Daily Lobo: What do you do in your job?
DH: I think my job falls under three or four general categories. As the president and chief executive officer of the University, I have been able to devise a management leadership team, which is the president, vice president of Health Sciences Center and the provost. I have been able to form a collaborative management scheme that works together to try to provide top management through collaboration, cooperation and communication. Most importantly, I coordinate through the other two members the agenda of the University, and we are working on setting the goals that we need to present to the Board of Regents for next year. The second very important thing I do is to work closely with the Board of Regents on implementing the policies set forth by the University. I work on the agenda for the Board of Regents meeting and the material presented. I make sure they follow through with the decisions implemented. The third important thing I do is establish and maintain a close and positive relationship with external constituencies meetings. I make sure to project a positive and accurate presentation of the University. The fourth and most important thing is to keep a close eye on finances of the University. I make sure finances are healthy, and we are able to provide students with services that students expect.
DL: What do you like about UNM?
DH: What I love about UNM more than anything else is the diversity. I am a lifelong New Mexican. I like the diversity of students and activities. This is a minority-majority institution made up of a variety of ethnic groups. I am proud to exhibit this, and I think it represents what New Mexico is.
DL: Do you have any advice for new students?
DH: I think new students that begin at the University should do everything in their power to take advantage of the classroom, other students and cultural makeup. If students were to come here and limit themselves to do one or two things, they would rob themselves of getting to know New Mexico.
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DL: What are your goals for UNM?
DH: What I want to see personally is to number one secure a good permanent president and complete administration consolidation. We had two universities working here, north campus and main campus. We are trying to eliminate the duplications and overlaps and create more coordination between the administration systems. I want to solidify UNM's positive reputation as a highly respected institution.
DL: How long have you worked as the acting president?
DH: I have only worked as the acting president since January and my contract extends through next June. I was executive vice president of administration in May of 2004, and before that I worked for 28 years in the state government.
DL: Do you have any additional programs or activities that you are involved in?
DH: I have been appointed by the governor as a member of the State Investment Council. For four years, I worked directly in the governor's offices to assist him in planning the legislative agenda. I am on the board of the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, the board of the Science and Technology Corporation and the Lobo Energy Corporation. I love riding my bicycle, attending performances at Popejoy Hall and going to Lobo athletic events. I love spending time with my grandchildren and kids and wife.
-Abigail Ramirez
