Kimberly Sanchez Rael, Chair of the Board of Regents at the University of New Mexico | The University of New Mexico
After a competitive nationwide search, Andrew Yazzie (Diné) has been named director for American Indian Student Services (AISS). Yazzie assumes the role following the promotion of long-time director Pam Agoyo (Cochiti, Kewa, Ohkay Owingeh) to executive director for Student Support in July 2023.
With the start of a new Fall semester, Yazzie – who earned both his Master of Public Administration and bachelor’s degree in Family Studies from The University of New Mexico and frequently utilized AISS during his undergraduate years – will now welcome students as its new director.
“I’m thrilled to begin this academic year in the director role and greet new and returning Lobos in this capacity,” he said.
Yazzie credits his fourteen years of service in AISS and the groundwork laid by Agoyo as key preparation for his new role.
“Throughout my time at AISS, I’ve had the opportunity to develop connections across campus every day via partnerships and collaborations and by serving on a number of committees,” he said. “I understand the importance of utilizing Indigenous student development theories to inform the ways in which we support student success and oversee all aspects of AISS advisement and student support services.”
“Andrew is incredibly committed to Indigenous student success and will continue to bring strong levels of advocacy, empowerment, and equitable learning opportunities to the forefront of their UNM experience,” Agoyo said. “He brings a wealth of knowledge and innovative practices to the director role, and I’m extremely excited about being in a position to support Andrew’s insight and vision for advancing American Indian Student Services.”
Dr. Eric Scott, vice president for Student Affairs, expressed admiration for Yazzie’s passion to serve, consistently upheld by deep professional foundations.
“He is a remarkable leader poised to continue an ongoing trajectory of success for AISS,” Scott said.
Yazzie has played a significant role in advancing college transition initiatives, student mentorship programs, leadership development efforts, among others. He also serves as co-chair elect of the NASPA Indigenous Peoples Knowledge Community.
“I’ve had the privilege of creating and sustaining partnerships across a number of tribal communities, education organizations, New Mexico high schools, and middle schools to provide guidance for further developing students' passion for higher education opportunities,” Yazzie said. “I remain committed to leading the University’s Indigenous student recruitment and outreach efforts to ensure our Native student body continues to increase in alignment with statewide tribal population percentages."
Looking ahead, Yazzie plans to work with the AISS team on enhancing programmatic initiatives by identifying new ways to support students. This includes scaling programs and incorporating meaningful assessment strategies. His vision also includes establishing research-focused programs aimed at preparing Indigenous students for graduate school.
