Portales, NM – May 1, 2023 – Eastern New Mexico University will host the inauguration of James Johnston as the 12th University President and 3rd University System Chancellor during an inauguration ceremony held on Friday, May 5, 2023, at 3 p.m. at Steve Loy Family Foundation Arena. The public is invited to this event, and there will be a live stream at enmu.edu/InaugurationLivestream.
The inauguration formalizes Chancellor Johnston’s journey that commenced in January 2023, when he succeeded retiring Chancellor Patrice Caldwell. Since arriving on campus, Chancellor Johnston has helped secure more than $17 million from the 2023 state legislative session that will help maintain the university’s strong academic offerings while flexibly positioning ENMU for future exceptionalism.
"Starting in the middle of an academic year can certainly be challenging, but doing so with the beginning of a legislative session generally assures a challenge. I knew that coming in and welcomed the opportunity," said James Johnston ENMU Chancellor. "The people, both on campus and in the community, have made this a smooth transition. I’ve struggled with a better way to describe both the fantastic welcome and tremendous support Stephanie and I have received over these first few months, but I cannot find a better way to say we’re home. It is my great honor to lead such a fine institution and outstanding people, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together."
The Friday, May 5 ceremony will feature dignitaries from around the State of New Mexico, including three former Eastern New Mexico University presidents. Colonel Brent Greer, Vice Commander of the 27th Special Operations Wing, Cannon Airforce Base will present the opening address. Following this, there will be resolution presentations from the various senate groups on campus and leadership groups from the community. Finally, the ENMU Board of Regents will present the Investiture of the President, with an Inaugural Address from new Chancellor James Johnston. After the event, there will be a reception at the Campus Union Building Ballroom.
"We are pleased to welcome Dr. James Johnston as the next Chancellor of the Eastern New Mexico University System," said Phillip Bustos, President of the ENMU Board of Regents. "Dr. Johnston brings outstanding credentials and experience to the position, as well as unbridled enthusiasm and commitment to the job. The search team and the Regents made the best choice in Dr. Johnson. We are confident he will serve the students, faculty, staff, and community with distinction.
Chancellor Johnston came to ENMU from Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas, where he had been since 2003, holding multiple leadership positions during his tenure with the University. Johnston was the Interim President at Midwestern State University from September 2021-May 2022. During this time, he helped lead the University through its transition to the Texas Tech University System while initiating the University’s Centennial celebration, continuing the University’s comprehensive fundraising campaign, and working with his task force to increase student enrollment and success.
Johnston earned his Ph.D. in Health Studies from Texas Woman’s University in 2006. He earned his Master of Science in Radiologic Sciences and his Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences from Midwestern State University. He began his education at South Plains College, receiving his Associate Degree in Radiologic Sciences in 1986.
For more information on the ENMU President Inauguration Ceremony, including information on the live stream broadcast, please visit enmu.edu/Inauguration.
