Biography Back Previous Next Dr. Paula Smith Executive Vice President Dr. Paula Smith serves as Executive Vice President of the University of the Southwest, providing executive leadership for the university’s financial operations while advancing key strategic initiatives during a period of institutional transition. As chief financial responsibilities transition to new leadership, Dr. Smith continues to ensure strong fiscal stewardship, operational sustainability, and long-term strategic alignment. She works closely with university leadership to position USW for continued growth, mission fulfillment, and service to the region. A licensed Certified Public Accountant with more than 30 years of executive and entrepreneurial experience, Dr. Smith began her career as an auditor with KPMG LLP in Fort Worth, Texas, after earning a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Tarleton State University. Following her relocation to Hobbs, she served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Watson Truck & Supply, Inc., where she led financial strategy and operational planning. She later founded and managed her own business ventures, including a financial consulting services firm and a retail shopping center, further deepening her expertise in financial management, business development, and organizational leadership. Dr. Smith holds a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and earned her Doctor of Business Administration from the University of the Southwest, reflecting her commitment to lifelong learning and institutional excellence. Before joining the executive administration, Dr. Smith served for more than a decade on the University of the Southwest Board of Trustees, providing governance oversight and strategic counsel. As a first-generation college graduate, she is deeply committed to expanding access to higher education and advancing servant leadership principles that empower students to transform their lives and communities. Beyond her professional leadership, Dr. Smith is a co-founder of MyPower, Inc., which has grown into the largest youth development program in Lea County. She has contributed to numerous community and healthcare initiatives, including the Nor-Lea Community Health Assessment Team, the Covenant Hobbs Advisory Council, and the Governor’s Task Force for COVID Safe Practices – Retail. Dr. Smith and her husband, Finn Smith, a respected business and civic leader in Hobbs, are proud parents of two adult children who were raised and educated in the Hobbs School District and have pursued careers in finance and engineering.

Alternative Teaching Licensure Program (Secondary Education) -- Back The Alternative Licensure Program is for those seeking a teacher licensure in the state of New Mexico. All classes are 8-weeks long, and you can satisfy the internship requirement as you teach full-time as the teacher of record in a PK-12 private or public New Mexico School. The alternative licensure program is fully online. Students must already have a completed bachelor’s degree and are required to pass all state licensure examinations following completion of the licensure coursework. For additional requirements for alternative licensure, see the NMPED website: Alternative Licensure Program Opportunities – New Mexico Public Education Department (state.nm.us) APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Licensure Disclosures Previous Next

Alternative Teaching Licensure Program (K-12) -- Back The Alternative Licensure Program is for those seeking a teacher licensure in the state of New Mexico. All classes are 8-weeks long, and you can satisfy the internship requirement as you teach full-time as the teacher of record in a PK-12 private or public New Mexico School. The alternative licensure program is fully online. Students must already have a completed bachelor’s degree and are required to pass all state licensure examinations following completion of the licensure coursework. For additional requirements for alternative licensure, see the NMPED website: Alternative Licensure Program Opportunities – New Mexico Public Education Department (state.nm.us) APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Licensure Disclosures Previous Next

Healthcare Administration DBA Back The Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Healthcare Administration program is a multidisciplinary, 100% online program designed for professional administrators, executives, and leaders in the healthcare industry. The program highlights the importance of leadership when formulating and executing initiatives within a healthcare organization. Students benefit from a curriculum focused upon real-world knowledge, executive-level problem-solving, thought-leadership in practice, and intensive emphasis upon applied research. The program prepares candidates for executive and/or administrative roles in healthcare and to become innovative leaders and problem solvers in the industry. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Tuition Details Previous Next

Higher Education Administration EdD Back The Doctor of Education (EdD) in Higher Education Administration program is specifically designed for professionals in higher education. This emphasis is recommended for administrators in a college/university setting that are responsible for curriculum development, academic program review, departmental oversight, and/or university management. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Tuition Details Previous Next

