President Steve Goldstein begins first days at UNM by listening, learning and connecting

When Dr. Steve Goldstein officially began his tenure as the 24th president of The University of New Mexico on Wednesday, July 15, he spent his first two days doing exactly what he said he would do: listening, learning and connecting with the people who make UNM extraordinary.

Across his first days on campus, Goldstein met with university leaders, students, faculty and staff while beginning an introduction to the academic, research and healthcare enterprise that serves communities across New Mexico.

His schedule included meetings with the President's Senior Leadership Team, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Barbara Rodriguez and Executive Vice President for Health Sciences Dr. Mike Richards to begin discussions on the university's priorities, opportunities and future direction.

Recognizing the importance of shared governance and student engagement, Goldstein visited with student leaders from both the Associated Students of UNM (ASUNM), Graduate and Professional Student Association (GPSA) and Faculty Senate leadership as an opportunity to begin learning from the student and faculty experience.

"My first 100 days will be dedicated to listening and learning. I believe that understanding the experiences, perspectives, and aspirations of our university community is essential to leading effectively. During the coming months, I will spend time on our campuses meeting with students, faculty, and staff to hear their priorities for the university's future. I will also connect with alumni, donors, and community partners, whose enthusiasm for UNM and deep roots throughout New Mexico are invaluable to the success of both our institution and our state."

- UNM President Steve Goldstein

Goldstein also took part in several milestones that marked the beginning of his own journey as a Lobo. He received his official LoboCard, completed the security clearance process required for his role and was introduced to incoming students during New Student Orientation at Woodward Hall.

Speaking to new Lobos, Goldstein reflected on the excitement of beginning something new with students starting their academic journeys, while he is beginning his own journey alongside them as president.

On Thursday, Goldstein participated in the beam-signing ceremony for the future Velarde Center for Philanthropy, joining donors, university leaders and members of the UNM Foundation in celebrating a project that will strengthen the culture of philanthropy and engagement at the university for generations to come.

Later, he met with Athletics Director Ryan Berryman, continuing conversations about the vital role Lobo Athletics plays in campus life, student success and community pride.

In his first message to the campus community, Goldstein emphasized that his immediate priority is to listen and learn.

"My first 100 days will be dedicated to listening and learning. I believe that understanding the experiences, perspectives, and aspirations of our university community is essential to leading effectively," he said. "During the coming months, I will spend time on our campuses meeting with students, faculty, and staff to hear their priorities for the university's future. I will also connect with alumni, donors, and community partners, whose enthusiasm for UNM and deep roots throughout New Mexico are invaluable to the success of both our institution and our state.

"I am also especially eager to meet with tribal leaders, elected officials, and business and civic leaders throughout the state, people who care deeply about this university and want to see it thrive. These conversations will help me better understand UNM's greatest strengths, the challenges we face, and the opportunities that lie ahead. As we embark on this journey together, my focus will be on building relationships across our campuses and throughout our communities we serve."

Those first conversations are just the beginning of what Goldstein has described as a collaborative approach to leadership, one focused on building relationships, celebrating UNM's strengths and working together to advance opportunity, innovation and service for New Mexico.