Senate confirms three appointees to Western New Mexico University Board of Regents

The New Mexico Senate on March 17 confirmed three nominees to the Western New Mexico University Board of Regents, approving John V. Wertheim, Joseph Dean Reed and Kiana Rochelle Huerta to terms commencing on confirmation and expiring Dec. 31, 2026.

Supporters said the appointments were intended to help restore confidence in the Silver City campus after recent leadership turmoil. Senator Michael Maestas, who moved Wertheim—s confirmation, described Wertheim as "an extremely talented businessman and legal mind" who will "listen to the Western New Mexico University community, the faculty, the students, the Silver City community." Maestas said Wertheim—s role will be to help the university "get back on track" and regain credibility.

Senator Peter Wirth, the majority floor leader, and other senators praised the nominees— local ties and professional experience. Senator Brantley, among others, said the new regents will be well supported by the legislature as they work with Grant County and Silver City residents.

Joseph Dean Reed, a Western alumnus with a background in hospital and diagnostics sales, was introduced by Senator Ramos. Ramos noted Reed—s prior roles at Mayo Clinic Laboratories and other health-care firms and told senators Reed had served as a student body president and alumni board member at WNMU. Keana/Kiana Rochelle Huerta, nominated as the student member, was introduced as a nursing student, local elected councilwoman in Hurley and a recognized Tejano recording artist; senators emphasized her experience in student government and community leadership.

Votes and outcomes: John V. Wertheim was confirmed by voice and a recorded show-of-hands tally of 34-0; Joseph Dean Reed was confirmed 37-0; Kiana Rochelle Huerta was confirmed 35-0. The confirmations followed committee reports read into the record and brief floor debate in which several senators urged the new regents to engage directly with the Silver City community and attend local events, graduations and Rotary meetings.

Senators repeatedly urged the new regents to prioritize visibility in Silver City and to work with local leaders to rebuild trust. Senator Cervantes, among others, advised regents to "immerse themselves in the community" and attend local events to understand regional needs.

The appointments were filed in a single executive message from the governor (Senate Executive Message No. 9, dated March 13, 2025). All three appointments will serve until Dec. 31, 2026, and take effect immediately upon confirmation.

Senate leaders applauded the confirmations on the floor and invited the new regents and family members to the rostrum for recognition.