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UNM NURSE

STRONGER TOGETHER

BUILDING THE FUTURE OF HEALTH CARE

TO OUR LEGISLATIVE CHAMPIONS AND DONORS: THANK YOU.

Your support makes it possible to educate the nurses New Mexico urgently needs.

Legislative funding has allowed us to expand our pre-licensure programs, support students through our accelerated BSN track and increase enrollment in our advanced practice concentrations. These efforts address New Mexico’s critical workforce shortages head-on, while improving access to care in rural and underserved communities.

Together, you’ve opened doors for more students to pursue nursing, for more advanced practice nurses to serve as providers and preceptors, and for our faculty to lead the research and innovation that shapes health outcomes statewide.

We’re grateful for your continued commitment to our students and to the health of New Mexico.

At the College

Founded in 1889, the University of New Mexico sits on the traditional homelands of the Pueblo of Sandia. The original peoples of New Mexico – Pueblo, Navajo and Apache – since time immemorial, have deep connections to the land and have made significant contributions to the broader community statewide. We honor the land itself and those who remain stewards of this land throughout the generations and also acknowledge our committed relationship to Indigenous peoples.

WE GRATEFULLY RECOGNIZE OUR HISTORY.

WELCOME FROM THE DEAN

elcome to the 2025 issue of UNM Nurse Magazine!

As I reflect on my first year at the UNM College of Nursing, I’m excited about the partnerships we’ve built and the work we’re accomplishing together. Our shared commitment to a healthier New Mexico is stronger than ever, and the spirit of collaboration I’ve found here has been profound.

We’re not just talking about the future of nursing. We’re living it. That means doing more for our students, for our state, and for the communities we serve. We have the chance to change health outcomes in New Mexico, which is a responsibility we don’t take lightly. The momentum we’re building — through education, research and practice — is powerful.

This College was founded 70 years ago by a group of nurses who saw a need and acted. That same spirit drives us today. We’re now more than 1,000 students strong.

Our students come from all walks of life, but what they share is a calling. Many are the first in their families to pursue higher education. What brings them here is a sense of purpose. We strive to create a supportive environment where every student feels they belong.

In this issue, you’ll meet students in our Freshman Direct-Entry program who are stepping into nursing from day one with a sense of belonging. You’ll read about faculty who not only teach in the classroom but practice in the community, benefiting our students and advancing the profession. You’ll also hear from one of our PhD students who is exploring the impact of nursing in a unique space — at the ballot box.

I’ll share a bit about my travels across New Mexico alongside members of my leadership team. We’ve met some remarkable New Mexicans who are making a difference in their communities. Their passion is inspiring and it’s a privilege to learn from them and find ways to support their work. These conversations are helping to guide our path forward.

Finally, we recognize some of our generous donors, whose support helped bring our new building to life. Their investment allows us to continue our tradition of academic excellence in a state-of-the-art facility built for innovation and care.

If this past year is any indication of what’s to come, then I’m truly looking forward to what the future holds. Thank you for being part of it.

Sincerely,

Dr. Rosario Medina, PhD, FNP-BC, ANCNP, CNS, FAANP, FAAN Dean and Professor UNM College of Nursing

WELCOME FROM THE PRESIDENT

The University of New Mexico is made up of many components that serve a wide variety of populations—from our cutting-edge research facilities to our academic health center that trains the next generation of health care providers and professionals—but we proudly refer to it all as simply One University. It’s a reminder of our connection—between campuses, across programs and with the people who count on us. Our strength lies in the ability to work together and leverage our diverse perspectives. And perhaps nowhere do we see this more clearly than in our College of Nursing and our nursing programs.

Nursing is demanding work. It calls for long hours, steady focus and compassion when it matters most. Here in New Mexico, where health care needs are high and resources can be strained, that work takes on even greater meaning. When our nursing students graduate, they don’t just join the workforce; they join communities that are relying on them.

When I first came to the University of New Mexico more than eight years ago, I was captivated by the wide-open skies and the one-of-a-kind landscapes. I was inspired by the countless possibilities and opportunities. But what has also struck me is the resilience of the people here. That same resilience shapes UNM. We aren’t apart from our state—we reflect it.

UNM has a unique role as one of the most accessible and diverse research-intensive universities in the country. This is not an ivory-tower university; it’s a university grounded in real communities of hard-working people who often face difficult challenges. And we’re here to help.

Health care is changing, and so is higher education. The needs of New Mexico are complex. But moments like these also bring out our character. I see it in the College of Nursing— whether it’s preparing students to lead, driving innovation through research or expanding care to rural areas where it’s often hard to find.

The theme of this year’s UNM Nurse Magazine is Stronger Together—and when it comes to our Lobo nursing programs, I know this is the truth. None of us—none of you—does this alone. Each of us defines all of us. Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier future for New Mexico.

Thank you to everyone who studies here, teaches here, and supports this work. You make a difference for UNM, and for the people of this state we proudly serve.

The University of New Mexico

At the University of New Mexico College of Nursing, students don’t have to wait to begin their journey into health care. Through the Freshman Direct-Entry (FDE) program, high school graduates are admitted directly into a four-year, pre-licensure Bachelor of Science in Nursing program — a pathway designed to support academic success, growth, and ultimately strengthen New Mexico’s nursing workforce.

“We wanted to create an entry point for some students,” said Mitch Irvin, MSN, RN, director of the FDE program. “So they can really step in and start their journey as soon as possible.”

“ WE WANTED TO CREATE AN ENTRY POINT FOR SOME STUDENTS, SO THEY CAN REALLY STEP IN AND START THEIR JOURNEY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. ”

- MITCH IRVIN, MSN, RN

FRESHMAN

That early connection is intentional. From their first semester, students are supported by College of Nursing faculty and advisors.

FROM DAY A Direct Path

high school seniors who are ready to commit to nursing early.

“A lot of them are informed by an experience they’ve had with a health care provider,” Irvin said. “Some of them are informed by an illness story… helping take care of somebody in their family who had an illness, and that was a very formative experience for them.”

For students like Victoria Baca, that formative experience began in childhood. She and her brother grew up with medical conditions that often required traveling for care.

“We are a rural state, and I wanted to help patients the way that nurses helped me,” said Baca, who grew up in San Mateo New Mexico — a small village northeast of Grants — and graduated this summer. I connected with the nurses and the way they made me feel safe and heard and advocated for.”

Baca first learned about the FDE program during UNM’s Fall Preview event as a high school senior and applied immediately. Now, she is joining the nursing workforce as a proud UNM alum, hired into the OR track at UNM Hospital.

DIRECT-ENTRY BSN PROGRAM DIRECTOR “ WE ARE A RURAL STATE, AND I WANTED TO HELP PATIENTS THE WAY THAT NURSES HELPED ME. ”

“It gives them a goal and a set of objectives right away,” Irvin said. “They’re starting to work toward that goal from day one.”

The program was designed for highly motivated

- VICTORIA BACA

FRESHMAN

DIRECT-ENTRY BSN ALUMNA, SUMMER 2025

DAY ONE into Nursing

“It’s a great stepping stone for all of us to get our foot in the door — especially at a Level I trauma center, the only one in New Mexico,” she said.

Baca also credits the extern-to-intern opportunities offered through UNM Hospital with helping her gain confidence and making her feel like she belonged in the profession.

“We got to build out skills while getting paid and figuring out what kind of nurse we wanted to be,” she said.

For Level 2 student Allison Burt, it was that sense of support that made all the difference. Raised in Albuquerque, she comes from a family of nurses and earned her CNA license in high school.

But during the pandemic, things felt uncertain.

“I didn’t do super well during COVID. I was like, ‘I’m never gonna get to be a nurse,’” Burt said.

Burt was worried that her GPA might not be enough, so she called the College of Nursing and an advisor encouraged her to apply anyway. Today, Burt is thriving in the program.

“Every day that I’m having a little bit of a hard day, I get to walk in and remember that there was someone on the other side of the application who believed in me,” she said. “I’m watching myself make my dreams come true, which is really cool.”

