Today, Garnett S. Stokes, the President of the University of New Mexico (UNM), delivered her annual State of the University address to the community. The event was streamed online, allowing many to connect and hear about the university’s goals and achievements.
As the first female president in UNM’s history, Stokes emphasized the importance of unity, innovation, and adapting to change. She opened her speech by acknowledging the land’s Indigenous Peoples, highlighting the university’s commitment to honoring their history and stewardship.
This year’s theme, “Together…for Tomorrow,” reflects UNM’s dedication to collaboration and diverse perspectives. Stokes reassured everyone that although change can create challenges, UNM will always uphold its core values. “As we navigate these changes, we do so together,” she said, reminding us that each person’s unique story contributes to the bigger picture at UNM.
Stokes highlighted UNM’s role in New Mexico’s growth beyond academia. The university plays a vital part in education, healthcare, and economic development across the state. UNM Health Sciences is crucial, not just educating future healthcare professionals but also operating New Mexico’s only Level 1 Trauma Center. This facility provides essential medical services to communities in need.
Research at UNM also drives change, with faculty studying important health issues like increasing microplastics in the brain. Stokes emphasized the need for projects that improve community health access, such as the new School of Medicine facility that will enhance healthcare infrastructure.
She celebrated UNM’s dedicated faculty, mentioning accomplishments like:
- 14 Women in STEM Awards
- NEH Grants awarded to two Arts & Sciences faculty
- A McKnight Scholar Award
- Research on wildfire control recognized by the National Science Foundation
“We are proud to be a part of the New Mexico community,” Stokes expressed. “In a diverse state, we aim to stay dynamic, inclusive, and impactful.”
As New Mexico’s premier Research 1 university, UNM focuses on innovation in all areas—from research initiatives to creative projects. Recent efforts include a website about southwestern arthropods and studies on ski equipment safety.
Stokes also showcased UNM’s Grand Challenge teams, which tackle significant state issues, from child health to clean energy. These teams, which have expanded since their inception in 2018, have gained substantial funding to support their work.
In addition to academics, student achievements were celebrated. UNM proudly recognized national accolades for its students, including the first Rhodes Scholar in two decades and multiple Goldwater Scholars. The Anderson School of Management even won first place at a national competition.
In athletics, Lobo teams excelled, with cross-country teams claiming Mountain West titles and the men’s basketball team winning a conference tournament. Stokes thanked the athletic staff, noting their commitment to student welfare.
She also shared highlights from the UNM Foundation and Alumni Association, emphasizing the strong support from alumni and donors. The campus saw various improvements, including a dedicated space for transfer students and the new Lobo Welcome Center. Future projects are on the horizon, such as the Center for Collaborative Arts & Technology and the Health Sciences Critical Care Tower.
Stokes wrapped up her address by reiterating the power of connection and teamwork. “Let’s harness the power of our connectedness,” she urged, emphasizing that UNM’s legacy will be defined by how they achieve their goals together.
Source link
State of the University
