beliefs now celebrate the day for its elaborate folk art elements. Municipalities throughout this country and Mexico, Central and South America, have secular celebrations of the day as a way of honoring a folk tradition of Latin America.

Live music will be provided by “Illusion,” and food will be served. Admission is free. Sponsors, besides UNM-Gallup, include Adult Basic Education, the English as a Second Language Program (ESL), the Transitional Studies Department and the Achieving the Dream initiative.

The Northside Campus is located at 425 N. 7th St.. Call Christine Gleason at 863-7595 for more information.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release Oct. 31, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup will present guitarist Michael Chapdelaine in concert on Wednesday, Nov. 7, at 7 p.m., Calvin Hall Auditorium.

Chapdelaine, who appeared at UNM-Gallup last year in concert, is a professor of music and head of guitar studies at the University of New Mexico. He has won first prize in both classical and fingerstyle genres in top competitions, including the Guitar Foundation of America International Classical Guitar Competition and the National Fingerpicking Championships at the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival in Winfield, Kansas. Previously on the faculties of the University of Colorado at Denver and Metropolitan State University, he has given master classes around the world, including China, Thailand, Malaysia, Peru, Venezuela, Taiwan, Indonesia and at institutions such as the University of Miami, Mannes School of Music, University of Texas, and California State University. Among his teachers was the renowned Spanish maestro, Andres Segovia.

The guitarist has played venues from New York’s Lincoln Center to the Cactus Café in Austin, from Milano to Bangkok, and many others. He performs on steel string and classical guitars, and in styles ranging from blues to Bach, country to rhythm and blues.

Chapdelaine is the two-time winner of the National Endowment for the Arts Solo Recitalist Grant, and took first prize in both the Guitar Foundation of Americas and the Music Teachers National Association’s Guitar Competitions. He also won the Silver Medal in Venezuela’s VIII Concurso International de Guitarra “Alirio Diaz.” He has toured four continents while giving hundreds of performances for Affiliate Artists Inc., and various arts promotion organizations.

In 1992 he recorded the Sonata Romantica CD (now re-released as "Mexico"), which many critics and connoisseurs of classical guitar consider to be one of the definitive recordings for the instrument. In 1994 Chapdelaine turned his attention to pop music, arranging, producing and recording Time-Life Music's Guitar by Moonlight collection, which sold 250,000 copies in its first two years in the stores. In 1998, he once again expanded his musical range and gained instant notoriety and credibility in the "acoustic music" world as a "fingerstyle" guitarist and composer, by winning the National Fingerpicking Championships at Winfield, Kans.

The concert is free.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release September 6, 2007

University of New Mexico President David Schmidly will be visiting the Gallup branch campus on September 18, following up with a visit to the South Campus in Zuni on September 19. This is the first visit by the new president to the area.

Schmidly arrives in time for the 10 a.m. dedication of the new Health Careers Building. He will then attend the 11:15 a.m. acknowledgement of the gift of an auto lift to the college’s Automotive Technology program by three-time Indy 500 winner Bobby Unser and his wife Lisa.

The public is invited to both events.

The afternoon will be devoted to press interviews, meeting and greeting faculty, students and staff and a tour of the campus. In the evening Schmidly will attend a reception to benefit the UNM-Gallup Foundation.

On September 19, Schmidly will begin the day with breakfast with area legislators, and then proceed to Zuni for a 9:45 a.m. tour of the Zuni Campus. At 10:30 a.m. he will meet with the Zuni Tribal Council.

“We’re really thrilled to host Dr. Schmidly at UNM-Gallup, and that he will be participating in these significant events,” said Beth Miller, executive director. “This is the first time he has been to our campus and we’re looking forward to helping him understand our campus and our community. We invite the community to attend the dedication of Health Careers II and the acknowledgement of the Unser gift, as well as to greet the president.”

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release September 17, 2007 

The work of eminent Navajo painter Emmi Whitehorse will be on view October 1-November 1 at the Ingham Chapman Gallery of the University of New Mexico-Gallup.

The work of the internationally acclaimed painter has been exhibited nationally and internationally, and is in museum collections across the country, in Japan and Europe.

Whitehorse, who has a master’s in art from UNM, draws from her Navajo heritage for much of her inspiration. As a contemporary artist, she has moved in recent years from a more referential way of painting to one she describes as more “sensory.” Her landscapes portray an intimacy with nature and place, with attention to plants and landscape, to fluctuations of light. In recent years, her work has reflected her preoccupation with water, principally in studies using the color red.

“Whitehorse has an international reputation,” said John Zimmerman, gallery manager, “and for us to exhibit her work in Ingham Chapman is a tremendous honor. I hope the local community will take this opportunity to visit the gallery and see this exhibit. Emmi Whitehorse is a great example to our students of someone who was just like they were. She got her master’s degree at UNM, and went on to earn an international reputation as an artist.”

Whitehorse will be on campus on Oct. 1 to give a lecture at 5:30 p.m. in Calvin Hall 248B, followed by a reception in the gallery at 6:30 p.m.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release September 18, 2007   

Dr. Paul Kraft has joined the administration of the University of New Mexico-Gallup as the Director of Student Services.

