One UNM dean’s winter break vacation in Mexico ended with a life-threatening spinal cord injury.
Jim Linnell, interim dean of the College of Fine Arts, was rushed to the UNM Trauma Center to undergo surgery Dec. 29, after receiving initial medical care in Mexico, according to a statement from his family.
The statement said his surgery was successful and that he is in stable condition. Linnell will soon begin rehabilitation at a spinal injury clinic in Denver.
“He’s grateful for the overwhelming support of his friends and the UNM community,” the statement said.
Linnell’s family said further information about his condition is not available because of the serious nature of his injuries.
Linnell was appointed interim dean in 2009. He has taught at UNM since 1975 and helped establish the Master of Fine Arts program in dramatic writing.
Interim Provost Chaouki Abdallah named Senior Associate Dean William Gilbert as acting dean of the College of Fine Arts until a new dean is found.
Representatives from the College of Fine Arts declined to comment.
Thoughts and well wishes for Linnell can be sent to him via the College of Fine Arts dean’s office.
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