ENMU-Ruidoso recently welcomed the new golf coach and a new staff member
Darrell Turnipseed of El Paso, Texas, was hired April 7 as the new women’s and men’s golf coach. He has an associate degree in University Studies from El Paso Community College and a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education with emphasis in Sports and Recreation Management from ENMU Portales. He is retired from El Paso Independent School District, has a passion for developing young athletes and over 25 years of coaching experience. He dedicated much of his career to working with youth and professional athletes through the Cedric Benson Sports Academy, where he played a vital role in building athletic talent, character and discipline. His coaching journey includes volunteering as a recruiter for cross country at El Paso Community College, where he helped identify and develop long-distance runners. He also served as a volunteer jump coach at New Mexico State University, working closely with collegiate athletes to enhance their performance in horizontal and vertical jumps. Additionally, he coached at Franklin High School as both an assistant coach and jump coach, mentoring high school athletes and helping them compete at the district and regional levels. His career has been centered on guiding athletes to reach their full potential while promoting teamwork, dedication, and personal growth through the sport of track and field.
He was born in Pine Bluff, Ark., and proudly served as a U.S. Army Disabled Veteran. He was stationed at Fort Bliss with the Fox Troop 2/3 3d Armored Cavalry Regiment from 1983-1990. “It was a transformative experience that shaped my character and work ethic. Throughout my military career, I learned the importance of discipline, teamwork, and resilience. These qualities have continued to guide me in all aspects of my life, from my career in coaching and education to my involvement with athletes worldwide. The challenges I faced in the Army taught me perseverance, and overcoming obstacles became second nature. My service not only honed my leadership skills but also instilled a deep sense of gratitude for the sacrifices made by others. I carry these lessons with me every day, striving to make a positive impact on those around me,” said Turnipseed.
“My son lives in El Paso, and I’m drawn to the opportunity to become the head golf coach at ENMU-Ruidoso because the area is peaceful and serene, providing the perfect environment for both coaching and personal reflection. It’s a place that feels like home,” said Turnipseed. In his spare time he enjoys bike riding, fishing, movies and playing golf.
Mia Ramirez of Ruidoso began at ENMU-Ruidoso April 21 as the new full-time Information Specialist working at the front desk of the College. She previously worked at Leathers with Style, Comfort Inn, Books Etc. and Door Dash. Her favorite quote is “Everyone wants happiness, no one wants pain, but how can you have a rainbow without a little rain?” Her favorite color is purple and her favorite movie is the 1951 Alice in Wonderland. Her favorite book series is The Hunger Games and her favorite place in the world is Disney World (Epcot).
She has two sons, one and three years old. She graduated with an associate degree in Psychology at ENMU-Ruidoso in 2021. She loves learning and struggles with dyslexia, but she has never let that stop her reading and educating herself. She loves challenges and helping people learn new things. She is excited to work at the college and to start a new chapter in life to help herself grow not only for herself and her future, but also for her children. She has a black cat named Katniss and a dog named Marvel. She loves reading, listening to music and making crafts.