 Kraft, a native of South Dakota, has Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Northern State University in Aberdeen, S.D., and an Ed.D. in Adult and Higher Education Administration from Montana State University.

He comes to UNM-Gallup with experience as dean of students and enrollment management at the University of Alaska Southeast in Juneau from 2001 to 2006. Prior to that he was interim assistant to the dean in the College of Engineering, Montana State University-Bozeman.

Other professional experience includes an internship in the office of the Commissioner of Higher Education; employment as an academic advisor in the General Studies Program of Montana State University in Bozeman; a term as interim vice president of student affairs of Northern State University; a term as director of Counseling and Career Development  at Northern State University; and employment as a family therapist with Lutheran Social Services in Webster, S.D.

“I am excited to be here,” Kraft said. “UNM-Gallup is a place with great potential. I’m impressed with the faculty and with the spirit of cooperation and helpfulness. I am sure there will be many challenges, but I’m looking forward to living and working here.”

Kraft and his wife Vickie have two children currently attending college in Miami, Fla., and Juneau.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release September 27, 2007   

GALLUP—Hassan Abassary, a cook at the University of New Mexico-Gallup Child Care Center, has been named as one of the recipients of the UNM Provost’s Committee for Staff Academic Support Scholarships.

Abassary, a native of Morocco, joined the staff as cook in February. He ran a kitchen at a restaurant in Washington, D.C., before moving to the Gallup area with his wife, Christine Gleason, manager of the Adult Basic Education program at UNM-Gallup. Since joining the cooking staff, he says he has worked to introduce more healthful fare for the children in the program and to help steer the children away from junk food.

Every day, he helps prepare with the other cook on staff, Priscilla Johnson, breakfast, lunch, dinner and three snacks a day for the children enrolled in the child care program.

On his own, Abassary has started a business called “Take Home Chef,” where he hires himself out for parties and private dinners to create gourmet meals. He specializes in North African cuisine but can provide any type of American or international fare. He emphasizes creating an attractive presentation and an imaginative menu. He says he’s been delighted since moving to this area to find fresh meats available, although he says the price is higher here than on the East coast. In time, he hopes to open a restaurant in Gallup.

The scholarship is for a UNM employee who is using his or her tuition remission benefit to obtain a degree or professional certificate as well as to take professional development classes. The Provost’s Committee for Staff created this financial support scholarship to help defray the costs associated with academic books, course fees and supplies. There are three scholarships of $250 awarded each fall and spring semester.

Lina Sandve, chair of the Provost’s Committee for Staff, commented that the committee uses an applicant’s personal statement of need as one of the main deciding factors in their selection process. She said Abassary’s personal statement was “very compelling” and that it was evident he is a life-long learner.

He will be recognized in a meeting with Interim Provost Viola Florez on Tuesday, October 2, at UNM’s Albuquerque campus.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release August 6, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup is calling for mentees for its Campus Connections program. Students seeking to be mentees will be assigned a mentor, who is either a UNM Gallup faculty or staff member and will meet with the mentee throughout the semester. All students attending UNM-Gallup are eligible.

Campus Connections helps students connect to the college and succeed in educational goals.

Call 863-7771 to speak with Bernadette Fontenelle or stop by her office at Calvin Hall 106A.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release August 14, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup Business Management Technology Department will host “A Way to a Good Future” event on Monday, August 20, at 8 a.m. in Calvin Hall Auditorium.

Students, faculty, staff, the UNM-Gallup Advisory Board, and the local community are invited.

“This is one of our strategies to obtain and retain students,” said Elvira Stahn, chair of the Business Technology department and organizer of the event. She said that the event is to help bring harmony in the coming year.

The schedule is as follow: 8 a.m. —Introduction; 8:10 a.m. —Larson Manuelito Sr., leader of the session, will explain the purpose of the event; 8:15 a.m. —Manuelito will give a motivational speech; 8:30 a.m. —Edison Vicenti will give supporting statements in the Zuni language; 8:40 a.m. —Acknowledgment of those participating, including students, the Executive Director, Dean of Instruction, Advisory Board members, guests, community, faculty and staff; 8:45 a.m. —A closing ceremony with a prayer and use of corn pollen.

Refreshments will be native foods prepared by UNM-Gallup faculty members and staff.

For more information, contact Stahn at 863-7509.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release July 16, 2007

The 13th volume of UNM-Gallup’s literary magazine Red Mesa Review has been published. RMR is published annually and contains the original artwork and literary compositions of students, faculty and staff.

The editorial board was composed this past year of Arts and Letters faculty Gloria Dyc, Fran Pawlowski, Norman Smith, Mike Volz and Robert Hoffman; Transitional Studies faculty Jim Sayers; and Public Affairs staff Linda Thornton. Design/Layout Editor was Arts and Letters faculty Carolyn Milligan and Student Design/Layout Editors was Dillon Day.

