About / Strategic Plan

NMMI Community,

It is my honor to introduce the New Mexico Military Institute Strategic Plan for 2026–2030—a forward-looking roadmap that reflects our shared commitment to excellence, leadership, and innovation. This plan is the result of months of thoughtful collaboration, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement. Faculty, staff, alumni, cadets, trustees, and community partners all contributed to shaping a vision that honors our proud history while preparing us for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

The planning process was built around three foundational Lines of Effort: Institutional Excellence & Advancement, Cadet Experience & Success, and Infrastructure & Operational Effectiveness. These pillars define our priorities and ensure that every initiative—from academic innovation and enrollment growth to facilities modernization and leadership development—is aligned with our mission and values. Our goal is to strengthen NMMI’s position as the premier small military college in the nation, recognized for producing educated and honorable citizen-leaders.

This strategic plan sets ambitious but achievable goals. We aim to expand scholarship access, enhance academic and athletic programs, invest in faculty and staff development, and modernize our campus to meet the evolving needs of our cadets. We are also proud to celebrate two major milestones during this planning cycle: NMMI’s 135th anniversary and 50 years of female cadets.

These historic markers remind us of our legacy and inspire us to build an even more inclusive and impactful future.

I invite each of you to engage with this plan—not just as a document, but as a living commitment to our cadets and our mission. Together, we will continue to uphold the values of Duty, Honor, and Achievement, and ensure that NMMI remains a beacon of leadership, scholarship, and service for generations to come.

Sincerely,
Voris McBurnette
President/Superintendent of New Mexico Military Institute

The New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI), the official state military school of New Mexico and a nationally recognized land-grant institution, is dedicated to developing future leaders through a distinctive blend of academic excellence and military discipline. NMMI offers a rigorous college preparatory and junior college curriculum integrated with structured leadership training, character development, and physical readiness. Within this dynamic and supportive community, Cadets, Faculty, and Staff are empowered to pursue excellence in scholarship, discipline, and service. Graduates emerge prepared to lead with integrity and distinction in a global society, upholding the Institute’s enduring values of Duty, Honor, and Achievement.

Mission

To recruit, retain, educate, train, and transform young men and women into Cadets within the Corps—leaders of global impact who demonstrate critical thought, sound judgment, uncompromising character, and the resilience to meet demanding physical challenges and the evolving needs of the future.

Vision

To be the premier small military college/land-grant institution in the Nation—unmatched in developing educated, honorable citizen-leaders. NMMI is recognized internationally for academic excellence, distinguished by a unique commitment to character development, self discipline, and physical challenge. This transformative experience is delivered within a rigorous military environment that prepares Cadets to lead with integrity, resilience, and distinction in a complex global landscape.

Values

Strategic Vision / Lines of Effort (LOEs)

The New Mexico Military Institute Strategic Plan 2026–2030 is organized around three foundational Lines of Effort (LOEs) that define the direction and priorities of the Institute’s growth and transformation. These LOEs—Institutional Excellence & Advancement, Cadet Experience & Success, and Infrastructure & Operational Effectiveness—provide a clear framework for aligning resources, initiatives, and leadership across all areas of the organization. By structuring the strategic plan around these interconnected efforts, NMMI ensures that every project and objective is purposefully directed toward achieving its mission: to develop educated, honorable citizen-leaders prepared for global challenges. Each LOE encompasses specific goals and actions that collectively drive institutional progress, enhance the cadet experience, and ensure operational readiness, forming a cohesive roadmap for sustained excellence.

A. LOE 1 Institutional Excellence & Advancement

NMMI is committed to strengthening its national and international reputation through robust alumni engagement, innovative fundraising, and continuous improvement in governance and accreditation. The Institute will advance institutional capacity by realigning advancement operations, enhancing donor programs, and fostering community and corporate partnerships. Governance will be refined to ensure transparency, accountability, and mission-focused decision making, while human resources initiatives will modernize recruitment, onboarding, and professional development. Accreditation efforts will focus on exceeding benchmarks and fostering stakeholder engagement.

B. LOE 2 Cadet Experience & Success

Central to NMMI’s mission is the holistic development of cadets as educated and honorable citizen-leaders. The plan prioritizes global enrollment strategies to diversify recruitment pipelines and strengthen retention, ensuring a vibrant and inclusive cadet corps. Academic prowess will be advanced through curriculum innovation, synchronized scheduling, and expanded student support services. Investment in faculty and staff will enhance mentorship, role modeling, and professional growth, while competitive athletics will cultivate a championship culture and promote gender equity in facilities and opportunities.