Now in her second year, Burt is already thinking ahead. She’s interested in continuing her education at UNM, with an eye on the NurseMidwifery program.

“I’ve always loved the idea of working with moms and babies,” she said. “It just feels like the right direction for me.”

That kind of long-term planning is something the FDE program encourages.

“We want them to be prepared to return for a DNP or a PhD degree,” Irvin said.

“ I’M WATCHING MYSELF MAKE MY DREAMS COME TRUE, WHICH IS REALLY COOL. ”

- ALLISON BURT FRESHMAN DIRECT-ENTRY BSN STUDENT

Now more than ever, the program is helping prepare future nurses to meet New Mexico’s growing workforce needs. Irvin says the program’s structure gives students more time to develop academically and professionally, explore research or clinical interests, and grow within a community that reflects the people they hope to serve.

“We’re trying to grow the BSN-prepared workforce,” Irvin said. “And we wanted to be a part of students’ success from the beginning.”

For students, that support makes all the difference – not just in reaching their goals, but in knowing from the start that they belonged here.

Over the past year, UNM student nurses have been at the center of meaningful change. They’ve taken the lead in national conversations, built stronger connections in our communities and shown what it means to care with purpose. These are just a few of the highlights.

OUR YEAR

UNM BIRTH COMPANIONS NAMED CABQ VOLUNTEER GROUP OF THE YEAR

The UNM Birth Companions program was honored as the 2025 Volunteer Group of the Year by the City of Albuquerque during the Mayor’s Day of Volunteer Recognition. Co-directed by Katie Kivlighan, PhD, RN, CNM, FACNM, the program’s deep care and community impact were celebrated as an inspiring example of service.

A $200,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation is helping the team plan for growth, support long-term sustainability and strengthen collaboration with clients, health care workers, hospital staff and community partners. The funding is also supporting the development of evaluation tools to help ensure the program is meeting the needs of those it serves.

UNM COLLEGE

OF NURSING

RANKED AMONG NATION’S BEST

The University of New Mexico College of Nursing continues to rise in national rankings. The Nurse-Midwifery program rose to No. 10 in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Graduate Schools list. The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program climbed 13 spots in the 2025 Best Colleges rankings to No. 54 out of 686 – placing it in the top 8% nationwide and ranking No. 1 in New Mexico.

HEALTH ASSESSMENTS FOR THE COMMUNITY

College of Nursing students provided free health screenings — blood pressure, blood oxygen, cholesterol and A1C — to community members, using the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico Care Van. Events like these empower communities to take charge of their health.

SERVING OUR COMMUNITIES BEYOND NURSING

Level 3 BSN students stepped up to support local needs by collecting 12 bags of clothes, 20 bags of blankets, and over 150 non-perishable food items for organizations such as Crossroads for Women, Locker 505, the Lobo & HSC Food Pantry and Roadrunner Food bank.

Dr. Sara Daykin, DNP, RN, CPEN, TCRN, became the first New Mexican inducted into the Academy of Emergency Nursing. She also received the 2025 ENA Pediatric Readiness Improvement Award.

“IT’S AN AMAZING HONOR, THERE HAVE BEEN SO MANY AMAZING NURSES BEFORE ME, BUT IT’S NICE THAT NEW MEXICO IS FINALLY ON THE MAP, AND PEOPLE CAN SEE THAT NURSES HERE ARE DOING AMAZING THINGS.”

- DR. SARA DAYKIN, DNP, RN, CPEN, TCRN, CLINICIAN EDUCATOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND HSC SOPHOMORE ENTRY PROGRAM DIRECTOR, UNM COLLEGE OF NURSING

Her work improving pediatric trauma readiness is bringing national attention to the challenges and solutions emerging from rural states like New Mexico.

HSC.UNM.EDU/NEWS/ SCHOOLS/NURSING/

UNM PROFESSOR BECOMES FIRST NURSE TO BE ELECTED AS WICHE COMMISSION CHAIR

Dr. Barbara Damron, PhD, LHD, MSN, RN, FAAN, made history as the first nurse elected chair of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE), a consortium of colleges and universities that share resources to provide access to technical, professional and graduate education. She is also one of the first UNM representatives to serve in this role.

“NURSES BRING A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE, AND WE NEED MORE OF THEM IN THESE IMPORTANT ROLES,” SHE SAID. “WE KNOW WHAT IT TAKES TO GET STUDENTS THROUGH SCHOOL AND HELP THEM SUCCEED.”

- DR. BARBARA INCARDONA C. HOLMES DAMRON, PHD, LHD, MSN, RN, FAAN, PROFESSOR, UNM COLLEGE OF NURSING

Catch up on what’s happening at the UNM College of Nursing – from new programs and research breakthroughs to student stories, faculty highlights and alumni making an impact.

These gatherings invited reflection on the deeper forces that shape health – from cultural identity to the systems that influence access and care. They opened space for honest dialogue and helped strengthen the connection between our work and the communities we serve.

NAVAJO (DINÉ) CULTURE & SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH

Vanessa Tahe, DNP, RN, CPNP-PC, shared her expertise on how social factors impact health in Navajo communities. Her presentation shed light on the importance of culturally informed care and the social determinants of health that shape well-being.

SHINING A LIGHT ON HEALTH JUSTICE

Several of our faculty and alumni participated in a panel discussion following a student screening of “Everybody’s Work: Healing What Hurts Us All,” a documentary on structural racism in the U.S. health care system. The event highlighted the importance of addressing systemic barriers to care for all patients and health care providers.

ROOTED IN CARE

The College of Nursing hosted several Indigenous scholars from across the globe for “Rooted in Care: Exploring Indigenous Ecologies of Love to Inform Health Care Partnerships in Research and Practice.” The panel discussion was centered on research, resilience and healing — key components in building equitable health care.

Join us for upcoming events at the UNM College of Nursing, including presentations, community health initiatives and student celebrations.

BUILDING MOMENTUM ACROSS NEW MEXICO

Dean Rosario Medina and the College of Nursing leadership team are on a mission to meet people where they are, strengthen partnerships and deepen support for nursing students across New Mexico. Since spring, they’ve been traveling across the state and laying the groundwork for a more connected future.

LOS LUNAS

The tour began at UNM-Valencia, where Dean Medina and members of the leadership team connected with Dual Degree nursing students and Nursing Program Director Joe Poole. They discussed student goals, pathways into the profession, and unique strengths of the local program.

LAS VEGAS

At New Mexico Highlands University, the team met with nursing faculty to explore shared opportunities. They also visited the New Mexico Behavioral Health Institute, where conversations focused on workforce needs and ways to support behavioral health in northern New Mexico.

COMING SOON

Sto ps in Santa Fe, Silver City, Roswell, Taos, and Las Cruces are on the horizon. We look forward to working together to grow a nursing workforce rooted in community.

SHIPROCK & FARMINGTON

The team continued on to the Northern Navajo Medical Center, Presbyterian Medical Services, and San Juan College, meeting with clinical partners and Level 5 nursing students on what’s working and what support our students need.

GALLUP & CROWNPOINT

The team visited UNM-Gallup, the Gallup Indian Medical Center, and Navajo Technical University. These meetings were centered on rural nursing, RN pathways, and how we can work together to share resources.

NEW MEXICO TOUR

HOW FACULTY PRACTICE SHARPENS NURSING EDUCATION

At UNM’s LoboCare Clinic, no two days look alike for Wasim Alsamah, DNP, FNP-BC. One moment, he might be stitching up a child’s hand. The next, he’s evaluating chest pain in an older adult. That unpredictability is part of what keeps the work fresh.

“I honestly don’t know what’s going to be ahead of me, but that’s what makes it interesting and exciting,” Alsamah said. “It keeps me engaged, sharpens my clinical skills, and keeps my knowledge up to date.”

Alsamah is a family nurse practitioner and assistant professor at The University of New Mexico College of Nursing. He splits his time between seeing patients and teaching students. For him, clinical practice isn’t separate from education. It’s what makes it real.

“Most of the time, when I’m talking about something specific in class, I engage students with examples from just the day before,” he said. “They get it. It clicks.”

