Spring is a perfect time to celebrate accomplishments and growth and push forward into the next chapter. Often when we look into the future, we reflect on the past and for us that includes our beloved Hodgin Hall.

The historic Hodgin Hall was the first building on campus in 1889 and, suitably, is now the home of UNM alumni. It originally looked like a Midwestern schoolhouse, with red brick and a pitched roof. In 1908, it was remodeled to the Pueblo-style you see today, which set the example for our campus architecture. As an alum you are a member of our Lobo Pack for life and Hodgin is your home. We’re now preparing to welcome new alums to our Pack this May. Activities at the Hodgin U will bring graduating students to what we hope will be their alumni home.

Last fall the Alumni Relations Office staff worked hard with board members, chapters, constituent groups, committees and individual alums to create programming reflective of the constant changing pandemic and needs of alumni. We’ve continued to weave the digital world into our everyday life. For Homecoming — or as we called it Home Leaving — we “unmuted” and gathered to collectively share our experiences as Lobos both virtually and in person. From Green Chile Roasts to our hybrid Lobo Living Rooms, from celebrating the arts at Dîner en Rouge to Happy Hour at Hodgin, from legislative outreach to virtual basketball watch parties, we got the opportunity to connect with alumni across the country.

The Association continues to explore new opportunities and partnerships to connect our alums to UNM and to each other. You have shown us that our Pack is innovative, adaptable and energetic. As we continue to navigate the COVID landscape, we expect the unexpected and move forward with enthusiasm and optimism. We are concentrating on awarding scholarships, recognizing outstanding alums, “getting back together” at events this spring and summer, honoring our Alumni Emeriti from the past three years and welcoming graduating Lobos to the Alumni Association.

Connie Beimer
Vice President for Alumni Relations, UNM
Executive Director, UNM Alumni Association