UNM ISS Hosts 6th Annual Car Show and Safety Vendor Fair

ALBUQUERQUE, NM – On July 18, 2025, the University of New Mexico’s Institutional Support Services (ISS) teams hosted the 6th annual Car Show and Safety Vendor Fair on campus, drawing together over 100 automotive enthusiasts from across the university community. This event not only showcased a variety of vehicles—from classic hot rods to modern sports cars—but also emphasized the importance of safety awareness within the community.

The fair featured a diverse range of cars, including Gilbert Chavez’s 1972 Monte Carlo, affectionately named ‘Brown Sugar’. Chavez, a field supervisor for Parking and Transportation Services (PATS), expressed his lifelong passion for lowriders, stating, “When somebody put me in the lowrider, I was like, ‘Oh, I gotta have one!’” His connection to cars is shared by many attendees, highlighting a common familial bond within the automotive culture.

Similarly, Trenton Ward, the senior business manager of the UNM Bookstore, displayed his 1969 El Camino, which he purchased as a reward for graduating college. Ward reminisced about his childhood experiences attending car shows with his cousin, which sparked his enduring interest in vehicles. "It’s almost like a canvas or an easel for each of us to display our personalities," he noted, emphasizing how car customization serves as a personal expression.

The event also featured safety vendors who provided valuable information and resources related to safety measures. Organizations such as Thompson Safety, Steamatic, and the UNM Police Department participated, offering insights into various safety protocols and practices. This initiative underscores the university's commitment to fostering a culture of safety alongside automotive enthusiasm.

In addition to the car displays, the fair included a Taste of New Mexico Dips and Desserts competition, where Aquilino Valdez won for his chunky salsa and Kristian Rucker claimed victory with her hot apple pie. This culinary competition added a festive atmosphere to the event, further promoting community engagement.

The Car Show and Safety Vendor Fair, organized by Facilities Management, has expanded over the years to encompass all of ISS, showcasing the university's dedication to community building and employee involvement. The event's success highlights the importance of combining personal interests with professional safety practices, creating a holistic environment for employees and their families.

As the event concluded, attendees expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with each other through their shared passions, reinforcing the importance of community at the University of New Mexico. The ISS looks forward to continuing this tradition in the coming years, further strengthening ties within the university community and promoting a culture of safety and creativity.