Wednesday, August 19, 2026 | Edition #190

Photo Credit: Hyunju Blemel

President Goldstein with resource center staff.

Dear Student Affairs Colleagues,

There is incredible energy in the air as we kick off a new academic year at UNM. From move-in and orientation to welcome events and programs, your efforts are helping create a campus where every student feels welcomed, supported, and connected.

I am pleased to share that Brandon Lorenzo has been appointed interim director of the Veterans and Military Resource Center (VMRC), effective Aug. 17. Please join me in congratulating Brandon and welcoming him to this important leadership role.

As we begin the semester, I know you'll encourage students to take advantage of the many upcoming welcome back events hosted by our resource centers and student support offices. These events are a great opportunity to connect with colleagues, learn more about available resources, and demonstrate the collaborative community that makes UNM such a special place.

Over the course of the summer and the past several days, I have had the opportunity to meet new and returning Lobos and there is one resounding theme… students are excited to be part of the UNM community! Right now, our students are forming new habits, building connections, and developing their sense of belonging.

Research shows that the first six weeks of the semester are some of the most critical for the long-term success of students.

Here are a few simple ways we can make a difference:

• Introduce yourself. A friendly interaction can make a large campus feel more welcoming.
• Show curiosity. Taking an interest in students' experiences helps them feel seen and valued.
• Attend an event that isn't yours. Our visible collaboration reinforces that students belong across campus.
• Proactively connect students with resources. Early referrals can have a lasting impact.
• Follow up. Sometimes a quick check-in is all a student needs to reengage and find their place.

No matter your role, you have the opportunity to shape the student experience at UNM. Thank you for the care, dedication, and support you provide our students every day.

With appreciation,

Eric

Welcome Back Days Events

Campus Communities Day

Wednesday, Aug. 19

Green Chile Stew

Duck Pond

Student Organization Day

Thursday, Aug. 20

Dion's Pizza

Duck Pond

Community Service and Day

Friday, Aug. 21

Duck Pond

Division of Student Affairs

Welcome Back Events

Lorenzo Appointed Interim Director for UNM Veterans and Military Resource Center

Dr. Eric Scott, vice president for Student Affairs, is pleased to announce the appointment of Brandon Lorenzo as interim director of The University of New Mexico Veterans and Military Resource Center (VMRC), effective Monday, Aug. 17.

Lorenzo succeeds Alonzo Maestas, who previously held the position. He has been with the VMRC since 2016, most recently as student success supervisor. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Lorenzo served on active duty from 2009 to 2013 and earned a Master of Public Administration from UNM.

As interim director, Lorenzo will oversee the VMRC's operations, strategic initiatives and student support services, with a focus on advancing the success of veteran and military-affiliated students. He will lead programs that support recruitment, retention and graduation; collaborate with campus and federal partners on veterans educational benefits and compliance; strengthen relationships with veteran-serving organizations; and oversee staff, resources and key initiatives that enhance support for military-connected students across the university.

"Brandon's experience as a New Mexican, a Lobo, a veteran and a dedicated advocate for our students is a tremendous asset to our university," said Nasha Torrez, J.D., UNM dean of students. "He understands the journey many of our military-connected students are navigating and will strengthen the support, connection and resources available to them, positively impacting their overall student experience."

Serving as interim director of the Veterans and Military Resource Center is a role that holds special significance for Lorenzo, both personally and professionally.

"As a veteran, and as someone born and raised in New Mexico and a lifelong Lobo, I take great pride in serving the same university and community that helped shape who I am," Lorenzo said. "Having spent many years working with our military-connected students, I understand how important it is to have a place where students feel they belong and know they have people in their corner."

In his new role, Lorenzo looks forward to continuing to build a strong and welcoming VMRC that supports students, strengthens campus partnerships and remains a place that veteran and military-connected Lobos can be proud to call home.

Savannah Perez Joins DOS as Behavioral Interventionist

Nasha Torrez, J.D., UNM Dean of Students is pleased to announce the addition of Savannah Perez who will be serving in the behavioral interventionist role in the Dean of Students Office.

Perez is a New Mexico native who was born and raised in Albuquerque and brings more than eight years of experience in medical case management and community-based healthcare. As a Licensed Practical Nurse, she worked in community clinics throughout Albuquerque, helping patients navigate complex healthcare needs, connect with critical resources, and access support services.

Working with the diverse populations we serve has provided Perez with a strong foundation in advocacy, care coordination, and relationship building with community partners. She is excited to bring these skills to higher education, where she can continue her passion for helping others overcome challenges and connect with the support they need to succeed.

As part of her new role, Perez will help students navigate challenges by connecting them with campus and community resources and support services. She will also partner with faculty and staff to address complex student concerns and promote student success.

“I am looking forward to getting to know each of you, learning from your experiences, and collaborating to make a positive impact on our students. I am excited to be here and can’t wait to get started,” Perez said.

Perez can be reached via email sperez22@unm.edu or by calling the DOS main line, 505-277-3361.

Save the Date for the Fall All Staff Gathering Set for Friday, Sept. 18

The fall 2026 Division All Staff Gathering is set for Friday, Sept. 18 from 8 to 11 a.m. in the SUB, Ballroom C. All Student Affairs staff are invited to join Dr. Eric Scott for this important event which will provide updates on what's happening in the Division. Please look for a calendar invite from the VPSA account which will serve as your rsvp for the event.