The University of New Mexico announced on Apr. 1 that Mark Emmons, dean of the College of University Libraries and Learning Sciences, will continue in his role through June 30, 2027. Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Barbara Rodríguez made the decision to extend Emmons’ term, which was originally set to end in January 2027.
The extension ensures continued leadership at the college as the university prepares for a competitive search for its next dean in fall 2026. This move comes at a time when The University of New Mexico serves more than 24,000 students across its main and branch campuses according to the official website.
Emmons began his current term as dean on Aug. 24, 2025, following Leo Lo’s departure to the University of Virginia. He has been with UNM since July 1998 and previously served as interim dean in 2021 before Lo’s arrival later that year. In addition to his administrative duties, Rodríguez appointed Emmons earlier this year to lead a campuswide steering committee focused on guiding ethical and strategic use of artificial intelligence at UNM.
The university highlights its role as a cultural resource through libraries, museums, galleries, performance spaces while promoting diversity and community engagement according to the official website. The campus is known for Pueblo Revival architecture and features such as a nationally recognized arboretum and popular gathering spots like the duck pond situated within a metropolitan area according to the official website.
UNM boasts more than 200,000 alumni worldwide including fellows of national academies and contributors to major publications according to the official website. The institution has also earned recognition among top public schools nationally with high rankings from U.S. News & World Report including being named among top primary care medical schools and most diverse medical schools according to its official website.