Accounting MBA Back The Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Accounting program is designed for individuals seeking their CPA certification and a career in accountancy. The program includes a strategic overview of accounting concepts, methodologies, and techniques aimed at providing students a competitive advantage in a dynamic career field. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Previous Next

Federal Loans Back Previous Next Direct Subsidized Loans 1. Purpose and Eligibility: Direct Subsidized Loans, commonly known as "subsidized loans," are federal student loans offered through the U.S. Department of Education. These loans are intended to provide financial assistance to undergraduate students with demonstrated financial need. To be eligible for Direct Subsidized Loans, you must meet the following criteria: Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Have a valid Social Security Number. Enroll in an eligible degree or certificate program at a participating institution. Maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP). File the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to demonstrate financial need. 2. Interest Subsidy: One of the defining features of Direct Subsidized Loans is the interest subsidy provided by the federal government. This means that while you are enrolled at least half-time in an eligible program, during the six-month grace period after leaving school, and during certain deferment periods (e.g., during active duty military service), the government pays the interest on your subsidized loans. This interest subsidy makes these loans particularly advantageous for borrowers because it prevents the loan balance from growing while you're in school and during specific other periods. 3. Fixed Interest Rates: Direct Subsidized Loans typically have fixed interest rates, meaning the rate remains constant throughout the life of the loan. The interest rates for federal student loans are set by Congress and can vary from year to year. Borrowers can check the current interest rates on the Federal Student Aid website or through their loan servicer. 4. Borrowing Limits: The amount you can borrow in Direct Subsidized Loans depends on your year in school and your dependency status (whether you are considered a dependent or independent student). The annual and aggregate (total) limits are determined by law and are subject to change. Generally, first-year undergraduate students can borrow less than upperclassmen and graduate students. 5. Repayment Options: Direct Subsidized Loans offer flexible repayment options to help borrowers manage their loan payments after leaving school. These options include: Standard Repayment: Fixed monthly payments over a ten-year term. Graduated Repayment: Payments start lower and increase over time. Extended Repayment: Fixed or graduated payments over an extended term (up to 25 years). Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) Plans: Payments are based on your income and family size, making them more manageable if your income is lower or unpredictable. Click here for more information about IDR plans. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): If you work in a qualifying public service or nonprofit job and make 120 qualifying payments, your remaining loan balance may be forgiven. Use this Loan Simulator to see your federal student loan repayment options. You can also learn more about repayment options here . 6. Loan Fees: Direct Subsidized Loans may have loan fees, which are deducted from each disbursement. However, these fees are typically lower than those associated with private loans. 7. Application Process: To apply for Direct Subsidized Loans, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The FAFSA determines your eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants and loans. Ensure that you meet application deadlines to maximize your aid opportunities. 8. Loan Counseling: Before receiving your first Direct Subsidized Loan, you are required to complete entrance counseling. This counseling session provides essential information about your rights and responsibilities as a borrower, loan terms, and repayment options. 9. Master Promissory Note (MPN): To officially accept a Direct Subsidized Loan, you must sign a Master Promissory Note (MPN). This legally binding document outlines the terms and conditions of the loan, including interest rates and repayment details. 10. Grace Period: Direct Subsidized Loans have a six-month grace period that begins after you graduate, leave school, or drop below half-time enrollment. During this period, you are not required to make loan payments, and interest is subsidized by the government. 11. Responsibilities of Borrowers: Borrowers of Direct Subsidized Loans have several responsibilities, including: Maintaining enrollment in an eligible program. Keeping the loan servicer updated on changes in contact information. Understanding and meeting the repayment terms. Monitoring loan balances and progress toward loan forgiveness, if applicable.

