On May 15, the University of New Mexico announced that Steve Goldstein will become its new president. He replaces Garnett S. Stokes, who retires in July. The UNM Board of Regents made this decision after a thoughtful selection process featuring five candidates, each of whom shared their vision in public forums.
Goldstein, currently Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs at the University of California, Irvine, brings impressive academic credentials. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in biochemistry from Brandeis University and a PhD in immunology from Harvard University.
During a forum on May 12, Goldstein engaged with UNM staff, faculty, and students. They asked questions about various topics, including funding and how the university can better serve New Mexico. Goldstein mentioned that UNM has unique strengths, such as using telehealth to reach rural patients and partnering with Sandia National Laboratories to apply theoretical physics in practical ways.
He highlighted two main priorities: advancing healthcare education and enhancing Lobo athletics. He noted serious healthcare issues in New Mexico, including disparities in access and workforce shortages. Strengthening links between the academic health system and the wider university is crucial.
Goldstein considers Lobo athletics an essential part of UNM’s identity. “When we perform well nationally, it highlights everything we do here,” he said. This enthusiasm is vital for elevating the university’s profile.
Addressing diversity, Goldstein spoke about his experience creating the Office of Diversity and Inclusive Excellence at Brandeis. He recognizes the challenges faced by marginalized communities today, stating, “It’s tough for those who don’t fit traditional molds. How can you feel valued in such an environment?”
He emphasized the importance of collaboration in policies affecting Indigenous students and communities, proposing to invest in programs like Native American Studies to back up their commitment.
Goldstein supports faculty unions, seeing them as necessary for fair treatment and respecting work-life balance. He believes that while STEM investments are critical, the university should not neglect the arts, which enrich student life.
UNM has achieved recognition as one of the top schools for LGBTQ+ students, and Goldstein aims to maintain this status by balancing visibility and bipartisan support.
As he steps into this role, Goldstein is focused on inclusivity, healthcare challenges, and leveraging the strengths of UNM to create meaningful change for students and the broader community.
For more insights on higher education leadership, you can read about trends and challenges in universities at the Chronicle of Higher Education.
