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New Mexico Military Institute

Roswell, NM

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Quick Facts

Duty, Honor, Achievement

1891
Founded
High School & Junior College
Type
342
Total Students
$7K
Tuition (In-State)
$14K
Tuition (Out-State)
$5K
Avg Net Price
58%
Acceptance Rate
Associate's Colleges
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About New Mexico Military Institute

Forge leaders and scholars at the West's premier state-supported military institute.

New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI) stands as a unique beacon of education and leadership in the western United States. As the only state-supported military junior college and high school in the region, NMMI offers an unparalleled experience designed to cultivate character, discipline, and academic excellence. With nearly 1,000 cadets enrolled annually, NMMI is dedicated to shaping young men and women into future leaders, guided by its enduring motto: "Duty, Honor, Achievement."

Founded in 1891 by Colonel Robert S. Goss and Captain Joseph C. Lea, NMMI has a rich and resilient history. Initially known as the Goss Military Institute, it overcame early financial challenges, reopening its doors in 1898 on a donated 40-acre tract that remains its home today. Over its storied past, NMMI has proudly seen thousands of graduates serve with distinction, including in World War I and World War II, and counts notable figures like Medal of Honor recipient John C. Morgan and hotelier Conrad Hilton among its alumni. The institute has continuously evolved, becoming fully co-educational in 1977, reinforcing its commitment to providing transformative opportunities for all.

Academically, NMMI is renowned for its rigorous programs that prepare cadets for success in higher education and beyond. A significant highlight is its two-year Army ROTC Early Commissioning Program (ECP), which annually commissions approximately 30 cadets as U.S. Army second lieutenants. Furthermore, nearly 100 cadets each year gain admission to one of the five prestigious United States Service Academies, a testament to NMMI's exceptional preparatory curriculum and leadership development. The institute's commitment to ethical conduct is underscored by its Cadet Honor Code, established by cadets in 1921: "A Cadet Will Not Lie, Cheat, or Steal, Nor Tolerate Those Who Do."

Life as a cadet at NMMI is dynamic and challenging, fostering personal growth through a structured environment and a wide array of activities. Cadets engage in various sports, competing as the Broncos (junior college) and Colts (high school), instilling teamwork and resilience. The 300-acre campus in Roswell, New Mexico, provides a comprehensive setting for academic pursuit, physical training, and character development, ensuring a holistic experience that prepares graduates not just for college or military service, but for a lifetime of impactful leadership and service.

Key Highlights

  • The only state-supported military junior college and high school in the western United States.
  • Offers a two-year Army ROTC Early Commissioning Program (ECP) commissioning approximately 30 cadets annually as U.S. Army second lieutenants.
  • Nearly 100 cadets each year matriculate to one of the five United States Service Academies.
  • Enrollment of nearly 1,000 cadets across high school and junior college levels.
  • Operates under the enduring motto: "Duty, Honor, Achievement."
  • Upholds a strict Cadet Honor Code established in 1921: "A Cadet Will Not Lie, Cheat, or Steal, Nor Tolerate Those Who Do."
  • Located on a 300-acre campus in Roswell, New Mexico.

Timeline

1891
Founded as Goss Military Institute by Colonel Robert S. Goss and Captain Joseph C. Lea.
1893
Recognized by the territorial legislature and renamed New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI).
1895
Forced to close its doors on "Bad Friday" due to lack of funding.
1898
Reopened in the fall on a 40-acre tract donated by James J. Hagerman.
1921
The Cadet Honor Code was unanimously voted into place by the Corps of Cadets.
1948
Introduced a four-year liberal arts college program.
1956
The four-year liberal arts college program was discontinued.
1977
The school became fully coeducational.
🏛️
135 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

2 notable schools within New Mexico Military Institute

🏫

High School

Offers grades 9-12, with athletic teams known as the Colts, competing in various NMAA divisions.

🏫

Junior College

Offers freshman and sophomore years, with athletic teams known as the Broncos.

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