12/12/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/12/2025 17:45
Each year, in the days leading up to Spring and Fall Commencement, the University Communication and Marketing team spotlights graduating Lobos whose stories reflect exceptional leadership, resilience, and perseverance at The University of New Mexico. What began as a feature has grown into a cherished tradition.
Commencement is a powerful moment for the campus community-watching Lobos cross the stage to receive their diplomas marks not only the completion of their academic journeys, but the realization of years of dedication, growth, and determination. These graduates come from across UNM's schools, colleges, and programs, representing the rich diversity that defines our University.
They are innovators, leaders, and changemakers-prepared to shape their communities and the world beyond campus. While it's impossible to tell every story, these profiles offer a glimpse into the spirit, achievement, and promise of the Class of 2025.
Congratulations to all graduating Lobos-you've earned this moment.
Araceli Ramirez | Master of Science Project Management
Story and video by Dani Rae Wascher
Growing up in the Oak Cliff neighborhood of Dallas, Texas, Araceli Ramirez knew early on that college would be part of her future. By middle school, she was already telling her strong, independent mother that she planned to earn a degree. Her mom didn't have any easy answer. "I don't know how we're going to pay for it," she told Ramirez. "But I believe in you, and I know you can earn scholarships to get there." Ramirez did exactly that.
Guillermo Caraveo | Master of Arts Political Science
Story and video by Megan Borders
An ancient Greek philosopher once said, "The only constant in life is change." Guillermo Caraveo knows this as well as anyone. He has become highly adept at pivoting through the many detours life has given him. This fall semester, Caraveo will graduate from The University of New Mexico with an M.A. in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations.
Ian Widrick-Martinez | Master of Public Administration
Story and video by Cameron Goeldner
For Ian Widrick-Martinez, walking across the stage to celebrate the completion of his Master of Public Administration will be the culmination of a journey that began with a conversation with his father and has taken him across the region, all while finding his passion along the way.
Veronica Lopez | Master of Arts Chicano Studies
Story and video by Anna Padilla
Veronica Lopez has spent the last two years getting her master's degree in Chicana and Chicano Studies. Her area of focus was researching ways to support Chicano students and teachers in urban areas, and she did it all while working full-time as a high school teacher in Chicago.
Sophia Brand | Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Story by Christina Rodriguez
Nursing found its way to Sophia Brand before she realized it was where she belonged. "I like to say this profession chose me a lot sooner than I chose it," she said. Brand is graduating this fall from The University of New Mexico College of Nursing's Accelerated Second Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.