The institution, based in Mérida, was the first private university in southeastern Mexico and today is an important center of higher education for all of Central America and southeastern Mexico.

Last August, the Anáhuac-Mayab University celebrated its first 40 years of existence. In this context, a recognition medal was awarded to its first rector: Fr. Carlos Villalba, L.C.

The Anáhuac-Mayab University, based in Mérida, was the first private university in southeastern Mexico and today is an important center of higher education for all of Central America and southeastern Mexico. San Juan Pablo II blessed the foundation stone in 1983, and the following year, it began with 4 undergraduate programs. By 2024, the University offers 31 undergraduate programs, 9 master’s degrees, 3 doctorates, and 4 specializations. There are 17,570 graduates and currently 8,000 students enrolled.

Anáhuac-Mayab has ranked in the top ten of the national university competition nine times and has received more than 350 CENEVAL awards.

After serving as rector in Mérida, Fr. Carlos Villalba, L.C., was a professor of political philosophy at the Pontifical Athenaeum Regina Apostolorum in Rome, where he also served as librarian. He is currently a member of the Legionaries community in Chetumal, Quintana Roo. He provides spiritual guidance to other members of the congregation.

We share a video about the importance and social and educational impact of Anáhuac-Mayab University.