Campaign Co-Chairs

Randy and Tisha Velarde

“Tisha and I believe that when someone has opened a door for you, you have a responsibility to hold it open for someone else.” — Randy Velarde 

Randy and Tisha Velarde share a commitment to leadership, education, service, and creating opportunities that strengthen The University of New Mexico and the communities it serves. 

Randy, a 1981 graduate of UNM’s School of Engineering, is president and founder of The Plaza Group, a Houston-based specialty marketing company serving the petrochemical industry. Before founding the company in 1994, he spent 15 years in management and market development with Shell Chemical and Texaco Chemical. He later earned his MBA from Baldwin-Wallace College. Randy’s connection to UNM has continued throughout his professional career. A former Chair of the UNM Foundation Board of Trustees, he has also served the School of Engineering through its Alumni Leadership Board, Chemical & Biological Engineering Advisory Council, Board of Visitors, and other leadership roles. UNM recognized him with the Distinguished Engineering Alumni Award in 2001, and he delivered the School of Engineering’s convocation address in 2016. 

Tisha is a trainer and coach who previously operated her own fitness business in Houston. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, she has contributed her time and expertise to UNM through service on the College of Education & Human Sciences Wellness Committee. 

Their commitment to UNM is also reflected in their support for the Velarde Center for Philanthropy, an investment in the people and infrastructure that will advance philanthropy at the university for generations. Their support creates a permanent home for the UNM Foundation and strengthens its ability to connect generosity with opportunity across UNM. Randy and Tisha bring to Accelerate New Mexico a belief in the ability of institutions and the people behind them to transform communities and expand what is possible for those who follow.