The PAE Leader scholar Program is now OPEN !
President’s Associates Excellence Leader Scholar Program
*Open to New Mexico Residents Only
PAE at a Glance
The PAE Leader Scholar Program is a premier NMSU scholarship and leadership-development opportunity for high-achieving New Mexico high school seniors who want to make the most of their college experience.
PAE Leader Scholars receive:
- $6,000 per year for up to four years
- A first-year housing award for the Honors Living Learning Community
- An Honors Certificate at graduation
- Leadership development, mentorship, and an Honors Community
- Opportunities for service, research, campus involvement, and other leadership experiences
Is PAE Right for Me?
PAE is designed for students who are academically driven, curious, and ready to grow as leaders.
You do not need to have a formal leadership title to be a leader. Leadership can look like taking initiative, mentoring others, serving your community, working, advocating for a cause, or finding ways to help others.
PAE may be a good fit if you want to:
- Earn a significant scholarship while attending NMSU
- Be part of a close Honors Community
- Develop your leadership skills early
- Get involved beyond the classroom
In return, PAE Scholars commit to a structured leadership experience throughout college, including the 1888 Leadership Initiative Camp, Honors coursework, leadership development, and service or a Capstone project.
Meet Some of Our PAE Scholars
Jaylin Holguin — Deming
Major: Nursing
Career goals: Compassionate Healthcare
Charlotte Dennis — Las Cruces
Major: Psychology and Social Work
Career goals: Child Welfare and Trauma Care
Makenzie Wilson — Ruidoso
Major: Biology
Career goals: Radiology and Medicine
Angelica Mendoza — Las Cruces
Major: Economics
Career goals: Women’s Workplace Advocacy
Eligibility
- 3.9 GPA or Academic Index of 159 and above
- New Mexico resident
- High school diploma from a New Mexico accredited school, New Mexico GED, or New Mexico HiSET
- Must attend their first regular semester immediately after graduating High School
*PAE is a competitive scholarship, so meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
Prospective PAE Leader Scholar Program Applicants
Ready to Learn More?
Explore the full PAE Leader Scholar Program information below, including application details, selection, renewal requirements, and program expectations.
Remember that even if you are not selected for this competitive award, you should already be receiving a high academic merit scholarship, and the Honors College is ready to help you do great things for both your academic and leadership development.
*Eligible students may apply for both Honors scholarship programs, but can only receive one award. PAE is a competitive scholarship, so meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.