Originally from Syria, Alsamah completed six years of medical school and began a residency in ENT before war forced him to leave in 2011. After arriving in the U.S., he settled in New Mexico and took a position as a medical assistant at the UNM Sandoval Regional Medical Center, where colleagues encouraged him to keep moving forward in his career.

Alsamah applied to a bridge program designed for international physicians becoming nurse practitioners — and got in just as the last spot opened. After graduating, he returned to New Mexico.

It didn’t take long for Alsamah to begin precepting UNM nursing students. One of those early experiences led to a conversation with Dr. Christine Cogil, director of the College of Nursing’s Family Nurse Practitioner Program. Soon after, he joined the faculty in 2022.

“New Mexico has always felt like this is home,” he said. “And combining clinical work with

teaching just felt natural.”

His dual role has clear benefits for students. Recent graduate Jade Nguyen, FNP, remembers how his real-world examples helped ground the classroom material.

“If you ever had any questions, he is able to provide a patient experience and an example that would really stick with you,” she said. “That’s really invaluable for us to be able to work through his cases and see that in real life.”

“ MOST OF THE TIME, WHEN I’M TALKING ABOUT SOMETHING SPECIFIC IN CLASS, I ENGAGE STUDENTS WITH EXAMPLES FROM JUST THE DAY BEFORE. THEY GET IT. IT CLICKS. ”

- WASIM ALSAMAH, DNP, FNP-BC, CLINICIAN EDUCATOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

Nguyen, who completed both her BSN and FNP at UNM, was drawn to nursing after years of childhood asthma and frequent hospital visits. It was the nurses, she said, who made her feel safe.

“They were the ones by my side, providing comfort and reassurance. It stayed with me,” she said. “I wanted to be that for someone else.”

She worked on a progressive care unit at UNM Hospital before beginning her graduate studies. The experience gave her firsthand insight into how chronic conditions develop and how much of a difference early intervention can make. That led her to primary care.

“I really value the preventative care aspects of being an FNP,” she said. “I want to help patients avoid hospitalizations entirely.”

Nguyen said that learning from Alsamah gave her confidence in how theory translates into practice.

“As students, we don’t have much experience,” she said. “But hearing from someone who’s actively working, it makes the material more engaging and

the whole learning experience more meaningful.”

Alsamah said that student curiosity has a way of sharpening his own understanding, too.

“Sometimes their questions lead me to do more research,” he said. “Then a month later, I’ll get a patient with that same issue, and I’m ready. I’ve already done the work.”

He sees it as a reciprocal responsibility.

“I want to make sure those who care for my family and my community are competent,” he said. “We’re not just training providers — we’re building trust.”

For Nguyen, that commitment to practice, teaching and community has left a lasting impression.

“Now that I’ve graduated, I want to give back,” she said. “Especially to those who are navigating a complex system and might not speak the language. I want to help them feel cared for and confident, just like those nurses did for me.”

Alsamah hopes students will feel encouraged to follow a similar path.

“I hope that that would be inspiring for students to join our faculty in the future and intrigue them to kind of like to think about this profession,” he said. “And they can have both ways. They can have the clinical part and the teaching part. It doesn’t have to be one way or the other.”

“ AS STUDENTS, WE DON’T HAVE MUCH EXPERIENCE. HEARING FROM SOMEONE WHO’S ACTIVELY WORKING, IT MAKES THE MATERIAL MORE ENGAGING AND THE WHOLE LEARNING EXPERIENCE MORE MEANINGFUL. ”

- JADE NGUYEN, FNP SPRING 2025 ALUMNI

LEADING THE WAY IN

The University of New Mexico College of Nursing leads the way in nursing education. Shaping the future of health care. Building New Mexico’s nursing workforce. Innovating nursing research.

Nurses are essential to our community. They address health disparities, advocate for underserved populations and improve patient outcomes. Our students come from all walks of life. Different perspectives. Different journeys. But one shared purpose. That’s why we provide hands-on learning. Why we develop groundbreaking research. Why we prepare students to step into critical roles in hospitals, clinics and rural areas. Because everyone deserves access to care.

We educate the next generation of nurses, providers, nurse leaders and nurse scientists. Nurses who bring both knowledge and heart to the communities that need them most. At the core of nursing is people, and our people are the heart of everything we do.

BECOMING A NURSE SCIENTIST: A PhD student’s path

Michael Baker, RN, MPH didn’t set out to become a nurse. Born and raised in Albuquerque, he found his calling later in life while caring for his grandmother as she faced ALS.

“I realized during that time that I liked caring for others and being present with other people during really important times in their life,” said Baker. “And she actually recommended I go to nursing school. So that’s what inspired me. And, thanks to her, I found my passion.”

That passion led Baker from a local community college to a role in pediatric oncology at the University of New Mexico Hospital. He earned his BSN and later an MPH, but his path ultimately brought him back to the UNM College of Nursing for a PhD.

“I think with any nursing program, whether it be a bachelor’s all the way to a terminal degree, it’s going to be very intensive. It’s going to ask a lot of you, but the payoff is worth the work,” Baker said.

Now in the dissertation phase of the PhD program, Baker’s research focuses on how nurses influence

community health — not just at the bedside, but at the ballot box.

“I’m very interested in how nurses show up at the ballot in their communities through their civic engagement, to make their parks, their libraries or schools, and just their communities overall healthier,” he said. “To me, my patient is my community.”

The College’s PhD program is centered on independent research, preparing students to generate and apply new knowledge to real-world health care challenges. Students work closely with faculty to shape a plan of study focused on a particular population, health issue or setting. Didactic classes are completely online, paired with an annual weeklong on-campus residency.

Baker describes the program as both rigorous and supportive.

“It is a very challenging and a very demanding program, but it is in a supportive environment, and the payoffs have been wonderful along the way,” he said. “I’ve met amazing researchers, I’ve met

amazing scientists. I have been able to publish articles and really advance the field of nursing thanks to the College of Nursing.”

He also credits faculty and mentors with guiding his academic growth.

“Thanks to my PhD advisor, I was able to navigate the curriculum and hone my research interests so that when I came to the dissertation phase, I was able to find a PhD mentor within the College of Nursing faculty that helped support me through my dissertation phase and guide me and mentor me as I developed my dissertation and became a nurse scientist.”

Baker emphasizes how the program creates opportunities for connection with faculty, peers, and the larger research community.

“The College of Nursing really facilitates networking,” he said. “They require students to go to one conference a year, and also to submit abstracts and proposals. Because of that, it really helps remove the hesitation, the nervousness around presenting research.”

What surprised him most was the support system he found among fellow students.

“I found community within my other student peers that we were able to really share the burden and stress of a PhD program,” he said. “I feel the relationships I’ve built with them will last me the rest of my career.”

“ IT IS A VERY CHALLENGING AND A VERY DEMANDING PROGRAM, BUT IT IS IN A SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT, AND THE PAYOFFS HAVE BEEN WONDERFUL ALONG THE WAY. ”

- MICHAEL BAKER, RN, MPH PHD STUDENT

Though the challenges are real, Baker is confident in the journey he’s chosen.

“They really helped me find where I wanted to be,” he said. “And with that, I’m able to enter my dissertation phase with clear eyes and a clear direction. Even though it’s still a work in progress, I know what I’m trying to achieve.”

CELEBRATING 70 YEARS OF NURSING EXCELLENCE

As we celebrate 70 years at The University of New Mexico College of Nursing, we remain rooted in history and propelled by innovation. We honor the past. We shape the future. Nurses, by nature, lead the way – knowing where they’ve been and where they’re headed.

THE IMPACT OF OUR DONORS

THE SPACES WE BUILD SHAPE THE FUTURE OF CARE

Last year, the UNM College of Nursing opened the doors to the new College of Nursing and Public Health Excellence (CON-PHE) building – a transformative space that expands access, deepens research capacity, and strengthens our impact across the state.

None of it would be possible without the generosity of those who helped bring this vision to life. We’re proud to recognize the donors who chose to name spaces within CON-PHE.

