WarHawk Booster Club Raffle to Support Student Veterans

The Warhawk Booster Club is supporting the Student Veterans of UNM "Miles of Coins" event by raffling off a new set of Alien Golf Clubs. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at 1901 Las Lomas on the UNM Campus. Only 50 tickest will be sold and the drawing will be held on Nov. 11 and you don't need to be present to win.

SUB Hosts Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest

(Courtesy UNM Newsminute)

The annual Pumpkin Carving Contest at the Student Union Building is on Friday, Oct. 30 in the plaza level of the SUB atrium. The event is open to all students, faculty and staff. Participants will carve pumpkins from 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Winners will be announced at 1:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for craftsmanship, creativity and originality in both individual and group categories.

Pumpkins, carving tools and refreshments will be provided. Participants should bring creativity, carving skills and friends.

For more information, e-mail: sub@unm.edu.

UNM ARMY ROTC & Rec Services Trick or Trot Run

Don't miss the UNM Army ROTC and Rec Services Trick or Trot Halloween 2.5 mile Fun Run on October 30, 2009 to benefit the Roadrunner Food Bank. Check in just outside the East Entrance of Johnson Center no later than 6:45 a.m. The race around the Main Campus begins at 7 a.m. and prizes will be awardef for best overall male and female as well as 2nd and 3rd place prizes. Cost is a $5 donation or a non-perishable food item. Food and/or entry fee will be collected by the ROTC the day of the race.

Dr. Laura I. Rendon to Speak at Title V Lecture

UNM Students, Staff, and Faculty you are invited to attend to an exciting Keynote Lecture & Open Forum presented by Dr. Laura Rendon entitled "Contemplative Practice and Social Justice in the College Classroom:  A Sensing Thinking Pedagogy. Join us on Thursday, October 22 from 3:30pm-4:30pm SUB LOBO A & B.  A Reception and book signing will be followed immediately after the keynote lecture in the SUB Navajo Lounge.

Dr Rendon is a a national leader in educational leadership and worte a book "Sentipensante (Sensing/Thinking) Pedagogy: Educating for Wholeness, Social Justice, and Liberation (Stylus, 2009).   Dr. Laura Rendón, is currently at from Iowa State University, and will be visitng UNM to help kickoff the 2009-2010 Title V program of events with the theme, Teaching, Learning and Working Across Differences. A newly-designed pedagogic model will be presented—one that is integrative in nature, employs contemplative practice to engage the learner more deeply in the material, emphasizes social justice, and embraces diverse ways of knowing.

For more information visit http://titlevabq.unm.edu/   

CEP Celebrates 40 Years!

The College Enrichment Program at the University of New Mexico proudly invites you to celebrate their 40th Anniversary.

Friday, October 23, 2009 6:00pm - 8:00pm, Student Union Building, 3rd Floor: All Alumni Reunion. Join us for a wine and cheese reception with live entertainment and door prizes.

Saturday, October 24, 2009 12:00pm - 2:00pm, Student Union Building, Ballroom B: Luncheon honoring CEP's accomplishments with a keynote address by Dr. Veronica Garcia, New Mexico Secretary of Education (CEP Class of 1969).

You can register for this event online. For more information, call 505-277-5321 or email CEP at cep@unm.edu.

Discounted rates for hotes and car rentals are available.

For more information visit their website at http://www.unm.edu/~cep/

A Case of the Blues… Or Something More?

Students may have certain expectations about their college career: that they will form life-long friendships, party till dawn, and make memories to last a lifetime.  But for many students, the reality of college falls short of what they dreamed it would be.  Instead, college can be a time of isolation, sadness, anxiety, and stress.  

To help, UNM Student Health & Counseling (SHAC) will sponsor Mental Health Screening Day on Thursday, Oct. 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UNM Honors Plaza (just south of SHAC).  Students will have the opportunity to complete a written self-assessment and meet one-on-one with a mental health professional. Those who appear to need further evaluation will be referred to campus services.  Possible screening questions include:

Have you lost pleasure in things you used to enjoy?
Do you have trouble sleeping or eating?
Do you deliberately avoid social situations?
Does your mood fluctuate between overly “high” and utterly hopeless?
Do you suffer from unexplained aches and pains?

For students with busy schedules, free online screenings are available on the SHAC web site for a range of mental health conditions: http://shac.unm.edu/selfhelptools.htm.  Immediately following a screening, students receive feedback about their scores, along with referral information to campus resources if appropriate. 

Mental illnesses are just that – illnesses.  They are not derived from choice or character flaws.  Individuals with depression or anxiety aren’t able to “pull it together” and get over how they are feeling without treatment.  Mental illnesses are highly treatable, especially if detected and diagnosed early.

If students aren’t feeling like themselves lately, a simple, confidential questionnaire can determine what is wrong and what to do.  For information, call SHAC Counseling Services at 277-4537.

Trying to Kick the Habit?

Join the National Great American Smokeout, Thursday Nov. 19 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the UNM SUB Atrium. UNM students, staff and faculty can join COSAP, EHPP and SHAC for games, information on tobacco cessation resources and free nicotine replacement therapy (gum and patches). Quit kits will be given to those who pledge to quit for 24 hours. For more information contact COSAP at 277-2795 or cosap@unm.edu.

McNair Scholar Defies the Odds

Paul Romo graduated from the UNM School of Medicine and has secured a future in research and medicine. Medicine probably wouldn’t have been his career if he hadn’t participated in the Ron McNair Scholars program.

Romo, the recipient of the 2009 “American Federation for Medical Research Award” for his research on lung cancer, now and fully appreciates the value of his education.

(Paul Romo at the SOM Graduation Ceremony)

Named for Dr. Ronald E. McNair, one of the first African-American astronauts, the program is committed to increasing the number of students in doctoral degree programs who come from low-income and first generation backgrounds, or who are members of traditionally underrepresented groups in academia, specifically African American, Hispanic/Latino, and American Indian/Alaska Natives.

Life wasn’t always so simple or certain for this Ronald E. McNair Program scholar.
Romo grew up a child of divorce, with mom as primary provider. He said both his parents were involved in his life and supportive of him, but never felt he had the guidance to be a successful student. His early encounters with education were so bad that he describes them as “toxic.” “I had trouble relating to the school system,” Romo said.

Because of his inability to connect scholastically and because he watched his mom struggle financially at times, Romo developed a drive to make money that ultimately could’ve steered his life in a different direction.

