The University of New Mexico (UNM) once again beams with pride after securing recognition for excellence through its program. The James and Gail Ellis School of Business Leadership will receive the 2026 New Mexico Excellence in STEM Award for its Rural Student Connectivity Project (RSCP).
The school’s Corporate and Community Engagement (CCE) office leads the RSCP. This initiative equips rural student success with technology access, career preparation opportunities, and community engagement programs to support their success.
A $1.1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education and U.S. National Science Foundation funded RSCP in 2022. The project aims to bridge the technology gap in rural communities across New Mexico.
RSCP conducts outreach to rural communities across the state. It brings students to campus twice each year for immersive experiences focused on higher education access and career development. Participants also gain access to technology resources, paid summer internships, and family-focused programs that support student success.
“The Rural Student Connectivity Project (RSCP) represents our commitment to ensuring that rural New Mexico students—especially Native American and multigenerational Hispanic youth—have equitable access to college, careers, and STEM opportunities,” said Rob DelCampo, senior executive director of Corporate and Community Engagement (CCE).
“This program is not just about exposure; it is about building confidence, engaging families, creating real-world pathways through internships, and showing students they can succeed while staying connected to their communities. Being recognized with the STEMY Award is incredibly meaningful because it affirms the importance of this work and highlights the power of investing in rural students to build a stronger, more inclusive STEM future for New Mexico,” added DelCampo.
About the STEMYS and Related Updates
The New Mexico Excellence in STEM Awards (The STEMYS) recognizes individuals who make a significant impact in STEM education. It honors students, teachers, volunteers, and other New Mexicans who make a significant impact in STEM education. It highlights contributions in science, technology, engineering, and math across the state.
The Air Force Research Lab Tech Engagement Office and Q Station host the STEMYS.
The STEMYS will honor recipients at a ceremony on June 5 at Q Station. City of Albuquerque Economic Development Department serves as this year’s Presenting Sponsor of the event.
As of May 8, 2026, UNM Anderson School of Management has been renamed The James and Gail Ellis School of Business Leadership. The name change honors a transformative $30 million gift.