News from March 2024

School of Engineering selects senior director of development
By New Mexico Sun | Mar 1, 2024
The University of New Mexico Foundation has appointed Mary Wolford as the senior director of development for the School of Engineering, effective March 4. Wolford, an experienced fundraising professional, is returning to a familiar role within the university, having previously served as the senior director of development for the School of Engineering from 2012-2014.In a statement, Donna Riley, the Jim and Ellen King Dean of Engineering and Computing, expressed her excitement about working with Wolford, highlighting her past experience in academic fundraising at UNM. Riley...

Spring Cleanup Time at Bosque Redondo Memorial
By New Mexico Sun | Mar 1, 2024
The Bosque Redondo Memorial at Fort Sumner Historic Site is currently undergoing its annual Spring cleanup, as announced by the site management. This effort aims to prepare the site for visitors keen on exploring the rich history and enjoying the serene surroundings, which now include newborn lambs.According to the site management, the staff is actively engaged in finalizing various interpretive and facility improvement projects, ensuring a more engaging and informative experience for visitors. The site operates from Wednesday to Sunday, welcoming guests from 10 a.m. to 4...

APD charges suspect for 2nd murder, six days after killing ex-girlfriend
By New Mexico Sun | Mar 1, 2024
APD Homicide detectives have charged Alexander Ortiz with the murder of Nicole Maldonado on Jan. 17, 2024, outside the Adam Market on east Central Ave, just six days after allegedly killing his ex-girlfriend, Alianna Farfan. According to the report, Ortiz was upset with Farfan on the day of the shooting, as revealed by friends and family who spoke to detectives investigating Farfan's murder.Detectives from the APD's Investigative Support Unit began searching for Ortiz following the murder of Farfan. It was during this search that Ortiz was identified as a suspect in the...

Santa Fe County to Host PFAS Town Hall for La Cienega and La Cieneguilla Areas
By New Mexico Sun | Mar 1, 2024
Santa Fe County is set to host a Town Hall on Thursday, March 14, 2024, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Santa Fe Community College to address concerns related to Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances (PFAS) in the La Cienega and La Cieneguilla areas. The event aims to provide valuable insights into PFAS for residents, with key stakeholders participating in the discussion.Commissioner Bustamante highlighted the significance of the town hall, stating, "This town hall is an important part of the overall need to listen to community members so that we may collectively address the...

Newly Formed New Mexico Climate Investment Center Seeks First Board Members
By New Mexico Sun | Mar 1, 2024
The New Mexico Climate Investment Center (NMCIC) is in search of individuals to join its inaugural NMCIC Board of Directors. The center, established in October 2023, aims to tackle the challenges posed by climate change while promoting economic prosperity for low-income households and businesses.Albuquerque District 7 Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn, a member of the board's nominating committee, expressed her enthusiasm for the NMCIC's mission, stating, "The NMCIC brings an unprecedented approach to diminish the impact of climate change for low-income households, small...

APD Searching for Suspect in Shooting Death at Hiking Trail
By New Mexico Sun | Mar 1, 2024
ALBUQUERQUE – APD detectives are asking for the public’s assistance in locating Paul Arthur Lopez, 28, who is a suspect in Thursday’s shooting death of Marvin Riley at the trailhead of a popular hiking trail.Witnesses told detectives Riley, 37, was sitting in his car and watching the sunset from the parking lot of the Embudo Trailhead, located at 13921 Indian School Rd., N.E. Witnesses said Lopez fired a single shot, striking Riley. Riley collapsed and later died from his injury.Witnesses identified the green SUV that Lopez was driving as he fled the scene. Detectives...