< Back A classic genetic study on mutant genes affecting eye shape and color in Drosophila melanogaster Makenzie Kleinsteuber, Hussein Abujejah, Yusheng Wu* Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Southwest *Corresponding author and email: ywu@usw.edu Abstract Drosophila melanogaster, the fruit fly, is an excellent organism for genetics studies because it has a short life span, produces large numbers of offspring, and has many types of hereditary variations that can be observed with low-power magnification. Mendelian traits studied were bar eye (B ), and white eye (w1 ). A cross (bar × white) and its reciprocal cross (white × bar), the corresponding F1 and F2 generations were created according to the mating maps. The goodness of fit test for the observed data against the theoretical genotypic ratios was analyzed using χ2 statistical test. The results showed that the observed ratios for male and female in both crosses didn’t fit the theoretical genotypic ratios since the χ2 values were much greater than the critical χ2 value (7.82) at 5% significant level. The causes of the disagreement could be the gene interaction and the role of modifier genes. For Bar gene, the penetrance was complete in male for both crosses. This was because of the hemizygote status of the gene. However, the incomplete penetrance and varied expressivities were observed in female for both crosses. In bar × white, when Bar was in homozygotic status, the penetrance was 54.7% under red eye (wild type) allele and 0.0% under white eye allele. In the heterozygotic status, the different expressivities were 0.4% of round eye, 27.7% of dent eye, and 17.2% of oval eye with red eye allele. There was no expressivity observed with white allele. In white × bar, the Bar gene in homozygotic status demonstrated 2.6% and 1.0% penetrance under the background of red eye allele and white allele in female. The various expressivities displayed 48.5% of round eye, 39.3% of dent eye, and 9.6% of oval eye with red eye allele, whereas 78.4% of round eye, 16.6% of dent eye, and 4.0% of oval eye with white allele, respectively. In male, the Bar gene demonstrated a 100% penetrance despite the background in both crosses. A genetic study is still an effective way to investigate the gene interaction. DOI: https://doi.org/10.62548/SJAS24040103 Publication Details: Southwest Journal of Arts & Sciences, 2024, 4(1), 13-17 Article Views: 73 Read Full Text Previous Next

Elementary Education (Mathematics) BSE Back The Bachelor of Science in Education (BSE) in Elementary Education program offers students a comprehensive foundation in pedagogy while allowing them to specialize in their chosen focus area among four (4) options: language arts, mathematics, general sciences, or social sciences. This program combines essential teaching methodologies with in-depth subject-specific training, enabling graduates to become adept elementary school educators. Through a balanced curriculum of theoretical instruction and hands-on teaching practice, students develop the skills to create dynamic and inclusive classrooms, cater to diverse learning needs, and ignite a passion for learning in young students. Whether aspiring to be a language arts mentor, a math instructor, a science educator, or a social studies guide, graduates emerge equipped to shape the educational journey of elementary school children with expertise and enthusiasm. Students in this degree plan are eligible to apply for the following supplementary programs: New Experienced Teachers (NExT+) Program Educator Preparation Program (EPP) The College of Education at University of the Southwest operates under the auspices of the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) that uses the standards developed by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) to evaluate education programs. For testing and licensure requirements for your specific program, refer to the New Mexico Department of Education Licensure Department. https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/bureaus/licensure/ Out-of-state students will need to contact the respective State’s Department of Education for testing and licensure requirements. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Licensure Disclosures Previous Next

Special Education (Science) BSE Back The Bachelor of Science in Education (BSE) in Special Education K-12 (SPED) program provides a comprehensive educational track while offering students the opportunity to specialize in one of four (4) focus areas: language arts, mathematics, general sciences, or social sciences. This program equips aspiring educators with the expertise and strategies needed to support students with diverse learning needs, ranging from mild to severe disabilities, across kindergarten to 12th grade. Through a blend of specialized pedagogical training and practical experience, graduates emerge as compassionate and skilled special education teachers who can design tailored curricula, implement individualized instruction, and create inclusive classroom environments, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to reach their full potential in the chosen subject area of specialization. Students in this degree plan are eligible to apply for the following supplementary programs: New Experienced Teachers (NExT+) Program Educator Preparation Program (EPP) The College of Education at University of the Southwest operates under the auspices of the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) that uses the standards developed by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) to evaluate education programs. For testing and licensure requirements for your specific program, refer to the New Mexico Department of Education Licensure Department. https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us/bureaus/licensure/ Out-of-state students will need to contact the respective State’s Department of Education for testing and licensure requirements. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Licensure Disclosures Previous Next

