Forbes Magazine has named The University of New Mexico one of the best employers in New Mexico.

Forbes Magazine partners with market research company Statista to compile a list of America’s Best Employers by State. The final list ranks 1,330 employers that received the most recommendations from employees. This year the employees were also taking into consideration how their corporation handled a global pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has economically challenged organizations and companies across the world. During this time, some employers were able to adapt by motivating talent, pursuing profits, and spurring new levels of corporate activism.

The list is divided into 51 rankings (50 states and the District of Columbia). The list is compiled by surveying 80,000 Americans working for businesses with at least 500 employees. Surveys were conducted from October 2020 to June 2021. These surveys allowed participants to freely share their opinions. 

“Work-life balance has been especially important during the pandemic and we are deeply grateful to the respondents who participated in the Forbes study," said Kevin Stevenson, assistant vice president, Human Resources. "UNM’s recognition as a top employer is a testament to the remarkable people and the work they do every day across our main, branch and HSC campuses.”

Education was among the hardest-hit industries during the pandemic. To keep Lobos safe, UNM limited operations and sent staff to work from home. By doing this, UNM was able to maintain the safety of staff and students and allow them to work and learn virtually.

During the pandemic, the demand for UNM resources did not subside, in fact, the university saw a major increase, in different areas across campus. Some areas such as the Agora Crisis Center, Human Resources, the Accessibility Resource Center, and more saw major increases in demand. To adhere to the needs of staff and students, UNM offered virtual resources as support.

UNM staff, students, and faculty adapted during these uncertain circumstances as they navigated the pandemic. With the adoption of online learning, social distancing practices, vaccines, and mask usage the university was able to bring Back the Pack.