Susan McKinsey, UNM’s director of communications, has spent decades working for and with the media. Her impending retirement has now made her the subject of the news, which she said feels odd.
“I don’t like the idea of me being the news,” she said.
McKinsey, who is set to retire at the end of the month, was honored this week with the Board of Regents’ Meritorious Service Award during Tuesday’s board meeting.
McKinsey is a former radio and television broadcaster who worked for KOB-TV in the late 70s before moving on to positions in California and Florida. She returned to UNM in 1993 as a communications specialist and has been director of communications since 2001.
McKinsey was humble as she accepted the award, giving only a short statement of thanks.
“You have no idea how much this means to me,” she said. “You don’t have to be here many years to know that you don’t do it by yourself.”
The regents, as well as UNM President David Schmidly shared memories and praised McKinsey’s professionalism.
“I’ve never worked with a finer professional, or a person with more talent than Susan,” he said. “You’re always a Lobo and we’re very proud of you.”
Regent President Jack Fortner joked that as a parting gift, he had McKinsey’s name legally changed back to Moczygemba, McKinsey’s maiden name, and the name she was known by during her early years in New Mexico.
“I changed your name for you, free of charge,” Fortner said.
“We’re very grateful for all you’ve done for us and wish you the best of luck on the next leg of your journey. You’ve always been there for us.”
McKinsey praised those she worked with, asking members of the communications staff who were present to stand and be recognized.
“These individuals have served the University meritoriously, and it is my honor to accept this award for you,” she said.
Get content from The Daily Lobo delivered to your inbox
Senior Communications Representative Karen Wentworth said she has worked with McKinsey for eight years.
“She’s great, very conscientious and detail-oriented and professional,” Wentworth said.
McKinsey said she will continue to work at the University after retirement, but for only 10 hours per week.
“I can’t say what my fondest memory of UNM is, because it may not have happened yet,” she said.
She said the best part of serving as communications director is communicating.
“Talking to folks, talking to regents, talking to students,” she said. “Everyone is interesting.”
