Era Rentfrow served as New Mexico State University’s registrar from 1922-1962. She is pictured here at the NMSU Registrar’s Office in 1938.

Len Sugerman cast a long shadow

When retired Air Force Col. Leonard R. Sugerman passed away in July 2006 at the age of 86, tributes poured in from around the world. This man made friends everywhere he went. He also made a difference.

Sugerman had been “Doing What Counts” for New Mexico State University since well before it became the theme of the university’s current comprehensive campaign. In 1996, he established the first endowment for scholarships for children of Physical Science Laboratory employees. Over the next decade he established 10 more across the university.

Beyond that he dedicated a portion of his estate to support the Space Grant program that bears his name.

“Len was an empathetic listener. He could tell when things were going well and he’d join in and share the joy,” says Pat Hynes, director of the New Mexico Space Grant Consortium.

The Model UN program was another of his favorite projects. “Len’s financial support, but more importantly his engagement with the team, helped make our program what it is today,” says faculty adviser Jason Ackleson. “We named him ‘Honorary Secretary General’ of the NMSU Model UN Team.”

Sugerman was a leader in the creation of the High Tech Consortium designed to create jobs for students graduating from NMSU to enable them to remain in New Mexico. He championed the establishment of Spaceport America in southern New Mexico and followed the progress of the X-Prize competition to promote private endeavors in space.

Physical Science Laboratory Dean and Director Jay Jordan says, “Len was passionate about NMSU, PSL and especially the student programs. I certainly miss his advice, counsel and good-natured prodding to be our very best.”

President Mike Martin says, “Len Sugerman was one of the most persistent visionaries I’ve ever encountered. Before anyone dreamed of the commercialization of space travel, Len saw its potential. He promoted the spaceport for New Mexico through persuasion and passion. When it all comes to fruition we should remember Len as its father.”

Your pledge to the campaign for New Mexico State University will make a difference. Join the “Doing What Counts” team at giving.nmsu.edu.