Good afternoon Lobos –

As we continue to commemorate Native American Heritage Month, I want to spotlight some recent initiatives and accomplishments that highlight our engagement with Native institutions and celebration of Indigenous culture here at The University of New Mexico.

The University of New Mexico’s Earth Data Analysis Center (EDAC) and the Navajo Nation are launching a powerful new partnership that promises to strengthen infrastructure and expand data-driven decision-making across the 27,000-square-mile Nation. Working closely with the Navajo Department of Transportation, EDAC will help develop a customized, web-based transportation portal—an essential tool for improving rural mobility and addressing long-standing challenges. The multi-phase project begins with integrating existing transportation data, followed by building real-time visualization tools for community use, and eventually expanding into aerial imaging and mapping to support long-term planning. Led by UNM alumnus Tyler Eshelman, the effort reflects UNM’s commitment to supporting Indigenous communities with innovative, practical solutions that can serve as a model for rural regions nationwide.

We are also celebrating an exciting achievement in Indigenous literary scholarship. Sarah Hernandez (Sicangu Lakota), associate professor of Native American Literature and director of the Institute for American Indian Research, has received a $150,000 grant from the Henry Luce Foundation’s Indigenous Knowledge Initiative to publish The Oceti Sakowin Reader, the first anthology to bring Dakota, Nakota, and Lakota literature together in one volume. Developed in partnership with the Oceti Sakowin Writers Society, the project will support editorial work, community-based research, podcast production, and educational materials, helping to preserve and share Oceti Sakowin storytelling traditions for generations to come.

Finally, our Department of Anthropology has created a comprehensive website of resources related to Native American Heritage Month, including information on UNM organizations, Native scholars, and related news and research. You’ll surely find plenty of opportunities to celebrate this vital part of our heritage as Lobos.

Lobo Musicians Join World Premiere of Raven Chacon’s Vision

Albuquerque became a stage of sound and color as the UNM Department of Music joined the world premiere of Tiguex, a sweeping new work by Pulitzer Prize–winning composer and UNM alumnus Raven Chacon. From sunrise to sunset on September 27, more than 200 musicians performed 20 interconnected movements across the city, celebrating the histories, landscapes, and communities of the Tiguex region. Central to the project was a stunning graphic score created with UNM’s Tamarind Institute, merging visual art and musical composition into a single, dynamic guide for performers. For students and faculty, collaborating on a major premiere with a renowned Lobo artist was both a proud homecoming and an inspiring reminder of UNM’s role at the heart of New Mexico’s cultural ecosystem.

Lobo Alum Appointed as Next Controller

The University of New Mexico is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Jacobson as our next University Controller, effective January 1, 2026. A proud UNM alum, Jacobson brings nearly 25 years of financial leadership across higher education, state government, and the private sector. He will oversee UNM’s accounting, treasury, and financial operations, working closely with academic, administrative, and health partners to strengthen transparency and stewardship. Jacobson joins us from Central New Mexico Community College, where he currently serves as Associate Vice President of Finance and Budget. We look forward to welcoming him back to UNM in January.

UNM Celebrates International Education Week



The week of November 17-21 is International Education Week, and the UNM Global Education Office (GEO) invites all students, staff and faculty to celebrate the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide. GEO will be celebrating International Education Week with an international movie night, a study abroad fair, a week of international dishes at La Posada dining hall, and stories from those who have studied abroad. Take a week to take yourself around the world!

ASM Researchers Launch the Rio Grande Research Challenge

The Anderson School of Management is bringing a fresh twist to the UNM–NMSU rivalry with the inaugural Rio Grande Research Challenge on Friday, November 21. This high-impact competition moves the rivalry from the field to the financial arena, as student teams analyze a publicly traded stock and deliver a professional buy, sell, or hold recommendation. A panel of senior investment professionals will judge both written and live presentations, offering real-world insight. With scholarships, trophies, and a traveling award at stake, the Challenge builds analytical skills, professional confidence, and the poise to present bold ideas.

A Leadership Transition for Lobo Women’s Soccer

After 11 remarkable seasons guiding Lobo Women’s Soccer to new heights, head coach Heather Dyche is stepping down to accept an exceptional opportunity with U.S. Soccer as head coach of the U.S. Under-23 Women’s National Team. Her tenure leaves an extraordinary legacy of championships, NCAA Tournament appearances, and academic and community excellence. Stepping into the role as our new head coach is longtime assistant and associate head coach Karley Nelson. With deep roots in the program and a clear vision for its future, Nelson is poised to build on a foundation of pride, culture, and championship ambition. Lobo fans can look forward to a new chapter that honors the past while embracing even greater promise ahead.

Lobo Researcher Spotlights Risks in Sports Betting Boom



UNM Associate Professor Joshua Grubbs joins the latest episode of It’s (Probably) Not Rocket Science to explore the growing intersection of sports betting and binge drinking—an issue that has surged since the expansion of legalized gambling in 2018. A psychology faculty member and investigator at UNM’s Center on Alcohol, Substance use, And Addictions, Grubbs shares national research showing a sharp rise in risky drinking and gambling behaviors, especially among young adults. He also offers practical tips for staying safe and enjoying sports responsibly. Listen to the full episode here, or wherever you get your podcasts.

There’s Still Time to Donate to UNM Gives



With just a few weeks left in the UNM Gives campaign—the donation portal remains open through December 15—the campaign is closing on its fundraising goal, thanks to the incredible generosity of more than 500 faculty and staff donors who have contributed so far. Every contribution, even a few dollars per pay period, strengthens our Community Investment Fund and supports vital United Way partners across central New Mexico. Let’s keep the momentum going, Lobos—there’s still time to give!

Get Up to Four Free Tickets for the Final Home Football Game



As a show of thanks to Lobo faculty and staff for your support and enthusiasm for Lobo Football all season long, Lobo Athletics is pleased to provide all University of New Mexico employees with the opportunity to get as many as four free tickets for this season’s final home game against San Diego State, taking place at University Stadium next Friday, November 28 at 1:30 p.m. Faculty and staff can get tickets here while supplies last.

As always, Lobo students may attend the game for free by claiming their student tickets here. And if you’ve got friends and family coming into town for the long weekend, you can also take advantage of your student specific discount to purchase $10 student guest tickets. I hope to see as many of you as possible at University Stadium next Friday to spend an afternoon with family, friends, and your fellow Lobos cheering on our team in the final game of what has been a truly extraordinary season.

Listening Sessions Begin This Week

The University of New Mexico Board of Regents will host two listening sessions this week as part of the national search for the university’s next president. Sessions will be held on Tuesday, November 18, from 3–4:30 p.m. in in the Student Union Building, Lobo A & B, and Wednesday, November 19, from 10–11:30 a.m. in Domenici Education Center North Room 3170. Virtual participation links and feedback forms can be found here.