The Review is available from Fran Pawloski in the Arts and Letters Office. Call 863-7753.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release July 17, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup will host the second annual Supermarket of Veterans Benefits on Friday, July 20, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the UNM-G Gymnasium.

Veterans can get information on veteran housing, pensions, compensation, VA health care, enrollment, VA ID card issues, and post-traumatic stress disorder. There will also be discussions of benefits, entitlements, Navajo veteran issues, Navajo trust fund 4 percent set aside, and veterans’ preference. All veterans, their dependents and families are invited to attend, as are all National Guard, women veterans and Native American veterans.

The event is sponsored by 31 Easter Chapters’ Veterans Organizations, Navajo Department of Veterans Affairs, New Mexico Department of Veterans Services, and UNM-Gallup Student Senate-Collegiate Veterans Organization.

For more information, call T. Sandman at (505) 722-9621 and J. Martin at (505) 786-2030 for more information.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release - July 23, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup is offering local students a chance to get a head start on their college careers by earning dual credit for college while taking the same course in high school.

Any student enrolled in an accredited New Mexico high school who meets the requirements to enroll in a UNM-Gallup college course is eligible for dual credit.

No tuition or fees are charged for dual credit courses.

Applicants for dual credit must take a COMPASS or ACT/SAT test. The COMPASS test is a series of computer-based placement tests that measure preparedness in math, reading and English. The tests take from one to two hours to complete online. COMPASS testing is usually available at local high schools or in the UNM-Gallup Branch College Learning Center on the second floor of Gurley Hall 2205.

Students accepted into the program are considered UNM-Gallup students and may use all the college resources, including the Learning Center (which offers free tutoring), computer labs and the library.

Interested students should talk to their high school principal or counselor to find out which dual credit courses are being offered at their high schools, and also determine if their regular high school class schedules fit into dual credit. After taking the COMPASS test, they should fill out the UNM-Gallup admission application and registration forms available from UNM-Gallup’s Student Services.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release July 30, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup will be closed from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on August 13 for a convocation. All faculty and staff will be attending the convocation, so offices will be closed and no phones answered until after 1 p.m.

Classes for the fall semester will commence on August 20.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release June 11, 2007

UNM Gallup’s Film Boot Camp Gallup will hold a premiere on Friday, June 15, at 7 p.m. in the UNM Gallup’s Calvin Hall Auditorium. The public is invited

The premiere will feature films written, directed and produced by boot camp students. For two weeks starting June 4, students have been learning all aspects of filmmaking at the camp.

The films will be one-minute individual films and films produced by different groups of students.

Area high school students make up camp.

A grant from the New Mexico Higher Education Department made the camp possible.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release-June 22, 2007

Enrollment for the fall semester at UNM-Gallup is under way. Classes start August 20. Classes for the second 8-week term begin October 19.

There is still time to apply for financial aid. Students can file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, to start the process. On July 11, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., one-on-one assistance will be available in Gurley Hall Commons on how to file a FAFSA. Potential students should bring the following documents in order to have financial aid available by August 20:
• 2006 Federal Income taxes and W-2s
• Other 2006 documentation (Social Security, AFDC, unemployment).

Call (505) 863-7524 for information about registration, and (505 863-7663 for information about financial aid.

To register online, go to http:my.unm.edu.

The college is awarding a chance for a drawing for a free Gateway computer with every class that students sign up for.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release-June 22, 2007

UNM-Gallup was once again ranked third in the nation and first in New Mexico for awarding associate degrees to Native Americans among community colleges. The figures were announced for the college year 2005-06 in the June 18 issue of Community College Week.

UNM-Gallup awarded 112 associate degrees to 28 men and 84 women. The college awarded 106 associate degrees the previous year.

Dine College in Arizona was first in the nation with 226 associate degrees awarded, followed by Tulsa Community College with 129.

“We’re very pleased at this ranking,” said Beth Miller, executive director of UNM-Gallup. “Native American students comprise close to 80 percent of our enrollment, and it is gratifying to learn that we are serving them in a way that translates into the highest number of degrees awarded among community colleges in the state.”

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release -May 1, 2007

Thirty-five wide-eyed fifth graders from Washington Elementary got to experience the world of science at the collegiate level on April 26 when they ventured to the University of New Mexico-Gallup for a field trip. The students were members of math and science teacher Steve Rogers’ class.

The students looked at plants and animals in three dimensions through stereo microscopes in the biology lab, took a hands-on stab at designing a structure in the Auto-Cad lab, and witnessed several chemistry experiments, including the ignition of a dollar bill without it burning, a tiny volcanic eruption created by lab chemicals, as well as the mystical transformation of colors by mixing up various lab chemicals. Participating in the demonstrations were Vickie Olson, math and science lecturer; Samir Wahid, lecturer in architecture; and Kamala Sharma, associate professor in math and science.

“It was the first time we’ve had a field trip to UNM-Gallup, but we’re going to do it again,” Rogers, a math and science teacher, said. “Working with the lab equipment and watching the experiments make science a lot more exciting. The kids were riveted—and so were their parents.”