C. LOE 3 Infrastructure & Operational Effectiveness

NMMI will execute a comprehensive Facilities Master Plan to strengthen campus infrastructure, improve operational efficiency, and provide a safe, accessible environment for all stakeholders. Technology integration and workflow management will drive operational excellence, while targeted enhancements to cadet spaces, commandant offices, and athletic facilities will support the Institute’s strategic goals. These efforts will ensure that NMMI remains future-ready and
responsive to the evolving needs of its community.

Through these Lines of Effort, nested goals will enable NMMI to fulfill its mission to recruit, retain, educate, train, and prepare young Cadets to be global leaders of character, judgment, and physical readiness. The Strategic Plan provides a clear, actionable roadmap for sustained excellence and growth, ensuring that NMMI continues to lead with integrity and distinction.

A. LOE 1: Institutional Excellence & Advancement

GOAL 1 – Institutional Advancement

NMMI will establish a nationally recognized institutional advancement program that cultivates lifelong alumni relationships, inspires pride, and drives sustained service and support. Through strategic engagement, philanthropic growth, and expanded partnerships, NMMI will strengthen its reputation, broaden its impact, and build a resilient foundation for future success.

Strategies

  • A1.1: Develop dynamic outreach programs that foster meaningful connections with alumni across generations. Utilize digital platforms, regional events, and mentorship opportunities to deepen alumni involvement and reinforce their role in shaping NMMI’s legacy.
  • A1.2: Implement targeted fundraising campaigns that increase donor participation and diversify giving streams. Promote major gifts, planned giving, and parent contributions while building readiness for future capital campaigns.
  • A1.3: Modernize advancement operations through technology integration, staff development, and strategic communications. Leverage data analytics to enhance donor stewardship, track engagement, and optimize fundraising performance.
  • A1.4: Create structured programs that connect current cadets with alumni for mentorship, career guidance, and leadership development. Encourage cadet participation in donor recognition and alumni events to build institutional pride and continuity.
  • A1.5: Expand network of external supporters by cultivating relationships with local, regional, and national organizations. Pursue sponsorships, collaborative initiatives, and corporate philanthropy that align with cadet development and institutional priorities.

A. LOE 1: Institutional Excellence & Advancement

GOAL 2 – Governance

NMMI will strengthen institutional governance by establishing a unified, transparent, and mission-driven framework that reflects NMMI’s Military Educational Model across all academic levels—Middle School, High School, and Junior College. This goal supports accountability, policy clarity, and responsive decision-making, ensuring NMMI remains a world-class, future ready institution.

Strategies

  • A2.1: Design and implement a cohesive governance structure that aligns policies, procedures, and decision-making authority across all divisions of the Institute. Ensure the framework reflects the values and discipline of the military model while supporting academic and operational continuity.
  • A2.2: Develop and maintain accessible policy repositories, version-controlled documentation, and regular communication channels to ensure faculty, staff, and
    stakeholders can easily understand and apply institutional policies. Promote engagement through feedback loops, policy briefings, and transparent updates.
  • A2.3: Implement a “Policy on Policies” protocol that defines formatting, review cycles, approval workflows, and publication standards. Establish a cross-functional Policy Steering Committee to oversee development, revision, and compliance.
  • A2.4: Integrate governance practices with institutional performance metrics, compliance audits, and accreditation standards. Ensure policies are embedded in onboarding, evaluations, and strategic planning processes.

A. LOE 1: Institutional Excellence & Advancement

GOAL 3 – Human Resources (HR)

NMMI will advance institutional excellence by creating a modern, efficient, and responsive human resources framework that fosters professional growth, strengthens workforce accountability, and supports the long-term success of faculty and staff. Through strategic investment in systems, analytics, and development, NMMI will build a resilient and highperforming team aligned with its mission and values.

Strategies

  •  A3.1: Strengthen accountability in workforce outcomes by modernizing HR processes, leveraging integrated technologies, and implementing data-driven practices. Establish clear performance metrics, streamline workflows, and utilize talent analytics to improve recruitment, retention, and development.
  • A3.2: Enhance supportive measures for faculty and staff by expanding access to professional development, wellness resources, and recognition programs. Promote a
    culture of collaboration, engagement, and continuous improvement across departments.
  • A3.3: Improve employee onboarding through a structured, multi-departmental approach that equips new hires with the knowledge, tools, and institutional context needed for long-term success. Include orientation on NMMI’s mission, values, and leadership expectations to foster alignment from day one.

