It’s our 20th Anniversary!

2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the New Mexico Simon Scholars Program! Since 2005, we’ve supported 164 alumni, 90 college students, and 41 high school students on their path to be the first in their families to earn a college degree. As we mark this incredible milestone, our founder Steve Simon shares a special message reflecting on our journey and the people who made it possible.

“It is hard to believe that it has been over 20 years and that this program with humble beginnings has grown to touch so many first-generation students, their families, and their communities in such powerful manners. Our students were invited to join our program because they were both in need of financial support, had significant obstacles in their lives, and very clearly demonstrated that they had the character, courage, and tenacity to overcome what stood in their way, and to move forward in life in successful and powerful ways.  Just like our students, our program has evolved through its many challenges, and we are all deeply moved to see its emergence into a powerful force in our community and to provide the opportunities that have led to successful lives for the 400+ students that have worked with us.

“This said, our program would not of had the success it has if it were not for the folks that in the beginning shared our dreams and visions, believed in us and took the risks involved in supporting a start-up program with no idea of how it might end up.  First and foremost is our core sponsor, Ronald M. Simon, who provided the necessary funding to get us off the ground and to keep us going throughout these many years.  In addition to the support from Mr. Simon, each of our current board of directors have been involved with us virtually from the beginning and remain highly committed to our vision. Alan Marks, who cofounded South Valley Academy, provided us with a pathway in our Albuquerque schools and has provided us with sound guidance thought the years.  Melynn Schuyler opened up the door in Santa Fe and worked with us in establishing our initial protocols. Victoria Mora established St. John’s as a solid partner and helped us make our tutoring program the cornerstone program that it is today.

“Last but not least, our highly capable and dedicated staff have been absolutely essential to our success. Mike Ammerman came onboard as we developed our first retreats, worked with us for many years and touched the lives of so many students. It is also a great pleasure for us to have the presence of Janeth Santos, a Simon Scholars Alumni, as our Program Manager. Sue Talkington has provided us with effective and essential operational support for well over 10 years. Finally, it has been a great pleasure for me to observe the professional growth of our Executive Director, Bear Nash, and to see him succeed in bringing even more success to our program and to guide us through the challenges that the recent pandemic put upon us.  

“To all of you, I want to express my deepest thanks and appreciation, and I look forward the next 20 years of the New Mexico Simon Scholarship Program and what new and innovative things it may bring with it.”