UNM Executive Director for Student Support Finalist Visits Announced
June 29, 2026 - Dorene DiNaro
Thank you to everyone who participated in the Executive Director for Student Support search by attending forums, engaging with candidates, reviewing materials, and providing feedback. The feedback period has now concluded, and the Division of Student Affairs is carefully reviewing input received throughout the search. An announcement regarding the outcome will be shared with the UNM community soon.
The Division of Student Affairs at The University of New Mexico is pleased to announce the finalists for the position of Executive Director for Student Support following a national search that attracted a strong and highly qualified pool of candidates.
Each finalist will participate in an open forum, providing members of the UNM community with an opportunity to learn more about their professional experience, leadership approach, and vision for advancing student success at UNM. Students, staff, faculty, and community partners are encouraged to attend and provide feedback as part of the search process.
Dr. Wallace Southerland III
Former Vice President for Student Affairs, Millikin University
Monday, July 6
1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
SUB Lobo A & B
Zoom: https://unm.zoom.us/j/93006490155
Dr. Brandi Wells-Stone
Director, African American Student Services and Special Advisor to the President on African American Affairs, The University of New Mexico
Tuesday, July 7
1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
SUB Lobo A & B
Zoom: https://unm.zoom.us/j/95618561026
Dr. Kyle R. Williams
Former Assistant Vice President and Dean for Intercultural Engagement, Oberlin College and Conservatory
Wednesday, July 8
1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
SUB Lobo A & B
Zoom: https://unm.zoom.us/j/93704542672
Rosa Isela Cervantes
Director, El Centro de la Raza and Special Advisor to the President on Latina/o Affairs, The University of New Mexico
Thursday, July 9
1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
SUB Lobo A & B
Zoom: https://unm.zoom.us/j/94639908745
The Executive Director for Student Support serves as a key leader within the Division of Student Affairs and provides strategic direction for a portfolio of programs and services that promote student access, engagement, persistence, belonging, and success. The position is responsible for strengthening partnerships across student-serving units, leading organizational and programmatic innovation, and advancing assessment-informed practices that improve student outcomes.
Working closely with campus partners, the Executive Director helps strengthen systems of support that connect students with the resources, services, and opportunities needed to persist and succeed at UNM. Through a commitment to collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement, the Executive Director plays an essential role in advancing the Division's strategic priorities and the University's mission of student success.
