SMALL TOWN, BIG SPARKS Empowering Mora students with hands-on training, industry credentials, and a powerful head start on their futures Mar. 30, 2026 Submitted by: Andrea Lucero, Admissions & Recruitment
LUNA SPOTLIGHTS Highlighting the accomplishments and creative work of Luna faculty and staff This section highlights recent accomplishments and creative work from members of the Luna community. From artistic exhibitions to published research, these achievements reflect the talent, dedication, and impact of those who help shape the Luna experience both on and off campus. Mar. 15, 2026
Mora High School students are honing their skills and making sparks fly at Luna Community College (LCC). Leading the charge is senior Waylon Fresquez, who has already earned two professional certifications and is currently utilizing his skills to construct a custom welding table. Fellow standout Lucio Cordova, a junior, is also hard at work building a custom tailgate bench. Both students are part of a driven cohort from Mora balancing their high school education with LCC’s rigorous certification training. Spanning multiple grade levels, this group proves that a passion for the trades starts early in Mora. Duel-credit students enrolled in the Welding Certification Program include: Seniors: Waylon Fresquez and Damian Sanchez Junior: Lucio Cordova Sophomores: Alberto Martinez, Esteban Roybal, and Tim Valdez What truly distinguishes these students is their status as Certified Welders. By securing these credentials before graduating high school, they are giving their future careers a massive head start. As welding instructor Gene Martinez perfectly summarizes, “Whether they are sophomores just beginning their journey or seniors preparing for the workforce, these individuals are building more than just tables—they are building the foundation for a successful career.” Their hard work beautifully highlights the powerful partnership between Mora High School and LCC in turning local talent into certified professionals. For more information or to learn how to enroll your high-schooler, please contact: Alejandro Montoya, Dual-Credit Coordinator
Leota Brigida Harriman
Art instructor Leota Brigida Harriman has been selected to exhibit her work in the juried exhibition Women’s Work at Ghostwolf Gallery in Old Town Albuquerque. Her piece, Awakening , created with watercolor, inks, and mixed media, is featured in the competitive juried exhibition Women’s Work, showcasing works by women artists across the region. The exhibition opened March 10 and will remain on display through April 3. This marks the third time Harriman’s artwork has been featured at Ghostwolf Gallery.
Photo Credit: Leota Harriman
Waylon Fresquez (Senior)
Dr. Christopher Smith
Humanities faculty member Dr. Christopher Smith has released a new book, Bank Night at the Movies: The 1930s Cash Giveaway Craze, published by University of Exeter Press. The book explores the rise of “Bank Night,” a popular theater promotion during the Great Depression that offered audiences the chance to win cash prizes. Through historical research and cultural analysis, the work examines how the promotion influenced moviegoing culture and reflected the broader social and economic conditions of the era.
almontoya@luna.edu
(505) 454-2557
Lucio Cordova (Junior)
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