Editor,
Welcome to the University of New Mexico's 2002-2003 academic year. It is an exciting time in the history of the University of New Mexico, and I am proud to be its 17th president as we enter an era filled with many opportunities for all of us.
Our recently developed initiatives in freshman education such as the Freshman Interest Groups, Freshman Learning Communities, Freshman Seminars and Living and Learning Communities are among the many opportunities available to undergraduate students. We hope that incoming students take advantage of these programs and others such as the University Honors Program. These programs are all designed to enhance the education experience for undergraduates and we are in the process of developing even more initiatives.
As for our graduate and professional students, we appreciate that you continue to be a significant part of our research, public service, and patient care here at the University of New Mexico. We are all proud of the University's success in these areas, and we will strive to continue this excellence through growth in funding for both programs and facilities.
All students will benefit from our new Student Union Building, due to be completed near the end of this semester. This and other signs of our growth and improvement can be seen all over campus, in new construction and renovation to improve existing facilities. Although sometimes inconvenient, the condition is temporary and necessary as we tailor UNM to serve students, and indeed all who come here, better.
Many of our academic programs have ranked among the top 10 in the nation, reflecting the caliber of the University as a whole. We have become a rising star in research in a variety of fields, and last year UNM received over $235 million in contracts and grants. Many of your professors engaged in this research will bring their cutting edge knowledge into your educational experience.
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This is truly an exhilarating time to be at the University of New Mexico, and I welcome you and thank you for being here.
F. Chris Garcia
UNM president
