Governor nominates former UNM coach to ENMU regents

SANTA FE – Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham on Friday announced 3 appointments to the boards of regents for Eastern New Mexico University and two other colleges and universities. The appointees must be confirmed by the Legislature.

According to a news release from the governor, her appointment for Eastern New Mexico University is Ray Birmingham, nominated for a six-year term through Dec. 31, 2028.

Birmingham retired from the University of New Mexico in 2021 after serving as head baseball coach since 2007 where he led the Lobos to seven top-ten national finishes in batting average in 10 seasons with a 95 percent player graduation rate. He previously served as director of public relations and baseball coach at College of the Southwest in Hobbs and as a professor of physical education and baseball coach at New Mexico Junior College. In addition to coaching, Birmingham successfully raised over $5.7 million for UNM’s baseball facility and operations and is a recipient of the University of New Mexico’s Community Service Award.

Birmingham is a graduate of Hobbs High School and holds an associate’s degree from New Mexico Junior College, a bachelor’s degree in journalism from New Mexico State University, and a master’s degree in education from the College of the Southwest.

“These individuals play a critical role in guiding the future of education, research, workforce, and economic development in New Mexico, and our colleges, universities, and ultimately, our higher education students will benefit from the experience, knowledge, and insights each of these individuals will provide,” Lujan Grisham said.

The governor’s news release notes public four-year colleges, universities, and special schools are governed by boards of regents consisting of members who serve six-year terms and student members who serve two-year terms. The Board of Regents is responsible for governance of the school, including establishment of goals and policies, and overall operation and management. Other functions include approving degrees awarded and appointing the president or chancellor of an institution. Members of Boards of Regents serve in a voluntary capacity and are not compensated for their service.