Velarde Center for Philanthropy marks milestone with beam signing

The University of New Mexico Foundation marked another milestone in the construction of the Velarde Center for Philanthropy with a recent beam signing. The event celebrated the generosity over the years of alumni, donors, friends, faculty, staff and community members whose investments continue to shape the future of UNM.

"This very special building under construction is intended first and foremost to celebrate the incredible impact of philanthropy and the acts of generosity by thousands of donors that have and will have in the future across this university," said Jeff Todd, president and CEO of the UNM Foundation. "I know I'm not alone in looking forward to the tremendous impact the Velarde Center will have in our daily work, strengthening our relationships with each other, our donors, supporters, campus colleagues while celebrating the generosity of philanthropy that makes what otherwise might have been impossible, possible."

Rising at the prominent intersection of Yale and Lomas boulevards on central campus, the Velarde Center will become a welcoming front door for philanthropy at UNM. More than simply housing the UNM Foundation, the center will serve as a place where stories of generosity come to life, partnerships are strengthened, and donors can see firsthand how their support transforms the lives of students, advances groundbreaking research, expands healthcare, and enriches communities across New Mexico.

"On behalf of Tisha (Velarde) and myself, it's truly an honor to be here today to celebrate this great milestone, the beam signing" said UNM alumnus Randy Velarde. "This (beam raising) marks a new chapter in the Foundation's and UNM's history. I am so honored and proud to have our name on this building. A building that will house the Foundation team, welcome and celebrate donors and bring the Foundation by way of this place on the university into the heart of this great university. It will serve as a gateway to the community and the University of New Mexico."

Designed by FBT Architects and constructed by Bradbury Stamm Construction, the three-story, 28,250-square-foot facility, Velarde Center for Philanthropy, will feature flexible gathering spaces, modern meeting rooms, and Philanthropy Hall-an inspiring space dedicated to celebrating the lasting impact of giving at UNM. Every element of the building has been designed to foster connection, collaboration, and a shared commitment to the University's future.

The Velarde Center reflects UNM's "One University" vision outlined in UNM 2040: Opportunity Defined by bringing together philanthropy, academics, healthcare, and research under one shared purpose: creating opportunities that improve lives throughout New Mexico and beyond. When the building opens in 2027, it will stand as a lasting symbol of what is possible when a community comes together to invest in the next generation of Lobos and in the future of the state.

As construction continues, opportunities remain for alumni, donors, and friends to become part of the Velarde Center's legacy through naming opportunities and other philanthropic support.