ANONYMO US DONOR

LOBBY, STRATEGIC ENROLLMENT SERVICES SUITE, COURTYARD, CLASSROOMS, DEAN’S SUITE

The family that funded these spaces has a long history of supporting UNM — in particular the College of Nursing — that is based on relationships with deans and college leadership spanning decades.

CAROLYN MARTINEZ

OPEN COLLABORATION SPACE

“When I saw the space, I just loved it. It’s open and light and I could see students studying by themselves, or meeting up with friends to discuss what they are learning, or just to sit and look out at the mountains and daydream. I support the College of Nursing because nurses are so desperately needed. I loved and hated nursing school – it was hard, but it was fun, and I met so many interesting people. I want students at UNM to have a similar experience and to help us solve our nursing shortage.”

SHEENA FERGUSON RESEARCH CENTER

ROBERT

“I chose to name a research area because our nursing future depends on continually improving our knowledge. I am a three-time alumna of the College, having received my BSN in 1983 and my MSN in 1988, before going on to fulfill my dream of becoming a DNP in 2021. My education and the education of future nurses mean the world to me!”

METZGER CLINICAL RESEARCH SPACE

“As I progressed in my nursing career, I came to recognize how deeply my growth was shaped by the support, mentorship and opportunities provided by others. This inspired me to give back to the profession that has given me so much.

The new space at the UNM College of Nursing represents

far more than bricks and mortar — it stands as a symbol of progress, innovation, and the future of our profession. I graduated with my BSN from the UNM CON in 1996. Although I’ve earned additional degrees and taught elsewhere, being a Lobo is in my heart and soul.”

BRENDA IZZI LOUNGE

“The chance to be part of a new era in the UNM CON journey was just too great to pass up. My nursing career has been my greatest and most humbling achievement, with my undying love for the Lobos as an alumna at both the bachelor and master’s levels.

The space is a representation of my belief that we get the most done when we are communing with each other during breaks or meals. Something about those informal moments sparks conversations and creates moments of sharing that sometimes happen nowhere else.”

Each named space in the CON-PHE building tells a story. We’re deeply thankful to the donors who have made this next chapter possible. Their generosity ensures that students, faculty, and communities across New Mexico will benefit from this investment for generations to come.

FACULTY HONORS

We’re proud to recognize the meaningful contributions of our faculty. These recent honors reflect their dedication to our students, communities and the profession of nursing.

NUZHAT ALI, MSN, RN, CNE

RECEIVED GOLDEN PAW AWARD

WASIM ALSAMAH, MD, DNP, RN, FNP-BC

HONORED WITH CARLSON PETTY AWARD, ICARE AWARD

BARBARA DAMRON, PHD, LHD, MSN, RN, FAAN

RECEIVED ICARE AWARD, CENTENNIAL AWARD; ELECTED CHAIR OF THE WESTERN INTERSTATE COMMISSION FOR HIGHER EDUCATION

SARA DAYKIN, DNP, RN, CPEN, TCRN

INDUCTED AS A FELLOW OF THE ACADEMY FOR EMERGENCY NURSING; RECEIVED THE GOLDEN PAW AWARD, THE ENA PEDIATRIC READINESS IMPROVEMENT AWARD, AND THE NURSING EXCELLENCE AWARD FOR PEDIATRICS; RENEWED POSITION ON THE NEW MEXICO BOARD OF NURSING EDUCATION ADVISOR COMMITTEE

KATHY DOLAN-COX, MSN, RN, CNE

SELECTED FOR AACN DIVERSITY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE

KATHY FABIAN, DNP, CPNP-AC/PC, NEA-BC

APPOINTED TO NATIONAL CONFERENCE PLANNING COMMITTEE FOR THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF PEDIATRIC NURSE PRACTITIONERS

CATHLEEN HEWLETT-MASSER, DNP, CNM, RN, IBCLC, FACNM

NAMED A FELLOW OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF NURSE-MIDWIVES

SHEILA HUNDLEY, DNP, RN, AGNP-BC

RECEIVED ICARE AWARD

KATIE KIVLIGHAN, PHD, MS, RN, CNM, FACNM

NAMED A FELLOW OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF NURSE-MIDWIVES, RECEIVED THE NEW MEXICO NURSING EXCELLENCE AWARD IN EDUCATION/RESEARCH/ACADEMIA

JONGWON LEE, PHD, RN

HONORED WITH THE UNM HEALTH SCIENCES OFFICE FOR DEI EXCELLENCE AWARD FOR ASIAN AMERICAN & PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH

SARAH LLANQUE-WHITE, PHD, RN, FNP-C

RECOGNIZED BY CTL AS OUTSTANDING TEACHER OF THE YEAR, AND RECEIVED THE CARLSON PETTY AWARD

SASHA POOLE, PHD, RN

ELECTED TO THE NEW MEXICO NURSING EDUCATION CONSORTIUM LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

VAN ROPER, PHD, RN, FNP-C, FAANP

SELECTED AS A JHU SOURCE ACADEMY FELLOW; INDUCTED AS A DISTINGUISHED FELLOW OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMIES OF PRACTICE; ELECTED TO THE INAUGURAL EXECUTIVE BOARD OF THE NEW MEXICO RURAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION

SHARON RUYAK, PHD, CNM, FACNM

NAMED A FELLOW OF THE AMERICAN COLLEGE OF NURSE-MIDWIVES

SELECTED AS A NONPROFIT STATE POLICY FELLOW BY THE POLICY CENTER FOR MATERNAL MENTAL HEALTH

TAMARA SHANNON, DNP, RN, CPNP-PC

RECEIVED DAISY AWARD FOR EXTRAORDINARY NURSING FACULTY AND APPOINTED BOARD MEMBER OF HOLE IN THE HEART

TIMOTHY SOWICZ, PHD, RN, CNP

INDUCTED AS A FELLOW OF THE INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF ADDICTIONS NURSES (FIAAN) LEADERSHIP ASSEMBLY AND RECEIVED THE INTNSA NEWCOMER AWARD

VANESSA TAHE, DNP, RN, CPNP-PC

SELECTED AS A FELLOW IN THE HEAL SOUTHWEST LEADERSHIP COHORT

APRIL TAFOYA, DNP, RN, NC-BC

SELECTED AS PRESIDENT-ELECT OF THE INAUGURAL NEW MEXICO CHAPTER OF NAHN

LISA TAYLOR, DNP, RN, FNP-BC, BC-ADM, C-DCES

PARTICIPANT IN THE UNM HEALTH SCIENCES OFFICE FOR DEI FACULTY ACADEMIC SCHOLARS PROGRAM; HONORED WITH THE DR. JOZI DE LEON ADVOCATE AWARD, CARLSON PETTY AWARD

BETH TIGGES, PHD, RN, PCPNP-BC, FAAN

RECOGNIZED WITH A BEST IN CLASS PUBLICATION AWARD FOR “DEVELOPING THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS”

MONIQUE TORREZ, MSN-ED, RN

ELECTED SECRETARY OF THE INAUGURAL NEW MEXICO CHAPTER OF NAHN

VICTORIA YU, DNP, JD, RN

APPOINTED TO SERVE ON THE UNM HEALTH SYSTEM ETHICS COMMITTEE

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Live and work in a historic city on an expansive mesa a mile above sea level. A city that’s simultaneously cosmopolitan and soulful, urban and rural, and brimming with light and possibilities. This is Albuquerque. An awe-inspiring example of the kind of wild, natural beauty that wraps around everything in this state. You’ll see. APPLY TODAY FOR ONE OF OUR

ADVANCING THE FUTURE OF NURSING

PUBLICATIONS & SCHOLARSHIP

BAO, H., FAN, X., ZHANG, X., ZHANG, X., KIVLIGHAN, K. T., SCHNEIDER, S., LIU, J., JOHNSON, A. T. C., ARCARO, K., PING, J. (2024). HIGH-PRECISION MICRO-TOTAL ANALYSIS OF SODIUM IONS IN BREAST MILK. SENSORS AND ACTUATORS: B. CHEMICAL, 422, 136652. HTTPS:// WWW.SCIENCEDIRECT.COM/SCIENCE/ARTICLE/PII/ S0925400524013820

BOOKHART, L., KIVLIGHAN, K. T., ESQUERRA-ZWIERS, A., MEIER, P. (2025). INTEGRATING BIOLOGICAL, BEHAVIORAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS IN THE PRACTICE AND STUDY OF EARLY, UNPLANNED CESSATION OF LACTATION. BREASTFEEDING MEDICINE. HTTPS://PUBMED.NCBI. NLM.NIH.GOV/40626630

BOOKHART, L., KIVLIGHAN, K. T., MEDINA-POELINIZ, C., ESQUERRA-ZWIERS, A., DEVANE-JOHNSON, S. (IN PRESS). POINT OF CARE MEASURES TO IDENTIFY AND MANAGE EARLY UNPLANNED CESSATION OF LACTATION: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW. BREASTFEEDING MEDICINE.

