University launches national search for Vice President and Director of Athletics

The University of New Mexico has launched a national search for its next Vice President and Director of Athletics.

The search comes at a time of strong momentum for UNM Athletics, following a tremendously successful football season, a strong year for men's and women's basketball, an outstanding season for cross country, and continued athletic and academic progress across Lobo Athletics programs. Together, these results reflect a positive trajectory and growing foundation for competitive, academic, and programmatic success.

"UNM Athletics is experiencing positive momentum across our programs," said Garnett S. Stokes, president of The University of New Mexico. "This search is an opportunity to identify a leader who understands today's collegiate athletics environment and can build on that progress with integrity, accountability, and a clear focus on student-athlete success."

The university has engaged Parker Executive Search, a renowned firm specializing in higher education and athletics leadership placements, to assist in the recruiting efforts. A search website is available where details of the position profile, timeline and updates will be posted. Key responsibilities for the new Vice President and Director of Athletics will include:

• Overseeing all NCAA Division I intercollegiate athletic programs
• Ensuring alignment with UNM's overall mission and strategic goals
• Managing financial operations and fundraising efforts
• Maintaining compliance with NCAA and Mountain West Conference regulations
• Fostering positive relationships with alumni, donors, and the broader community

The role includes responsibility for overall strategic direction, competitive excellence, student-athlete academic success and well-being, fiscal stewardship, compliance, and fostering a culture that reflects the University's mission and values.

Parker met with numerous constituent groups to inform the recent search process, including both virtual and in-person sessions, and will again welcome input from all interested community members. The recruitment phase is now underway. A candidate pool will be developed for the committee's review, and a recommendation will be advanced to the President for her consideration.

The search committee is chaired by Del Archuleta, a highly respected community member, and is comprised of university leaders, faculty, students, and alumni who are charged with reviewing applications and conducting interviews in the coming months. Nominations and recommendations or position feedback should be submitted directly to Parker Executive Search.

UNM Athletics has achieved significant milestones, including 53 NCAA tournament appearances, 22 Mountain West titles, and 1,517 student-athletes named to Mountain West All-Academic teams. The new leader will be expected to build on this foundation while addressing challenges such as enhancing key program competitiveness, the renovation of University Stadium, navigating conference stability, and managing emerging financial commitments that support student-athletes.