“When I was eight years old, I used to go to the golf courses and collect golf balls, wash them and re-sell them,” he said. By the time he entered high school, he was preoccupied with ways to generate income. “School always slid to the back burner,” he said. “That drive for money could have destroyed my life.”

In high school he hung out with people who were as disinterested in education as he was. “Several of the people I was hanging out with have since destroyed their lives with drugs and violence and some of them have or are currently are serving jail time,” he said.

In 10th grade when he met chemist Keith Emry who recognized Romo’s potential and inspired his interest in research and medicine. “I am very thankful for people like Keith who re-routed me and helped me,” Romo said.

Romo finished high school and started climbing the higher education ladder. In 2001, at 20 years old, Romo’s college career began as he entered the UNM McNair program. “Education was my salvation. It helped me pull me away from negative influences and discover a new way to make money through academia,” he said.

And, about that same time, he welcomed a son into his life. “I had just started my research when my son, Isaac, was born,” Romo said. “People thought that it would sidetrack my education, but really it did just the opposite and inspired me to do better.”

Determined to make it as a student and dad, Romo stuck with the McNair program, which allowed him to immerse himself in curriculum and a UNM transcript full of A+’s, all while sharpening his career plan.

(Photo: Isaac and Paul)

After completing the McNair program, Romo got a job as an academic mentor for high school students at risk of dropping out. He then became an organic chemistry teaching assistant at UNM, got a research coordinator position at the Center on Alcohol, Substance Abuse and Addictions (CASAA), continued on with his research, and subsequently graduated from medical school.

Now, he plans to follow in his dad’s footsteps—and graduation was the first step in that process. “My dad was a social worker for substance abuse patients at the VA,” he says. “Wanting to emulate him and watching my childhood friends’ lives destroyed by different addictions made me want to help.”

Although his dad wasn’t able to witness Romo’s graduation firsthand, he saw his son pass his medical boards. “My dad passed away right before my graduation from medical school, so I thought about him as I was going through the ceremony,” he said.

Romo quickly compares what his life is as well as what it could’ve been. “Right before I walked on to the stage at the graduation it was like an adrenaline rush. I saw where the paths of my life bifurcated,” he said.

Romo’s plans now include a residency in psychiatry and a fellowship in addiction medicine. “My goal is to gain an appointment at UNM and work in the private sector to apply my big ideas to people from the reservations to people in the urban cities in New Mexico,” he said. His idea is to network with other disciplines in medicine to make a more efficient referral system to treat patients suffering from addictions.

Although he’s earned bragging rights, Romo is grounded, modest. “Things have a tendency of getting very dark and when I succeed, I take a step back and look at the situation and know that it’s not only because of me, but because of God, and that’s what keeps me humble and from being egotistical.”

Student Affairs Summer Events Calendar

Click on the calendar icon

For specific CEOP Summer Camps click on the following links

• June
• July
• August

UNM CAMP Program Ranks Top 10 Nationally

UNM’s College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) earned a top 10 ranking out of its 38 peer programs via the Office of Migrant Education (OME) at the National Association of State Directors of Migrant Education (NASDME) meeting last month.

The OME, the federal agency that provides the UNM CAMP program with funding, uses two Government Performance and Results ACT (GPRA) measures to evaluate CAMP programs.  GPRA 1 measures program effectiveness via the percentage of CAMP program participants completing their first year in college.  Likewise, GPRA 2 measures the percentage of CAMP program first year completers who begin their second year in college.  Both GPRA 1 and 2 also measure efficiency via the cost per student—the less the institution spends on a student the better. 

The UNM CAMP program was ranked in the top 10 on both measures—not bad for a program that was established in 2001 and competes with other programs, such as St. Edwards University in Austin, TX,  that have been around since 1972.

“Being ranked as a top 10 program in the nation, exemplifies that the College Assistance Migrant Program at UNM is headed in the right direction and meeting and exceeding all of its objectives,” says Ivan Olay, UNM CAMP program specialist.

CAMP works to identify, recruit, admit, and enroll migrant and seasonal farm worker students and provide them the academic, social, and financial support to enable them to complete their first year of college.

2009 Mentoring Conference Call for Proposals

“Making the Most of Mentoring in a World of Change,” the second annual mentoring conference will be held November 16-18 on the main campus of the University of New Mexico.  The keynote speaker is Dr. Lois Zachary, president of Leadership Development Services, LLC. 

Abstracts are due by July 31 and can be submitted electronically to http://mentor.unm.edu/conference.html. 

For more information click here.

H1N1 Influenza and Summer Programs Information

The Student Health and Counseling Department (SHAC) has some important information regarding the H1N1 flu and precautions taken for our UNM Student Affairs Summer Programs. To view this important information, click here

New Student Rec Center Site launched!

Please visit http://newreccenter.unm.edu/ for information and photos regarding the new Student Rec Center.

College Readiness Program Opens Doors

“Being a Lobo has always been my dream since I was a little kid,” says Rachel Kindell, a West Mesa high school student who recently received the prestigious Daniels Fund Scholarship.  “Now I just need to figure out what I want to major in.”

Kindell recently participated in the UNM College Readiness Program funded by the Daniels Fund and says that this program opened the door for her to be able to attend college.  “Being self-supportive since I was 16 years old, I didn’t know how I would pay for college,” she says. 

The UNM College Readiness Program seeks to invest in students who demonstrate:  financial need (Pell Grant eligibility); academic performance or promise; strength of character, evidence of leadership potential, and emotional maturity and stability; well-rounded personality, abilities and broad interests; and the potential to contribute to one’s community later in life.  Thirty-five students are selected for a one week residential component during the summer, where they learn about the college process by attending several workshops.

“The workshops focus on financial aid, scholarships, ACT prep, applying to college, student services and team building,” says Derek Maestas, a UNM graduate assistant and program coordinator for the UNM College Readiness Program.  

“We had 32 of the 35 students continue during the school year,” Maestas says.  “We had them fill out applications for colleges, scholarships, dorms and financial aid, and had them participate in an intense ACT preparation to increase their test results.” 

Out of the 32 participants, 100% will attend post secondary education in the fall including UNM, NMSU, George Washington, and Colorado State University just to name a few. 

“This was a really good program,” Kindell says.  “Derek kept us all on the right track, making sure we did everything required and didn’t miss deadlines or forget things.”

