Good afternoon Lobos –
This Friday is the Fourth of July federal holiday--an opportunity to reflect on the enduring ideals at the heart of our democracy—freedom, justice, and the pursuit of a more perfect union. At The University of New Mexico, we’re proud to be a place where those ideals are studied, challenged, and carried forward through scholarship, service, and civic engagement. This July 4th, I encourage our community to honor not only the history of our nation, but also the ongoing work required to ensure liberty and opportunity for all.
The University of New Mexico will be closed on Friday in observance of the federal holiday, so please enjoy your day off and extended weekend. For those employees who work in critical areas, I am grateful for your continued hard work and dedication to our institution and our mission of excellence.
Happy Fourth of July, Lobos. Here's to a safe and meaningful holiday filled with reflection and connection.
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Sánchez, Elder Join Academic Affairs Interim Leadership Team
As UNM enters a period of transition in Academic Affairs leadership this July, I’m pleased to welcome two outstanding faculty members into new interim roles. Rebecca Sánchez, currently associate dean for equity, inclusion and faculty affairs in the College of Education and Human Sciences, will serve as interim associate vice provost for academic personnel beginning July 1, and Cristyn Elder, an associate professor in the Department of English Language and Literature, will join as special advisor for labor relations on July 14. Both bring deep expertise and a strong commitment to faculty success, and I’m grateful to Interim Provost Barbara Rodriguez for her continued vision during this time of change. With strong support from Vice Provost Pamela Cheek and Assistant Vice Provost Christopher Lyons, our Academic Affairs team remains focused on advancing UNM’s mission and supporting our faculty community. Please join me in welcoming Associate Dean Sánchez and Professor Elder to their new roles.
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Five Lobo Faculty Named Distinguished Professors for 2025
The University of New Mexico has named five outstanding faculty members as Distinguished Professors for 2025, the highest academic title the university awards. This year’s class includes four faculty from the Health Sciences Center and one from the College of Arts and Sciences. Professor Sally M. Davis, Department of Pediatrics, is a national leader in community health and Native American wellness; Professor Michelle S. Harkins, School of Medicine, is a pulmonary expert known for her groundbreaking work in hantavirus care and COVID education. Professor Douglas J. Perkins, Department of Internal Medicine, is a global authority on infectious diseases in African children, while Professor Iain D. Thomson, Department of Philosophy, is a renowned philosopher specializing in Heidegger and the philosophy of technology. In the Department of Neurosciences, Professor C. Fernando Valenzuela’s research has advanced our understanding of alcohol’s effects on brain development. Congratulations to our newest Distinguished Professors, whose achievements reflect the depth and impact of UNM’s academic excellence.
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UNM Special Care Dental Clinic Expands Access, Transforms Smiles
For patients with physical or intellectual disabilities, dental care can be daunting—or even inaccessible. That’s why it was such a joy to attend the ribbon cutting and opening of UNM’s Special Care Dental Clinic, which marks a major milestone in the way we provide dental care for our communities. Located in Novitsky Hall, the clinic is equipped with adaptive chairs, sensory-friendly lighting, and stabilization tools—making it one of the few facilities in the region tailored to patients with special needs. Backed by strong support from the state and UNM Health, the clinic offers comprehensive care while also training the next generation of dentists to treat every patient with dignity and respect. This is health care at its best—innovative, inclusive, and rooted in our commitment to equity--and we’re proud to help lead the way in improving oral health for all New Mexicans.
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UNM Astronomers Help Confirm Rare Giant Exoplanet
Lobo astronomers, led by Postdoctoral Fellow Zahra Essack and Assistant Professor Diana Dragomir, have helped confirm a rare giant exoplanet, TOI-4465 b, located 400 light years from Earth. The discovery, published in The Astronomical Journal, was made possible through a remarkable collaboration with international scientists and 24 citizen scientists across 10 countries. This global effort overcame major observational challenges to confirm a planet with a long orbit and unique atmospheric characteristics. It’s also a powerful reminder of how shared passion and scientific cooperation—both professional and amateur—can lead to extraordinary discoveries.
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Blair to Retire from UNM, Begin New Role at University of Kansas
After more than 20 years of service to UNM and New Mexico, Cinnamon Blair, our Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, will retire from the University of New Mexico on September 1 to begin an exciting new role at the University of Kansas. Cinnamon’s impact has been transformational—leading UNM’s rebranding, unifying our messaging, and shaping how we tell our story across the state and beyond. Since joining UNM in 2003, she’s been a trusted advisor, a strategic communicator, and a champion for our mission. While we’ll miss her leadership and heart, we’re proud to see her take this next step with Jayhawk Nation. Congratulations, Cinnamon—and thank you for everything you’ve done to strengthen the Lobo voice and amplify the Lobo spirit.
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Have a great week, and let's go, Lobos!
Garnett S. Stokes
President
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