Each year, in what has become a tradition as part of The University of New Mexico's Spring and Fall commencement ceremonies, the University Communication and Marketing team highlights Lobos who have inspired us through their exceptional leadership, courage, and perseverance during their time at UNM.
The entire campus community watches in anticipation and excitement as our graduating Lobos walk across the stage to receive their diplomas, which, for many, culminates their education at UNM. It's truly an exciting time for one and all! These inspirational graduates come from all walks of life – they are from different colleges, programs and extracurriculars comprising the fabric of the University. Their time here has helped to make UNM a place where each of us defines all of us.
Although it is impossible to showcase every student, we hope these stories provide a glimpse of UNM's Fall Class of 2024's diversity, perseverance and resilience.
Congratulations Lobos; you've earned this day!
Meg Honnold | Bachelor of Sociology
When Meg Honnold arrived for classes at The University of New Mexico it was the first time she’d been in a typical public school classroom. From kindergarten through high school, she had been homeschooled and never expected to attend college.
Honnold will graduate this week from UNM with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with a concentration in Human Services and Social Policy summa cum laude in her second major, American Studies. Read more...
Lillian Walker | Bachelor of Population Health
Lillian Walker remembers as a child when money was tight as the family bounced between low and middle income, and having an injury meant waiting to see if she was hurt enough to be taken to a doctor. Healthcare bills meant struggling to pay for food and other bills. Those life experiences steered Walker toward her interest in public health, not just for the individual person but also for the community.
Walker will graduate this week from The University of New Mexico with a degree in Public Health and a minor in Health, Medicine, and Human Values. Read more...
Mackenzie Sydow | Bachelor of Liberal Arts
Enter the Sydow home in Albuquerque and the powerful and loving bond between Mackenzie Sydow and her brother Michael is immediately noticeable. A large canvas photograph of the siblings hugging and smiling greets visitors as they enter the home and photos of the two dot the wall next to a sign that proclaims, “This is us. Our life. Our story. Our home.”
Sydow will graduate this month from The University of New Mexico with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Community Health. The path to her diploma has been a tumultuous one.
Originally, Sydow had planned to become a nurse. Her mother was in nursing school and her grandmother was a nurse. Read more...
Gregory Aragon | Bachelor of Liberal Arts
You may have met him at church or seen him at the local grocery store. He may have even saved your life. If you’ve ever met Gregory Aragon, consider yourself lucky.
A Captain with Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR), Aragon spends his days fighting fires and responding to medical emergencies. But you may also find him studying between endless calls in his 48-hour shifts. Read more...
Gabrielle Domingo Kashuba | Bachelor of Nursing
After countless hours balancing work and studying, Gabrielle Domingo Kashuba is finally crossing the finish line. This fall, she is graduating with her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of New Mexico College of Nursing.
Kashuba completed her degree through the online RN to BSN program, designed specifically for working nurses.
Originally from the Philippines, Kashuba moved to the United States with her family about a decade ago, seeking a better education and new opportunities. Read more...