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release - May 3, 2007

GALLUP - The University of New Mexico-Gallup will host its 31st annual commencement ceremony honoring graduates of the class of 2007 on Thursday, May 10, at 6 p.m. at Gallup High School gymnasium. Candidates for certificates, associate degrees, bachelor and master degrees will be conferred, as will diplomas for GED and Middle College High School.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release - March 16, 2007

GALLUP - The University of New Mexico-Gallup Community Education program will host a series of non-credit classes during the summer.

Story Hour for Kids Ages 5 and Up: Two hours of reading and writing, June 11-14, 10 a.m.-noon, Lions Hall 103. Fee $25. Instructor Nancy Bruker.

Cake Decorating for Kids Ages 8 and Up. Cake decorating basics using basic cake decorating kits available locally. Parents welcome. Wednesdays, June 13-July 25, 1-3 p.m. Fee $25. Instructor Mariea Hall.

SPARKS – Sports, Play & Activity Recreation for Kids. Group fitness, jump rope, Frisbee, hockey, walking jogging running, dance and more. Five weeks, meeting two different times a day. June 11-14. Session I, 9-11 a.m., Ages 5-8; session II, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., ages 9-14; July 9-12, 9-11 a.m., ages 5-8; July 23-26, 9-11 a.m., ages 5-8; 11 a.m.-1 p.m., ages 9-14. Lions Hall 117. Fee $25. Instructor Lisa Blanco.

Nutrition/Human Body for Kids Ages 6 and Up. A program to promote a healthful lifestyle for children, including nutrition, health/fitness, human body functions and a light healthful snack. Session I: June 11-14, noon to 4 p.m., Lions Hall 103; session II, June 25-28, 8 a.m. to noon, Lions Hall 109; session III, July 16-19, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lions Hall 103; Session IV, July 23-26, noon-4 p.m. Lions Hall 103. $25 for each session. Instructor Ester Sanchez.

Cooking with Fractions with Lunch for Kids, ages 5 and Up. Learn how to make lunch in class by using fractions—a fun way to learn math. June 25-28. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Lions Hall 103. Fee $25. Instructors Nancy Bruker and Tamara Humada.

Arts and Crafts for Kids Ages 5 and Up. Kids spend time making magnets, origami, robots and other fun crafts. June 25-28. 1-3 p.m. Lions Hall 103. Fee $25. Instructors Nancy Bruker and Tamara Humada.

Silversmith & Bea Work for Kids Ages 6 and Up. Make jewelry using silver and copper and different kinds of beads. Session I, July 9-12, 9-11 a.m. Session II, July 16-19, 9-11 a.m. Lions Hall 103. Fee $25 for each session plus $20 for supplies to be paid one week before class starts so instructor will have supplies for on first day of class. Instructor Marie Platero.

Science Projects for Kids. Ages 5 and Up. Learn astronomy, earth science, weather and working with basic chemicals like a tornado in a bottle and water testing. July 23-26. 9 a.m.-noon. Lions Hall 103. Fee $25. Instructors Nancy Bruker and Tamara Humada.

Computer Kills and Power Point Presentations, Kids 9 and Up. Learn how to research information and format it into a Power Point presentation. Learn the keyboard, research a topic, compile information into Power Point, learn how to insert slides, animal and sound effects that best fit the presentation. Session I, July 30-August 2. 10 a.m.- noon. Session II, July 30-August 2, noon-2 p.m. Location: Lions Hall Computer Lab 114. Fee $25 for each session. Each session limited to 12 students. Instructor Esther Sanchez.

Dr. Seuss Class Ages 7-14. Experiment with strange and mysterious matter from the Kingdom of Didd. Fish in McElligot’s Pool and discover those creatures who lurk far below, where the magical water is cool. Take a journey down Mulberry St. and see whom you’ll meet—for instance, a camel on a One-Wheeler Wubble. Students will read two different stories a  session and will do a project with each story. Session I, July 16-19, 10 a.m. to noon. Lions Hall 117. Session II, July 30-August 2, 10 a.m.-noon. Lions Hall 103. Fee $25 for each session. Instructor Lisa Blanco.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release - May 17, 2007

GALLUP – The University of New Mexico-Gallup will host two computer workshops this summer.

The Internet Research Workshop, scheduled for June 18-21, Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., is for undergraduates, graduate students, and others interested in learning to use private and public online resources to prepare research papers, theses and other projects. Librarians with extensive Internet and research experience will teach the course. Basic Windows and word processing skills are necessary. Call the UNM-Gallup Registrar at 863-7524 for more information on enrolling in IT 293 Section 490, CRN 15301.

Computer Basics is scheduled for June 25-28, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This course is designed for beginners, and will help students learn Windows XP, word processing and similar applications, e-mail, and the Web, as well as basic keyboarding and mouse skills. Call the Registrar at 863-7524, to inquire about IT 193, Section 490, CRN 15303.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release April 12, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup will present Ricky Lee Allen, UNM Professor in Language Literacy, speaking on “Does Race Still Matter?” in the continuing “Undoing Racism” series on Tuesday, April 17, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Calvin Hall Auditorium.

