Who We Are

Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) is the largest community college in New Mexico, providing a premier and affordable education. Learn about our history, mission, vision, campuses, and employees.

About CNM

CNM is the largest higher education institution in New Mexico in terms of undergraduate enrollment.

Representatives from local businesses and industries help CNM develop programs to ensure that students acquire skills needed for success in the workplace. The college has many transfer articulation agreements with four-year institutions around the state, including the University of New Mexico.

Authorized by the New Mexico Legislature in 1963, CNM was approved by district voters in 1964 to provide adults with the skills necessary to gain employment and succeed in the workforce. Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools in 1978, degree-granting power was approved for CNM by the State Legislature in 1986, signaling the college’s transformation into a full-fledged community college.

Since its inception, CNM's career-technical programs in business, health, technologies, and trades have continually been redesigned to provide students with the most current and relevant skills needed by local employers.

For more information on CNM, including budget and financial data, institutional research, and assessments, visit our College Information page.

CNM is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Please visit our Accreditation at CNM page for more information. 

faculty

Faculty and Staff

Our over 2,000 faculty and staff are our most important resource.

Learn more about faculty and staff through our Academic Affairs division, and visit our Faculty and Staff Newsroom.

Working at CNM

Work at CNM

CNM serves a vital role in the local community and relies upon an outstanding, dedicated team of faculty and staff. Read more about working at CNM and what makes it a great place to work and learn.

Values Champion Awards

Core Values

CNM strengthens the community through our value-based approach to education.

Learn more about our six Core Values.

photo of a deep dive class

Framework for Quality Education

CNM's Framework for Quality Education defines Seven Principles of Effective Learning. These principles articulate the optimal learning environment in which you can thrive. 

What I love most about CNM is the diversity. There are students of all different ages with one goal of bettering their future.

Our Mission, Vision, and Strategic Direction

At CNM, our mission is to create futures for our learners and partners through leadership in education, training, and innovation. Our vision is to change lives and build community. 

Learn more about our Strategic Plan and our goals of Student Success, Community Success, and Organizational Excellence and Innovation.

President and Governing Board

Tracy Hartzler began her presidency on Jan. 1, 2020 and has served the public sector for over 25 years. Please read President Hartzler's welcome message.

The CNM Governing Board is responsible for policies that govern all phases of the educational program within the College. Voters elect Governing Board members in seven districts within the overall College district.

Equity Council

CNM's Equity Council ensures racial equity strategies for the College while recognizing overlapping social identities, such as gender, sexuality, and class.

Learn more about the Equity Council, including its goals, members, alumni, resources, statements, and contact information on our dedicated Equity Council site.

CNM Foundation

The CNM Foundation is committed to the principle that no student should be denied the opportunity for an education or vocational training due solely to a lack of financial resources. The CNM Foundation works to help CNM meet its mission to create educational opportunities and community partnerships while pursuing a level of community college excellence that is worthy of local and national recognition. Learn More about the CNM Foundation.

Gifts to the CNM Foundation are tax-deductible and benefit CNM programs, scholarships, and activities that are not funded through state operating and capital budgets.

If you would like to contribute to a specific scholarship or fund, please donate online.