Kindell says that every high school senior should take advantage of this program in which the students get to stay on campus and learn first-hand what college life is about. 

“This is something I never expected from a prep program,” she says.  “I was amazed at how supportive the program staff was.  They even told us to call them if we need any help after we get to college.”

Like Kindell, three other College Readiness Program students were also named Daniels Scholars including: Jose Miranda, Rio Grande High School; and Ray Francia, Highland High School and Tiffany Soloman from Estancia.  UNM officials nominated the students for the scholarship and these four are among 44 New Mexican high school scholars to receive the award this year.

The Daniels Scholarship may be used at any two- or four-year not-for-profit accredited college or university in the nation. Recipients must intend to complete a bachelor’s degree.  The scholarship is a supplemental award to all other financial resources, including estimated family contribution, available to the student. After other financial aid resources have been applied, the Daniels Scholarship covers remaining tuition and fees, room and board, transportation, study abroad programs, books and supplies and a variety of other miscellaneous expenses. Students also receive a laptop computer and printer.

Midshipmen Respond to Fire

(pictured L to R MIDN Krista Garcia, MIDN Katherine O’Donnell, 2LT Justin Tabaka, USMC, 2LT Dayton Durant, USMC, MIDN Cameron Allen)

On the morning of April 10, while the UNM Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps Unit were preparing for their combat-conditioning exercises, Garcia spotted a fire in front of a building along Sigma Chi road on campus. Garcia notified Tabaka, who in turn notified the others and the team, which included O’Donnell who was trained as a volunteer firefighter and EMT in Colorado, sprang into action. In a true testament of coordinated efforts on the part of these students, the fire was put out in minutes. Subsequently, residents were notified and the police and arson unit showed up to investigate.

We congratulate these future officers for rising to the challenge to keep calm and help out their community.

Annual Student Affairs Louie Awards A Golden Event 

(pictured l to r picture 1:T orres, Lobo Louie, Schmidly. Picture 2: Torres, Schmidly, Dworak. Picture 3: Schmidly, Hall, Torres. Picture 4: Maresma. Picture 5: Alley, Weissman. Picture 6: Golden Louie)

Complete with Lobo Louie himself--both in person and miniaturized in gold—and a mock champagne toast, the annual Student Affairs “Louie” Awards were held on Wednesday, April 15.

In front of a packed SUB ballroom, UNM President, David Schmidly, Vice President for Student Affairs, Cheo Torres and Student Affairs Fellows hosted the annual recognition reception in honor of those employees who exemplify the very best in providing great service to UNM students. 

After brief opening remarks by Torres, Schmidly welcomed guests and offered a mock champagne toast in which he said, “It’s an honor to recognize each of our colleagues and students nominated for their outstanding service to the University, the Division, and the community.  Cheers!”

The floor was then turned over to the event’s emcee, Richard Ross from Career Services. Over 40 nominations were received for awards given in four categories including: UNM Student Service Faculty Award, UNM Student Service Staff Award, Student Affairs Student Employee of the Year Award, and Student Affairs Employee of the Year.  All winners received a Nambe plaque and a golden Louie. 

Prof. Steve Alley and Prof. Gary Weissmann were both given the faculty award.  Alley was recognized for “being a great supporter of the students in the Psychology department in which he currently teaches four large psychology classes, a Freshman Interest Group class, and an ITV course, yet still finds time to do some advising due to somber circumstances in the department.”

Likewise, Weissmann was recognized as a “leader by giving each student the opportunity to learn from a professional, and for his work with four visually impaired students in his class in which he took the initiative to learn new techniques and created extra resource materials to make sure each student felt comfortable in his class.”

Fernando Maresma from the Latin American Iberian Institute was given the Student Service Staff Award for “being the first person people think of when they hear the words, ‘student service,’ and for actively recruiting students from every corner of the planet by telling them how great UNM is.”

The Student Affairs Student Employee of the Year award went to Joseph Dworak from the Housing and Residence Life Department.  Dworak was said to “have made a great impact in his role as Resident Assistant on the lives of students and staff alike, by virtue of his very high moral standards and remarkable passion and integrity .”

The final award of the afternoon for Student Affairs Employee of the Year was given to Yvette Hall from the Student Government Accounting Office.  Hall’s nominators said that she “seems to take a personal passion and interest in managing 350 different student organization accounts with an approachable and patient attitude.”  Along with the public recognition, the plaque and the Louie, Hall was given a cash award and a paid day off. 

Congratulations to all the winners and nominees who do their best year in and year out to provide the highest level of service to the UNM students and the community by serving as first-rate teachers, mentors, advisors and student service providers.

Office of International Programs Holds International Festival

The Office of International Programs (OIPS) at the University hosted their extremely popular International Festival on Thursday, April 16 outside on the Cornell Mall.

(Belly dancers from India dance for the crowd)

"The International Festival has become a tradition on the UNM campus, and is a vibrant and diverse mix of all the cultures in our UNM community,” says Alyssa Rivera, Administrative Coordinator for OIPS.

"This festival has been very popular in the past, and has enjoyed record attendance from UNM students, students from local primary and secondary schools, international universities, and many community members."

Students from all over the world represented their countries for the UNM community through international food, crafts, country presentations and much more. 

“This festival is always a lot of fun and an event that I look forward to each year,” said Cheo Torres, Vice President for Student Affairs.   

Discover Your Alcohol IQ!

Do you know how to pour a "standard drink?" What a "BAC" is? What "risky" drinking is? The “ABCs” of alcohol poisoning?

Get the answers to these and other questions, participate in an alcohol screening event and be entered to win one of three $20 gift certificates
to Fuddruckers Restaurant this Thursday, April 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the UNM Alumni clock.
Sponsored by Campus Office of Substance Abuse Prevention (COSAP) and Student Health & Counseling (SHAC). Information:
COSAP, 277-2795 or http://www.unm.edu/~cosap/; SHAC, 277-4537. Promo Flyer: http://shac.unm.edu/DiscoverYourAlcoholicIQ.pdf

Airforce ROTC Fundraiser

Please help AIRFORCE ROTC raise funds for their program by joining them at Peter Piper Pizza, 3109 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110 this Thursday, April 9 from 4-8p.m. for pizza and breadsticks. 15% of all food and beverage sales benefit the Airforce ROTC, so eat up and help support this program!

