Last year found University of New Mexico athletic director Eddie Nuñez in unprecedented circumstances – and because of his efforts to steer the Lobos through the COVID-19 pandemic – the Mountain West Conference bestowed one of his highest honors upon him.
A press release issued by UNM on Aug. 9 said that Nuñez is the third-ever recipient of the Mountain West Commissioner’s Award since 2003.
“In his time at UNM, Eddie has demonstrated extraordinary leadership, especially in navigating Lobo Athletics through the COVID-19 pandemic,” said UNM President Garnett S. Stokes in the release. “He is a true advocate for the well-being and success of our student-athletes, and has garnered their respect and admiration, as well as that of our coaches, athletics staff, community, and colleagues across the country. I can think of no better individual to receive this prestigious award than Eddie Nuñez.”
University of New Mexico Athletic Director Eddie Nunez
| golobos.com
According to the release, the Commissioner’s Award is “presented to an individual who, through dedicated effort and service, has achieved a singularly distinguished accomplishment during the academic year that has significantly enhanced the Mountain West or a member institution.”
Currently in his fifth season at UNM, Nuñez saw the Lobos win a league-high six titles during a year that was dominated by the pandemic.
The release said Nuñez was instrumental in helping the football team adjust to its temporary home in Las Vegas.
The team not only had a successful season but neither its players nor coaches recorded a single positive COVID-19 case in well over 4,000 tests.
The Mountain West also recognized Nuñez for helping UNM spearhead food and diaper drives to help the community during the pandemic.
