Española, NM– The New Mexico Higher Education Department (HED) and the Department of Finance Administration approved Northern New Mexico College's FY15 operating budget, marking the third consecutive year of successful budget approvals for the College.

Northern’s Board of Regents passed the $32.3 million operating budget during its April 26 meeting, which did not include any increase in tuition or fees. Northern is currently the most affordable four-year institution in the state.

“The Regents remain confident that the College’s administrators are focused on the best interests of the College,” a statement issued by the Board read. “The current administration began its tenure under very dire financial circumstances, and it has competently guided the College through a very difficult period.  The Regents believe that the College has turned the corner and is ready to build on that progress.”

Beginning in January 2012, the college embarked on a fiscal recovery plan that included the completion of three audits in less than 11 months. November 15, 2012 brought an end to the recovery plan with the timely submission of the FY12 audit to the State Auditor's Office.

In December 2012, the HED removed the College from Fiscal Watch, a condition that existed since 2007.