Good afternoon Lobos –

I write to you today with a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to our shared values as we navigate the evolving landscape of higher education policy and its implications for The University of New Mexico. I hear the anger, uncertainty, frustration, and concern that many of you expressed in your comments regarding the draft policies that were posted several days ago for review, and on the broader federal mandates that have prompted these discussions and decisions.

Changing our policies doesn’t change who we are or where we are headed. We remain an institution committed to inclusivity, belonging, and opportunity. I hear the accusation that the university is capitulating to external pressures, especially in the current political climate. But adapting to new legal frameworks is not submission; it is a mechanism by which we give ourselves room to identify new paths for meeting our mission and achieving our goals while remaining compliant with federal law.

At UNM, we believe in building belonging—not barriers. This principle guides us as we work to ensure our policies reflect legal compliance and our enduring commitment to inclusive excellence. Again, policies may change, but our culture—one rooted in respect, empathy, and collaboration, where every Lobo feels welcomed and empowered—does not.

Your feedback on these draft policies has been, and continues to be, invaluable. We have followed our established channels for collecting and reviewing comments and are now considering revisions to UAP 2720 (Equal Opportunity and Prohibited Discrimination and Related Misconduct) and UAP 3210 (Recruitment and Hiring) based on that feedback. After revisions are made in the next couple of days, we will take the unusual step of providing the campus community with an opportunity to review and comment on the revisions.

As I have said when responding to previous challenges: we must ensure our doors remain open to everyone. Education is a gateway to opportunity—a path toward personal fulfillment and societal contribution—and it is our duty to keep that gateway accessible for all. Maya Angelou once said, “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” We will not be reduced; we will adapt, innovate, and lead with integrity.

Thank you for your engagement and dedication to this community.  

UROC Showcases the Best of Undergraduate Research 

As a Research 1 institution, Lobo students have regular opportunities to work closely with faculty mentors on groundbreaking research across an ever-widening variety of disciplines. This Friday, April 11, you can learn more about the remarkable work of our undergraduate researchers as part of UNM’s annual Undergraduate Research Opportunity Conference (UROC), a free, campus-wide event to showcase UNM’s student research projects. Organized by the Undergraduate Research, Arts & Design Network, UROC features our students presenting their research in several formats, from traditional 10-minute oral presentations to three-minute elevator pitch competitions and interactive video game displays. Look for presentations in locations around the SUB, beginning at 9 a.m. and running until 3:00 p.m.  

Telling Our Story: The New UNM Newsroom  

At UNM, sharing our story is central to how we inform, engage, and inspire. That’s why our communications teams have reimagined the UNM Newsroom—a vibrant, user-friendly platform showcasing the achievements, innovation, and impact of New Mexico’s flagship institution. Reflecting the spirit of One University, this combined effort between University Communications and Marketing (UCAM) and Health Sciences Center Marketing & Communications (MarCom) offers easy access to news across our campuses—including our four branch campuses. From groundbreaking research to community outreach, faculty excellence to student success, the UNM Newsroom highlights how Lobos are changing the world.

UNM Health Celebrates 2025 Top Docs 

UNM Health proudly recognizes the more than 1,000 dedicated physicians who drive innovation in patient care while training the next generation of health professionals and scientists. This year, we’re especially thrilled to celebrate nine exceptional physicians named to the 2025 list of "Top Docs” by Albuquerque: The Magazine. This prestigious designation highlights trusted leaders across specialties who make a daily impact through compassionate care, clinical excellence, and mentorship. Congratulations to Drs. Abinash Achrekar, Christopher Arndt, Robert Avery, Osman Dokmeci, George Holman, Garth Olsen, Davin Quinn, Elyce Tryon Sheehan, and Craig Wong! Your contributions reflect the very best of our mission at UNM Health.