COGIL, C. (2025). OPTIMIZING PATIENT HEALTH WITH BRIEF ORAL EXAMINATIONS. BOSTON, MA: CENTER FOR THE INTEGRATION OF PRIMARY CARE AND ORAL HEALTH. HTTPS://MCUSERCONTENT.COM/E1DA3723D1CED5CFC1A70DE7F/FILES/CDD04B23-14F1-85DA-1C92D60BC44804BF/ORAL_HEALTH_.05.PDF

COGIL, C. (2025). SHIFTING TO VALUE-BASED CARE: PREVENTIVE ORAL HEALTH ENHANCES PATIENT WELL-BEING. ORAL HEALTH FILLINGS BITS AND BITES. BOSTON, MA: CENTER FOR INTEGRATION OF PRIMARY CARE AND ORAL HEALTH. HTTPS://US11. CAMPAIGN-ARCHIVE.COM/?U=E1DA3723D1CED5CFC1A70DE7F&ID=002EA3D7B88

COGIL, C. (2024). INTEGRATE A BRIEF ORAL EXAMINATION FOR IMPROVED PATIENT OUTCOMES. JOURNAL FOR NURSE PRACTITIONERS – JNP, 20(8). HTTPS:// WWW.SCIENCEDIRECT.COM/SCIENCE/ARTICLE/PII/ S1555415524002010?DGCID=AUTHOR

CROSKEY, O., LEHAN MACKIN, M. (2024). INTEGRATING A WRITING INTENSIVE ASSIGNMENT WITH THE COMMUNITY AND PUBLIC HEALTH NURSING CLASSROOM. ACHNE. HTTP://WWW.ACHNE.ORG/AWS/ACHNE/PT/SP/INNOVATIVE-TEACHING-STRATEGIES

DRISCOLL POWERS, L., LEITCH, L., AMURA, C. R., PETERSON, K., MEDINA, R., & COOK, P. F. (2025). PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF THE POSITIVE AND ADVERSE CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES SURVEY (PACES) IN CLIENTS WITH OPIOID USE DISORDER. PSYCHOLOGICAL TRAUMA: THEORY, RESEARCH, PRACTICE, AND POLICY. ADVANCE ONLINE PUBLICATION. HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.1037/ TRA0001996

GOOD, D., SCHAAF, S. (2025). MANAGING SIMULATED ANESTHESIA EMERGENCIES WITH THE USE OF CLINICAL DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEMS IN A RURAL HOSPITAL SETTING. AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF NURSE ANESTHESIOLOGY JOURNAL, 93(2).

HERNANDEZ, S., KILLIAN, J., PARSHALL, M. B., WHITE, T., HICKS, E., HUGHES, V., BEDFORD, T., ZHU, Y. (2025). INCREASING RESILIENCY IN U.S. AIR FORCE PERSONNEL: A MULTI-SITE TRIAL PROTOCOL. CONTEMPORARY CLINICAL TRIALS COMMUNICATIONS, 46.

HU, C. J., GARCIA, M. A., NIHART, A., LIU, R., YIN, L., ADOLPHI, N., GALLEGO, D. F., KANG, H., CAMPEN, M. J., YU, X. (2024). MICROPLASTIC PRESENCE IN DOG AND HUMAN TESTIS AND ITS POTENTIAL ASSOCIATION WITH SPERM COUNT AND WEIGHTS OF TESTIS AND EPIDIDYMIS. TOXICOLOGICAL SCIENCES, 200(2), 235–240. HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.1093/TOXSCI/KFAE060

KIVLIGHAN, K. T., LONG, J., MARTINEZ, R., CARDENAS, S., RYAN, E. (2025). FEASIBILITY OF USING POINTOF-CARE BIOMARKERS OF SECRETORY ACTIVATION TO ADDRESS EARLY, UNPLANNED WEANING AMONG HEALTHY, TERM DYADS IN COMMUNITY SETTINGS: A PILOT STUDY. BREASTFEEDING MEDICINE.

KIVLIGHAN, K. T., ORTIZ, F., MIGLIACCIO, L., OVERMAN, B. A., RUYAK, S., GORWODA, J., OSTREM-NIEMCEWICZ, K., LEVI, A., ALBERS, L. (2024). THIRTY YEARS OF MIDWIFERY EDUCATION IN THE RURAL AND DIVERSE STATE OF NEW MEXICO. JOURNAL OF MIDWIFERY AND WOMEN’S HEALTH.

LESSER, A., SCHWEIGER, L. P., TAYLOR, L. M., SOWICZ, T. J. (2025). TAPPING INTO THE FAMILIARITY AND IMMEDIACY OF NURSING PRACTICE [LETTER TO THE EDITOR]. NURSING OUTLOOK.

LEVETT-JONES, T., TUNKS LEACH, K. J., ROGERS, H. H., RICHARDS, C., BEST, O., WARD, A. (2025). INTERCONNECTED HEALTH: A CONCEPT ANALYSIS OF PLANETARY EMPATHY FOR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS. NURSING OUTLOOK, 73(1), 102337. HTTPS://DOI. ORG/10.1016/J.OUTLOOK.2024.102337

MYERS, O., GREENBERG, N., ZIEDONIS, D., TIGGES, B. B., SOOD, A. (2024). REASONS FOR FACULTY ATTRITION, ASSESSED BY LATENT CLASS ANALYSIS. THE CHRONICLE OF MENTORING AND COACHING, 8(3), 748–754.

NUGENT, S., LAVIN, R. P., LEE, J., HORN, B., DAMRON, B. (2025). AN ASSESSMENT OF NURSE PRACTITIONER LOW-VALUE CARE USE IN PRIMARY CARE. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MANAGED CARE. HTTPS://PUBMED. NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV/38457828

OSTREM-NIEMCEWICZ, K., CORDOVA, A. (2024). STILLBIRTH SIMULATION FOR NURSING AND MIDWIFERY. JOURNAL OF PROFESSIONAL NURSING, 54, 75–78. HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.1016/J.PROFNURS.2024.06.009

PRESCOTT, S., NUSRAT, A., SCOTT, R., NELSON, D., ROGERS, H. H., EL-SHERBINI, M. S., BISRAM, K., VIZINA, Y., WARBER, S. L., WEBB, D. (2025). THE EARTHRISE COMMUNITY: TRANSFORMING PLANETARY CONSCIOUSNESS FOR A FLOURISHING FUTURE. CHALLENGES. HTTPS://WWW.MDPI.COM/2078-1547/16/2/24

RIEBSOMER, E. T. (2025). PART III. BUILDING AN EFFECTIVE ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCACY TOOLKIT. THE NEW MEXICO NURSE, 2(1), 7–11. HTTPS://WWW. MYAMERICANNURSE.COM/DIGITAL/STATES/NEW_ MEXICO/MARCH_2025/#PAGE=9

ROBINSON, K. M., ROBINSON, K. A., SCHERER, A., LEHAN MACKIN, M. (2024). PATIENT PERCEPTIONS OF WEIGHT STIGMA EXPERIENCES IN HEALTHCARE: A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS. HEALTH EXPECTATIONS, 27(5), E70013. HTTPS://PUBMED.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV/39223786

ROGERS, H. H. (2025). NURSING FOR PLANETARY HEALTH AND WELLBEING TOPIC BRIEF FOR THE INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF NURSES. HTTPS://WWW.ICN.CH/NEWS/ICNLAUNCHES-NEW-TOPIC-BRIEF

ROESCH, A., BRAKEY, H. R., TIGGES, B. B., SOOD, A., SOLLER, B. (2024). QUALITATIVE DESCRIPTIONS OF DEVELOPER CHANGES OR CONSISTENCY OVER TIME. THE CHRONICLE OF MENTORING AND COACHING, 8(3), 741–747.

