ACC 97

June 4-6, 1997


Information supplied by UNM Conference Guest Services

New Mexico

New Mexico was admitted to the Union as the 47th state in 1912. Its capitol, Santa Fe, was founded about 1609, making it one of the earliest European settlements in North America. New Mexico is the fifth largest state, in terms of square mileage, in the country. New Mexico is the home to the White Sands National Monument, International Space Hall of Fame, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Grave of Billy the Kid, Valley of Fires State Park, Acoma Pueblo, Chaco Canyon National Monument, and Gila Cliff Dwelling National Monument, to name just a few of the many attractions here. New Mexico is nicknamed the Land of Enchantment.

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is situated between the banks of the Rio Grande River and the foothills of the Sandia Mountains. Founded in 1706, Albuquerque is one of the nation's oldest inland communities. Historic old missions, ghost towns, and ruins are part of the charm for visitors in the Albuquerque area. As one of the major cultural centers of the southwest, Albuquerque offers several museums, art galleries, and shops which display art and souvenirs representing Albuquerque's diverse heritage. Visitors can also enjoy the Rio Grande Zoo, the Sandia Peak Tramway and the historic Old Town shopping district. Albuquerque's mild climate and diverse terrain allow visitors to participate in a wide range of outdoor activities. Part of the year, it is even possible to ski in the morning and enjoy a set of tennis or a round of golf in the afternoon. Albuquerque's many fine restaurants offer everything from traditional New Mexico dishes to American favorites and a number of Continental specialties.

University of New Mexico

UNM was founded in 1889 and presently has an enrollment of about 25,000 students. The University campus is located in the heart of Albuquerque, and it reflects the Southwestern environment with its traditional pueblo-style architecture. UNM's architecture is considered to be one of the most uniquely styled found on any college campus in America. The campus lies a mile above sea level and covers nearly 700 acres. UNM is comprised of twelve colleges, has more than one hundred academic disciplines, and possesses the state's only schools of law, pharmacy, and medicine. The University of New Mexico Lobos play in the Western Athletic Conference and have been consistent leaders in basketball, swimming, track, golf, volleyball, and other inter-collegiate sports. UNM also houses Popejoy Hall, a 2200 seat concert hall, which is noted for its outstanding acoustics. It is the site for many musicals, lavish stage productions, and touring company presentations.