As the independent voice of the students of The University of New Mexico since 1895, the Daily Lobo has achieved countless milestones—many of which are cause for celebration. Each year, members of the UNM Daily Lobo and Student Publications Alumni Chapter honor outstanding alumni at their Hall of Honor celebration. 

“The Hall of Honor celebration is an important part of our alumni weekend. Alumni gather to reminisce, look through back issues of publications, and celebrate outstanding alumni on their accomplishments as they reflect on their time at the Daily Lobo,” said Daven Quelle, business manager, UNM Student Publications.  

As one of the most active alumni chapters on campus, the Daily Lobo and Student Publications chapter boasts many recognizable members including this year’s Hall of Honor awardees: Matthew Reisen, Albuquerque Journal reporter; Tony Hillerman, World War combat veteran, UNM journalism professor and one of New Mexico’s foremost novelists; and Iliana Limón Romero, Los Angeles Times’ assistant managing editor for sports.  

“Our Hall of Honor winners represent the large Daily Lobo alumni base benefiting their communities all over the world,” said Quelle. “The achievements of this year’s winners showcase the impact of journalism and the continued need to provide accurate information in our society.” 

Reisen received this year’s Young Alumni Award which recognizes alums who were UNM students within the last 10 years for achievements, leadership, or innovation in their chosen field.  He worked with the Daily Lobo from 2014 to 2017 as a reporter and news editor. Reisen currently serves as a crime reporter with the Albuquerque Journal.  

Hillerman is the recipient of this year’s Contributor Award given to individuals who have made significant contributions to Student Publications at UNM by supporting the Daily Lobo, Conceptions Southwest, and/or Limina: UNM Nonfiction Review. Well-known for his novels set on the Navajo Nation, Hillerman earned a master’s degree from UNM and taught journalism for more than 20 years. He served on the Student Publications board and was a beloved advocate for students at the Daily Lobo. 

Limón Romero was recognized with the Distinguished Alumni Award given to Daily Lobo Conceptions Southwest or Limina: UNM Nonfiction Review alums in any capacity and have been out of school 10+ years. She was a Pulitzer Prize finalist in 2017, led The Times to Associated Press Sports Editors triple crown honors, and was named one of the 10 most influential latina journalists in California in 2022. Romero worked at the Daily Lobo from 1998 to 2002, serving as the editor-in-chief her senior year.

The UNM Department of Student Publications supports students who participate in and learn from the opportunities offered in its publications. The department provides an environment and professional resources to ensure an optimal learning experience as a supplement to formal classroom instruction. The primary objective is to build a broad base of student writers, editors, photographers, designers and advertising professionals for the future.

To donate or support Student Publications and the Daily Lobo, visit the Student Publications page on the Give to Student Affairs tab.