SCHAAF, S. (2025). CHAPTER 15: SOCIAL NETWORK CENTRALITY, SOCIAL CONSTRUCTION OF KNOWLEDGE, AND NURSE PRACTITIONER COMPETENCY IN ASYNCHRONOUS ONLINE DISCUSSIONS. IN KNOWLEDGE CO-CONSTRUCTION IN ONLINE LEARNING (PP. 211–221). ROUTLEDGE.

SHORE, X., MYERS, O., WISKUR, B., DOMINGUEZ, N., TIGGES, B. B., SOOD, A. (2024). SHORT-TERM IMPACT OF FACULTY MENTOR DEVELOPMENT ON MENTEES’ SCHOLARLY PRODUCTIVITY. THE CHRONICLE OF MENTORING AND COACHING, 8(3), 755–761.

SOOD, A., MICKEL, N., SHORE, X., WISKUR, B., TIGGES, B. B., MYERS, O. (2024). SUSTAINED IMPROVEMENT OF FACULTY MENTORING COMPETENCY WITH A MENTOR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM. THE CHRONICLE OF MENTORING AND COACHING, 8(3), 762–769.

SOWICZ, T. J. (2025). EDITOR’S CHOICE. WILEY ONLINE LIBRARY. HTTPS://ONLINELIBRARY.WILEY.COM/PAGE/ JOURNAL/13652648/HOMEPAGE/EDITORSCHOICE

SOWICZ, T. J., WILSON, M. (2024). MANAGING PAIN IN THE CONTEXT OF SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER. IN CORE CURRICULUM FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT NURSING (4TH ED.). ELSEVIER.

STIESMEYER, J. K. (2025). USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN NURSING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ROLES. JOURNAL FOR NURSES IN PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, 41(3), 193–195. HTTPS://JOURNALS.LWW. COM/JNSDONLINE/FULLTEXT/2025/05000/USE_OF_ARTIFICIAL_INTELLIGENCE_IN_NURSING.11.ASPX

THIES, J., HIGGINS, P. S., SCHLAK, A. E., BEGASHAW, M. M., DE VRIES, G., MIAKI-LYE, I. M. (2024). REGISTERED NURSE TRANSITION-TO-PRACTICE PROGRAMS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW. WASHINGTON, DC: DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS. HTTPS://WWW.HSRD.RESEARCH.VA.GOV/PUBLICATIONS/ESP/REPORTS.CFM

WARD, A., ROGERS, H. H., TULLENERS, T., LEVETT-JONES, T. (2024). NURSING IN 2050: NAVIGATING DUAL REALITIES OF CLIMATE CHANGE IN HEALTHCARE. NURSING INQUIRY, 31(4). HTTPS://DOI.ORG/10.1111/NIN.12666

WISKUR, B., SOOD, A., MYERS, O., SHORE, X., SOLLER, B., NICKEL, N., DOMINGUEZ, N., TIGGES, B. B. (2024). PERCEPTIONS IN MENTORSHIP: THE MENTOR-MENTEE COMPETENCY DISCREPANCY. THE CHRONICLE OF MENTORING AND COACHING, 8(1), 178–192.

ARCARO, K. (CO-PRINCIPAL), SCHNEIDER, S. (COPRINCIPAL), KIVLIGHAN, K. T. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “MAMMARY EPITHELIUM PERMEABILITY, LACTATION OUTCOMES, AND INFANT HEALTH,” SPONSORED BY EUNICE KENNEDY SHRIVER NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CHILD HEALTH AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT, FEDERAL. (AUGUST 11, 2023 – MAY 31, 2028).

BURNS, S. (CO-PRINCIPAL), DIONNE, T. (COPRINCIPAL), HEAD, M. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), SCHAAF, S. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “COGNITIVE STRATEGIES FOR OPTIMIZING BRAIN HEALTH AND MANAGING TRANSGENERATIONAL VASCULAR RISK FACTORS POSTSTROKE (CHAMPS-TR),” SPONSORED BY UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO, FEDERAL. (FEBRUARY 2025 – JUNE 2025).

COGIL, C. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT DIRECTOR), “ADVANCED NURSING EDUCATION WORKFORCE,” SPONSORED BY HRSA, FEDERAL. (JULY 1, 2023 – JUNE 30, 2027).

DAMRON, B. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), “IMPLEMENTING THE COREQUISITE DEVELOPMENTAL EDUCATION MODEL IN HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS THROUGH PROJECT ECHO; HRRC ID# 23-074,” SPONSORED BY U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION/COMPLETE COLLEGE AMERICA, FEDERAL. (OCTOBER 15, 2024 – JUNE 30, 2025).

DAYKIN, S., “CHILD READY RURAL EMERGENCY SUPPORT OF TRAUMA (CRREST),” SPONSORED BY HRSA, THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO. (SEPTEMBER 2020 – JUNE 2024).

DERETIC, V. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), TIGGES, B. B. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “AUTOPHAGY, INFLAMMATION, AND METABOLISM CENTER OF BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH EXCELLENCE,” SPONSORED BY NIH NIGMS, FEDERAL. (SEPTEMBER 1, 2022 – AUGUST 31, 2027).

EMRICK, G. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), SOWICZ, T. J. (CONSULTANT), “PROYECTO JUNTAS/PROJECT TOGETHER,” SPONSORED BY NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH, OFFICE OF STRATEGIC COORDINATIONTHE COMMON FUND’S COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS TO ADVANCE SCIENCE FOR SOCIETY (COMPASS), FEDERAL. (SEPTEMBER 2023 – APRIL 7, 2025).

CONTRACTS, GRANTS

HERNANDEZ, S. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), ZHU, Y. (COINVESTIGATOR), “INCREASING RESILIENCY IN AIR FORCE PERSONNEL: A MULTI-SITE STUDY,” SPONSORED BY TRISERVICE NURSING RESEARCH PROGRAM, FEDERAL. (2023 – JULY 31, 2025).

HUNDLEY, S., “CARLSON-PETTY AWARD,” SPONSORED BY CARLSON-PETTY, LOCAL. (JUNE 2024 – MAY 2025).

KELLEY, P. A. W. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), POOLE, S., “ACCELERATED BSN HED NURSING EXPANSION,” SPONSORED BY HED NEW MEXICO, STATE. (SEPTEMBER 1, 2022 – OCTOBER 31, 2026).

KIVLIGHAN, K. T. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/ PROJECT DIRECTOR), REISS, P. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/ PROJECT DIRECTOR), CORREA, X. (PROJECT MANAGER), “EQUITABLE ACCESS TO DOULA SUPPORT IN NEW MEXICO,” SPONSORED BY W. K. KELLOGG FOUNDATION, PRIVATE. (DECEMBER 1, 2024 – NOVEMBER 30, 2026).

KIVLIGHAN, K. T., CORREAL, X. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), REISS, P. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “BUILDING WORKFORCE CAPACITY: A DOULA TRAINEESHIP PROGRAM IN NEW ARCARO, K. (CO-PRINCIPAL), SCHNEIDER, S. (COPRINCIPAL), KIVLIGHAN, K. T. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “MAMMARY EPITHELIUM PERMEABILITY, LACTATION OUTCOMES, AND INFANT HEALTH,” SPONSORED BY EUNICE KENNEDY SHRIVER NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CHILD HEALTH AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT, FEDERAL. (AUGUST 11, 2023 – MAY 31, 2028).

