Back in early February, New Mexico State announced five finalists for its open presidential position at the university; Austin Lane was listed among the top candidates. 

Today, the Aggies released a statement which clarified they will not be selecting any of the finalists previously listed. Lane will no longer be considered for the position according to NMSU.  

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“After careful consideration, I do not believe any of the current finalists fully meet the needs of New Mexico State University at this critical juncture,” board Chairwoman Ammu Devasthali said at Monday’s meeting. 

After Lane’s hire in 2020, he oversaw the launch and implementation of the university’s strategic plan, Imagine 2030. The plan includes five important pillars; student success and engagement; diversity, equity and inclusion; branding and partnerships; research and innovation, and sustainability. 

Lane also initiated the Saluki Commitment and Saluki Transfer Commitment, a pledge to close the gap between financial aid and tuition and fees for qualified students from Illinois. Another mission included Saluki Step Ahead, which allows place-bound community college graduates to more easily earn their bachelor’s degrees remotely. 

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For now, the expectation for Lane is he will remain Chancellor at Southern Illinois University for the foreseeable future. 

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