PORTALES, NM – August 10, 2024 – Eastern New Mexico University and the ENMU
Foundation will host an inaugural music, arts, film, and masterclass festival on the Portales,
New Mexico campus September 10-12. Billed as the “Return of the Hounds: Alumni
Masterclass+ Festival.” the event will bring back some of the university’s most notable alumni
for a 3-day event aimed at inspiring a new generation of artists, musicians, and journalists.
The event is the creation of ENMU alum Mike Dawson (BA Piano Performance, 1985), who
serves as its Executive Producer. Dawson is a filmmaker, composer, and music producer who
has a decades-long record of success in the industry. He is also the founder of Assignment
Universe, which produces “big tent” events and partners with educators to promote imaginative
thinking and scientific literacy.
“It is my honor to produce the ‘Return of the Hounds: Alumni Masterclass+Festival,’ Dawson
said. “I believe that it is vital to support New Mexican university students and graduates.”
Dawson first began discussions with ENMU regarding the festival in 2017. Last year he
approached Chancellor Dr. James Johnston, who was immediately supportive and enthusiastic.
“This is absolutely a ‘not to be missed’ event,” Johnston said. “It will bring outstanding artists
and experts to ENMU and our community. Students will benefit immediately from the master
classes and mentorship.”
Johnston also points out that community engagement events will share “the incredible collective
talent of the festival participants” beyond current students and faculty.
ENMU alumni participants include Diné jazz musician Delbert Anderson; Native American
Veterans Affairs advocate Thomas Bandzul; and pianist Valerie M. Trujillo. Radio/television
historian Dr. Donna Halper, LA Philharmonic President Kim Noltemy, and award-winning
Mexican magical realism artist Jade Levya will attend as special guests.
As the festival finale, a free community concert on September 12 will feature 2-time
Grammy-winning artist Robert Mirabal of Taos Pueblo.
“Return of the Hounds: Alumni Masterclass+ Festival.” will take place at various spaces on the
ENMU campus and will feature both live and webinar presentations. Full details and a schedule
of events can be found online at: ReturnOfTheHounds ENMU press
MEDIA CONTACTS:
John Houser | ENMU Associate Vice President | john.houser@enmu.edu | 575.562.2123
Mike Dawson | Dreamers2Makers Films | producer@dreamers2makersfilms.com | 214.244.9858