Title V Newsletter Ready for Viewing

Click here for the latest Title V Newsletter to read about:

Title V Faculty Committee Sets Year-Three Goals
Qualitative Study of the Peer Mentoring Program
PLF Piloting Program
Student Spotlights
Calendar of Events

Student Affairs Fellows Launch New Website

The 2009 Student Affairs Fellows have launched a new website with information on the 2008 and 2009 Fellows, documents regarding awards ceremonies and more. Follow this link to view the new page: http://www.unm.edu/~osaf

The Student Affairs Fellowship Program seeks to provide leadership experiences and the opportunity to assist on specific projects as determined by the Vice President for Student Affairs for the 15-month term. This opportunity is offered to mid-level professionals in the Division of Student Affairs.

UNM AFROTC and CAMP Programs to Hold Blood Drives this Month

The UNM Air Force ROTC and the CAMP programs will each hold blood drives at the SUB this month.  The AFROTC will sponsor a blood drive on March 26 from 9am to 1pm in the SUB Ballroom A, and the UNM CAMP program will sponsor its blood drive on March 31 from 9am to 3pm.

Last year the University collected 697 units saving 2091 lives!  Please plan to stop by and help us have another outstanding year.  For more information on donating or to make an appointment, please visit www.bloodhero.com or contact Elizabeth Yslas at 277-4502 or Ivan Olay at 277-5492.

Make Nominations Now for Student Service Awards

Nominations are presently being sought for this year’s Student Service Awards. The award was established to recognize faculty and staff who have made outstanding contributions to student life at UNM. Click here for award criteria. For a nomination form click here.

If you know an individual who is deserving of this award, please complete the nomination form and return it by Friday, March 13 to Natalie Brigance, Office of Student Affairs, Scholes Hall, Room 229, MSCO5 3410, Albuquerque, NM 87131.

On Wednesday, April 15 we will hold a reception at 3:30 p.m. in the SUB (Ballroom A) to award the winner(s) of this award, and winners of some additional student and staff awards from within the Division of Student Affairs. The purpose of the reception is to honor members of the UNM community who have contributed significantly to the general well being of the University.

Student Affairs Recognition Awards

It’s time once again for the annual Division of Student Affairs Recognition Reception.  The employee awards are given in three categories:

• Student Affairs Employee of the Year
• Student Affairs Student Employee of the Year
• Student Services Award – For UNM Faculty and Staff

Deadline to nominate an employee for these awards is Friday, March 13 by 5pm.  Winners will be announced at the reception on Friday, April 10 in the SUB. 

Click here for the nomination form and more information.

Other questions?  Please contact Natalie Brigance at 277-0952.

Burciaga Earns Air Force ROTC Honor at Nation's Capitol

UNM AFROTC Cadet, Jesus Burciaga was recently the recipient of the Marshall-Henry “Hap” Arnold award which recognizes the number one graduate from a detachment based on integrity, leadership, scholarship, physical fitness and overall performance.
Along with this recognition, Burciaga was granted the prestigious honor of attending the 2009 Marshall Arnold AFROTC Award Seminar representing Detachment 510 and the University of New Mexico. 

(pictured: Burciaga and Retired General Jumper)

"It is great to send our Top Cadet to represent UNM and the AFROTC program at a National Event.”  Lt. Col. Raul Garcia said.  “It was amazing to hear positive feedback from Cadet Burciaga regarding the ease of access to top DoD (Department of Defense) and Air Force officials and it will greatly benefit him in the years to come."

The seminar recognizes outstanding senior cadets from all college and university campuses that have AFROTC detachments.  Cadets were treated to a key note address by Air Force Chief of Staff, Gen. Norton Schwartz, who provided insight on the Air Force to these cadets who will begin their careers as second lieutenants in the fall.

The cadets were given the opportunity to choose five of the ten roundtable discussions offered including discussions of religion and ethnicity, unmanned aerial vehicles, homeland security, Asian Pacific Region, Iraq and others.

Each table was headed by subject matter experts including high ranking officials and civilians.  Burciaga felt fortunate to be at a table with former Chief of Staff, General Jumper who talked about possible technology for unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as how the cadets as future Lieutenants would fit into the Air Force. 

“As a cadet in Air Force ROTC, we learn the names and faces of so many important officials, mainly the chain of command, but rarely are we expecting to converse on a personal level with any of these people,” Burciaga says.  “And, let me tell you, they are amazing people!”

Burciaga says that this trip to the nation’s capitol is one he won’t ever forget and feels very fortunate for the opportunity.  “I am thankful for the trip and these leaders and I am so proud to have represented UNM as a cadet and student.”

Torres Speaks to 7th Graders about Curanderismo

Last Friday, Dr. Eliseo “Cheo” Torres visited Wilson Middle School to talk to Ms. Sander’s 7th grade social studies class about curanderismo or Mexican folk healing.  

“It’s  been a while since I’ve talked to kids that age,” Torres says, “These were bright, attentive students, many with personal knowledge about curanderismo.”

The class had recently completed curanderismo projects and many questions about this area of study.  Torres said, “I also appreciate the opportunity to visit with younger students to get them thinking about higher education and career opportunities. We would like to see these 7th graders at UNM in 2012.”

Curanderismo comes from the Spanish word curar, which means to heal, and is practiced throughout Mexico, Latin America and the United States southwest. Practices vary depending upon regional influence. In other words, how it is used in Texas will differ from ways in northern New Mexico with its strong Native American influences.

SHAC and Afghan Student Association Sponsor Upcoming Marrow Donor Drive

The Afghan Student Association is sponsoring a Marrow Donor Drive on March 3rd and 4th from 10am to 2pm at the UNM SUB Ballrooms B&C. One UNM Physical Therapy student, Melissa, is in need of a donor! Melissa was diagnosed with AML and Mastocytosis and is hopeful that this drive will produce a match for her. This drive will help dozens of other people in need of marrow donors. For more information click here. For more information on this drive, contact nfarhad@unm.edu or 505.715.9668.

Joining the National Marrow Donor Program Registry is simple and has the following requirements: You must be between the ages of 18 and 60, be willing to donate to any patient in need and meet the health guidelines. For more information contact avargas@nmdp.orgor call 1-800-Marrow-2.

AFROTC Takes Gutierrez to New Heights 

The career of Dr. Tim Gutierrez, Associate Vice President for Student Services hit a new high when he took over the pilot seat and flew some of the Air Force ROTC squad on a simulated trip to the Jemez Mountains and back.    

