Snapshots: A quick look at your UNM Alumni Association

Snapshots: A quick look at your Alumni Association

"A Sense of Purpose"

Coleman Travelstead
President, UNM Alumni Association, 2004-2005

As the new president of the Alumni Association, last month I had a wonderful introduction to UNM’s present and future. I feel somewhat familiar with its past, having been associated with the university in one way or another since I was a teenager.

UNM’s current status became clearer to me at a retreat I attended along with almost 40 university administrators—representatives of human resources, admissions, finance, facilities, athletics, along with regents, deans, and others. The participants exchanged their perspectives candidly and seriously, with an eye to needs and accomplishments. The Alumni Association was included as a full partner.

UNM President Louis Caldera organized the retreat I’ve seen him at work before: in the spring he masterfully garnered the support of all sections of the university, including the Alumni Association, for a needed tuition increase. Through this process of focused retreats and discussion, he hopes to foster, in his own words, “understanding and commitment to the ‘common sense of purpose’ deep within the university.” President Caldera knows that we alumni are here to support his aims.

Although the Alumni Association talks frequently about “support,” sometimesour support isn’t entirely visible. One of my goals this year is to enlist more alumni in our efforts: from serving on committees to serving hot dogs at Welcome Back Days to participating in chapter activities around the country—making a visible impact!

Homecoming 2004 will soon welcome many of you back to UNM. Please do attend. The class of 1954 will enter the Heritage Club and no doubt have a raucous time—hula-dancing is part of this year’s theme! Reunions and get-togethers galore will fill the days before the game. (Be sure to catch the alumni band at half-time!) The campus is not just beautiful, but an inspiring sight. Its unique architecture will still enchant you while the growth and changes—especially on the north campus—will astound you. I hope to greet each of you personally.

GO for it!

Vote FOR General Obligation Bond Issue "B" for Education.

Join Lobos for Legislation, a grassroots legislative advocacy network of University of New Mexico alums concerned with the future of higher education at UNM.

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