New Mexico Auditor Finds Waste at WNMU

A review by the New Mexico State Auditor's office has revealed over $363,000 in wasteful spending and improper use of public funds by Western New Mexico University (WNMU) President Joseph Shepard and the Board of Regents from July 2018 to June 2023. The investigation noted numerous violations of university travel and purchasing policies, including extravagant international trips and expenditures on luxury furnishings for the president's residence. Auditor Joseph Maestas emphasized the need for strong leadership to prevent fraud and waste, expressing concerns about the lack of compliance and oversight. In response, WNMU leadership indicated that they have addressed the raised concerns and are pending an independent audit. The State Ethics Commission is now reviewing the auditor's findings, but details of the informal review remain confidential. This situation has prompted state lawmakers to question the university's financial practices and governance structure.