Las Cruces – New Mexico State University celebrated the achievements of alumna Amanda Nunez, who returned to campus in 2021 and now serves as assistant director of Student Assistance Services. Nunez was presented with the 2026 “A” Mountain Staff Award during the university’s Employee Appreciation Picnic on Oct. 30.

The award recognizes staff members who embody NMSU’s core values of leadership, excellence, access, diversity and inclusion, and who place students at the center of their work. In her role, Nunez oversees non‑clinical case management, crisis response, risk assessment, resource navigation and the day‑to‑day coordination of the university’s Concern Assessment and Response (CARE) Team.

Supporting students through hardship

“Being an NMSU alumna makes my work even more meaningful,” Nunez said. “It is special to be able to give back to the university that played an important role in my own educational journey and now have the opportunity to support students as they work toward achieving their goals.” She highlighted the rewarding nature of helping both traditional and non‑traditional students discover their paths and overcome obstacles such as financial hardship, food insecurity, health concerns, family emergencies, housing issues and grief.

Joseph Molina, director of Student Assistance Services, praised Nunez’s approach, noting she “meets students where they are without making assumptions about what they need.” He added that her leadership is “grounded in action,” and she is willing to step into difficult situations, make decisions and keep support services moving.

Team effort and community impact

Nunez emphasized that the award reflects the collective effort of the Student Assistance Services team. “It is incredibly humbling to know that the work we do as a team is being noticed and, more importantly, that we are making a meaningful impact on the lives of students,” she said.

The recognition underscores NMSU’s commitment to student well‑being and its partnership with families, faculty, donors and community organizations. By providing emergency assistance, basic‑needs services and coordinated crisis response, the Student Assistance Services office plays a vital role in helping Aggies succeed.

Tiffany Acosta writes for New Mexico State University Marketing and Communications. She can be reached at 575‑646‑3929 or by email at [email protected].

Original reporting: Organ Mountain News (Las Cruces / Doña Ana County) — read the source article.