The New Mexico State University Foundation has started a crowdfunding campaign to raise $13,675 for Mariachi Orgullo de Nuevo México. The funds will be used to buy new instruments and uniforms for the university’s mariachi ensemble.
The campaign aims to purchase a vihuela and a Guitarra de golpe, both traditional Mexican string instruments that are important for the group’s performances. Additional money raised will help pay for traditional mariachi suits, headpieces, and sombreros. Each full traje costs more than $1,300.
“Mariachi Orgullo de Nuevo México is a living celebration of culture, pride and community,” said Mayra Marquez, associate vice president of alumni relations and annual giving at the NMSU Foundation. “We invite the entire Aggie family to help us raise the funds needed for new uniforms, upgraded instruments and a stronger, expanded ensemble so this treasured group can keep inspiring audiences and mentoring the next generation of mariachi musicians at NMSU.”
Formed in 2022 as part of the Pride of New Mexico Marching Band, Mariachi Orgullo combines Mexican music with new performances. The group plays traditional mariachi songs, works with NMSU Ballet Folklórico dancers, and performs custom arrangements alongside other ensembles in the region.
“Mariachi Orgullo has been my home since 2022, when a small but unstoppable group of us stepped on stage with nothing but heart, pride and a dream,” said Ashley de la Rosa, a senior majoring in biology and microbiology and an undergraduate research assistant in wildlife. “Since then, I’ve watched us grow into a powerful family, carrying the heartbeat of our culture and the stories of our roots in every song we play.”
De la Rosa served as mariachi captain from 2024 to 2025. She described her role as an honor that allowed her to see how performers create together.
“Our music doesn’t just celebrate who we are, it unites the Aggie community in pride, tradition and love for mariachi,” she said.
The ensemble not only works with Ballet Folklórico dancers but also performs at over 40 events each year including football games and NMSU Day in Santa Fe. This fall they will perform at every home football game as well as during Homecoming Weekend on November 7-8. The group is also available for private events.
More information about supporting Mariachi Orgullo de Nuevo México can be found at https://alumni.alwaysanaggie.org/g/mariachi-orgullo-de-nuevo-m-xico/.
