Good afternoon Lobos –

April is Earth Month, a time to step outside, reconnect with nature, and renew our shared commitment to a more sustainable future. At The University of New Mexico, that commitment is on full display all month long through a lively series of events led by our Office of Sustainability, inviting students, faculty, and staff to engage, learn, and take action.


From the GPSA Green Workforce Fair and campus clean-up events to the 16th Annual Sustainability Expo and Arbor Day tree planting at the Duck Pond, these activities highlight the many ways our campus community is advancing environmental stewardship while supporting personal well-being. Opportunities like the Albuquerque City Nature Challenge and the launch of the UNM Arboretum Tour—I’m proud we’ve been officially designated as a Tree Campus again—encourage us to rediscover the vital connection between us and the natural world.

Equally as inspiring is the continued growth of the UNM Sustainability Corps, a hands-on, service-learning program that equips students with practical skills while advancing sustainability initiatives across campus. It’s a powerful example of how we are preparing the next generation of leaders to meet complex environmental challenges.


These efforts reflect the critical importance of our goal under UNM 2040 to create long-term sustainability and ensure the resources—human, financial, and physical—needed to achieve our aspirations while protecting the natural environment that sustains us all. This Earth Month, I encourage every Lobo to get involved, give back, and help shape a healthier, more sustainable future for New Mexico and beyond.

Reaching for the Stars at UNM–Taos



At the University of New Mexico, innovation often begins under our remarkable New Mexico skies. An informative new impact study by UNM’s Bureau of Business & Economic Research (BBER) has affirmed the transformative potential of the proposed Cielo Centro Observatory at UNM–Taos—a project that would expand hands-on STEM learning while strengthening economic and community connections across Northern New Mexico. With exceptional dark-sky conditions and a powerful 36-inch telescope, the proposed observatory will open new doors for students and visitors alike. From immersive educational experiences to workforce development and astrotourism, this initiative positions UNM–Taos as a regional leader—bringing discovery, opportunity, and inspiration to the communities we proudly serve.

Project ECHO Advances Pain Management Statewide



Twice each month, clinicians across our state connect through Project ECHO at the University of New Mexico to strengthen their approach to pain and opioid management. Led by Dr. Joanna Katzman and Dr. Brandon Warrick, these interactive sessions equip providers, especially in rural and underserved communities, with the latest tools, from safe opioid use to emerging non-opioid treatments. Project ECHO’s innovative “all teach, all learn” model brings together multidisciplinary expertise and real-world cases, expanding access to high-quality care across New Mexico. It’s also a powerful example of how UNM is addressing urgent public health challenges while supporting the providers who care for our communities every day.

Register Now for Tech Days

On April 29-30, innovation takes center stage at the University of New Mexico for Tech Days 2026—two days of ideas, exploration, and hands-on discovery. Hosted by the Office of the Chief Information Officer, this annual event brings together students, faculty, and staff in the Student Union Building for no-cost sessions designed to spark collaboration and creativity across campus. This year’s program highlights the growing role of artificial intelligence in higher education, from practical applications and emerging tools to critical conversations about ethics, policy, and responsible use. A keynote by Bernardo J. Gallegos will explore the rise of esports and student engagement. Registration is free, but many sessions are filling up fast, so please try to sign up as quickly as you can.

UNM Recognized Among Top Innovators

I was delighted to learn that The University of New Mexico has been ranked No. 52 on the 2025 Top 100 U.S. Universities for utility patents, as recognized by the National Academy of Inventors. This distinction highlights UNM’s vital role in advancing innovation and in translating research into real-world impact. By securing patents, our faculty and researchers protect their discoveries and help bring new technologies to market—fueling economic growth and improving lives. This significant recognition reflects the creativity and hard work of our campus community, as well as our growing influence in shaping the future of innovation both nationally and globally.

Renowned Leader in Sports Medicine Speaking on Youth in Sports

What if youth sports were designed first and foremost for the health and well-being of children? That question will be at the center of a special community lecture hosted by the University of New Mexico Department of Neurology on April 15 from 6–8 p.m. at the PAÍS Auditorium. Renowned neurologist and sports-medicine leader Brian Hainline—the former chief medical officer of the NCAA—will explore how youth sports in the United States have drifted from their original purpose and how they might be reimagined to better support lifelong health, inclusion, and human development. The free lecture will conclude with an informal community conversation and refreshments.

Health Professions Symposium Set for April 11

Mark your calendars now for the 10th annual Health Professions Symposium (HPS), set for April 11 at the Domenici Center for Health Sciences Education. As New Mexico’s largest health career event, HPS offers students a chance to explore their passions, connect with professionals, and discover pathways to their future in health care. And with so many workshops on various topics to choose from, it’s a great opportunity to network with individuals and grow professionally.

Class of 2026 Invited to the Alumni Senior Send-Off



Spring 2026 graduates, don’t miss Senior Send-Off, one of your most important steps before graduation. This highly anticipated event takes place on Thursday, April 16, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Hodgin Hall Alumni Center. Senior Send-Off sets graduates up for success with professional headshots, resume review and career guidance, access to UNM resources and partners including the UNM Bookstore, Graduate Studies, and Jostens Rings, and much more. You can also sign up with UNM Alumni Connect, a free resource linking alums with our Lobo pack. You’ll receive a complimentary T-shirt and learn about all the benefits of being a Lobo for life. The event is free, but you’ll need to register first.

The Big Give (and Smoothies) Coming This Thursday



In support of GPSA's Appreciation Week, I’ll be handing out smoothies to the campus community on Thursday, April 9, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Cactus Garden (between Zimmerman and Duck Pond). In inclement weather, the event will be held in the SUB.

And finally, remember that the UNM Big Give begins at midnight on Thursday, giving interested donors all day for the opportunity to support the schools, colleges, and programs they care about most. Every donation makes a difference!