NMMI Commandant Search – Announcement of Finalists

Dear NMMI Community,

 

On behalf of the Commandant Search Committee, I am pleased to share an important update regarding the search for the next Commandant of Cadets at New Mexico Military Institute.

 

We received a strong pool of applicants, including six NMMI alumni, all motivated to support our cadets and the Institute’s mission. Following a comprehensive and deliberate review process, the committee identified four highly qualified finalists for this critical leadership position. Two of the finalists are NMMI alumni.

 

Listed in alphabetical order, the finalists are:

• LTC Karl Harness (alumni) – Currently serving as the Professor of Military Science (PMS) for Senior ROTC at NMMI, with extensive experience in leader development and cadet mentorship.
• Lt. Col. (Ret.) Art Houghtby – Presently serving as the Deputy for Operations in the Commandant’s Office at NMMI, bringing deep institutional knowledge and operational leadership experience.
• COL Steve Kobayashi (alumni) – A retired military officer with a distinguished record of service and leadership across multiple assignments.
• LTC James Pete – A retired military officer with significant leadership experience in education across multiple assignments.

 

Each finalist demonstrates strong alignment with NMMI’s mission to develop leaders of character through a disciplined military environment and a rigorous academic program.

 

Over the next several weeks, I will conduct interviews with each finalist as part of the final phase of the selection process. It is my intent to make a decision in the coming weeks.

 

The Commandant of Cadets plays a vital role in shaping the daily experience of the Corps of Cadets and in sustaining the excellence of our military model. I am confident this group of finalists represents an exceptional combination of leadership, experience, and commitment to our mission.

 

I extend my sincere appreciation to the members of the search committee for their time, professionalism, and dedication throughout this process. I also thank our faculty, staff, cadets, alumni, and stakeholders for their continued support.

 

We will keep the NMMI community informed as we move forward.

 

Voris W. McBurnette Ed. D.

Brigadier General, USA (Ret.)

President / Superintendent

New Mexico Military Institute