Alexandra Neves received the 2026 University Bilingual Education Professor of the Year Award from the Association of Bilingual Education New Mexico.

Organ Mountain News report

SILVER CITY - Western New Mexico University professor Alexandra Neves has been named the 2026 University Bilingual Education Professor of the Year by the Association of Bilingual Education New Mexico.

Neves, associate dean of WNMU’s College of Education and a professor of TESOL and bilingual education, was recognized during a formal ceremony in April. The award honors leadership and commitment to bilingual and dual-language programs.

“This recognition belongs to our students and the vibrant communities of New Mexico who remind us every day that language is not just a tool for communication, but a bridge to our heritage and our future,” Neves said. “Empowering the next generation of educators to view bilingualism as a primary asset is the most rewarding work of my career.”

Neves also chairs the Felipe de Ortego y Gasca Institute. ABE NM selected her after reviewing her contributions to higher education and her work preparing educators to serve New Mexico’s multilingual and multicultural students.

WNMU brought 16 dual-enrollment students from WNMU and Deming High School to the ABE NM conference. The students presented alongside their teachers and received a standing ovation for a puppet show and other projects they showcased.

“The session filled quickly as participants were eager to learn more about the students’ experiences as Transfronterizos — crossing the border daily to attend school,” Neves said.

The students’ teachers, who also serve as WNMU adjunct faculty, were featured as keynote speakers at the conference.

ABE NM is a professional organization that promotes programs for linguistically and culturally diverse students through its annual conference and advocacy work.