Office of Archaeological Studies | February 2026

In January, the Office of Archaeological Studies sustained its mission of connecting New Mexicans with archaeology through public programming and research activities. On January 14, OAS hosted a Brown Bag lecture by archaeologist C. Dean Wilson on ceramic types from the Mogollon‑Mimbres region, providing an accessible lunchtime learning opportunity at the Center for New Mexico Archaeology. These talks reflect OAS’s ongoing commitment to bringing archaeological scholarship to broad audiences and fostering a deeper understanding of the Southwest’s past through expert interpretation and discussion.

OAS continues to develop its educational outreach, with teachers and students statewide expressing strong interest in archaeology curriculum and programs. Educators are seeking funding to purchase quality replicas for the Ice Age New Mexico curriculum, specifically a mastodon femur and a bison antiquus skull, which would significantly enhance tactile learning experiences for students. OAS’s top fundraising priority remains support for its Education and Outreach Programs, which bring archaeology directly into classrooms, libraries, and community settings across New Mexico, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

OAS’s request for a special appropriation to support the statewide field training program has passed the House Finance Committee and is pending full legislative approval. Once approved, these funds will help expand professional training opportunities for archaeologists and heritage workers throughout the state, addressing workforce needs in cultural resource management and public archaeology.

As the 2026 charitable giving season unfolds, trustees are encouraged to support the OAS Education and Outreach Fund. Contributions provide essential resources for staff travel, curriculum materials, and program delivery, helping ensure that New Mexico’s diverse heritage is shared with learners of all ages. Under the new 2026 U.S. tax law, individual taxpayers can deduct up to $1,000 and households up to $2,000 in charitable contributions even without itemizing, making this an advantageous time to give.

To support OAS’s Research Development and Education Funds please contact Lauren Paige at lauren@museumfoundation.org, or by phone at 505.982.2282.