ABQ Times

The University of New Mexico (UNM) will have representation on a new advisory council formed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This council aims to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in environmental policymaking and workforce development.

Heather Himmelberger, director of the Southwest Environmental Finance Center at UNM, has been appointed as vice chair of the EPA's first Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority-Serving Institutions (HBCU-MSI) Federal Advisory Council. Himmelberger brings extensive experience from her 30-year tenure at UNM, a Hispanic-Serving Institution. She has collaborated with all 10 EPA regions and worked across all U.S. states and territories.

"We are at a time when the environmental workforce, and especially the water workforce, is facing significant challenges on all fronts – including the ability to secure workers at all levels of the sector and to obtain and maintain a more diverse employee base," Himmelberger stated. "This board is a chance to explore ways in which EPA can help Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority-Serving Institutions and how these institutions can in turn help EPA."

The HBCU-MSI Federal Advisory Council will offer independent advice to EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan on strategies for diversifying the agency’s workforce. The council will also support professional development for environmental leaders while ensuring that HBCUs and MSIs receive necessary resources.

Himmelberger's term on this council spans two years alongside 19 other members from various sectors including industry, academia, nonprofits, and government.

"We are honored to have such a distinguished group of leaders join the first-ever HBCU-MSI Advisory Council," said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. "Each member brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a deep commitment to advancing environmental justice."

Himmelberger looks forward to exploring opportunities for students at institutions like UNM through her role on the council.

"Our board will look at ways that EPA can provide opportunities for our universities and our students," she expressed.

She emphasizes developing an environmental workforce nationwide while ensuring awareness among students from disadvantaged backgrounds about career paths in sectors like water management.

“We need to let our students know what the opportunities are,” she added. “Expanding the workforce will better enable EPA to understand and serve all communities.”

For further details about other members of the HBCU-MSI Federal Advisory Council, visit the EPA’s website.