An educated and engaged population is crucial to a strong future for New Mexico. But sometimes our students can face unexpected barriers when things do not go as planned. Any student can run into difficulties at any time – this could mean the loss of state scholarships or the inability to meet extra costs not covered by state or federal awards. Flexible scholarships that respond in real time to student needs will help our students become the engaged, educated citizens New Mexico wants and needs. 

$5 million of philanthropic funding will support these flexible scholarships. 

Investing in world-class faculty is an investment in the future of New Mexico. To attract and retain the best scholars, we must provide the resources they need to advance knowledge through cutting-edge equipment, funding for fieldwork, or support for research collaborations. A dedicated fund for faculty research will allow UNM to strengthen its reputation as a leader in innovation and expand our regional and global impact. It also will allow us to bring the best minds to New Mexico and to ensure they have what they need to thrive, making UNM a place where top researchers want to stay and build their careers. When we support great minds, we create lasting impact for our students, our communities, and the world.   

$2 million per annum will enable us to attract and support our faculty in their ground-breaking research. 

There is nothing more important for learning and research than an environment that helps them to flourish. Through their state, the people of New Mexico provide generous funding for our physical structures, but this does not support the full cost of replacing buildings. The Humanities Building and Ortega Hall, for example, are at the heart of campus and central to students’ educational experience, but they are now over 50 years old! In that time, the needs of our students and faculty have evolved exponentially.  

Through Accelerate New Mexico, we aim to enhance two new building projects: 

1) A new Humanities and Social Sciences facility 

Today, UNM needs modern, inclusive, and collaborative environments for the humanities that enhance student learning, foster research, and strengthen community engagement. Designed to support all students regardless of major, the new facility will house dynamic learning spaces, technology-integrated classrooms, and spaces for interdisciplinary collaboration. This transformational investment will enrich the educational experience of students in majors across UNM by promoting critical thinking, effective communication, and cross-disciplinary problem-solving — skills that are essential for success in today’s world. 

Beyond academics, the complex will serve as a cultural hub, reflecting the diverse heritage of New Mexico and fostering engagement between students, faculty, and the broader community. Its flexible spaces will support both individual research and collaborative projects, allowing scholars to explore new ideas and innovations that impact the state and beyond. By creating a flagship-quality educational space, the new Humanities Building will reaffirm UNM’s commitment to student success, research excellence, and the long-term strength of New Mexico. 

$10 to $20 million of philanthropic support will help us create this new center.

2) A new Ortega Hall 

With its central location on campus, Ortega Hall has always served as a hub for educational activities and student engagement making it an essential part of the UNM community. But at 50+ years of age, the current building cannot keep up with the demands of a modern academic community. A new Ortega Hall will help us to … [THE ORTEGA REPLACEMENT DETAILS ARE STILL BEING DEVELOPED.] 

$10 to $20 million of philanthropic support will help us create a new Ortega Hall.