Jeannie Baca has been appointed the new director for Student Affairs at the University of New Mexico-Gallup. Baca comes to UNM‐G from Central New Mexico Community College in Albuquerque where she was the associate dean of the School of Applied Technologies. In her new position, she will oversee all functions of student services including enrollment, registration, advisement, financial aid and student life.

In an effort to become acquainted with campus, Baca introduces herself to everyone she encounters. “A couple of outgoing and friendly student ambassadors gave me a first class campus tour and shared their perspectives on student life,” Baca said.

Baca has several main goals for UNM-G. “My top priority is to work with staff and faculty to ensure that students and the UNM‐G community receive exceptional and efficient service,” she said, “and I want to create a welcoming and supportive environment that fosters student engagement, personal growth and student success.”

When asked about challenges and opportunities for the campus as a whole, the answer was characteristically positive. “Staff, faculty and students have been extremely welcoming and friendly, and are sharing ideas on ways to improve departmental communication and collaboration,” she said. “I am listening, and will continue to seek collective input to ensure we provide exceptional customer service and information to support all aspects of student academic success, safely and student life.”