(photo: CV22 Flight Simulator)

The simulated mission took place on Jan. 26 at Kirtland Air Force Base at the request of Air Force Lt. Col. and UNM AFROTC Commander, Raul Garcia.  The simulator is used as part of the training program for the CV-22 air crew, and one has to have special permission and authorization to request its use.

The reason for this particular request was two-fold with the main reason being to honor the hard work of AFROTC sophomore, Karissa Feltman, who was recognized as the outstanding cadet for the Fall semester.  “Karissa is a super cadet and person and will be a great Air Force officer,” Garcia says.   

The second reason being the fact that this is a great opportunity to show Dr. Gutierrez what the AFROTC is all about and the caliber of students it and the Division of Student Affairs produces.  

“Since Dr. Gutierrez oversees, the Air Force, Army and Navy ROTC programs, I thought it would be a good way to expose him to what the students will be exposed to after they graduate,” Garcia says.   

The simulator is a large fiberglass box measuring approximately 10’ tall, 15’ wide and 15’ long and has two seats in the front for the pilot and co-pilot and a place for the instructor in the back.  The instructor has access to buttons that can change the weather including adding fog and sandy conditions and also gives the instructor the ability to fail systems. 

 (photo: Dr Gutierrez, Cadet Karissa Feltman, Mr. Kevin Churchill (Lockheed-Martin Contract Instructor), and Lieutenant Colonel Mike McKinney, CV-22 Instructor Pilot)

“It feels exactly like it would if you were flying in a real helicopter,” Garcia says.  

Feltman and Gutierrez boarded the simulator and took flight under the supervision of Kevin Churchill, the Lockheed-Martin Contract Instructor, and CV-22 Instructor Pilot, Lt. Col. Mike McKinney.  Gutierrez had a great time on the mission and realized the significance of the experience that students get usingthe simulator.  “This is a fantastic training and learning tool,” he says.  “And it was also a lot of fun.” 

Garcia agrees, “The simulator gives students a near perfect environment to learn in and the ability to fail, dust themselves off and try it again,” he says.  “Even I was amazed at just how close the simulator is to the actual airplane.” 

The flight originated at Kirtland AFB, flew to the Jemez Mountains, then down the Rio Grande/Rio Puerco Valley and was under the control of Gutierrez and Feltman until it was time to land.    McKinney took over the pilot’s chair for the final descent which finished with a landing on the 50 yard line of University Stadium.   

Feltman who had never been in the simulator before said that the experience confirmed the fact that she would like pursue a flight career with the Air Force.  As for Gutierrez, I think he’ll probably stay grounded right where he is. 

Student Affairs Names New Director of Recreational Services

The Division of Student Affairs is happy to announce that Roger Wrolstad will take over the helm as the new Director of UNM Recreational Services.  Roger is no stranger to UNM or the Recreation Center.  He began his career with the University as a grad student in the Sports Administration Program in 1991 and shortly after that became the Manager of Johnson Center, a role he held until he assumed the Director's position. 

With all the talk of a new Recreation Center at UNM, Roger accepts the position at an interesting time and views possibility of a new Center as both daunting and exciting.  “It will require significant effort by a wide variety of individuals,” he says.  “But I am confident that we are up to the task.”

In his new position, Roger will hold many of the same responsibilities he did in his managerial role, with some slight differences.  One of those differences is the merging of two Recreational Center employee teams in anticipation of making Center operations run more smoothly. 

“The new position challenges me to continue the exceptional support the Recreational Services Department has provided the University Community,” he says.

Garcia Receives Meritorious Service Medal

Lt. Colonel Raul V. Garcia, Detachment Commander for the UNM Air Force ROTC, was recently recognized by the U.S. Air Force for his outstanding service to the United States via the “The Meritorious Service Medal.”

The medal is a prominent honor awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who distinguish themselves through outstanding non-combat meritorious achievement or service to the United States.

When Garcia was notified he was being awarded the medal, he was given the choice of where he wanted to receive the medal, Kirtland Air Force Base or the University of New Mexico.  Garcia chose the University where he could accept it in the presence of UNM Air Force ROTC staff and students.   

“I was honored when he called and asked me if I would present the medal to him on the UNM Campus,” Capt. Ron Kennedy from the UNM Navy ROTC said.  “The fact that he chose to receive the award at UNM shows the great commitment Raul has for his students.”

Armed with medal and certificate in hand, Kennedy waited while the class filed in for the first order of business that day.  Garcia stood in front of the AFROTC class and listened to Technical Sergeant Jennifer Padilla as she read aloud the official list of accomplishments Garcia achieved while serving at Kirtland Air Force Base from Mar. 2005 to Jan. 2009.

 “Colonel Garcia superbly managed 140 flight instructors and evaluators, executing 4,084 flying hour program to train over 550 MC-13P/H and HC-130P students in 11 crew positions for 4 major commands,” the certificate reads. 

 “He instructed 47 students and volunteered for deployment to Afghanistan where he was the operations officer for police development.  He led flying operations for the search and rescue of downed aircraft on four different occasions, saving two lives,” it reads among other accomplishments.   

 Following the reading, Capt. Kennedy pinned the medal on Lt. Col. Garcia and presented him with the framed certificate and Garcia addressed the students, “You bloom where you’re planted,” he said.  “I encourage all of you to do the same.”

 The Division of Student Affairs congratulates Lt. Col. Garcia on receiving this prestigious award!

Congratulations Lawrence Roybal!

The Division of Student Affairs would like to congratulate Lawrence Roybal on his promotion to Executive Director of ENLACE!  Lawrence previously served as the Executive Director in an Interim capacity and was praised for his work with ENLACE from regions all over our state.  According to Terry Babbitt, Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management in a written statement, Lawrence’s passionate commitment to ENLACE and reputation as a positive collaborator and genuine long-term interest in moving ENLACE forward made him the best person for the job.  Please join us in congratulating Lawrence!

Attention Housing Residents!

Don't forget that housing inspections are next week!

It's that time of the semester again! Housekeeping Supervisors will be checking your apartments durint the third week of February.

Click here for more information and rules.

