Dawn M. Gelino Named as NMSU Foundation Distinguished Alumni

This article is adapted from the New Mexico State University Foundation announcement.

The New Mexico State University (NMSU) Foundation announced the recipients of its 2025 Distinguished Alumni Awards, the highest honors presented to NMSU graduates. 

Among the honorees is AAS Senior Vice President Dawn M. Gelino. Gelino is the program manager for NASA’s Exoplanet Exploration Program at Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and a pioneer in astrophysics leadership. She has overseen national research collaborations, fellowships, and workshops, and played a vital role in shaping NASA’s search for Earth-like planets. Her work contributes to advancing scientific understanding of our universe and the potential for life beyond Earth.

“Our 2025 Distinguished Alumni honorees truly embody what it means to be an Aggie,” said Sylvia Y. Acosta ’10, CEO of the NMSU Foundation. “Their accomplishments, leadership, and service reflect the values instilled at NMSU and inspire all of us to dream big, serve boldly, and create lasting impact in our communities, the nation, and the world.”

Since 1956, more than 400 Aggies have received this prestigious recognition for professional achievement, service, and impact.

The 2025 Distinguished Alumni Awards Ceremony will be held on 7 November at the Las Cruces Convention Center as part of NMSU’s Homecoming weekend.

Congratulations, Dawn!