Allen will address the following questions: Is racism as bad today as it once was?; Does racism look the same today as it once did?: Are white people the new victims of racism?; What will race and racism be like in the U.S. in 50 years?; What will it take to truly achieve racial equality?

The talk is sponsored by Achieving the Dream.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release April 13, 2007

The artwork of students of the University of New Mexico-Gallup will be on view April 16-May 11 in the Ingham Chapman Gallery. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

An artists’ reception will be held Monday, April 16, from 5 to 6 p.m. in the gallery.

For more information call 863-7774 or e-mail John Zimmerman, gallery manager, at jzimm58@gallup.unm.edu.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release - April 16, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup will host a High School Senior Celebration Day and Open House on April 18 from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Events will include a music contest from noon to 4 p.m., tours, drawings, refreshments and a drawing for those taking a tour, information tables, and advice on financial aid and entering a program.

Call 863-7565 for more information

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release - April 24, 2007

 The University of New Mexico Gallup is offering four special courses this summer:

The classes are as follows:

“College Success”, a course covering a variety of basic college survival skills. Online and intersession courses. Contact, Mary Snaden, 863-7691;

“Transition to College Life”, offered for 20 high school juniors and seniors to earn a total of seven credits in Math and College Success, June 5-29, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; contact Bernadette Fontenelle, 863-7771;

“Freshman Writing Seminar,” a course that combines college success with a freshman English class; contact Mary Snaden, 863-7691;

“Film Boot Camp,” a course that teaches about filmmaking while earning college credits, June 4 –15; contact Pamela Stovall, 863-7574.

A limited number of scholarships will be available for each course of study for high school juniors and seniors, as well as recent GED recipients.

Call one of the numbers above to find out more about the scholarships, or to find out how to enroll for any of these courses.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release April 26, 2007

Students from the University of New Mexico Gallup’s Culinary Arts Program made their mark in the McKinley Educators’ Foundation’s Sweet Creations fundraiser recently.

The competition, which offered locals an opportunity to show their expertise at whipping up award-winning desserts while raising funds for the foundation, was held April 12 at Red Rock Elementary.

Nathaniel David, formerly a sous-chef at Chelles’ Restaurant, and now instructor of UNM-Gallup’s Culinary Arts class, led his class of 12 into taking a first place for a chocolate crepe cake, a second for a heaven and hell cake (angel food and devil’s food cakes combined), and a third for an apple pie.

David said he often finds ideas for the creations he has his students make from cooking segments on television shows such as Martha Stewart’s, then finds comparable recipes on the Internet, and then adapts them for the class.

The Culinary Arts classes are held at Central High, and are part of the Center for Career and Technical Education program.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release - March 3, 2007

UNM-Gallup’s Intervarsity Christian Fellowship will host a Native Student Gathering at Broken Arrow Bible Ranch March 24-25, starting at 1 p.m. on Saturday and continuing to noon on Sunday.

Topics to be discussed are scripture, evangelism and discipleship.

For more information, contact the IVCF sponsor, Celeste Handy, at (505) 321-5623.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release - March 9, 2007

Jean Martinez-Welles, a professor in Health Careers at UNM-Gallup, has been named to receive a 2007 Creative Award from STC.UNM, a nonprofit corporation formed by UNM to protect and transfer faculty inventions to the marketplace.

Martinez-Welles and colleague John Welles created a design for a solar oven that they were able to copyright through STC.UNM.

The award will be presented on April 24 at 5:30 p.m. at the Science and Technology Park Rotunda at UNM in Albuquerque.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release - March 12, 2007

Joseph B. Stone, chief of behavioral health services with the Gallup Indian Medical Center, will present a workshop on “Undoing Racism” on March 22 at 6:30 p.m. at the University of New Mexico-Gallup in Calvin Hall 248C.

Stone, a member of the Blackfeet Tribe of Northern Montana, is a licensed psychologist, a licensed mental health counselor, a substance abuse counselor and a certified alcohol and drug counselor.

He has a Ph.D. in Professional-Scientific Psychology and an M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Utah State University.

His current work involves consultation, assessment and psychotherapy with native adults, children and families. His areas of expertise include treatment of adults with mental health disorders and with dual-diagnosis of mental health and addictive disorders. He is involved  as a trainer with Project Making Medicine, which involves assessment and treatment of physically and sexually abused children and training professionals to work in this field.

He has published extensive articles and given numerous presentations on Native American health. He is also a noted consultant for Native American mental health.

For more information, contact Bernadette Fontenelle, coordinator of Achieving the Dream, the Lumina Foundation project at UNM-Gallup, at 863-7771.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release - March 13, 2007

Melissa Henry, an adjunct lecturer at UNM-Gallup, has been chosen to receive a Native Initiative Sundance Fellowship, a fellowship for professional filmmakers.

Henry, a native of Gallup and a member of the Navajo tribe, is one of four Native Americans given this award this year. The fellowship is for a year and provides for professional filmmakers from Sundance mentoring Henry as she goes through the various steps of making her film, including writing and production.

