Each year, the University of New Mexico (UNM) recognizes outstanding graduates ahead of its Spring and Fall Commencement ceremonies. The University Communication and Marketing team features students whose stories demonstrate leadership, resilience, and perseverance.
Commencement is described as a significant occasion for the UNM community, marking the end of academic journeys and years of effort. Graduates come from various schools, colleges, and programs across the university, reflecting its diverse student body.
The highlighted graduates from the Fall Class of 2025 include Araceli Ramirez, who earned a Master of Science in Project Management; Guillermo Caraveo, who completed a Master of Arts in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations; Ian Widrick-Martinez, who received a Master of Public Administration; Veronica Lopez, who achieved a Master of Arts in Chicano Studies while working full-time as a high school teacher; and Sophia Brand, who finished an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
Araceli Ramirez shared her experience growing up in Dallas, Texas: “I don’t know how we’re going to pay for it,” she recalled her mother saying. “But I believe in you, and I know you can earn scholarships to get there.” Ramirez did exactly that.
Guillermo Caraveo reflected on change throughout his academic path: “The only constant in life is change.”
Ian Widrick-Martinez noted his journey began with family support and continued across different regions as he found his passion.
Veronica Lopez focused her studies on supporting Chicano students and teachers while balancing work responsibilities.
Sophia Brand said about her career choice: “I like to say this profession chose me a lot sooner than I chose it.”
UNM has more than 200,000 alumni worldwide. Its campus is located in Albuquerque near Route 66 and includes notable features such as Pueblo Revival architecture and the duck pond. The university serves over 24,000 students at its main campus and branches statewide. UNM also operates museums, galleries, libraries, performance spaces and other cultural resources to promote diversity and engagement within New Mexico.
The institution’s athletics teams are known as the Lobos since adopting the nickname in 1920, competing primarily in the Mountain West Conference. UNM was established as New Mexico’s flagship public university in 1889 and continues to focus on education, research opportunities and health care services for the state’s residents.
