Our Mission
The Alfonso Ortiz Center for Intercultural Studies promotes equitable partnerships between communities and the University of New Mexico through collaborative programs in the humanities and public anthropology.
“To celebrate diversity we must first understand and respect the achievements, art, music, tradition and values of all cultures.” Alfonso Ortiz
The center is named for the late Alfonso Ortiz, UNM anthropology professor, MacArthur fellow, and native of San Juan Pueblo. He believed anthropology is a mirror for humanity,
and that the barriers between the university and world communities must be eliminated.
Current Program
Elements of the Earth:
Potters from Ohkay Owingeh Past and Present
The Ortiz Gathering Space provides a venue for exhibitions that are co-curated by community members. These exhibits represent the voice of the community and serve to help encourage the conservation of cultural heritage.


