Controversy erupts as WNMU pays $1.9m buyout to outgoing president despite state’s legal effort to block it

Western New Mexico University (WNMU) has sparked controversy after paying outgoing president Joseph Shepard a $1.9 million buyout despite legal efforts by New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez to block it. The payment followed an investigation into Shepard’s misuse of public funds, including $363,000 in questionable expenses. The state’s legal challenge continues as the payout draws sharp criticism over the misuse of taxpayer money. WNMU defends the agreement, calling the transaction legitimate.