Socorro, NM — The U.S. National Science Foundation National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NSF NRAO) is proud to announce a significant milestone in advancing STEAM education in rural New Mexico. This achievement is the result of dedicated advocacy by Socorro County and Associated Universities, Inc., whose efforts—combined with bipartisan support from state legislators and Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham—have secured $1.78 million in capital outlay funding towards construction of the Next Generation Learning Center at the U.S. National Science Foundation Very Large Array in Socorro County. The total cost of the project is $22 million.
This investment marks a transformative step in expanding educational infrastructure and opportunities for students and communities across rural New Mexico. The Next Generation Learning Center will serve as a hub for hands-on STEAM learning, workforce development, and community engagement, furthering NRAO’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. “The Next Generation Learning Center will be a transformative hub for education in New Mexico, sparking curiosity, expanding opportunity, and connecting our communities to the universe of discovery made possible through radio astronomy,” said Barb Gruber, NSF NRAO Assistant Director of Education and Public Outreach. “Through interactive STEAM exhibits and hands-on workshops for K-12 students, professional development opportunities for educators, engaging community science events and public lectures, and workforce training aligned with New Mexico’s growing technology and research sectors, we are opening doors for learners of all ages to explore, innovate, and thrive.”
The funding for this initiative reflects a broad, bipartisan coalition of New Mexico’s legislative leaders, demonstrating a shared commitment to expanding access to high-quality STEAM education in underserved areas. The following contributors made this project possible:
| Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham | $1,000,000 |
| Madam President Pro Tempore Senator Mimi Stewart | $100,000 |
| Senator Bill Soules | $200,000 |
| Senator Ant Thornton | $100,000 |
| Senator Josh Sanchez | $80,000 |
| House Minority Leader Gail Armstrong | $50,000 |
| Representative Joy Garratt | $100,000 |
| Representative Alan Martinez | $100,000 |
| Representative Rebecca Dow | $50,000 |
This capital outlay is part of a broader $1.2 billion statewide investment in infrastructure, with a focus on projects that uplift local communities, enhance educational facilities, and ensure the safety and well-being of New Mexico’s residents. The Next Generation Learning Center will provide Socorro County and surrounding rural areas with access to cutting-edge resources, interactive exhibits, and educational programming designed to spark curiosity and foster lifelong learning.
“This bipartisan investment demonstrates New Mexico’s unwavering commitment to our children’s futures, especially in rural communities,” said Dr. Patricia Henning, NSF NRAO Associate Director of New Mexico Operations. “By working together, we are ensuring that every student has the opportunity to explore, discover, and achieve.”
NSF NRAO Director Tony Beasley added, “We are deeply grateful for the leadership and vision of New Mexico’s legislators and Governor Lujan Grisham. This center will be a beacon for STEAM education in the Southwest, empowering students and communities for generations to come.”
About NRAO
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a facility of the U.S. National Science Foundation, operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.
