SW New Mexico News

New Mexico State University senior Lizzett Solis has been honored with the 2024 College Reading and Learning Association’s International Peer Educator Training Program Certification Outstanding Peer Educator Award. The accolade was presented at the organization's annual conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota, from November 13 to 16.

"The moment I found out that I had won the award, I was instantly in shock," Solis expressed. "I was overcome with pride at being selected as the best peer mentor in a nationwide competition. I hugged my children, and we cried together in our excitement."

Solis, a first-generation, non-traditional student pursuing degrees in anthropology and biology, is set to graduate in spring 2025. Her dedication as a mentor for the TRIO Student Support Services program since fall 2021 has been notable. During this period, she accumulated 206 mentoring hours, held over 280 meetings, and assisted more than 100 students.

Bernadine Booky, TRIO Student Support Services program director, highlighted Solis's commitment: "Lizzett stands out as a remarkable mentor due to her three years of unwavering dedication to empowering her students and fostering their independence. Her approach begins with building the confidence of her students, guiding them in self-advocacy by helping them communicate professionally and connecting them with essential resources."

The recognition was met with enthusiasm by Tony Marin, associate vice president for Student Affairs: "We are elated that Lizzett has been selected for this national award as it is a testament to the outstanding student body at New Mexico State University. Lizzett’s contributions to assisting TRIO Student Support Services Program participants is much appreciated and is another example of how Aggies help Aggies succeed."

As a McNair Scholar, Solis has engaged in research activities and attended conferences where she presented her work. She aims to pursue graduate studies leading to a Ph.D. in biological anthropology after graduation.

"I take great pride in being a McNair Scholar," said Solis. "I am fascinated by the intersection of biology, culture and history as a means to understand the complexities of the human experience and evolution. My goal is to become a biological or forensic anthropologist in the future."

Solis balances her academic responsibilities with being a single mother of two sons while volunteering and participating in campus activities such as the pre-med club.

Booky further commented on Solis's mentoring style: "As her mentees progress, Lizzett shifts to a supportive role, encouraging them to take charge of their own problem solving." She added that Solis's personal experiences allow her to connect deeply with mentees who share similar backgrounds.