SENMC A college or university may be referred to as one’s alma mater. This Latin phrase meaning “nourishing mother” was first used in the 1600s, later giving rise to the use of “alumni” to describe someone who attended a higher education institution.

It is understandable why the terminology took root. Students look to their instructors for guidance and mentorship, similar to how children seek love and direction from their parents. This is, however, not the only reason. The college years encompass an exceptionally formative time when many first experience independence, build relationships with others outside of their neighborhoods and hometowns, and begin to consider and develop their own career identities. It is a time of incredible and indelible growth that reverberates through one’s lifetime, one that I wish everyone could have the opportunity to experience.

Yet life happens and choices are made. Sometimes independence, jobs, and children come first. Sometimes circumstances limit potential pathways. This is why we all need to have a more inclusive and expansive idea of the intellectual growth and nourishment that a college provides.

Let’s begin by considering college as a proposition that can impact and improve lives from cradle to career—and through subsequent careers and into the golden years. Southeast New Mexico College serves as an instructive example.

The Early Childhood Education program at SENMC develops the educators who provide day care and preschool instruction in Eddy County. These early years are essential as we help children prepare for success in kindergarten and beyond. Our expanding community education program gives hundreds of potential scientists, first responders, actors, and artists some of their first immersive experiences in potential careers. These include the summer Inspired by Science camp hosted at SENMC, our spring STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Expo, the Junior Police Academy, our Theatre Camp, Ceramics Painting class, and the Little Scientists program. Families are often invited to join in the fun, including tours, plays, food—and sometimes snow cones!

Our dual credit partnerships with Carlsbad Municipal Schools, Artesia Public Schools, and Loving Municipal Schools allow nearly one thousand high school students annually to earn college credit tuition-free. These courses are offered at the high schools, on-campus at the college, and online. The jewel in this crown is Carlsbad’s Early College High School, recognized as one of the highest performing schools in New Mexico. Located on the SENMC campus, students in Grades 9-12 have the opportunity to earn both a high school diploma and an associate degree of their choice simultaneously. This can provide a jump start on a baccalaureate degree and save the students and their families thousands of dollars.

Adults of any age are welcome as well. Soon we will be adding a Family Study Room in our Library, including a family restroom and lactation room, to better serve our students who are parents. Our tuition is the lowest in New Mexico—and that is in a state where most qualify for state financial aid in addition to federal financial aid. For New Mexico residents 65 and over taking up to six semester credit hours, tuition is only five dollars per credit hour! And if you are new to the Carlsbad area, we have a deal for you. You can take up to six semester credit hours at the New Mexico resident rate until you qualify for residency after one year.

SENMC is a big tent—a family- and community- oriented college that seeks to nourish the growth of anyone wanting to learn more. I hope you will give us the opportunity to be your alma mater.

Kevin Beardmore may be reached at kbeardmore@ senmc.edu or

575.234.9211.