ABQ Times

University of New Mexico President Garnett S. Stokes delivered her annual State of the University address, emphasizing unity and collaboration as key themes for the institution's future. The speech was broadcasted online through the Office of the President’s website and UNM’s YouTube channel.

Stokes, the first woman to serve as UNM's president, opened her remarks by acknowledging the Indigenous Peoples’ Land and Territory and highlighting their ongoing stewardship of the land on which the university stands. She introduced this year's theme, “Together…for Tomorrow,” focusing on connection, collaboration, and diverse perspectives.

“Our strength lies in our unity, in the collective wisdom and passion of our entire university community," she stated. "Each of us defines all of us" is more than just a catchy phrase; it's a call to action intrinsic to our Lobo identity.”

She underscored UNM's role beyond its campus in contributing to New Mexico's growth in education, healthcare, and economic development. Stokes highlighted that UNM Health Sciences plays a critical role across New Mexico by training healthcare professionals and operating as the state’s only Level 1 Trauma Center.

“As an institution, we proudly embrace the opportunities and challenges presented by our state—and we’re proud to contribute to the growth, prosperity, and advancement of New Mexico,” she said.

Stokes celebrated faculty achievements at UNM: Women in STEM Awards recognized 14 winners across 11 projects; two Arts & Sciences faculty received prestigious NEH Grants; one McKnight Scholar Award was granted nationally among ten recipients; and a National Science Foundation TRAILBLAZER award was given for wildfire control research.

In terms of student success, Stokes mentioned national recognitions such as Rhodes Scholars, Goldwater Scholars, Churchill Scholar awards along with athletic victories like cross-country Mountain West titles. She thanked athletic staff for prioritizing academics within athletics.

Stokes also shared updates on campus revitalization projects including dedicated spaces for transfer students alongside new facilities like Lobo Welcome Center while planning major improvements supported by voter-approved GO Bonds from 2024 elections across branch campuses statewide.

Concluding her address with emphasis on togetherness she remarked: “Let's harness power from connectedness... write next chapter—together.”