COGIL, C. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT DIRECTOR), “ADVANCED NURSING EDUCATION WORKFORCE,” SPONSORED BY HRSA, FEDERAL. (JULY 1, 2023 – JUNE 30, 2027).

DAYKIN, S., “CHILD READY RURAL EMERGENCY SUPPORT OF TRAUMA (CRREST),” SPONSORED BY HRSA, THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO. (SEPTEMBER 2020 – JUNE 2024).

HUNDLEY, S., “CARLSON-PETTY AWARD,” SPONSORED BY CARLSON-PETTY, LOCAL. (JUNE 2024 – MAY 2025).

KELLEY, P. A. W. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), POOLE, S., “ACCELERATED BSN HED NURSING EXPANSION,” SPONSORED BY HED NEW MEXICO, STATE. (SEPTEMBER 1, 2022 – OCTOBER 31, 2026).

KIVLIGHAN, K. T., CORREAL, X. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), REISS, P. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “BUILDING WORKFORCE CAPACITY: A DOULA TRAINEESHIP PROGRAM IN NEW MEXICO,” SPONSORED BY BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD / NEW MEXICO STATE WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT FUNDS, STATE. (MAY 1, 2024 – JUNE 30, 2025).

KIVLIGHAN, K. T., “UNM VOLUNTEER BIRTH COMPANION PROGRAM,” SPONSORED BY W.K. KELLOGG FOUNDATION, PRIVATE. (NOVEMBER 1, 2022 – NOVEMBER 30, 2024).

GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIP

LARSON, R. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), TIGGES, B. B. (PROJECT DIRECTOR), “BUILDING QUALITY ASSURANCE/ QUALITY CONTROL CAPACITY AT THE UNM CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE CENTER,” SPONSORED BY NIH, FEDERAL. (JUNE 1, 2021 – MAY 31, 2024).

LARSON, R. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), TIGGES, B. (COINVESTIGATOR), “UNM CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE AWARD,” SPONSORED BY UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER, FEDERAL. (JUNE 30, 2020 – MAY 31, 2025).

LAVIN, R. P. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), COUIG, M. P. (COINVESTIGATOR), “IPA WITH VAEMC WORKING ON COVID RESEARCH RELATED TO NURSES,” SPONSORED BY VHA, FEDERAL. (APRIL 1, 2024 – MARCH 30, 2025).

LAVIN, R. P., “P20, UNM CHANGES (CLIMATE-CHANGE AND HEALTH FOR THE ALLIANCE AND NOVELTY OF GEOSPATIAL AND EXPOSURE SCIENCE) CENTER, PROJECT 1 CORE” SPONSORED BY NIH, FEDERAL. (SEPTEMBER 2024 – SEPTEMBER 2027).

LAVIN, R. P. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), COUIG, M. P. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), IPA WITH VA/VEMEC “NURSES ON THE FRONTLINE CARING FOR PATIENTS WITH COVID-19: LIVED EXPERIENCES,” SPONSORED BY VHA, FEDERAL. (APRIL 1, 2024 – MARCH 31, 2025).

LEE, J. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), “COVID-19-DRIVEN ANTI-ASIAN RACISM AND ITS IMPACT ON MENTAL HEALTH AMONG ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICANS (APAS) IN NM,” SPONSORED BY MW CTR-IN SUPPORTED BY AN AWARD FROM THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF GENERAL MEDICAL SCIENCES, NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF HEALTH, FEDERAL. (JULY 1, 2023 – APRIL 30, 2025).

LEE, J. (CONSULTANT), “CONCERNS ABOUT LOSING FACE AND SOCIAL ANXIETY IN ASIAN AMERICANS: THE MEDIATING ROLES OF SELF-SILENCING, SELFCOMPASSION, AND AUTONOMY,” SPONSORED BY UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA, HELEN RIDDLE AWARD, LOCAL. (2023 - 2025).

LEHAN MACKIN, M. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/ PROJECT DIRECTOR), KIVLIGHAN, K. T. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), CRAWFORD, J. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “A PILOT STUDY EXAMINING LACTATION EXPERIENCES AND MENTAL HEALTH,” SPONSORED BY CHILD HEALTH CHALLENGE PROGRAM, THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO. (JULY 1, 2024 – JUNE 30, 2025).

LIU, J. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), TIGGES, B. B. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “NEW MEXICO INTEGRATIVE SCIENCE PROGRAM INCORPORATING RESEARCH IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES (NM-INSPIRES) CEN,” SPONSORED BY NIH NIEHS, FEDERAL. (AUGUST 25, 2022 – MAY 31, 2026).

LLANQUE-WHITE, S. M., ALSAMAH, W. (COINVESTIGATOR), “INTEGRATION OF SDOH INTO MANNEQUIN-BASED SIMULATION FOR NP STUDENTS WITH DIVERSE FACE MASKS,” SPONSORED BY 2024 CARLSON PETTY ENDOWMENT AWARD, THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO. (SEPTEMBER 26, 2024 – OCTOBER 1, 2025).

ORTIZ, F. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/ PROJECT DIRECTOR), KIVLIGHAN, K. T. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), RUYAK, S., “ADVANCING MIDWIFERY OUTCOMES AND RESILIENCY,” SPONSORED BY HEALTH RESOURCES AND SERVICES ADMINISTRATION - MATCARE TRAINING PROGRAM, FEDERAL. (SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 –SEPTEMBER 29, 2027).

ORTIZ, F. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), FABIAN, R. A. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), HEWLETT-MASSER, C. A. (COINVESTIGATOR), KIVLIGHAN, K. T. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), RUYAK, S. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “ADVANCING MIDWIFERY OUTCOMES AND RESILIENCY (AMOR) PRECEPTOR INTERVIEWS,” OTHER. (SEPTEMBER 30, 2023 –SEPTEMBER 29, 2027).

ORTIZ, F., “UNM MIDWIFERY PATHWAY FOR BIRTHWORKERS,” SPONSORED BY W.K. KELLOGG FOUNDATION, FEDERAL. (DECEMBER 1, 2023 –NOVEMBER 30, 2025).

REESE, A. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT DIRECTOR), QUINER, T. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/ PROJECT DIRECTOR), KIVLIGHAN, K. T., ORTIZ, F. (COINVESTIGATOR), RUYAK, S. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), GURULE, F. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), SANJUAN, P. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), GREENWOOD-ERICKSON, M. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), CARTWRIGHT, K. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), NIXON, M. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), DUKES, A. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), ARTHUN, N. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “ENSURING EQUITABLE, SAFE AND ACCESSIBLE PERINATAL SERVICES FOR RURAL COMMUNITIES,” SPONSORED BY UNM GRAND CHALLENGE LEVEL 1 CONCEPT TEAMS, THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO. (AUGUST 1, 2025 – JUNE 30, 2026).

REESE, A. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT DIRECTOR), “NEW MEXICO DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH ERASE MATERNAL MORTALITY PROGRAM,” SPONSORED BY CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION, FEDERAL. (SEPTEMBER 30, 2024 - SEPTEMBER 29, 2029).

ROMERO-LEGGOTT, V. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), TIGGES, B. B. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “NEW MEXICO CENTER OF EXCELLENCE,” SPONSORED BY HRSA BUREAU OF HEALTH WORKFORCE, FEDERAL. (JULY 1, 2022 – JUNE 30, 2027).

ROWE, G. C., TAYLOR, L. M., “ELIMINATING STRUCTURAL RACISM IN NURSING ACADEMIA: A SYSTEMS CHANGE APPROACH TO ANTI-RACIST NURSING EDUCATION,” SPONSORED BY AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES’ OF NURSING/MACY FOUNDATION, OTHER. (NOVEMBER 2024 – MAY 2026).

RUYAK, S., “A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF THE ACCEPTABILITY AND FEASIBILITY OF ENHANCED PERINATAL DOULA CARE TO IMPROVE MATERNAL MENTAL HEALTH,” SPONSORED BY CHILD HEALTH SIGNATURE RESEARCH PROGRAM, THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO. (JULY 2024 – JUNE 2025).

