Good afternoon Lobos –

This week, we’re preparing to say farewell to more than 3,600 Lobos across all our campuses who are completing their degrees this week as our Class of 2026. The entire Lobo community is delighted to celebrate our graduates and is proud of all they have achieved here at The University of New Mexico.

On behalf of the entire UNM community, I want every one of our graduating students to know that it has been our privilege to be the institution where you have chosen to pursue your passions and your professions. Your time here as scholars, researchers, artists, athletes, and leaders has truly helped make UNM a place where each of us defines all of us. Each of you is a part of the Lobo family of inspiring graduates—and as you leave us to make your way in the world, I know you will continue to act boldly and look at the world with the same curiosity and compassion that shaped your time as a Lobo student.

I’m looking forward to seeing our Class of 2026 graduate students this Friday, May 15, and our undergraduates on Saturday, May 16, at The Pit - Powered by Nusenda, where we can share this momentous occasion in the company of family, friends, and each other. For those of you unable to attend in person: know that we’ll miss you, but you can watch the entire ceremony on UNM’s live stream.

And as you cross the commencement stage, you’ll officially—and automatically—be added to the distinguished ranks of our UNM Alumni, and your Alumni Association, which can help you stay in touch with the friends you have made during your time here and connect you with other Lobos in your communities. Whether you continue to forge a path here in New Mexico or explore opportunities around the world, you’re always a member of our pack.

I also want to thank our exceptional faculty and staff who have helped to guide you as you successfully made your way from student to graduate to Lobo alumni. It has been our privilege to share this journey with you.

For the rest of our students, I know this is a big week for you as well. As we head into the final moments of the Spring 2026 semester, I expect that most of you are busy with exams, finishing projects and papers, and preparing for the summer. Good luck with your finals, Lobos; you’ve worked hard to get here.

Congratulations to our UNM Class of 2026!

A Transformational Investment in UNM’s Future

The University of New Mexico has received the largest philanthropic gift in its history—a $30 million commitment from Gail and Jim Ellis that will transform business education at UNM and expand opportunity for generations of students. In recognition of the gift, the Anderson School of Management will become The James and Gail Ellis School of Business Leadership, marking the first time a UNM college or school has been named in honor of a philanthropic investment.



This historic commitment will strengthen scholarships, experiential learning, internships, faculty support, and career pathways while helping the school compete nationally and remain deeply connected to New Mexico’s communities and economy. The gift includes a $5 million challenge fund to inspire additional philanthropy. We are deeply grateful to Gail and Jim Ellis for their extraordinary generosity, vision, and enduring belief in the power of a UNM education to change lives and strengthen communities across our state—and beyond.

UNM Recognized as a Global Leader in Hantavirus


If you followed the news last week, you may have seen UNM faculty serving as trusted experts on hantavirus. Since the virus was first identified here in 1993, UNM has remained at the forefront of research and clinical care.

As reports emerged of cruise ship passengers becoming ill and dying from hantavirus, global health leaders and media outlets turned to UNM for insight and guidance. School of Medicine faculty Drs. Michelle Harkins, Steven Bradfute, and Greg Mertz have represented the University exceptionally well, participating in numerous interviews and providing clear, steady, and informative expertise during a time of uncertainty.



While we continue to hope for the best for those affected, it is reassuring to know that the world looks to the knowledge and leadership developed here at UNM.

Lobo Students Make Their Mark in Finance, Math, and Film


From finance and mathematics to filmmaking, Lobos continue to shine on national and regional stages. A team from the UNM Anderson School of Management recently earned first place overall in the prestigious Chicago Quantitative Alliance Investment Challenge, with students David Dávila and Samuel Landis showcasing innovative portfolio strategies and analytical expertise. UNM mathematics students also claimed top honors at the 2026 Southwestern Undergraduate Mathematics Research Conference, where Aldo Morelli won the individual Problem Contest and the UNM team placed first overall. Meanwhile, student filmmaker Michael Anthony Kurtz will premiere two original short films at the second annual Kurtz Studios World Premiere on May 14, highlighting the creativity and talent emerging from UNM’s growing film community. Congratulations to these outstanding Lobos for representing UNM with excellence, creativity, and determination while inspiring our university community through their remarkable achievements.

UNM Hospital Earns Highest National Stroke Care Designation


The University of New Mexico Hospital has achieved a historic milestone, earning certification as New Mexico’s only Comprehensive Stroke Center from The Joint Commission, the nation’s highest designation for stroke care. This recognition reflects the extraordinary dedication and expertise of our clinicians, researchers and staff, who provide lifesaving care around the clock to patients across the state. From rapid-response treatment in Albuquerque to tele-stroke partnerships supporting rural hospitals statewide, UNM Hospital is delivering world-class care when every second matters. I am deeply proud of the entire stroke team for achieving this distinction and for their unwavering commitment to improving outcomes and saving lives for New Mexicans in every corner of our state.

A New UNM Tamarind Institute Residency Program


A single visit to Tamarind Institute more than four decades ago sparked a lifelong passion for art collecting and cultural connection for UNM scholars Sandra Odell and Douglas Ferraro. Today, their generosity is giving back to the place that shaped that journey through the creation of the Sandra and Douglas Ferraro Artist Residency at Tamarind Institute. Their gift will expand opportunities for Indigenous artists, foster collaboration between artists and master printers, and strengthen Tamarind’s role as an internationally recognized leader in fine art lithography. The residency reflects the Ferraros’ enduring belief that art builds understanding, community, and connection, while ensuring Tamarind’s creative partnerships continue to inspire future generations of artists at UNM and beyond.

You’re Invited to the 2026 Staff Appreciation Green Chile Cheeseburger Cookout


All Lobo staff are invited to the 3rd Annual Staff Appreciation Green Chile Cheeseburger Cookout next Wednesday, May 20, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (or while supplies last) at Union Square and Cornell Mall. This festive gathering celebrates the extraordinary contributions of our staff with great food, live music, and community connection. Enjoy green chile cheeseburgers with inclusive dining options, explore the Staff as Artists exhibit, and join our Lobo group photo at noon. There will be raffles, resources, and opportunities to connect with colleagues and leaders. Come join your fellow staff to help celebrate what makes UNM so exceptional: you.

This Week’s Podcast Looks at Lobo Research



UNM’s groundbreaking research takes center stage in the latest episode of the “It’s Probably Not Rocket Science” podcast, as Vice President for Research Ellen Fisher shares how UNM’s research enterprise is driving innovation, collaboration and real-world solutions across disciplines. From quantum science and national laboratory partnerships to studies on brain function and even tumbleweeds, the episode highlights the incredible breadth of research happening across our campus. Fisher also emphasizes the vital connection between research, student success and workforce development. Tune in for “WE R1: A Conversation with UNM’s Vice President for Research” to hear how UNM researchers are helping shape the future in New Mexico and beyond, available wherever you get your podcasts.