Good afternoon Lobos –

This Thursday, June 19, marks the 160th anniversary of Juneteenth, commemorating the day in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Texas to deliver the news that the Civil War was over and that the Emancipation Proclamation had freed nearly four million people from chattel slavery.

The University of New Mexico is proud to celebrate Juneteenth as one of our observed holidays, giving all Lobos an opportunity not only to celebrate the liberation of our fellow Americans, but also to reflect on the progress that has been, and remains to be made, to ensure that Black Americans have genuine access to freedom, opportunity, and self-determination.

Enjoy your day off—and to those employees who work in critical areas, I appreciate your continued hard work and dedication to our institution and your role in continuing our mission of excellence.

Taking On Substance Use Disorders with Research, Training & Community Outreach

Substance use disorders (SUDs) remain one of New Mexico’s most urgent public health challenges—and a key focus of UNM’s Grand Challenges. At the College of Population Health, researchers like Stephanie Chambers and Verlin Joseph are working to expand access to treatment, reduce stigma, and save lives. Chambers has trained hundreds of students—and even teens in juvenile detention—in overdose first aid and Narcan use, while Joseph studies how social stigma prevents people from seeking care, especially in rural and marginalized communities. From harm reduction to telehealth and provider training, UNM’s public health researchers are helping turn the tide on substance use, offering hope, healing, and dignity to those most affected.

Distinguished Alumna to Lead Center for Southwest Research and Special Collections

UNM is proud to welcome Suzanne Schadl back to campus as the new director of the Center for Southwest Research and Special Collections (CSWR), beginning August 1. A distinguished alum—she earned her doctorate in Latin American Studies here at the University of New Mexico--and nationally respected archival leader, Schadl brings deep experience and a bold vision for the CSWR’s future. She most recently led the Latin American, Caribbean, and European Division at the Library of Congress, curating collections from 83 countries, and from 2008 to 2018, she served as UNM’s Latin American Collections curator, making her return a true homecoming. Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for CSWR, focused on inclusion, innovation, and deeper connections with the communities we serve. Welcome home, Professor Schadl—we’re glad you’re back.

UNM Hosts National Voices on Energy Justice and Economic Transition

UNM’s Just Transition to Green Energy Grand Challenge team recently hosted environmental scholar Mijin Cha as part of its Fueling a Fair and Just Energy Future speaker series. Cha, author of A Just Transition for All, spoke about supporting workers and communities impacted by the decline of fossil fuels and emphasized the need for long-term planning and equitable economic policies. This engaging speaker series reflects UNM’s commitment through our Grand Challenges initiative to drive inclusive solutions for New Mexico’s clean energy future. Up next: a panel discussion, Diversifying Extractive Economies, on June 16 at the UNM Continuing Education Conference Center.

Lobos Set Records, Make History at NCAA Track & Field Championships

What a run! The Lobo Track & Field teams wrapped up the 2025 NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships with historic, record-shattering performances. The men’s team scored a program-best 31 points to finish 5th—their highest team result since 1967—powered by standout performances from NCAA 10K Champion Ishmael Kipkurui, 5K runner-up Habtom Samuel—the highest-scoring male athlete at the meet—and steeplechase All-American Mathew Kosgei.

On the women’s side, Pamela Kosgei completed a rare 5K/10K sweep—just the fifth in NCAA history—with freshman Marion Jepngetich close behind in fourth. The women finished 9th overall with 25 points, their second-highest total ever.

Altogether, UNM brought home eight First Team All-America honors and three NCAA titles, becoming the only non–Power 5 school with both teams finishing in the Top 10. Even more impressive: UNM is the only program in the nation to finish Top 10 in both Cross Country and Outdoor Track this year. Congratulations, Lobos, on an unforgettable season!

Heads Up: UNM Will Test Emergency Systems on Tuesday

At 11:02 a.m. tomorrow, UNM will test its emergency notification systems, a vital part of our efforts to ensure we have mechanisms in place to notify and communicate with the Lobo community in the event of an emergency, making our campus as safe as possible. As part of this test, you’ll receive e-mails, text messages, and—get ready—hear our warning siren. To make sure you’re not caught by surprise, you’ll receive a message through LoboAlerts tomorrow at 10:45 a.m. reminding you of the upcoming test.