Sherry Kollmann Chancellor of NMSU Global | nmsu.edu
Sherry Kollmann Chancellor of NMSU Global | nmsu.edu
James Francis, a student at New Mexico State University Grants, has become an inspiring figure for many during his time at the institution. Despite facing addiction in the past, Francis is now a dedicated second-year student, contrasting sharply with his earlier attempts at college. He believes that education at NMSU Grants is key to transforming his life and aiding others from his community on the Acoma Pueblo.
Francis began his recovery journey about three years ago. After achieving 12 months of sobriety, he returned to NMSU Grants to complete the degree he started in 2010. Initially interested in Natural Resource Management, Francis decided to pursue a new path in Counseling and Community Psychology.
"I have this motivation, this focus, this drive to do the best I can in my academics and to attain a degree in order to help the people within my community," Francis stated.
Francis has already made significant contributions to the Acoma Pueblo community. Before graduating in December 2024, he initiated a 12-step recovery program called Wellbriety. This program integrates Native American beliefs and values into its framework. At weekly meetings, Francis combines these principles with insights gained from his studies at NMSU Grants.
His commitment to Wellbriety led him to present the concept at NMSU's Las Cruces campus during Research and Creativity Week in February 2024. His presentation earned first place, and he later presented again at the Undergraduate Research and Creative Arts Symposium in April.
"James is an excellent student who has applied what he has learned in his coursework to real-life experiences. He was inspired to learn to overcome his problems, improve his life and help others along the way," said Kathleen O’Connor, associate professor managing the Counseling and Community Psychology program. "He is willing to dedicate time and effort as a student to become a changemaker in the world. We need more students like James to take the lead in today’s world."
Following graduation, Francis plans to pursue a bachelor's degree in counseling through NMSU Global with hopes of becoming a substance abuse counselor.
A version of this story was published in Panorama's fall 2024 issue. More stories can be found at https://panorama.nmsu.edu.
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