The economic crisis that rocked our nation and world in 2008 did not bypass the State of New Mexico or the University of New Mexico. We responded to Governor Bill Richardson’s order to state agencies to freeze hiring and reduce operating expenses by five percent. We also held a town hall meeting where the university community came together to pose questions about the crisis and get firsthand information about what I am doing as UNM president.
Like other college presidents, I am deeply concerned about how all this will affect our students, faculty, staff and alumni. The debt crisis is likely to have a significantly negative effect on institutions enrolling economically-challenged students in greater numbers. Families are watching the equity in their homes decline. They see the value of college savings eaten away. Others face the effects of a business slowdown. And across the board, student loans are becoming more difficult to obtain. Students whose families strained to afford college before, now will find it even more difficult to do so.
Despite the challenges we face, we continue to direct our efforts and use resources strategically. UNM will be a key player in helping the state economically. As Sul Kassicieh, Regents’ Professor of Management of Technology and Distinguished Professor of Management, said, “New Mexico has many scientific research operations in the labs and universities. The path to economic prosperity for the state is commercialized use of that technology.” He says that the key for the United States is innovation and that the time is right for young entrepreneurs to explore paths leading to new products and businesses.
Healthy communities and education are irrevocably bound. Project ECHO -- Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes – is a new and innovative model in treating complex chronic diseases in rural and underserved areas of New Mexico. Via technology, ECHO bridges the gap between urban healthcare specialists and providers in rural settings. UNM continues to work to provide quality of care and greater access to specialty care for all New Mexicans.
UNM promotes excellence. We are motivated to provide the best education for our graduates and undergraduates. We are committed to increasing the number of students who take advantage of the human and intellectual knowledge that only comes through study abroad. We are charged to conduct groundbreaking research across disciplines.
In the pages of this report we shine a light on our second year of this plan. We invite you to become part of our story.