LAS VEGAS, N.M. — New Mexico Highlands University is located in a small town where movies such as “No Country for Old Men,” “The Longest Yard,” “North Country” and “Brothers” were filmed. The historic downtown area, which includes the Plaza Hotel and Victorian houses along 7th and 8th streets, make the town an ideal tourist spot.
However, many of the 92 Native students at NMHU complain that there isn’t much to do here in Las Vegas, N.M., on a Saturday night or after a long day of classes.
“They want to live where the entertainment is,” said Teresa Billy, Native American access and retention coordinator at NMHU.
Las Vegas has one movie theater, two parks, a nearby lake, a few shopping areas and a handful of fast food restaurants. Of course, all are accessible to students who have their own vehicles or don’t mind walking a couple of miles.
That is why Billy works with Campus Life to provide movie nights. The program provides a network among the 32 clubs and organizations at NMHU so students can get out of their rooms and have a bit of fun. “We’re one of the few institutions, I think, that really dedicates themselves to helping students,” Billy said.
Billy has an open-door policy and a couch in her office for students who want to talk or just hang out. She is also the sponsor of NMHU’s Native American Club. The club’s goals are to get NMHU Native students involved by hosting various activities that include fundraising events, food sales, bingo and club meetings.
“But how many students do you see walking through that door?” she asked, reflecting on the small number of students who show up and participate. Boredom is part of the reason why students have left Las Vegas and NMHU, Billy said.
