Lee White and Dr. Ned Elkins Sworn into SENMC Board of Trustees

Southeast New Mexico College (SENMC) is proud to announce the swearing in of its newly elected and returning board of trustees members following the 2025 general election. Congratulations to Dr. Ned Elkins, who will continue his dedicated service to the college, and to newly elected board member, Lee White, who will serve district II and proceeds Bill Murrill. Both members ran unopposed during the election.

“It is an honor to be elected to my second term on the board. I am looking forward to using my time and experience to help lead the college in its continuing growth and prosperity,” said Dr. Ned Elkins.

Lee White brings over 28 years of dedicated service to the field of education, beginning his career as a passionate teacher and coach in Eunice. With eight years of classroom experience, he honed his skills in fostering student growth and leadership in both academics and athletics. Transitioning into administration, Lee spent the past 20 years guiding educational institutions with his visionary leadership and commitment to student success. His roles included curriculum development, staff mentorship, and fostering a positive learning environment. For the past eight years, Lee has served as Superintendent for Loving Municipal Schools, where he continues to innovate and advocate for educational excellence. Under his leadership, districtwide initiatives have improved facilities, promoted equitable student outcomes, and promoted community engagement, all resulting in an enhanced district reputation. Lee holds two graduate degrees from New Mexico State University in Educational Leadership and Business Administration. He is married to his soulmate Michelle, and together they have raised five successful kids.

“We are honored to have Dr. Elkins continue his service to the community as a trustee of the college. We were fortunate to have him serve as the founding chair of the Board, and his wisdom and guidance have been essential to our success. Mr. White, with a lifetime of service as a K-12 educator, is an exceptional addition to our Board. I look forward to working with them as Southeast New Mexico College continues to grow and better meet the needs of our region,” said Kevin Beardmore, president at SENMC.

“As we move into this new chapter of SENMC’s story, I am energized to continue the work that our previous board began. I would like to welcome our newest board trustee, Mr. Lee White, and also thank our inaugural Board Chair, Dr. Ned Elkins, for stepping up to the plate once again to serve as Board Secretary. With these new and old trustees on board, we are excited to grow all of the different pathways that our community can take to learn and grow here at SENMC!” said Sarah Bowman, SENMC Board of Trustees Chair.

Southeast New Mexico College extends its sincere appreciation to Lee White and Dr. Ned Elkins for their service and dedication to SENMC. For more information about Southeast New Mexico College and its Board of Trustees, visit https://senmc.edu/board-of-trustees/index.html.

Jan. 12 Meeting

The Southeast New Mexico College Board of Trustees held its regular meeting on January 12, 2026, following a special meeting that was held to swear in newly elected board member Lee White and returning board member Dr. Ned Elkins to the board. During the meeting, the board approved the Five-Year Capital Outlay projects list with potential projects including the STEPS Academy (Early Childhood Education with Planetarium), Dining Hall, Residence Hall, and Early College Building. The board also approved the Associate of Applied Science Degrees in Environmental Management Technician, Radiation Protection Technology, and Public Safety Technician.

The next regular scheduled meeting for the SENMC Board of Trustees will be held on February 9, 2026, at 6 p.m.in room 153 at Southeast New Mexico College, 1500 University Drive, Carlsbad, NM. The meeting will also be available to attend via zoom. Board meetings are open to the public in accordance with the New Mexico Open Meetings Act.