Good afternoon Lobos –

This past week brought the passage of a Congressional budget reconciliation bill that we at UNM—along with our partners across the state and nation—have been closely monitoring for some time. Though the full effects of this legislation are not yet clear, we do expect significant issues to arise that will challenge us as leaders focused on the future well-being of our students, faculty, and staff and our state’s citizens, economy and health. UNM remains committed to our essential flagship university mission, and we are prepared to meet these challenges head on, with resilience, creativity, and collaboration. As we understand more, we will continue to keep you updated.

Lobo Researcher Targets Ovarian Cancer with Precision Therapy

There’s a long way to go in achieving sex and gender equity in medicine—but with some help from a $30,000 grant from the American Cancer Society through the UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center, UNM engineer Olivia Lanier is helping bridge that gap. Lanier, an assistant professor in the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, is exploring a new way to treat platinum-resistant ovarian cancer using drug-loaded nanoparticles delivered via hydrogel. This targeted therapy could reduce harmful side effects—like the vision problems seen in current treatments—by localizing delivery and minimizing exposure elsewhere in the body. Her research is part of a broader effort in her Nanomedicine Toward Health Equity Lab to develop therapies that account for female-specific biology and health disparities. It’s impactful research built for better outcomes—and for improving the lives of everyone.

Sustainable Research Grand Challenges Team Wins Excellence in STEM Award

As part of The University of New Mexico’s Grand Challenges initiative—which tackles complex, real-world problems through interdisciplinary collaboration—the Sustainable Space Research Grand Challenge (SSRGC) team has been awarded the 2025 New Mexico Excellence in STEM Award in Higher Education. The honor, presented by the Air Force Research Laboratory’s NM Tech Engagement Office, recognizes outstanding contributions to STEM education, research, and outreach across the state. With the NASA Exploration Science Forum coming to UNM later in July and a new slate of programming ahead, the SSRGC team continues to position UNM—and New Mexico—as a hub for space innovation, education, and opportunity. Congratulations to our entire Lobo Space Research Grand Challenge team!

Newest Lobo Docs Speaking the Language of Care

For new UNM School of Medicine graduates Alejandra Moran Olivas and Edilberto Estrada-Rivera, speaking Spanish isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. As two of the first to complete the School of Medicine’s Longitudinal Clinical Communication Skills in Spanish program, they’re proving how language can be a bridge to trust, empathy, and better care. The four-year program—one of only a few in the nation—offers immersive training in medical Spanish and cultural competency to serve New Mexico’s large Spanish-speaking population, blending coursework, clinical rotations, and real-world simulations to prepare students to deliver care in Spanish without an interpreter. With only 6% of U.S. physicians identifying as Latino, students like Estrada-Rivera and Moran Olivas are helping lead the way toward a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system.

Lobo Crossing Moves Forward on South Campus

Big news for South Campus! The UNM Board of Regents has approved the transfer of 38 acres of university land to SimonCRE to develop Lobo Crossing—a 363,000-square-foot open-air shopping center that will bring new life to the area. Anchored by a major national retailer and featuring dozens of shops and restaurants, Lobo Crossing supports the South Campus Tax Increment Development District (TIDD) and our long-term vision for a vibrant sports, entertainment, and innovation district. With walkable access to the Lobo Sports Complex and quick access to Gibson and I-25, the project will boost jobs, investment, and community connections. This milestone reflects the power of collaboration and bold thinking. Look for more updates as this transformational project takes shape!

UNM Employees Enjoy 50% Off Popejoy Season Tickets

Love Broadway? Good news: UNM faculty and staff are eligible for big savings on the 2025–2026 Popejoy Presents season. Eligible employees can get up to 50% off subscription packages for two tickets and can choose the full Broadway in New Mexico Series or build their own Ovation package. Among the shows in this season’s Broadway in New Mexico Series are MJ The Musical, Moulin Rouge!, and Chicago, while the Ovation series features performances like Dance Theatre of Harlem and Twilight in Concert. Seats tend to go fast, so subscribe early for the best selection and early access to single tickets.