Support UNM-Valencia and Southern New Mexico on April 9, 2026, during the 24-hour UNM Big Give. Donors can directly fund health care training, STEM pathways, and teacher education to bolster the Las Cruces area workforce. Gifts of $50 or more made during Power Hours (7–8 a.m., 11 a.m.–12 p.m., or 7–8 p.m.) qualify for exclusive UNM socks, while match challenges double the impact of regional gifts.
When is the UNM Big Give?
- Date: April 9, 2026
- Times: 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.
What programs do UNM-Valencia support in Southern New Mexico?
UNM-Valencia serves as a critical gateway for higher education and workforce development in Las Cruces and the surrounding region.
Big Give contributions directly support transformative initiatives designed to increase career readiness and community prosperity. Residents can create a ripple effect by supporting these key areas:
- Health care and allied health: Train professionals to meet critical medical needs in rural and underserved southern communities.
- STEM and engineering: Fund state-of-the-art facilities for students in Las Cruces preparing for technology and science careers.
- Teacher education: Support programs that empower the next generation of K–12 educators in Southern New Mexico.
- Cultural and sustainability initiatives: Contribute to programs that preserve regional heritage and promote eco-friendly practices.
- Campus resources: Donations help sustain the campus food pantry and provide professional development for faculty to maintain high-quality instruction.
Why is the UNM-Valencia Annual Fund vital for student retention?
The UNM-Valencia Annual Fund acts as a financial lifeline for students facing unexpected hardships that threaten their academic future. By providing rapid-response funding, the university prevents temporary crises from becoming permanent barriers to graduation. Your gift helps students overcome specific challenges, including:
- Medical emergencies: Assisting with overwhelming bills from unexpected illnesses or injuries.
- Housing and food insecurity: Providing stability for students struggling with rent increases or basic necessities.
- Transportation challenges: Covering car repairs or transit costs to help students maintain access to campus resources.
Search all UNM Big Give funds.
How to Give?
Ready to support UNM? Here’s how to make your gift:
- Visit the UNM Big Give Giving Portal during the 24-hour campaign window (April 9, 2026)
- Select the fund or program you want to support
- Enter your gift amount and complete checkout
- During Power Hours ($50+ gift), your exclusive socks will be mailed to you
Encourage others: Share the campaign with friends, family, and coworkers. Every gift counts toward building a stronger UNM.
What are the UNM Big Give Power Hours?
Participate during one of three Power Hours on April 9, 2026, to receive a pair of exclusive UNM Big Give socks with any gift of $50 or more:
- Morning Power Hour: 7–8 a.m.
- Midday Power Hour: 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
- Evening Power Hour: 7–8 p.m.
Partner with Las Cruces to Empower Southern New Mexico
The UNM Big Give offers a unique 24-hour window for the Mesilla Valley to unite in support of the programs that define our regional strength. By contributing on April 9, 2026, you are directly investing in the health care practitioners, engineers, and educators who will lead Southern New Mexico tomorrow.
Your participation helps UNM-Valencia remain a gateway for local students, providing them with the necessary tools to navigate financial hurdles and secure their academic futures right here at home.
Are you ready to strengthen the Mesilla Valley? Visit the UNM Big Give website to choose your fund and demonstrate your commitment to the initiatives that drive Las Cruces forward. We invite you to rally your colleagues and family members to join this digital movement. Together, we can expand educational access and create lasting prosperity across Southern New Mexico.
UNM Big Give Frequently Asked Questions
When is the UNM Big Give 2026?
UNM Big Give occurs on April 9, 2026, from 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Mountain Time. This 24-hour digital event allows the global Lobo community to contribute to specific programs across all University of New Mexico campuses. While gifts are accepted throughout the day, those who donate $50 or more during specific Power Hours (7–8 a.m., 11 a.m.–12 p.m., or 7–8 p.m.) qualify for a pair of exclusive UNM Big Give socks.
How can Las Cruces residents ensure their gift stays in Southern New Mexico?
Donors can specifically designate their contributions to “UNM-Valencia” or related southern regional funds by visiting the official giving site at UNM Big Give Giving Portal. The platform allows you to search for specific initiatives like the Valencia Annual Fund or local Allied Health programs. If a specific local fund is not listed, donors may select the “Other” option to manually designate their gift for Southern New Mexico outreach.
Is there a minimum gift amount required to participate?
There is no minimum gift amount for the UNM Big Give; contributions of any size make an immediate impact on student success and regional programming. However, to qualify for the exclusive 2026 UNM Big Give socks, a single donation must be $50 or greater and processed during one of the three designated Power Hour windows. All donors receive an email confirmation and tax receipt regardless of the gift size.
Can a business or organization participate in the Big Give?
The online giving portal is fully equipped to accept corporate and organizational gifts. During the checkout process, you can select the option to give on behalf of a business and provide the relevant entity information for tax and recognition purposes. This is an excellent way for Las Cruces businesses to demonstrate their commitment to regional workforce development and the community’s educational future.
How does UNM support health care right here in Las Cruces?
UNM runs the Southern Area Health Education Center (SoAHEC) based in Las Cruces. This center focuses on finding and training local people to become nurses and doctors who stay in Southern New Mexico. Your Big Give gift also helps fund specialized pediatric clinics in town, so local families don’t have to drive to Albuquerque for expert heart or cancer care for their children.
Does UNM work with NMSU during this event?
Yes! While the Big Give is a UNM fundraiser, much of that money goes toward joint programs with NMSU. For example, the two schools share a doctoral program in Geography based in Las Cruces. Supporting UNM ensures these shared resources, like research grants and faculty support, stay strong for students living in the Mesilla Valley.
Posted by LasCruces.com
