In August of 2015, UNM Anderson School of Management launched its first MBA in Education Leadership program. The inaugural cohort of 14 students received fellowships from the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship Foundation after a rigorous application process.

Those students helped pioneer the program and embraced the spirit of building leadership skills to create positive change in their communities. The first cohort recently finished their last class of the program and will graduate later this year.

The MBA in Education Leadership at Anderson School of Management prepares current and aspiring leaders for administrative roles within New Mexico schools and school districts. The program equips participants with the perspectives to understand the changing landscape of educational leadership and help them achieve sustainable goals, support New Mexico’s students, and plan for the future.

The MBA in Education Leadership coursework focuses on developing organizational and financial management skills within an educational framework. The project-based program provides educators and administrators with the management skills necessary for leadership roles.

During the two-year program, students progress as a cohort and work in teams to solve problems and learn from one another. Course topics include: leadership, financial management, strategic management, marketing, data-driven decision making, ethics, and more.

"Graduating our inaugural cohort from the program marks a momentous achievement for all those involved,” said Krista Savoca, MBA in Education Leadership program manager. “I’m so proud of each of our students and I cannot wait to see what they collectively accomplish for our schools and districts in New Mexico

The MBA Education Leadership graduates include:

  • Leigh Arnett
  • Janet Delgado
  • Scott Elder
  • Anpao Duta Flying Earth
  • Jamie Field
  • Karen Marler
  • Andrea Ochoa
  • Jenna Ortiz
  • Thomas Piper
  • Santiago Sanchez
  • Kimball Sekaquaptewa
  • Clair Toledo
  • Melissa Wauneka

The graduation commencement ceremony will be held on Dec. 16, 2017.

For more information about the MBA in Education Leadership program, visit mbaed.mgt.unm.edu or contact Krista Savoca at atsirk@unm.edu or 505.277.2067.