Taos High School Students Dominate Student Leadership Positions at UNM

Five Taos High School graduates have been elected to key undergraduate student government leadership roles at the University of New Mexico via the Associated Students of the University of New Mexico (ASUNM).   Alex Riebli, a 2005 graduate of Taos High, is currently serving as the student body vice president, and leadership runs in the Riebli family.  Alex’s sister, Zoe Riebli, a 2007 graduate is serving as a student senator.  Anne and Jonathan Riebli are their parents.   Lawrence Bustos, a 2006 graduate, and son of Joseph and Lisa Garcia was recently elected to the undergraduate student senate and  2007 graduates, Lazaro Cardenas Jr., son of Lazaro and Ramona Cardenas, and  Ana-Alicia Romero, daughter of Bob and Alice Romero, join Zoe Riebli in serving as student senators.  In addition to their current student government positions each is also involved in a variety of other campus activities.  (pictured : seated, Alex Riebli. Standing from left to right, Ana-Alicia Romero, Zoe Riebli, and Lazaro Cardenas Jr. Not pictured Lawrence Bustos).

“I’ve been extremely impressed by the quality of student leaders coming from Taos over the past few years,” says Debbie Morris, Director of the Student Activities Center.  “Their leadership and participation has proven invaluable to the University.”

Enroll Now for OC TH 499/690: Introduction to Mexican Traditional Medicine in Oxaca, Mexico for the 2009 Summer Session!

This course offers undergraduate and graduate students a cross-cultural learning opportunity focusing on Mexican traditional medicine.  In addition, there is an emphasis on learning Spanish.  Over 11 days in the Mexican state of Oaxaca, participants will learn about traditional (or some may call it nontraditional) approaches to health in both rural and urban settings in Oaxaca.  Students must have a valid passport and must be in good physical condition for travel and adventure.  This course is open to students from all programs and disciplines.  One of the strengths of the course is interacting with a group of interdisciplinary students. The class will be taught by Dr. Terry K. Crowe , Professor UB+NM Offupational Therapy Graduate Program and Dr. Eliseo "Cheo" Torres, Vice President for Student Affairs in collaborarion with several Oaxacan traditional healers.

For a complete copy of the course syllabus,click here.

Don't Forget that Meal Plan Change Week is Jan. 26-30, 9:00am-4pm. click here for more information.

Ronald E. McNair Program to Hold Induction Ceremony

UNM’s Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement and Research Opportunity Programs will hold an Induction Ceremony for 33 UNM sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have achieved academic excellence at the University and who are committed to pursuing graduate studies. The ceremony will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2009 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in SUB Ballroom C 

Nineteen juniors and seniors will be inducted into the Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program and include Alejandro Barraza, Natalie Blea, Becky Castillo, Brianna Chavez, Eudora Claw, Julian Davis, Lorine Duran, Arturo Fiero, Frankie Flores, Dina Gilio, Katrice Grant, Charlene Johnson, Tamara Martinez, Ian McMaster, Oscar Munoz, Eva Padilla, Carlos Parada, Harold Price, and Shayna Rosenblum. 

Fourteen sophomores, juniors, and seniors will be inducted into the Research Opportunity Program and include Mabel Arellanes, Marshall Caraveo, Sofia Chavez, Thomas Chavez, Julianne Flores, Henry Jake Foreman, Delana Gonzales, Tim Green, Mercy Herrera, Johnny Kenton, Jennifer Moreland, Huynh Pham, Cynthia Rivera, and Tim Serna. 

Speakers at the ceremony include Dr. Eliseo Torres, Vice President of Student Affairs; Dr. Suzanne Ortega, Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs; and Tim Gutierrez, Ed. D., Associated Vice President of Student Services.

 

The Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement (McNair) and Research Opportunity (ROP) programs seek to produce scholars and researchers who will more accurately reflect the growing diversity in intellectual perspectives, life experiences, and cultures in academe. While all students in both programs must be committed to pursuing graduate studies, the McNair Program’s focus is on students committed to completing doctoral studies and ROP’s focus is on students committed to completing a masters degree. Both programs provide students with the skills and tools necessary to complete undergraduate research with a UNM faculty mentor and gain acceptance into a graduate program.

 

For more information about both programs, please call 277.5491 or visit the following UNM website: http://mcnair.unm.edu

 

You're Invited to a Conversation on Institutional Transformation and Diversity

Staff, Students, and Faculty are invited to an exciting conversation on Institutional Transformation and Diversity - on Thursday, January 29 with special guest Dr. Nancy Barceló.

Dr. Barceló has been hailed as a visionary leader for transformational change around issues of equity and diversity. Once the only Chicana student at the University of Iowa, she has since become one of the nation’s most highly respected authorities on equity and diversity in higher education. She currently serves as the Vice President and Vice Provost for equity and Diversity at the University of Minnesota.

A student forum will be held from 10-11am  in the Student Union Building (SUB) Acoma A&B Rooms followed by a faculty luncheon from 11:30am-12:30pm in the SUB Lob A&B Rooms (rsvp needed).  An Open Forum will be held from 3:30-4:30pm and refreshments will be provided. 

This event is being sponsored by: VP Office for Equity and Inclusion, Office of Support for Effective Teaching, and Title V-main. For more information, please call Nicolas Cabrera at 277-1481 or 277-1723

For information flyer clickhere

 

Sanchez Graduates from UNM with 4.0 GPA and Rank of 2nd Lieutenant

About 1,550 University of New Mexico students will graduate on Friday, Dec. 19. Before the graduates gather at the Pit for the 6 p.m. ceremony, however, the ROTC programs host a commissioning ceremony for their graduates. Among those graduating from the Army ROTC program is Luis Cadet Luis Sanchez, who, will be commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Infantry, Friday, Dec. 19 at 9:30 a.m. in UNM Continuing Education.

He will attend training at Ft. Benning and then be assigned to Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. He is graduating with a degree in Criminology with a 4.0 GPA. He finished 15th in the nation on the Army ROTC national order of merit. He is an exceptional athlete as well. He graduated from West Mesa High School and is an ABQ native.

He served as a soldier in the NM Army National Guard throughout college. He accomplished all of this even with the adversity of his father’s death early in his college career,” said Lt Erik Sevigny.

After graduation, Sanchez will continue to work for Army ROTC for a few months.

For more information, contact Erik Sevigny, Lieutenant Colonel, US Army, Professor of Military Science, University of New Mexico, Office: (505) 277-2274, rsevigny@unm.edu.

