ENMU Faculty Member Honored with 2026 NM EPSCoR Mentor Award

PORTALES, N.M. - September 28, 2026 - Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU-Portales) is proud to announce that Dr. Anu Ogunleye, assistant professor of Agriculture, was named a recipient of the prestigious 2026 New Mexico Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) Mentor Award.

The statewide award honors educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication to guiding, encouraging, and inspiring students. Dr. Ogunleye was nominated by multiple students who highlighted her ability to make complex concepts approachable, cultivate hands-on learning experiences, and genuinely invest in student success. Through her leadership, she continues to champion community-engaged research and foster a supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

Guided by her philosophy that "We rise by lifting others," Dr. Ogunleye adapts her mentorship style to help students develop critical-thinking skills, resilience, and professional confidence.

"I congratulate Dr. Ogunleye on this recognition and thank her for her continued support and mentoring of our students," Dr. James Johnston, ENMU chancellor, said. "These are the efforts that lead to student success."

New Mexico EPSCoR is funded by the National Science Foundation to build the state's research capacity and cultivate a well-qualified STEM workforce. Dr. Ogunleye shares this year's statewide recognition alongside fellow educators from Navajo Technical University and the University of New Mexico.

For more information regarding the 2026 NM EPSCoR Mentor Awards, please visit the official announcement at New Mexico EPSCOR News.

For more information

Shaun Banther | Chief Communications Officer | Eastern New Mexico University-Portales
Advancement and Public Relations | Office of Communication Services
575.562.2154 (Main Office)