PORTALES, NM – August 26, 2024 – Eastern New Mexico University and the Eastern New Mexico University 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 three-day event to inspire 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 chief executive producer. Dawson is a filmmaker, composer, and music producer with a decades-long industry success record. 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 supporting New Mexican university students and graduates is vital."

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 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 said 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 Leyva will attend as special guests.

As the festival finale, a free community concert on September 12 will feature two-time Grammy-winning artist Robert Mirabal of Taos Pueblo.

The "Return of the Hounds: Alumni Masterclass+Festival" will take place at various spaces on the ENMU campus and will feature live and webinar presentations. Full details and a schedule of events can be found online at: enmu.edu/MasterClass.