Spring has arrived in Albuquerque, and with it comes that unmistakable sense of renewal and momentum on the campus of The University of New Mexico. From the fresh blossoms surrounding our newly renovated Duck Pond—you can read more about it in these pages—to the energy of Lobo Day celebrations, this season reminds us of the enduring spirit of our community and the pride we share in being Lobos.

As always, Mirage captures that spirit perfectly. We were honored this spring to welcome Mark Woodbury to campus for a Lobo Living Room conversation that challenged our students to think creatively about leadership, innovation, and the future of immersive storytelling. You’ll also read about the remarkable work of Noé Barnett, whose Route 66–inspired art celebrates the centennial of an iconic American highway—and our relationship to it as Lobos—while reflecting the creative energy fostered at UNM’s “ArtsLab.”

We’re also proud to mark the 50th anniversary of the Presidential Scholarship, a life-changing opportunity made possible through the generosity of the UNM Foundation and alumni like you. This milestone is a powerful reminder that when Lobos invest in one another, we create opportunity that lasts for generations. And as our alumni community continues to grow, I know you’ll enjoy learning more about your latest UNM Alumni Association president, Aprilyn Chavez-Geissler, whose leadership and dedication are strengthening the bonds that connect Lobos everywhere.

As I write to you this spring, I also do so with a full heart, as this will be my final semester serving as president of The University of New Mexico. I am incredibly proud of all that has been accomplished since I arrived here in 2018, whether it’s putting in place our Grand Challenges to define some of our most critical research priorities; making new investments in athletics; working to expand the number of health care providers for our state; advancing our university as a global leader in quantum technology; or helping to guide the implementation of UNM 2040, our long-term strategy for the future of The University of New Mexico. While these things happened during my presidency, none of them happened alone.

I have been fortunate to work alongside an extraordinary leadership team that guides this university with vision and integrity. Our faculty shape our identity through their knowledge, research, and mentorship. Our staff bring the energy and commitment that keep our institution moving forward every day. Our Lobo health care professionals provide compassionate care that touches lives across New Mexico. And our students—remarkable, determined, and inspiring—are the heart of it all, carrying forward the Lobo legacy as alumni who make a difference in their communities and beyond.

Serving as your president has been the greatest honor of my career. While it’s been the toughest job I’ve ever had, it’s also been the most joyful, because we’ve done this work together. I am grateful for your steadfast support, your pride in UNM, and your belief in what this university represents, and I will always be proud to be part of the Lobo family. Thank you for making me a part of such an extraordinary pack.

With appreciation and warmest wishes,

Garnett S. Stokes
President,
The University of New Mexico