N.M. Highlands University President Placed on Paid Leave

The regents of New Mexico Highlands University have placed President Neil Woolf on paid administrative leave, The Santa Fe New Mexican reported.

The board gave no explanation for the move.

“Out of respect for all parties involved and in accordance with applicable federal and New Mexico law governing individual privacy rights, the NMHU Board of Regents will not be making additional statements regarding the nature or circumstances of this personnel matter at this time,” read a message sent to all faculty, staff and students, according to The Las Vegas Optic.

Woolf, who has led the regional public institution since July 2024, said he had no idea why he was removed.

“The New Mexico Highlands University Board of Regents has not provided me with any explanation for this action, nor had I received any prior indication—written or verbal—of concern,” he wrote on social media. He touted his successes, including record fundraising, enrollment growth and new academic programs that align with the state’s workforce needs.

“I remain committed to that work,” he wrote. “I welcome the opportunity to address this situation directly and to continue moving Highlands forward.”

Kathy Jenkins, president of the New Mexico Highlands University Faculty and Staff Association, told The Santa Fe New Mexican that employees were “very, very upset” with Woolf’s leadership, noting that the union alleged he had violated their collective bargaining agreement.

Jenkins said she was “very pleased” to learn of his ouster. “I do believe that all employees—and that includes the president—deserve due process and fairness … Obviously, there’s a reason that the Board of Regents has moved forward with this, and it’s going to be good for Highlands.”