Henry, who recently moved back to Gallup after ten years away, is a graduate of the University of Maryland at College Park, with a master’s in visual language and written word.

“I learned film theory in graduate school, but I got my practice on the outside, doing my own projects,” Henry said. She has worked on some projects with the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian, and has made a series of abstract shorts, as well as some documentaries, including “Sparky’s Ashes,” about a man preparing for death.

Henry is drawing on her Navajo heritage for her Sundance project.

“My movie is about a cat who saves the stars,” Henry said, adding that the cat she is basing the story on is her own. “I am using some Navajo stories and characters, drawing on the old Coyote stories and other myths. Because my story has some Navajo qualities, being here is helping me write it.”

She is currently writing the film, and says as soon the writing is completed, she will seek funding for production. She says her project might be best categorized as an art film, and though it addresses some serious issues, she might show it in schools and other local venues.

Henry and her husband, Alfredo Perez of Peru, also have a web design and video production company called Red Ant.

“I’m glad to be back. There is a lot of opportunity in Gallup to get experience, and to be near family,” Henry said.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release March 14, 2007

Omar Villanueva will give a guitar concert on April 11 at 7 p.m. in Calvin Hall Auditorium at the University of New Mexico-Gallup.

Villanueva, a native of Matamoros, Mexico, is finishing his Master’s degree in Classical Guitar Performance at the University of New Mexico under the guidance of music professor Michael Chapdelaine.

He started his musical studies at Mexico State Conservatory, where he obtained his first degree in Classical Guitar Performance under the guidance of Francisco Gil.  He has been a prizewinner in two music competitions in the United States, including first place in the Joyce Walker competition 2004 organized by the Professional Music Teachers of New Mexico, and first place in the UNM Concerto Competition of 2005. He also won a second prize in the first Chamber Music Competition of the Mexico State Conservatory in 2003.

Villanueva has performed for audiences in the United States and Mexico in several festivals including two 2002 Festivals Internacional de Otoño in Matamoros, the 2001 60 Festival Internacional de Tehuacan Puebla, the Festival de la Frontera 2001 in Matamoros, the Festival San Juan del Rio of 2002, and the New Mexico State Fair of 2004 and 2006.

Among his Master Class teachers are Antonio López of Mexico, Manuel Espinás of Cuba, Thomas Patterson of the US, Lorenzo Micheli of Italy, Paul Odette of the US, Stephen Robinson of the US and Carlos Pérez of Chile.

He has won several scholarships in the US and Mexico, including FONECAT Scholarships of 2002 and 2006 in Tamaulipas, Mexico; Friends of Music Scholarship at UNM; Hector Garcia Scholarship at UNM; and Mexican Consulate Scholarship Jose Teran for 2005.

The concert is free and open to the public.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release: March 16, 2007

Gloria Dyc, Professor of Arts & Letters at the University of New Mexico-Gallup, has been named a UNM Regents Professor in English. It is a three-year appointment and includes a stipend that most appointees use to further their research or professional projects. The title can be used for life.

“This is the first time that a Branch faculty member has received a Regents’ Professorship, and I think this reflects the increasing recognition by the University of New Mexico of the critical contributions made by the Branches and of the quality of the faculty that serve at the Branch Colleges,” said Chris Marlow, Dean of Instruction.

Dyc joined the faculty at UNM-Gallup in 1988 as an instructor in English.  She completed her dissertation for the Doctor of Arts in English Language and Literature at the University of Michigan in 1989, and was subsequently promoted to Assistant Professor. Her dissertation, directed by language scholar Richard W. Bailey, was based on six years of field work and teaching at Sinte Gleska College on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation in South Dakota. Bailey nominated the work as the best dissertation at the University of Michigan for 1989.

Dyc’s theoretical work on the development of literacy in native communities has been published in the American Indian Culture and Research Journal and the Bilingual Research Journal. She has made scholarly presentations at the College Composition and Communications Conference, the Rocky Mountain MLA, the American Anthropology Association Conference, Teaching English as a Second Language conference and others.

She served as chair of English/Communications at UNM-Gallup for two years, and then Chair of Arts and Letters for six years after a re-organization of college departments.

Dyc has been active with the Cultural Arts Council at the college since its inception. Among the accomplishments of the CAC: successfully nominating the late Carl Gorman for an Honorary Doctorate from UNM, as well as bringing numerous artists, musicians and writers to campus, including Simon Ortiz, Joy Harjo, Lucy Tapahonso, Laura Tohe, Sherwin Bitsilly, Irvin Morris, Demetria Martinez, Michaeal Lacapa and Esther Belin.

“I’ve taught Native American literature for 25 years, so these readings have supported my teaching and have provided students with valuable contact,” Dyc said.

In addition, much of the student work in The Red Mesa Review, UNM-Gallup’s award-winning literary magazine, originates in Dyc’s creative writing or Native American Literature class.

