A dedicated Lobo, Kim Kloeppel, is saying goodbye after 25 years at The University of New Mexico.

Kloeppel is UNM’s Student Affairs associate director for finance and administration. However, throughout the years she’s filled several different roles across the University.

“I enjoyed working in several departments where I could provide leadership, develop and implement programs that provided student resources and promote student success,” Kloeppel said.

Kim Marshal Grad spring 2016

Kloeppel’s career at UNM began in Student Health and Counseling (SHAC) where she worked for 10 years as the department’s program manager and associate director. She also severed as SHAC’s interim executive director in 2019. Kloeppel spent most of her time in Student Affairs, where she took on the additional role as interim dean of students for three years. 

“Being interim in both these roles was extremely gratifying and allowed me to increase my direct service and personal interaction with students,” she said. “The passion that each department has for helping students is amazing and instrumental to the success of each program.”

While at UNM, Kloeppel earned a master’s degree in Public Administration and a doctorate of Organizational Learning and Instructional Technology. She was also the recipient of the prestigious Sarah Belle Brown Community Service Award and the UNM Gerald W. May Distinguished Service Award.

Throughout her career, she’s taken pride in her involvement in several crucial projects at UNM, including the Lobo Food Pantry and UNM’s Campus Safety Committee. But Kloeppel said being part of Smith Plaza's renovation is something she'll never forget.

“The heart of UNM was transformed into a ‘great room’ where students can study, socialize and hold a variety of events,” she said. “I love walking across campus and seeing students, staff, faculty and community enjoying the enhanced atmosphere.”

For 25 years, Kloeppel said she’s seen student success become a top priority on campus. She said she’s witnessed the ongoing efforts and stronger collaboration between Student Affairs and academics to provide additional resources, support and access for students to be successful and graduate in a timely manner.

Kloeppel said she’s grateful to have had the opportunity to work with amazing staff and administrators throughout the university for the last 25 years.

“These are some of the most passionate and dedicated individuals who know the importance of student success inside and outside of the classroom and who promote our Lobos’ ability to succeed as UNM Alumni,” she said. “I will be a Lobo for life.”