Media Contact: Carolyn Gonzales, (505) 277-5920; e-mail: cgonzal@unm.edu

Two Presidents Meet in Mexico with an Education Goal in Mind

GUANAJUATO, MEXICO -- President Schmidly recently traveled to Mexico to meet with former Mexican president, Vicente Fox at the new “Centro Fox” De Estudios, Biblioteca Y Museo Vicente Fox Quesada (Education Center, Library and Museum), which is a non-profit, civic organization located in Guanajuato state, just outside the capital city of Leon.

During his visit, Schmidly spent time with Fox and former first lady, Marta Sahagun De Fox discussing the plans and purpose of the Center as well as a possible collaboration with UNM.

“Because of our ranking as a Carnegie Very High Research Hispanic Serving Institution,” Schmidly mentioned, “The opportunities for UNM students and faculty to do research and exchange classes at the Center will enhance the mission of UNM.” 

The new Center which is slated to be completed in Jan. 2009, includes the first Mexican Presidential Library in honor of former Mexican president, and will allow UNM students, faculty and researchers the opportunity to study many areas related to Latin American studies and programs. 

Once completed, it will house the latest in technology and will collaborate with a number of universities from throughout Latin America and the United States.  According to Fox, the Center will focus on cultural values in Economic, Human and Social Development, Politics, Public Administration and Foreign Affairs.  The four strategic units located in the Center include:  Analysis and Research Institute, Educational and Consultant Center, Informative and Documentation Center and Cultural and Museum Center. 

Before he left, Schmidly also extended an invitation to Fox and the former first lady to spend a week at the University of New Mexico speaking to students and community groups about his experiences as president of Mexico and the reform policies he was able to implement during his tenure.

The next step is for Schmidly and Fox to sign an agreement sealing the deal on their collaboration efforts.

Student Activities Center Hosts International Social Hour

On Nov. 6^th, the Student Activities Center hosted a social hour for international students in conjunction with the Office for International Programs, the Student Union Building and  Chartwells Dining Services. 

Among those in attendance at the event was Dr. Eliseo Torres who helped out pull out the winning ticket for one of the door prizes.

The evening, which highlighted New Mexico, featured salsa, chips, piñatas and ristras, and even had a demonstration by SUB Chef Rick Kulp on seven ways to prepare salsa.   Students were encouraged to take these recipes home and make them for their friends and family.

(Dr. Torres helps Laura Kelley pull the winning ticket)

RONALD E. McNAIR & RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY PROGRAMS NEWS

McNair & ROP Scholars Embrace the Spirit of Giving

Armed with text books, study notes, and laptops as finals and the holidays approach, Ronald E. McNair (McNair) and Research Opportunity Program (ROP) scholars are soliciting donations for, and collecting, school and art supplies and coloring, activity and reading books for the children (ages 4 to 12) of Albuquerque S.A.F.E. HOUSE residents. McNair and ROP scholars selected the non-profit organization because of its mission of “empowering survivors of intimate partner domestic violence and improving the way New Mexico responds to this violence.” Established in May of 1976, the Albuquerque S.A.F.E. HOUSE provides “temporary shelter, services, and education for women and their children who are in a state of crisis as a result of physical, sexual, emotional or economic abuse, and to assist in developing other services to meet related needs of women as the Association may see fit in the future.”

McNair and ROP scholars endeavor to improve the lives of Albuquerque community members through this effort and encourage the UNM community to get involved in this and other projects this holiday season. These enriching experiences foster social and community building skills while providing hope to families. Donations will continue to be accepted through Friday, December 5, 2008 and can be dropped off in the McNair and ROP offices in Mesa Vista Hall, Room 3039. For more information about this project and/or the McNair and ROP programs, please contact Carolina Aguirre, Program Specialist, at 505.277.5491.

To see how you can help the Albuquerque S.A.F.E. HOUSE directly, visit their website at http://www.wca-nm.org/index.htm or call 505.247.4219 to view their everyday and holiday wish lists.

Recruitment Continues for 2008-2009 Co-Horts

The Ronald E. McNair Post-baccalaureate Achievement Program and the Research Opportunity Program are currently recruiting students for the 2008-2009 cohort interested in pursuing graduate studies.  Program eligibility criteria can be found at http://www.unm.edu/~mcnair along with the application form. Both programs provide undergraduate students with the tools and skills necessary to conduct academic research for successful achievement of a master and/or Ph.D. degree.

Throughout the academic year, students accepted into either program attend skill-building seminars on the research process, graduate school application procedures, and personal and professional presentations to ensure achievement of academic goals. Students also receive academic advisement, tutoring assistance and opportunities to participate in cultural events within the UNM and surrounding communities. For the 2009 summer semester, students will receive $2,800 to attend a research methods course to aid them in completion of a summer research project and a GRE prep course. Students will have the opportunity to travel to various universities/colleges to present completed research and to visit graduate studies programs. Applications can be submitted to the program staff in Mesa Vista Hall, Room 3039. For more information about the programs or eligibility requirements, please call 277.5491.

UNM Students Win at Model Organization of American States (MOAS) 

For the past 19 years, the Model Organization of American States (MOAS) has gathered in a general assembly each fall to give university students a crash course in international policy making. 

T his year, with the encouragement of UNM President David Schmidly, Dr. Eliseo Torres, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dr. Juan de Dios Pindea, Director of the Special Office of Latin American Initiatives, the University of New Mexico participated in the MOAS for the first time, and its inaugural participation proved rewarding!

The UNM team (pictured left) was made up of seven students from the World Affairs Delegation (WAD) and the Special Office for Latin American Initiatives (SOLAI) including:  Mikal Davis, Phillip Kay, Julio Acosta, Jesica Andrews, Alyssa Rivera, Sofia Ledesma and Alexandra Pelayo attended the MOAS representing the delegation of Guatemala. 

Led by Head Delegate, Pelayo, the group began meeting over a month ago to prepare, research and perform simulations in order to gear up for the event, and even took advantage of a Parliamentary Workshop offered by Baylor University in Waco, TX, to ensure they were ready. And, in the end, their efforts paid off.   

The group participated in five different committees pertaining to human rights, juridical and political affairs, hemispheric security, and migration issues and walked away with two awards.  Davis was presented the Outstanding Delegate Award on Hemispheric Security and Kay won the Distinguished Delegate Award on Committee for Juridical and Political Affairs.  

The MOAS events began with a plenary session of the general assembly, where the UNM group presented a Guatemala position paper, followed by committee sessions in which each delegate presented with the purpose of getting their resolutions passed to the general assembly for acceptance.  The events capped off with key note addresses from the President and Secretary General of the Moas and the President of the World Affairs Council of San Antonio and the Ambassador and Ambassador-in-Residence of the University of Texas in Austin.   

