Courtesy of Brooke Montgomery. Pictured left to right: Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez, Centennial High School freshman Joseph Higginbotham, U.S. Congressman Gabriel Vasquez, and John P. Muñoz, Mayor Pro Tem.
Las Cruces Public Schools is proud to announce that Centennial High School freshman Joseph Higginbotham has been selected as a Delegate to the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, a highly selective national honor recognizing exceptional high school students who aspire to careers in medicine, biomedical engineering, and scientific research.
The Congress will take place in June 2026 at the University of Massachusetts Lowell, near Boston, bringing together some of the nation’s most promising future physicians and medical scientists.
Joseph received an official nomination signed by Nobel Laureate Dr. Mario Capecchi, Science Director of the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists. The nomination recognizes Joseph’s academic excellence, leadership potential, strong STEM aptitude, and early commitment to service.
“Joseph’s selection reflects the kind of curiosity, determination, and compassion we strive to cultivate in all LCPS students,” said LCPS Superintendent Ignacio Ruiz. “We are incredibly proud to see a Centennial High School freshman recognized on a national stage for his potential to make a meaningful impact in medicine and science.”
As a Delegate, Joseph will participate in an immersive academic experience that includes lectures and question-and-answer sessions with Nobel Prize recipients and National Medal of Science honorees, mentorship from Ivy League and top-tier medical school leaders, presentations from individuals described as “living medical miracles,” and exposure to cutting-edge advancements in healthcare technology. He will also collaborate with high-achieving student peers from across the United States.
Leaders across the Las Cruces community shared their praise for the accomplishment, including members of the Las Cruces City Council.
“On behalf of our community, I want to express how incredibly proud we are of Joseph for receiving this national recognition in medicine and biomedicine,” said Las Cruces Mayor Eric Enriquez. “His hard work and dedication not only bring honor to his family and school but also serve as an inspiration to the youth of our city.”
Mayor Pro Tem John P. Muñoz also congratulated Joseph on his selection, emphasizing its broader significance for the region.
“This recognition is more than an honor — it is a testament to Joseph’s determination, compassion, and extraordinary potential,” Muñoz said. “Las Cruces and southern New Mexico need bright, committed medical professionals, and Joseph stands as a shining example of the future we all hope for.”
Teachers at Centennial High School describe Joseph as an innovative, out-of-the-box thinker with strong integrity, maturity beyond his years, and a genuine desire to help others. He has demonstrated a deep interest in science, medicine, and understanding complex systems, along with a strong work ethic and respect for those around him.
“Joseph exemplifies what it means to be a learner who leads with purpose,” said Jeff Brilliant, principal at Centennial High School. “He approaches challenges with curiosity and empathy, and he represents the very best of our Centennial Hawk community.”
Joseph’s recognition comes at a time when the nation faces a growing need for innovative, service-driven physicians and medical scientists. Through the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists, he will gain access to mentorship networks, academic enrichment, and college-preparatory resources that will help guide his future studies and career path.
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