Good afternoon Lobos –

The University of New Mexico is experiencing historic momentum this fall, with total enrollment increasing for the fourth consecutive year and first-year student registrations reaching record numbers for an incredible sixth year in a row. Along with other encouraging enrollment trends, these gains highlight UNM’s growing reputation as a destination for academic excellence, opportunity, and community.

At the Albuquerque campus, enrollment has reached 23,955 students—up more than 700 from last fall—while systemwide enrollment climbed to 28,285, an impressive 4.5% increase. Leading the way is the largest incoming first-year class in UNM history, with 3,814 students beginning their Lobo journey. Student persistence also continues to strengthen, with third-semester retention now at 75.56%, reflecting UNM’s commitment to supporting success beyond the first year. Branch campuses also posted remarkable gains, enrolling 4,330 students collectively—a 12.56% increase—with UNM-Valencia growing by more than 50%.

These record-breaking enrollment gains are more than numbers; they represent the growing impact of UNM’s mission to educate, inspire, and empower students across New Mexico and beyond. When it comes to pursuing a college education, I know that students and their families have plenty of options; I continue to be very grateful they are choosing The University of New Mexico. With our energetic campus community, innovative programs, and a steadfast commitment to student success, UNM continues be a place where Lobos can thrive and shape the future.

Safety First: Protecting Health Care Workers at UNM Hospital

At The University of New Mexico Hospital (UNMH), keeping our providers and staff safe is a top priority. As UNMH CEO Kate Becker notes, “Every member of our team deserves to come to work without fear.” To address the rise in violence against health care workers—not just in New Mexico, but nationally— UNMH has launched the Workplace Violence Program, a proactive, collaborative effort among hospital leadership, staff, security, and the UNM Police Department. The program increases awareness, strengthens response systems, and ensures support for anyone impacted by workplace violence. From the Assault Alert notification system to security enhancements and immediate follow-up care for affected employees, these initiatives are all part of UNM’s commitment to creating a safer, more supportive environment.

Lobo Researcher Helps Shift National Standards for Alcohol Treatment


A major milestone in alcohol treatment research has been reached—and a Lobo researcher is at the forefront. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now recognizes reductions in World Health Organization (WHO) Risk Drinking Levels as a valid measure of treatment success in clinical trials. This change, grounded in decades of research, reflects evidence that even modest drinking reductions lead to significant improvements in health and quality of life. Distinguished Professor Katie Witkiewitz, director of UNM’s Center on Alcohol, Substance use, and Addictions, co-authored a landmark JAMA Psychiatry review highlighting the effectiveness of this approach; this milestone reflects not only a national shift in treatment standards, but also the global impact of Professor Witkiewitz’s visionary research and leadership in transforming care for Alcohol Use Disorder.

Celebrate Creativity at ArtsSplash 2025


The College of Fine Arts (CFA) invites the campus community to its popular ArtsSplash, returning Wednesday, September 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the east side of Cornell Mall. This annual event showcases the talent of our Lobo students and highlights CFA’s broad range of programs, while partnering with the Arts Career Fair to connect students with employers from across New Mexico. Dean Harris Smith will kick off the celebration at noon, followed by performances in music, theatre, and dance. With food trucks, a free ArtsSplash 2025 T-shirt, and hands-on opportunities at department booths, it’s a great way to soak up the arts scene at The University of New Mexico.

He Cries, He Crashes, He Teaches: Life with SimMan

At UNM Hospital’s new Critical Care Tower, life-saving technology takes many forms—including one that blinks, breathes, and even cries out in pain. Meet SimMan, an advanced medical manikin gifted by a generous donor, and now the star of the Emergency Department’s Simulation Lab. With realistic features—pupils that react to light, a pulse you can feel, even a tongue that swells—SimMan helps train physicians, nurses, and health sciences students for real-world emergencies. Educators can make his vital signs suddenly plummet, forcing teams to practice everything from communication to rare procedures. The best part? SimMan never complains about long hours—and every simulation means safer, more confident care for New Mexicans.

Get Ready for the Salsa Showdown

As we ramp up toward our annual UNM Gives Campaign in October, which raises funds for the United Way of North Central New Mexico, we invite all students, faculty, and staff to help us find UNM’s favorite salsa by taking part in the annual Salsa Showdown. If you’ve got an old family recipe—or maybe it’s the “famous salsa” you’re always asked to bring to parties—please submit your recipe by 5 p.m. on October 1. UNM catering will prepare the first entries from students, faculty, and staff for a tasting in the SUB Atrium on October 16 from noon to 1:30 p.m. where Lobos can vote for their favorite. The winner will have their current UNM parking permit for 2025-2026 comped by PATS—and better yet, will get bragging rights for creating UNM’s favorite salsa. It’s a great way to get your salsa fix and support a great cause.

Get in Your Orders for Green Chile!



Pre-orders close tomorrow for UNM Alumni’s annual Green Chile Roast, which will take place on Sunday, September 28, at Winrock Town Center Park. The celebration kicks off at 12 p.m. with fresh-roasted and bagged chile in medium or hot, burger meals from Bubba’s 33, exciting prize giveaways, exclusive UNM merchandise, live music from Felix Y Los Gatos, and a family- and pet-friendly atmosphere. Proceeds support UNM alumni scholarships and events connecting local Lobos!