Good afternoon Lobos –

Last week, I was delighted to announce the appointment of Ryan Berryman as Vice President and Director of Athletics at the University of New Mexico, removing the interim designation he has held since January. A three-time UNM graduate, Ryan becomes one of the youngest athletics directors in Division I and the first Lobo alumnus in the modern era to lead our athletics department.

In our nationwide search for our newest Athletic Director, Ryan was evaluated against an outstanding field of candidates from across the country. Ryan’s vision for this department, his proven ability to execute, and the trust he has already built at UNM were deciding factors in selecting him. We were incredibly fortunate that the right person to lead Lobo athletics was already a Lobo.

During his brief interim period, Ryan continued advancing tremendous momentum for Lobo Athletics. He worked with partners to promote legislative efforts supporting improvements at University Stadium and helped secure a 10-year naming rights partnership with Nusenda Credit Union, for University Arena.

Ryan’s journey with Lobo Athletics began as a student manager for our men’s basketball program and later as a student regent. His deep connection to our university and to New Mexico, combined with strong national experience, make him exceptionally well positioned to lead the next exciting chapter of Lobo Athletics. I look forward to all that lies ahead for our student-athletes and our fans.

Looking to the Past to Design Our Future


Designing the new Humanities & Social Sciences Complex at The University of New Mexico started with a road trip. Architects from Studio Tsien and SMPC Architects traveled to Bandelier National Monument and Acoma Pueblo to better understand the Pueblo Revival traditions that have shaped UNM’s campus for more than a century. That thoughtful approach is helping to define and shape the $138 million Humanities & Social Sciences Complex planned for the center of our Albuquerque campus. The building will feature flexible classrooms, welcoming gathering spaces, and a “living room” area where students from across campus can study, collaborate, and connect. As Jennifer Malat, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, has noted, in designing the building, architects have also shown deep care for New Mexico traditions and respect for the vital role of the humanities. Construction on the new complex begins this August, with a targeted opening date of 2028.

Celebrating Women’s History at UNM


The University of New Mexico continues to proudly celebrate March as Women’s History Month, a time to reflect on the extraordinary contributions of women throughout history and celebrate their indelible impact on society. Although women have been on the front lines of our history for as long as we’ve been a nation, many of their achievements remain anonymous or uncredited to this day, still awaiting the writers and researchers who will discover them and tell their stories. At The University of New Mexico, we’re writing those stories every day through the many inspiring Lobo women we call our students, mentors, colleagues, and leaders.

As always, the UNM Department of Anthropology has created a comprehensive website of related organizations, events, and scholars, as well as background on Women’s History Month, along with a sampling of research, news, organizations, and even TED Talks. I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the contributions of women in our history and in our own lives.

A Safe Walk, Any Time of Day


At the University of New Mexico, the safety of our students, faculty, staff, patients, and visitors is always a top priority. That’s why I want to remind our community that 24/7 security escorts are available on North Campus through UNM Hospital Security, with backup support from the UNM Police Department. Whether you’re heading to your car after a late shift, leaving an evening class, or simply feel more comfortable walking with someone, help is just a phone call away. Security officers can escort individuals or small groups to parking lots across North Campus any time of day or night. To request an escort, call UNM Hospital Security at (505) 272-2160 or UNM Police at (505) 277-2241. No one should have to walk alone—especially after hours.

A New Campus Spot for Great Hair and Great Community


A new space on campus is celebrating culture, community, and connection. In February, African American Student Services (AFRO) opened the AFRO Hair Shop in Mesa Vista Hall—a student-inspired space created by and for the community. More than a place to style hair, the shop honors the long tradition of students gathering in dorm rooms and offices to braid, cut, and care for one another. Outfitted with salon chairs, mirrors, and a glowing neon sign, the room was intentionally designed to spark conversation and friendship—no TVs, just community. Funded by AFRO alumni and the New Mexico Black Central Organizing Committee, the shop opened with a symbolic braid-untangling ceremony—a reminder that spaces like this help our Lobos feel seen, supported, and at home.

Making Our Digital Campus More Accessible


At The University of New Mexico, we’re working to make sure our digital spaces are accessible to everyone. In advance of new U.S. Department of Justice Title II accessibility regulations taking effect April 24, 2026, teams across campus have been collaborating on policies, training, and tools that support inclusive digital content. Our Center for Teaching & Learning is offering resources and a new self-paced course to help instructors design accessible course materials, while a new partnership with Deque University will expand training opportunities for faculty, staff, and students. In the months ahead, you’ll also see improvements to website templates, guidance for creating accessible materials, and new support systems—helping ensure accessibility remains a lasting priority at UNM.

Sign Up for Green Zone Training


I’m always proud that The University of New Mexico continues to be rated as a Gold Level “Military Friendly” university. In times of increasing global unrest, I’m grateful to our service members, veterans, and military families and understand that this is when they need our support more than ever. Our Green Zone training helps faculty and staff better understand the experiences of veterans, reservists, National Guard members, and military families. In coordination with our Veteran and Military Resource Center, my office will be holding a Green Zone training on Friday, March 27 from 10:30 to noon in the Student Union Building Trailblazer/Spirit Room. Participants will learn about VA education benefits, service-connected health concerns, and the many campus resources available to help these students succeed. Check here for more information, including how to register and how to participate in this training session online.