Connelly named new HEST director of philanthropy

Shannon Connelly joined the NMSU Foundation in October 2023 as the senior director of philanthropy serving the College of HEST.

Before joining the NMSU Foundation, Connelly served as assistant dean of the graduate school at the University of Texas at El Paso. Previous to her time at UTEP, Connelly worked for more than 15 years as a fundraising professional for museums and universities in New York City. A proud first-generation college student, she earned her bachelor’s degree from New York University, and her master’s and doctoral degrees in art history from Rutgers University.

During her first year at NMSU, Connelly has enjoyed meeting with HEST students and alumni and learning about their research, service and engagement in their communities.

“My goal is to work with the College of HEST to help to build and strengthen a culture of philanthropy that prioritizes community engagement and intergenerational mentoring involving current students, alumni, faculty, staff, and other friends of HEST,” Connelly says.

To contact Connelly, email shannon.connelly@nmsufoundation.org or call 575-201-9605.