New Mexico Sun

University of New Mexico

Higher Ed | Colleges & Universities

Recent News About University of New Mexico

  • Researchers from the Museum of Southwestern Biology (MSB) at the University of New Mexico (UNM) have revealed the long-distance migration patterns of the giant hummingbird, a discovery that has also led to the identification of a new species. The study, "Extreme elevational migration spurred cryptic speciation in giant hummingbirds," published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, is the result of an eight-year investigation.


  • A memorial service is set to be held on May 17 for Professor Emeritus Jacob Jerome Brody, fondly known as Jerry, at The University of New Mexico campus. Brody passed away on May 5, 2024, at the age of 95, surrounded by his family at home. He leaves behind his wife Jean, their children Jefferson Lindsey Brody, Jonathan Edward Brody, and Allison Janet Brody, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.


  • The UNM College of Education & Human Sciences (COEHS) recently hosted the inaugural Adaptive Sports Day, an event designed to promote inclusivity in sports for individuals with disabilities. The initiative was spearheaded by COEHS’s Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) program and Sandia Prep.


  • The University of New Mexico (UNM) celebrated the graduation of nearly 3,000 students in a commencement ceremony held at the packed University Arena. The Class of 2024's journey to this moment was marked by unprecedented challenges as they began their college education during a pandemic.


  • Ashley McMains, a nursing student at The University of New Mexico College of Nursing, is not only a testament to resilience and determination but also an embodiment of compassion. Graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), McMains' journey has been punctuated by challenges and triumphs that have molded her into an exceptional individual ready to make significant contributions in the health care field.


  • A recent survey conducted by Advance at the University of New Mexico (UNM) reveals a complex mix of organizational experiences and attitudes among full-time, main campus faculty. The Fall 2023 survey highlighted high levels of work and teaching well-being among faculty, but low levels of physical and psychological well-being. Despite the ongoing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, faculty remained engaged with their work tasks and generally felt supported during the promotion and tenure process.


  • The University of New Mexico Sustainable Space Research Grand Challenge team is working to establish a center of space science-exploration excellence at the university. The team recently hosted an event that brought together industry, lab, and community space partners with faculty from various disciplines and institutions. This was done in an effort to connect all the space-related work happening across New Mexico.


  • Each year, as part of Spring and Fall commencement, in what has become a tradition, the University Communication and Marketing team highlights Lobos, who have inspired us through their exceptional leadership, courage, and perseverance during their time at UNM.


  • In 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, Liz Courts found herself at a crossroads. Her long-standing career and freelance work had taken a hit, prompting her to reconsider her path and set her sights on The University of New Mexico.


  • UNM’s College of Education & Human Sciences (COEHS) is celebrating an extraordinary achievement with its Educational Leadership Program this May. The 2024 spring cohort has set a remarkable milestone, being one of the largest educational leadership groups in the country, boasting 25 different students achieving various accomplishments from UNM’s Department of Teacher Education, Educational Leadership & Policy (TEELP).Educational Leadership Program Associate Professor Shawn Secatero expressed his pride and admiration for the students, stating, "We are honored and extremely...


  • The College of Education & Human Sciences at the University of New Mexico has been commended in a recent state-sponsored review for its teacher preparation programs. The review, conducted by two Teacher Preparation Inspection evaluators (TPI-US) in support of the State of New Mexico’s literacy pilot program, highlighted the college's commitment to structured literacy and evidence-based practices.


  • Martin Vasquez, a recent graduate from the University of New Mexico (UNM), is making strides in the field of Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE). Vasquez, who holds a Doctor of Philosophy in PETE, is passionate about teaching and bringing diversity to the education sector.


  • The University of New Mexico is gearing up for its Spring Commencement ceremony scheduled for May 11, 2024. This year's commencement will see nearly 3,000 students graduating from various degree programs across different campuses. The event will take place at University Arena, The Pit, starting at 9 a.m.In a statement, it was emphasized that "Commencement is a time for celebration, recognition and reflection. It’s a tradition that marks the intersection of the past and the future." The ceremony will honor students receiving doctoral, master’s, bachelor’s, and associate...


  • Monica Etsitty-Dorame, an inspiring graduate, has defied odds and embraced challenges to achieve her dreams. With roots in Diné culture, Etsitty-Dorame embodies the saying, ‘T'áá hó'ájitéégóó, t'éiyá,’ emphasizing self-determination and hard work as key drivers of success.Having worked at Zimmerman Library for 35 years, Etsitty-Dorame's journey to earning a Doctorate in Philosophy in Organization, Information, and Learning Sciences (OILS) is a testament to her perseverance and dedication. Reflecting on her accomplishments, she acknowledges the importance of persistence,...


  • In a crowded room at The University of New Mexico, medical students and their families gathered for Match Day, a significant event for Doctor of Medicine (MD) students. Among them, Ashlyn Black, a Native American student, faced this momentous day not just for herself but also for her community.Speaking proudly in Navajo, Black shared her heritage, "Shi ei Ashlynn Black yinishye. Kinlichii’nii nishli. Kinyaa’aanii bashishchiin. Tachii’nii dashicheii. Kinlichii’nii dashinali." She explained her clans, highlighting her roots and identity within the Navajo Nation.Black's...


  • The University of New Mexico recently hosted its 25th Annual Teaching Excellence Awards ceremony, recognizing educators who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and achievement in their roles. UNM President Garnett S. Stokes expressed gratitude towards the honorees, stating, “We are here today to honor the most creative and committed faculty and leaders that we have on our campus...To recognize the best of our lobo educators...Every day you are changing lives and changing the world and I wanted to be here to celebrate the very best of the very best.”One of the...


  • One University of New Mexico student has been awarded one of the most highly competitive scholarships in the fields of environmental, Tribal public policy, and health care. UNM junior Barbara Gutierrez has been named a 2024 Udall Scholar, one of just 54 scholars chosen from 406 nominations representing 192 institutions.The scholarship facilitated through the Udall Foundation honors the legacies of Morris Udall and Stewart Udall, whose careers significantly impacted Native American self-governance, health care, and the stewardship of public lands and natural resources....


  • Heather Cabos, a soon-to-be Doctor of Pharmacy graduate from The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, is set to embark on a new chapter in her career. Cabos, who will be officially known as “doctor” and “pharmacist” upon graduation, recognizes the importance of her upcoming role. Speaking about the significance of pharmacy, Cabos emphasized the vital role pharmacists play in patient care, stating, “Pharmacists have been the ones to find [patients] and bring them back.”Her commitment to advocating for patients, especially those in need of a voice, has been evident...


  • A new book titled "Wild Carnivores of New Mexico" has been published, shedding light on the diverse species of wild carnivores in the state. The book, a collaboration between Jean-Luc E. Cartron, a research professor at the University of New Mexico, and Jennifer K. Frey, a professor at New Mexico State University, delves into the habitats, behaviors, and conservation of various carnivores in New Mexico.Cartron, the lead author of the book, shared his inspiration behind the project, stating, "The night I saw four mountain lions right in front of me was a magical moment...


  • Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren recently visited The University of New Mexico-Gallup, leaving a trail of inspiration and encouragement for students and faculty alike. Nygren's journey to success and his dedication to education resonated with those present during his visit.UNM-Gallup Chancellor Sabrina Ezzell expressed her gratitude for Nygren's presence, noting, “He was inspiring, and it was great to see his commitment to education." Nygren, accompanied by Ezzell, Dean of Instruction John Zimmerman, and Student Affairs Director Jayme McMahon, explored the campus,...