The MOAS is working to change attitudes among citizens of North, Central, South America, and the Caribbean by providing a program in which cultural sensibility and curriculum enhancement are realized. By representing member states of the OAS, students in each delegation gain a broader and clearer understanding of the capabilities and constraints that shape the foreign policy of each member state.

A Latin America Network in Government and Public Policy conference will take place in Mexico City in September 2009. Pineda will serve as Chairman of the Conference which will host a Model of American States Organization with several Universities from Latin America. For more information about MOAS or the 2009 Conference please visit www.unm.edu/~solai

 

Bowen Takes Over the Helm as Air Force ROTC Director

Lt Col Ray Bowen has  taken over as the Director of UNM Air Force ROTC and Commander of Aerospace Studies.  He began his time with UNM AFROTC on Oct. 10, and  is responsible for the development of the future leaders of America’s Air Force.  He works closely with UNM’s other Cadre and staff members to instill values of honor, courage, commitment and life-long learning for students participating in the UNM ROTC programs. 

Bowen hails from Air Force ROTC Southwest Region Headquarters, where he serves as the Deputy Commander.  He oversees 36 ROTC detachments, 250 officers and NCO’s.  In addition he manages the Region’s Field Training Program as well as the Awards and Decoration Program in addition to many other Air Force Programs. 

 

UNM Homecoming Was a Treasure Chest of Fun

 

Themed as “It’s A Lobo’s Life for Me,” the annual University of New Mexico Homecoming festivities brought out the pirate in the UNM community.  It has been a long-standing UNM tradition to celebrate Homecoming week with many exciting activities for students, alumni and staff alike, and this year’s events proved to be a swash-bucking good time. 

Running from Sept. 29 to Oct. 4, participants were treated to pirate-themed events, such as a campus department decorating contest, alumni luncheon and the annual cherry/silver games. 

One could argue however, that the most exciting event of the week was the annual Homecoming football game.  Not only were the Lobos victorious over the Wyoming Cowboys, the most thrilling part of the evening was the announcement of the 2008 Homecoming court.  This year’s court consisted of students from various towns around our state including, Dexter, Morarity, Los Lunas, Roswell, Rio Rancho and Albuquerque.

The UNM Division of Student Affairs is proud to recognize this year’s court.  The 2008 UNM Homecoming King is Nas Manole, a senior from Albuquerque who attended Sandia Prep High School.  The 2008 Homecoming Queen is Aileen Currier, a senior from Rio Rancho who attended Rio Rancho High School.  The 2008 Homecoming Court is made up of Rachel Ann Dautenhahn, a senior from Albuquerque and graduate of Moriarty High School.  Marlene Sanchez, a senior from Dexter, New Mexico who attended Dexter High School.   Orlando Obeso, a Junior from Roswell who graduated from Roswell High School.  Sean N. Kesani, a Senior from Los Lunas who graduated from Los Lunas High School. 

We would like to thank all of these students who truly make us proud to live the Lobo life!

Reserve your Spot for the NMASAP Symposium!

Connectivity: Preparing for the Future

November 13 - 14, 2008 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque Campus, Student Union Building

Today’s college students’ needs are more diverse than ever in the history of higher education. We invite you to participate in the 2008 New Mexico Student Affairs Symposium to share and gain knowledge to increase the recruitment and retention of your students.

UNM Well Represented at the 2008 Leadership Awards Banquet

UNM students and employees shared the spotlight at the 2008 Leadership Awards Banquet on Oct. 10, and the UNM Student Affairs Departments played a big role in ensuring the evening’s success.

Among those participating in the event was UNM Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Eliseo Torres, who opened the evening and welcomed guests; UNM Title V Director, Jennifer Gomez-Chavez who also serves as the president of De Colores, Inc. served as the banquet’s co-host along with Alex Gonzalez, from UNM Enrollment Management who also serves as vice president of De Colores, Inc.

“This is an exciting evening,” Gomez-Chavez remarked.  “We are so thrilled to have all of you here and to be able to celebrate so many spectacular people in our community who truly make a difference in our lives.” 

Among those UNM students honored were Mabel Arellanes (pictured left with award), who received the Undergraduate Student Award.  Originally from Chihuahua, Mexico, but raised in Santa Fe, Arellanes is a UNM Junior majoring in Professional Writing and Political Science.  She was honored for her dedication to ENLACE over the past 6 years and her belief that education is crucial to improving lives. 

 Rosalba Adrina Rincon and Christopher Ramirez were each awarded the Graduate Student Award.  Rincon, born in Venezuela,  and was honored for her dedication to the Big Brothers Big Sisters program and her commitment to her education in which she maintains a 4.04 GPA.  

Ramirez is the current president of the UNM Graduate and Professional Student Association and is employed as a graduate assistant for El Centro de la Raza.  Ramirez was honored for his dedication to supporting young people of color and community organizations.   

Dr. Valerie Romero-Leggott currently serves at the Vice President for Diversity at the UNM Health Sciences Center.  She was honored with the Health award for her inspirational work within the health arena where she is credited with developing pipeline programs that promote health awareness and access for minority students to pursue careers in the medical field.   

The evening also had a strong postal presence as the latest stamp, “Latin Jazz” was unveiled by Dr. Torres and the Albuquerque Postmaster, Catherine Rodriguez.  Each award recipient was given a commemorative Latin Jazz poster along with a framed plaque. 

The event ended with music and dancing provided by our state’s Tobias Rene proclaimed in 2004 by Governor Richardson in 2004 as the “King of New Mexico Music,” who was also awarded the evening’s Leadership in Music Award.

 Congratulations to each of these UNM individuals who make us proud to be lobos.

UNM Mentoring Institute Hosts 2008 Mentoring Conference

The UNM Mentoring Institute invites you to participate in its inaugural conference on mentoring best practices in higher education, October 22-24, 2008 on the main campus of The University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. The conference theme is Fostering a Mentoring Culture in the 21st Century: Bringing Best Practices and Research to Higher Education. The intent of the conference is to provide a professional development opportunity to researchers and professionals involved in mentoring in higher education. Attendees will share ideas in scholarly, practice-oriented sessions. For more information on the conference visit: http://mentor.unm.edu/conference.html