Special Education EdD Back The Doctor of Education (EdD) in Special Education program is specifically designed to develop expert practitioners dedicated to leading equitable and inclusive schools. Candidates will engage in scholarly inquiry and research to affect social change in the field of special education. This specialization is recommended for individuals seeking a leadership role in special education such as faculty of institutions of higher learning, administrators of special education programs, or consultants to educational agencies. APPLY NOW! Degree Plan Tuition Details Previous Next

Federal Loans Back Previous Next Direct PLUS Loans 1. Purpose and Eligibility: Direct PLUS Loans, also known as Parent PLUS Loans and Graduate/Professional PLUS Loans, are federal loans offered through the U.S. Department of Education. These loans are designed to provide financial assistance to: Parents of dependent undergraduate students (Parent PLUS Loans) Graduate and professional students (Graduate/Professional PLUS Loans) PLUS Loans are credit-based, and eligibility depends on the borrower's creditworthiness. Borrowers must not have an adverse credit history to qualify. If they do, they may still be eligible with an endorser (co-signer) or by demonstrating extenuating circumstances. 2. Interest Rates: Direct PLUS Loans have fixed interest rates that are determined by Congress and can vary from year to year. These rates are generally higher than those for other federal student loans, such as Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans. Borrowers can check the Federal Student Aid website or contact their loan servicer for the most up-to-date interest rate information. 3. Borrowing Limits: The borrowing limits for Direct PLUS Loans are not constrained by a student's year in school or the cost of attendance, as they are with other federal loans. Instead, the loan amount can cover up to the total cost of attendance minus any other financial aid received. 4. Credit Check: To apply for a Direct PLUS Loan, the borrower must undergo a credit check. The credit check assesses the borrower's credit history to determine eligibility. Adverse credit history includes issues like bankruptcies, unpaid collections, and defaults on loans. 5. Repayment Options: Direct PLUS Loan borrowers have several repayment options available: Standard Repayment: Fixed monthly payments over a ten-year term. Graduated Repayment: Payments start lower and increase over time. Extended Repayment: Fixed or graduated payments over an extended term (up to 25 years). Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) Plans: Payments are based on your income and family size, making them more manageable if your income is lower or unpredictable. Click here for more information about IDR plans. Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): If you work in a qualifying public service or nonprofit job and make 120 qualifying payments, your remaining loan balance may be forgiven. Use this Loan Simulator to see your federal student loan repayment options. You can also learn more about repayment options here . 6. Loan Fees: Direct PLUS Loans may have loan fees, which are deducted from each disbursement. These fees are typically higher than those associated with other federal loans. 7. Application Process: To apply for a Direct PLUS Loan, borrowers must complete the PLUS Loan Application and undergo a credit check. Graduate/professional students applying for Direct PLUS Loans must have submitted the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Parents applying for Parent PLUS Loans for dependent undergraduate students must also ensure the student has submitted the FAFSA. 8. Master Promissory Note (MPN): Once approved for a Direct PLUS Loan, borrowers must sign a Master Promissory Note (MPN), a legal document outlining the terms and conditions of the loan. 9. Responsibilities of Borrowers: Direct PLUS Loan borrowers are responsible for: Repaying the loan, including interest. Informing the loan servicer of any changes in contact information. Complying with the terms and conditions of the loan. Meeting any loan forgiveness or discharge criteria for which they may qualify.