RMAC chooses to embrace New Mexico Highlands

We were taken aback by Will Webber’s recent column urging the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference to part ways with New Mexico Highlands University (“It’s time for Highlands to get sent packing,” Commentary, Aug. 13). Given the tone of his remarks, we felt compelled to respond.

To be sure, colleges and universities in every corner of the country are working to balance sustained budget cuts, lofty expectations and our collective mission to educate workforce-ready graduates who go on to be productive citizens.

At Colorado Mesa University, we have seen firsthand the power of Division II athletics in helping our institution fulfill this critical mission.

From academic performance to developing skills to overcome adversity, Division II athletics rightly emphasizes the “student” part of student athletics as a part of our philosophy to maintain “life in the balance.”

While Colorado Mesa University has come a long way, it’s not that long ago that the strength and conditioning department was working out in an empty warehouse. The track and field team shares a venue with Grand Junction High School, and the community does not have a venue capable of hosting a collegiate meet.

The point is, every Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference member has challenges. Rather than throwing the baby out with the bath water, we’re all focused on helping each other because we really do believe in the power of student athletics.

Highlands University has been a proud member of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference since rejoining our historic association 27 years ago and adds great value to the league by way of academics, competition, scheduling and community engagement.

Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of getting to know New Mexico Highlands University coaches and athletes. Your community should know that these individuals are exceptional ambassadors for your institution and community. Rather than giving NMHU “the boot” as Mr. Webber suggests, we will choose instead to embrace the Cowboys and Cowgirls and challenge alumni, the community and other supporters to join us in doing so.

Tim Foster is president of Colorado Mesa University and RMAC executive committee chairman. Chris Graham is the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference commissioner.