LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, in partnership with the New Mexico Osteopathic Medical Association (NMOMA), hosted a special proclamation ceremony on Friday, December 12, recognizing December as National Osteopathic Medicine Month. The event brought together physicians, student doctors, community leaders, and local and state officials to honor the impact of osteopathic medicine in New Mexico and across the nation.
Held at Burrell College’s Las Cruces campus, the ceremony featured the official reading of a proclamation from the Office of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, formally acknowledging the contributions of Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) and their commitment to whole-person, patient-centered care. The proclamation was read by student physician Anamaria Ancheta, who spearheaded the effort to secure the proclamation, working behind the scenes in collaboration with NMOMA and state partners to bring the recognition to fruition.
In a video message shared during the event, Governor Lujan Grisham emphasized the vital role osteopathic physicians play in strengthening healthcare access throughout the state.
“Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine are essential to New Mexico’s healthcare workforce, particularly in rural and underserved communities,” the Governor said. “Their focus on prevention, compassion, and whole-person care reflects the values we strive to uphold in healthcare across our state.”
Listen to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s full video message below.
NMOMA President Dr. Kate Nixon highlighted the growing presence and influence of osteopathic physicians in New Mexico.
“Osteopathic medicine is rooted in service,” Nixon said. “This proclamation is not just a recognition of our profession, but a celebration of the physicians and students who dedicate themselves every day to improving the health of New Mexicans.”
Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez also attended, underscoring Burrell College’s role as a community and economic partner.
“Burrell College has become an integral part of Las Cruces,” Enriquez said. “Beyond educating future physicians, the college strengthens our local economy and helps ensure our community has access to high-quality, compassionate healthcare.”
The ceremony also recognized Burrell College’s expanding local and regional impact. According to a recent national analysis by the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM), colleges of osteopathic medicine significantly contribute to healthcare access, workforce development, and economic growth. Locally, Burrell College contributes:
- $20 million in direct payroll
- $19 million in mission region spending
- $4.6 million in New Mexico vendor spending
- $46.9 million in construction spending since its founding
Burrell College President John Hummer reflected on the institution’s mission and responsibility to the state.
“This recognition affirms the importance of osteopathic medicine and our mission to provide medical care to underserved communities, while continually developing the leadership we strive to cultivate in our students,” Hummer said. “Anamaria’s work exemplifies the advocacy, professionalism, and service that define Burrell College.”
Student physician Anamaria Ancheta shared what the recognition means to those currently training to become DOs.
“As a student doctor, it’s inspiring to see our profession honored at the state level,” Ancheta said. “Osteopathic medicine teaches us to care for the whole person, and events like this remind us why that approach matters so much to patients and communities.”
The event concluded with a call to continue advancing osteopathic principles through education, advocacy, and service—ensuring a healthier future for New Mexico and beyond.
For more information visit nmoma.co.
