Luncheon features updates from the Chamber, networking opportunities, and a guest presenter.
Presenter: Jose E. Coll, WNMU President

Please join us for the August 2026 Chamber Luncheon with our featured guest speaker, Dr. Coll.

Jose E. Coll, Ph.D., is now serving as the 16th president of Western New Mexico University. A distinguished higher education leader, Dr. Coll brings a proven record of advancing student success, academic excellence, and institutional growth across both public and private universities, including comprehensive research institutions and liberal arts colleges.

Prior to joining WNMU, Dr. Coll served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Western Oregon University. Throughout his career, he has held senior leadership positions at Portland State University, Texas State University, the University of Southern California, and Saint Leo University.

A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Cuban American, Dr. Coll’s leadership is informed by a lifelong commitment to service, opportunity, and educational access. He is a respected scholar, author, and editor whose work has focused on military social work, student veterans in higher education, and the challenges faced by military-affiliated students as they transition to civilian and academic life.

He earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in social work before completing a Ph.D. in Counseling Education and Supervision. His scholarship has explored worldview development, counseling, and student success, with a particular emphasis on supporting military-connected learners.

As president of Western New Mexico University, Dr. Coll is committed to expanding opportunity, strengthening community partnerships, and advancing the university’s mission of transforming lives through education.