In 1960, the Carlsbad community and New Mexico State University partnered to establish a branch of the university in the growing southeast New Mexico city.

During that time, New Mexico State University Carlsbad served to bolster the local economy, now employing over 100 people, and providing degrees and certifications to students that aligned best with local industry. Similarly, NMSU benefited from the arrangement, as the branch campus provided a stepping stone for students seeking a four-year degree from the main campus in Las Cruces.

Now, that relationship appears fractured and Carlsbad leaders say no longer benefits staff, students and the community. The New Mexico Legislature is considering a pair of bills which would provide a framework to sever from the NMSU system and transition to an independent community college.