Among the classes that Dyc has developed during her tenure at UNM-Gallup: “The Shadow and the Soul,” a study of Jungian psychology and film; “The Dystopian/Utopian Novel”; and a course on Shakespeare through Extended University.

Her first collection of poetry, East West and Beyond, published by Plainview Press of Austin, Texas, (www.plainviewpress.net) is due for release soon. Her fiction has been published in numerous journals and anthologies.

"Dr. Dyc is truly deserving of this award,” said Marlow. “She has excelled in her teaching,

she has provided valuable service to the College and the Community, and has engaged in professional development including publishing articles and creative works."

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release -- March 23, 2007

The Student Senate of the University of New Mexico-Gallup is hosting the Second Annual Spring Formal Dance on Friday, April 13, at the Red Rock State Park Convention Center, from 8 p.m. to midnight.

The event is free to UNM-Gallup faculty, staff and students with an ID, but is also open to the public at a cost of $15 for an individual and $25 for a couple. Tickets can be purchased at the Student Senate Office in Gurley Hall and at the UNM-Gallup Bookstore.

This is a non-alcohol and drug-free event.

Call 863-7553 for more information.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release - March 26

UNM-Gallup will present this summer an intensive two-week program to teach 28 McKinley County sophomores, juniors or seniors about all aspects of filmmaking.

Film Boot Camp Gallup, June 4 through June 15, will feature classes such as writing, acting, directing, filming and editing. Students accepted to the Boot Camp will receive a scholarship to cover the camp’s costs. Students who successfully complete the Boot Camp also will receive five college credits for their work. During the Boot Camp students will create their own films. At the conclusion of the Boot Camp students will “premiere” their movies.

“We’ll be learning but having plenty of fun, too,” said Pamela Stovall, Associate Professor of Communication & Journalism, UNM Gallup, and the director of Film Boot Camp Gallup.

The Boot Camp will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, on the UNM Gallup campus. Lunch will be provided. Students will be responsible for their own transportation to and from UNM Gallup.

“Speakers will be coming from all over New Mexico as well as from Los Angeles to talk to the students,” said Stovall. “We’re very excited about the quality of the programming.”

Applications must be postmarked by May 1. Sophomores and juniors will receive priority in the application process.

Film Boot Camp Gallup is made possible with the support of the New Mexico Department of Higher Education and UNM Gallup.

For more information about Film Boot Camp Gallup or for an application form email Pamela Stovall at pstovall@gallup.unm.edu. Interested parties will receive an electronic application form.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release March 28, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup’s Cosmetology Club is planning a Spa Day to benefit the Soroptimist Club on April 16 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Cosmetology Department is located in Calvin Hall.

Manicures, pedicures and facials will be available for $5.

Call 863-7581 for more information.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release - March 28, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup was awarded $425,000 in appropriations from the New Mexico State Legislature during its recent session.

The appropriations are broken down as follows:

• $30,000 for a consultant from UNM’s Anderson School of Management to prepare a strategic plan for an entrepreneurship program at UNM-Gallup
• $35,000 in non-restricted funds for the Zollinger Library
• $50,000 for the Gallup Intertribal Ceremonial Archives, to hire a conservator, for planning, for purchasing equipment and for other organizational expenses
• $50,000 for Maintenance and Industrial Technology program equipment. The purpose of the program will be to provide for-credit instruction to train workers for local industrial employers, including Giant and Conoco Phillips.
• $100,000 for purchase and installation of information technology and digital media technology, including related equipment and furniture. This program will involve 100 and 200 level courses in this field, with links to UNM to provide advanced training.
• $160,000 in capital expenses for technology/classroom building. The college has already obtained $2 million in General Obligation funds designated for this building.

“We are very pleased that the Legislature was responsive to our requests, as well as the requests of our local elected officials who support UNM-Gallup’s initiatives,” said Beth Miller, executive director. Among the key legislators who helped push the initiatives through, said Miller, were Rep. Patty Lundstrom, Sen. Lidio Rainaldi, Rep. Irvin Harrison, Sen. John Pinto, Sen. Lynda Lovejoy, and Rep. Ken Martinez and Rep. George Hanosh, both of Cibola County. “I am also thankful to the many community members, the faculty and staff who traveled to Santa Fe on our behalf during this Legislative session.”

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release February 1, 2007

GALLUP—The University of New Mexico-Gallup Financial Aid Office will host one-on-one consultation on financial aid applications on February 14 and February 28, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Gurley Hall Commons.

Completing the 2007-08 FAFSA form will help potential students get their financial aid applications approved faster for the fall semester. Applicants do not have to be enrolled at UNM-Gallup to receive this assistance.

Among the forms and other information they should bring: 2006 Federal Income Tax form (student/spouse and parents’, if dependent); 2006 W2 forms; other documentation regarding income for 2006, including Social Security, Unemployment, AFDC/public assistance). This is an opportunity for students to apply for their federal PIN numbers – the electronic signature needed for these applications. Students should come with parents if they are dependent.

Parents are invited to participate.