A. LOE 1: Institutional Excellence & Advancement

GOAL 4 – Accreditation

NMMI will strengthen accreditation readiness across secondary and postsecondary programs by building institutional continuity, fostering data-driven decision-making, engaging stakeholders, and promoting continuous improvement. Through collaboration and responsiveness, aim to exceed accreditation benchmarks and elevate its reputation as a leader in academic and character based education.

Strategies

  • A4.1: Maintain accreditation preparedness by establishing robust internal systems, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, and aligning institutional policies with accrediting standards. Conduct regular audits and maintain accurate records across governance, curriculum, finances, and student services.
  • A4.2: Implement strategic data collection and analysis to inform decision-making, monitor student achievement, and guide program development. Conduct annual reviews of academic and co-curricular programs, update curriculum to reflect evolving standards, and ensure faculty qualifications meet accreditation expectations.
  • A4.3: Foster active participation from faculty, cadets, families, and community partners in accreditation processes. Provide transparent updates on progress and school improvement efforts and ensure accrediting agencies’ core values align with NMMI’s mission and goals.
  • A4.4: Promote cadet well-being and equity through targeted support services, mental health programs, and inclusive practices. Strengthen professional development for faculty and staff to build institutional capacity and sustain high-impact educational practices.

B. LOE 2: Cadet Experience & Success

GOAL 5 – Global Enrollment

NMMI will deliver a customer-focused experience for every cadet and family while achieving and sustaining maximum capacity through strategic realignment, targeted recruitment, and strong retention efforts. We will expand and diversify enrollment pipelines—domestic and international—and enhance support systems to ensure long-term success. Leveraging organizational restructuring, integrated technology, and data-driven outreach, NMMI will maintain full enrollment and a healthy waitlist, reinforcing its position as a premier global destination for leadership development.

Strategies

  • B.5.1: Realign Global Enrollment Operations to strengthen structure, processes, and branding. Strengthen the structure, processes, and branding of the Global Enrollment division by establishing specialized teams for domestic, international, and marketing efforts. Implement succession planning and cross-training to build long-term capacity and leadership continuity.
  • B5.2: Expand and Diversify Recruitment Pipelines to ensure full enrollment and long-term sustainability. Integrate partnerships, international agent networks Athletics, Academics, and Leadership messaging to attract mission-aligned cadets from diverse backgrounds.
  • B.5.3: Enhance Cadet Retention and Success. Implement mentorship programs, predictive analytics, and early alert systems to support cadet wellness and academic performance. Define clear retention benchmarks and promote shared accountability across departments to foster a thriving campus culture.
  • B5.4: Institutionalize Enrollment Excellence. Reach and maintain a target enrollment. Sustain maximum capacity. Improve selectivity and outcomes by benchmarking against peer institutions and using graduation and transfer data to validate NMMI’s value proposition.

B. LOE 2: Cadet Experience & Success

GOAL 6 – Advancing Academic Prowess

NMMI will synchronize the schedules for Academics, Athletics, and Character/Leadership to prioritize student success and retention. Enhance programs to increase student success and retention. Synchronization of academics, athletics, leadership; curriculum innovation; student support.

Strategies

  • B.6.1: Implement a committee to develop and oversee a new Plan of the Day.B.6.2: Establish consistent oversight and continuity of the schedule.
  • B 6.3: Strengthen the effectiveness of NMMI’s academic services and partnerships.
  • B.6.4: Expand programs that support a diverse student body.
  • B.6.5: Create classroom environments that maximize cadets’ academic performance.
  • B6.6: Promote a campus-wide culture of service and respect by implementing standards and practices aligned with nationally recognized “gold standard” programs.
  • B6.7: Embed Corps-wide leadership competencies across all training and academic experiences to establish NMMI as a nationally recognized institute for advancing leadership excellence.

B. LOE 2: Cadet Experience & Success

GOAL 7 – Invest in Leadership, Staff and Faculty

Empower the Corps of Cadets by investing in professional growth, mentorship, and role modeling of faculty and staff—ensuring they are equipped to lead, inspire, and uphold the values of NMMI.

