New Mexico operates under a cabinet-level coordinating structure rather than a traditional governing or coordinating board. The New Mexico Higher Education Department (NMHED) was established in 2005 as a cabinet agency in the executive branch to provide unified administration of higher education laws and functions. The Cabinet Secretary serves as the State Higher Education Executive Officer (SHEEO) and is appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate.
The department provides financial, academic, and policy oversight and support to New Mexico’s public higher education institutions, regulates private for-profit institutions, and administers state-funded financial aid programs. The system includes multiple public universities, community colleges, and state-sponsored adult education programs.
