Wednesday, June 3, 2026 | Edition #187

Dear Student Affairs Colleagues,

After nearly nine years of dedicated service to the University of New Mexico, Dr. Alonzo Maestas has left The University of New Mexico to begin a new chapter as an attorney in his hometown of Las Cruces. I wish Dr. Maestas and his family the very best as they depart having left a meaningful and significant mark on our campus and community.

During his time at the university, Alonzo made a lasting impact supporting military-affiliated students, veterans, and their families, while advancing a broader commitment to student success. During his tenure, UNM consistently earned the Military Times “Best for Vets College” designation, recognizing the institution’s strong commitment to supporting military-affiliated students. This distinction reflects UNM’s comprehensive veteran-focused offerings, including admissions preferences, priority registration, mental health services, career counseling, academic support, VA work-study opportunities, and financial assistance programs. In addition, UNM has achieved Military-Friendly Gold status, further underscoring its dedication to serving veterans, active-duty service members, and their families.

Alonzo has expressed deep gratitude for the colleagues, mentors, and students who made his work so meaningful and noted that, although he is excited for what lies ahead, he has shared that leaving UNM is bittersweet. We thank Alonzo for his service and wish him continued success.

Congratulations again, Alonzo!

With appreciation,

Eric

Summer Assessment Drop-in Hours and

Howl-To Wednesdays

Have assessment questions or ideas you’d like to talk through? Drop-in virtually to get guidance, ask questions, and receive real-time feedback.

Get targeted support on Qualtrics, eSurvey, and Opinio this summer through the Howl-To Wednesday series. Whether you’re just getting started on surverys or looking to refine your skills, sessions will cover survey design best practices, platform tips, and insights on lagging metrics.

Join us for one of our 2026 Summer Assessment Workshops.

Beyond Surveys: Alternative Assessment Methods

This session explores assessment methods beyond traditional surveys, including focus groups, interviews, observations, rubrics, and artifacts. Participants will learn how to gather richer data while reducing survey fatigue and more effectively capturing student learning and program impact.

Data Storytelling in Student Affairs

This workshop helps participants turn data into clear, compelling stories for diverse audiences. Attendees will learn how to present findings to support decision-making, advocate for resources, and highlight the impact of student affairs work.



Becoming an Assessment Champion in Your Unit

This session empowers staff at all levels to take an active role in assessment efforts. Participants will learn how to use data to inform decisions, drive improvement, and build confidence as leaders of data-informed change.

Join Student Affairs for the 2026 Lobolympics Louie Awards on Tuesday, June 9

Join the Division of Student Affairs for this year's Lobolympics Louie Awards Ceremony on Tuesday, June 9, from 3 to 5 p.m. at the UNM Championship Golf Course. Help us celebrate the spirit of excellence, perseverance, and teamwork that defines our Lobo community. This year’s theme honors the dedication of staff, faculty, and students who work together to advance student success, wellbeing, and belonging.

Please join us as we celebrate the increased partnership between the University of New Mexico and Nusenda Credit Union to increase financial literacy in the UNM community!