“We can assist potential students in completing the application and then input the data online for quick response from the Federal Processor,” said Kathy VanDeCar, Financial Aid Manager. “We urge everyone interested in applying for financial aid to attend.”

Those who file by the State of New Mexico’s March 1 deadline can qualify for up to $3,000 more in grant aid for next year, VanDeCar added.

Call 863-7663 for more information.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release February 2, 2007

The Northside Campus of UNM-Gallup will host an enrollment day from 3 to 6 p.m. to acquaint prospective students with programs designed to help students get a better job or further his or her education.

Some of the programs students will be exploring on that day: GED Prep, Adult Basic Education, English as a Second Language, Beginning English Conversation classes, or improving academic skills in reading, writing or math (free),

Food and music will be provided by the UNM-G staff, faculty and local business. Additionally, some prizes will be given as enrollment incentives.

Call the Adult Basic Education Program for more information at 726-6310.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For Release February 26, 2007

The Ceramics Department of the University of New Mexico-Gallup, in conjunction with the Professional and Cultural Development Committee of UNM-Gallup, will present Trey Hill, a ceramist from Oregon, in a workshop and lecture.

Workshop hours are Tuesday, March 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Wednesday, March 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; with a lunch break from 1-2 p.m. A slide lecture will be presented on March 6 from 5-6 p.m. in Calvin Hall Auditorium.

Call John Zimmerman, manager of the gallery, at 863-7774 for more information, or e-mail jzimm58@gallup.unm.edu.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release February 27, 2007

The University of New Mexico will host a  transfer day on Wednesday, March 14, from 2 to 6 p.m. at The UNM-Gallup branch campus in Gurley Hall, across from the canteen.

UNM admissions officers will be present to advise UNM-Gallup students who plan to transfer to UNM’s Albuquerque campus on how to do so. Students will need official transcripts from all colleges attended. Officials will evaluate transcripts, take applications and waive application fees. Call (505) 925-9544 for more information.

Deadline for summer transfer is May 1, while fall deadline is June 15.

From 4 to 5 p.m. on the same day, Mariah Harrison, Academic Advisor of University College at the Albuquerque campus, will speak on what the Bachelor of University Studies degree can do for the student. Harrison will discuss entering the program, creating a B.U.S. plan of study, and finalizing graduation plans. The talk will take place in Calvin Hall 248-A, and refreshments will be served. Call Mayna Benally at 863-7554 for more information.

Students must attend a seminar if they intend to graduate within the next three semesters. Other seminars will be announced.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release January 5, 2007

GALLUP – Ken Van Brott has been named manager of the UNM-Gallup Bachelor and Graduate Programs. Van Brott, who has worked within the University of New Mexico system for 17 years, was previously enrollment management coordinator for that program for the last two years.

Van Brott said his most important initiative would be to reach out to the community to get a better understanding of what programs are needed.

“UNM has been doing that with our recent town hall meetings,” Van Brott said. “I would like to invite anyone interested to come by my office and I would be happy to sit down and talk.”

Van Brott has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts. Born in San Francisco, he also lived in Philadelphia, Baltimore, Utah and Colorado.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release January 17, 2007

The University of New Mexico-Gallup has scheduled a series of classes that will help students get certified to create tax returns, and also a lab to help citizens prepare tax returns.

The tax preparation certification class will run on Tuesdays, 5-7:45 p.m., from January 23 to February 20, or until students take the test. Students may register for the class until January 26 without special approval.  The lab, where students prepare citizen returns, is on Saturdays starting February 24 through April 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is worth one credit. 

Citizens who want to take advantage of the free tax help should bring the following: current year’s tax package and/or label from packet, all W-2s and 1099s, information for other income, information for all deductions and credits, a copy of last year’s return, a proof of account of direct deposit of refund (voided check), Social Security cards or Individual Taxpayer Identification cards for you, your spouse, and/or dependents, proof of identification for yourself and/ or your spouse.

Forms which can be prepared by Tax Help NM Volunteers include 1040EZ; 1040A; 1040A with Schedule 1,2,3, and EIC; 1040; 1040 with Schedule A,N, EIC, and R; 1040-V; 1040-ES; 2241 (Child and Dependent Care Credit); 8863 (Education Credits); and 8812 (Additional Child Tax Credit).

Complicated forms must be taken to a paid preparer. Forms which cannot be prepared include Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business); Complicated and Advanced Schedule D (Capital Gains and Losses); Schedule E (Rents and Losses); and 2106 (Employee Business Expenses).

The instructor is Jean Oakes, a local who has been preparing tax returns for many years and who is knowledgeable of IRS rules.

For more information, call 863-7511.

UNM-GALLUP NEWS RELEASE

For release January 24, 2007

GALLUP—An exhibition by the art faculty of the University of New Mexico-Gallup is on view at the Ingham Chapman Gallery through February 16.

Those faculty represented in the exhibition are Ken Roberts, mixed media; John Zimmerman, ceramics; Milan Sklenar, photography; and Michael Gambill, mixed media.

A reception for the artists will be held on Monday, February 5, from 5 to 6 p.m.