Strategies

  • B.7.1: Recruit, retain, and support highly qualified faculty and staff who are committed to NMMI’s core mission of academic excellence, character development, and physical readiness. Implement competitive hiring practices, professional development pathways, and recognition programs to attract and sustain top talent.
  • B.7.2: Strengthen faculty and staff role modeling by embedding leadership principles, ethical standards, and institutional customs into onboarding, training, and daily practice. Ensure all personnel exemplify the values of Duty, Honor, and Achievement in their interactions with cadets and the broader campus community.
  • B.7.3: Establish structured mentorship programs that connect faculty and staff with cadets, fostering meaningful relationships that support academic, personal, and leadership growth.
  • B.7.4: Promote cross-functional collaboration and shared learning among departments to reduce silos, enhance communication, and build a unified institutional culture.
  • B.7.5: Provide consistent funding and access to professional development opportunities, including leadership training, instructional innovation, and strategic planning workshops.

B. LOE 2: Cadet Experience & Success

GOAL 8 – Competitive Athletics

NMMI will foster a championship culture that integrates excellence in academics, athletics, and community engagement. Build and sustain competitive athletic programs that reflect NMMI’s core values—Duty, Honor, and Achievement—through equitable facilities, athlete well-being initiatives, gender equity, and sustainable scholarship and funding strategies. Athletics at NMMI are not only a platform for physical development but a vital component of leadership, discipline, and institutional pride.

Strategies

  • B.8.1: Position NMMI Athletics as a top-tier NJCAA/NMAA program by investing in coaching, training, and academic support for student-athletes. Promote a balanced approach that emphasizes both competitive performance and scholastic achievement.
  • B.8.2: Provide equitable, first-class athletic facilities for all cadets, fully compliant with Title IX. Prioritize upgrades and new construction that support female sports programs and inclusive access to training and competition spaces.
  • B.8.3: Enhance Athlete Well-being Implement initiatives that support the physical, mental, and emotional health of cadet-athletes, including access to nutrition, counseling, injury prevention, and recovery resources.
  • B.8.4: Develop targeted recruitment strategies and scholarship programs to attract highperforming athletes who embody NMMI’s values. Retain talent through mentorship, academic support, and leadership development.
  • B.8.5: Leverage athletic events to build stronger ties with alumni, families, and the Roswell community. Promote cadet-athlete achievements through outreach, media, and donor engagement.
  • B.8.6: Design and implement a strategic roadmap for facility upgrades, maintenance, and expansion to support current and future athletic needs. Align investments with enrollment growth, program expansion, and institutional goals.

C. LOE 3: Infrastructure & Operational Effectiveness

GOAL 9 – Facilities Master Plan

NMMI will enhance campus effectiveness through a future-focused strategy that strengthens infrastructure, boosts operational efficiency, and ensures safe, accessible, and high-quality environments for Cadets, Faculty, Staff, and guests—guided by capital forecasting, proactive maintenance, strategic renovations, and APPA standards.

Strategies

  • C.9.1: Optimize Facilities Operations and Planning. Implement robust capital forecasting and lifecycle planning to guide long-term investments. Strengthen operational workflows through technology integration, data-informed decision-making, and cross-departmental coordination to ensure efficient use of resources and timely execution of projects.
  • C.9.2: Elevate Maintenance and Service Standards. Achieve and maintain APPA Level 2 standards across custodial, maintenance, and grounds operations. Establish performance benchmarks, staff training programs, and continuous improvement protocols to ensure consistent service quality and campus cleanliness.
  • C.9.3: Modernize Campus Infrastructure and Systems. Execute campus-wide mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) upgrades, including critical systems redundancy, energy efficiency improvements, and safety enhancements. Prioritize renovations that support academic, residential, and athletic functions while aligning with sustainability goals.
  • C.9.4: Enhance Cadet and Commandant Spaces. Renovate and expand cadet living quarters, leadership offices, and support facilities to improve comfort, functionality, and morale. Focus on upgrades that promote wellness, community engagement, and leadership development within the Corps.

C. LOE 3: Infrastructure & Operational Effectiveness

GOAL 10 – Technology & Systems

NMMI will modernize its Student Information System (SIS), workflow management, and operational infrastructure to meet 21st-century standards—enhancing institutional efficiency, data integrity, and user experience across academic and administrative functions.

Strategies

  • C.10.1: Transition to a cloud-based or hybrid SIS platform with robust API support for seamless integration with existing systems.
  • C.10.2: Implement automation tools to reduce manual data entry and improve turnaround times

575-622-6250 | admissions@nmmi.edu
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101 W. College Blvd. | Roswell, NM 88201

International
1-575-624-8047 | international@nmmi.edu

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Be the leader you dream to be! NMMI prepares you with solid academics and a focus on personal character development to put you on the path for a bright future.