Kristy Langley (second from right) is the fourth generation from her family to have attended NMSU. Surrounding her are her parents, Rocky and Debbie Langley. To the left are her mother’s parents, Brad and Elaine Houston. The family tradition started when Elaine Houston’s father, George Paul Black, attended NMSU.

Seventeen members of Langley’s family have attended NMSU since 1923, including great-grandparents, grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, siblings and cousins.

“Growing up we never talked about going anywhere else. It was always NMSU,” says Langley, who serves as assistant to the director of alumni relations. Langley earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural education in 2001 and a master’s degree in agricultural business in 2003. She joined the alumni relations staff in May 2004 and has already been widely recognized for her ability to organize events such as Parent’s Weekend.

Langley’s family has been involved at NMSU as students, teachers and donors. Her great uncle, Kenneth Black, even served as vice president of the Board of Regents in the late 1960s.

Langley says NMSU has always been an important foundation in the family, bringing them together for events such as homecoming and 4-H competitions.

Langley’s great-grandfather, George Paul Black, started the tradition when he received his bachelor’s degree in agriculture from NMSU, then called New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts, in 1927.

Her grandparents, Bradley and Elaine Houston, were the next to graduate from NMSU in 1951 and 1953. Bradley, who received his bachelor’s degree in agricultural education, also taught at NMSU from 1967-1970.

“It is amazing to see how much the university has changed since we attended,” says Elaine, who received her bachelor’s degree in education. “When we were students, Solano Drive was only a dirt road.”

Langley’s parents continued the tradition. Rocky Langley received his bachelor’s degree in agricultural business in 1976 and Debbie Langley graduated the same year with a bachelor’s degree in business.

“College has always been a priority for our family,” Debbie Langley says. “The fact that we all chose NMSU makes it even more special.”

Kristy’s brother, Steven Langley, received his bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics and agricultural business in 2002. Her cousin, Branden Langley, is currently studying surveying engineering.

Kristy says NMSU has always been a “home away from home” for her and her family.

“Our family is connected by the same bond and tradition, which is very special to us,” she says.