SARAVANAN, A. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), SOWICZ, T. J. (CONSULTANT), “DEVELOPING AND REFINING THE CONCEPT PAIN HYGIENE FROM PAIN MANAGEMENT NURSES’ LENSES: A DELPHI STUDY,” SPONSORED BY AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT NURSING (ASPMN®) RESEARCH GRANT PROGRAM, PRIVATE. (JUNE 1, 2023 – DECEMBER 31, 2024).

SHUTTLEWORTH, C. W. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), TIGGES, B. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “UNM CENTER FOR BRAIN RECOVERY AND REPAIR,” SPONSORED BY NIH/ NIGMS, FEDERAL. (JULY 15, 2020 – JUNE 30, 2025).

ZYCHOWSKI, K. E. (PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR), YU, X. (CO-INVESTIGATOR), “SYSTEMIC IMPLICATIONS AND NOVEL MECHANISMS OF CIRCULATING EXTRACELLULAR VESICLES FOLLOWING INHALED EXPOSURES,” SPONSORED BY NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH, FEDERAL. (JULY 17, 2023 – MAY 31, 2028).

DUAL-DEGREE GRAD LEADS WITH STRENGTH & COMPASSION

When Jaisa Williams walked into her first day of nursing school, she brought with her a deep admiration for the profession — but no idea just how much resilience she’d need to get through.

“I was 18, nervous and excited,” she said. “I remember using my planner like a Bible. There was no other way to stay on track.”

Williams was enrolled in The University of New Mexico College of Nursing and Central New Mexico Community College’s Dual Degree program. The program allows students to remain based at their local community college or branch campus while co-enrolled at UNM to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

But midway through the program, everything changed.

“I was in pharmacology when I first noticed a lump on the side of my face,” Williams said.

After months of scans and biopsies, Jaisa was diagnosed with cancer and had to take two semesters off to undergo surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

“My care team told me I’d have to drop out. I just laughed. I was like, ‘You don’t understand, I’m not dropping out of nursing school.’”

With support from both CNM and UNM faculty, she made a plan.

“Everyone was so accommodating. They let me take the time I needed to get better, and then welcomed me back.”

She returned, grateful and determined. She said the experience shaped the nurse she wants to be.

Not long after returning to clinicals following cancer treatment, Williams was on rotation in a busy emergency department when she found herself in the middle of a code. A patient had gone into cardiac arrest, and as the care team worked quickly to intervene, Williams was asked to stay with the patient’s spouse, who was witnessing it all unfold.

She stepped into the moment — offering quiet support, answering questions that she could, and simply staying present through the uncertainty.

“It wasn’t something I’d practiced,” Williams said. “But I knew I’d want someone to be there for me.”

Her response left a lasting impression on the team.

“Jaisa’s expert interaction that day embodied everything we value as nurses,” said CNM Dean Diane Evans-Prior. “It also serves as a reminder how powerful our novice nurses can be. Her compassion is commendable, pure, and abundant. My faculty and I are so tremendously proud of her and are eager to see where her career takes her.”

The patient survived. But for Williams, what lingered was the emotional weight of the experience — and the quiet reminder of what nursing is really about.

That instinct to lead with heart has followed her into her current role at UNM’s Carrie Tingley Hospital, where she works with children.

“I’ve fallen in love with Carrie Tingley,” she said. “I tell my family it’s like the Grinch — my heart grows ten times when I’m at work.”

Williams says her patients have taught her just as much as her instructors.

“These kids have been through so much, but they’re resilient and full of joy. They just want to play and eat popsicles all day and honestly, that’s fine by me.”

She sees reflections of her younger self in them.

“I found my way back. And they do, too. Every single one of them finds their new normal.”

The UNM/CNM Dual Degree program gave Williams a solid foundation in nursing practice. More importantly, it gave her a community that stood by her through every high and low. She still keeps in touch with friends from her cohort — now working across various UNM units — and says those friendships help her stay grounded.

Now, with several months of nursing under her belt, she’s learning how to advocate with confidence.

“Ultimately, you’re your patient’s best advocate,” she said. “You’re the one there for 12 hours. You’re the one who sees everything. You have to trust your assessment and speak up.”

“ ULTIMATELY, YOU’RE YOUR PATIENT’S BEST ADVOCATE. YOU’RE THE ONE THERE FOR 12 HOURS. YOU’RE THE ONE WHO SEES EVERYTHING. YOU HAVE TO TRUST YOUR ASSESSMENT AND SPEAK UP. ”

- JAISA WILLAMS, BSN, RN

UNM COLLEGE OF NURSING ALUMNI

Williams doesn’t take for granted the fact that she gets to do this work.

“There were moments when I didn’t think I’d finish school,” she said. “But I finally made it. I graduated. And here I am today.”

EDUCATING NEW MEXICANS , EVERYWHERE.

The UNM College of Nursing is part of the New Mexico Nursing Education Consortium (NMNEC) — a statewide collaboration of 12 schools across 16 locations, all teaching the same pre-licensure nursing curriculum throughout the state.

THE UNM PRE-LICENSURE BSN OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE AT:

UNM Health Sciences Albuquerque

UNM Health Sciences Rio Rancho

UNM-Gallup

UNM-Taos

UNM-Valencia San Juan College

Santa Fe Community College

Central New Mexico Community College

This opportunity makes it possible for students to stay rooted in their communities while preparing to serve our diverse state.

As the College of Nursing continues to expand enrollment and meet the growing needs of New Mexico, our leadership team has also evolved and grown to help meet the needs of the College. This team brings together a shared commitment to collaboration, service and preparing the next generation of nurses.

MEET THE ADMINISTRATION TEAM

DEAN

ROSARIO MEDINA, PHD, RN, FNP-BC, ACNP, CNS, FAANP, FAAN

ASSOCIATE DEAN OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS

GINA ROWE, PHD, DNP, MPH, FNP-BC, PHCNS-BC, BC-ADM, FNAP

ASSOCIATE DEAN OF RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP

HECTOR OLVERA-ALVAREZ, PHD PE

THANK YOU TO DR. MARY PAT COUIG AND DR. ROBERTA LAVIN FOR CO-LEADING RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP DURING THE TRANSITION.

ASSISTANT DEAN OF UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION

SASHA POOLE, PHD, RN

THANK YOU TO DR. POOLE FOR SERVING IN THE INTERIM ROLE BEFORE BEING SELECTED FOR THE PERMANENT POSITION.

ASSISTANT DEAN OF PROFESSIONAL GRADUATE PROGRAMS

DEBORAH O'BRIANT, DNP, APRN, FNP-C

THANK YOU TO DR. FELINA ORTIZ FOR SERVING IN THE INTERIM ROLE AND HELPING GUIDE THE PROGRAMS FORWARD.

ASSISTANT DEAN OF CLINICAL AFFAIRS OPERATIONS

ERIC RIEBSOMER, DNP, RN, FANAI

THANK YOU TO DR. VAN ROPER FOR HIS LEADERSHIP IN THE INTERIM AS WE PLANNED FOR THE FUTURE.

CHIEF FINANCIAL & OPERATING OFFICER

JOSÉ M. GONZÁLEZ, M.ACCT.

DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC & ENROLLMENT SERVICES

JEFFERY DUBINSKI-NEESSEN, EDM

ACCOUNTING MANAGER

SIMA TUBBEH, MPA

DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONS & HUMAN RESOURCES

DELANA MANNION, SHRM, BBA

ALUMNI, MARKETING & OUTREACH OFFICER

MARLENA BERMEL, MBA

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR ANN-MARY MACLEOD, MA

& GROWTH

We’ve welcomed new colleagues whose work aligns with the College of Nursing’s values and long-term vision. Others have stepped into new roles, building on what they’ve already contributed and continuing to shape the future of nursing.

HIRES

ANGELA E. BACHICHA, DNP, APRN, NNP-BC CLINICIAN EDUCATOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

SANDRA CANO, MSN, RN LECTURER I

CHARLOTTE COLLINS, DNP, RN, PMHNP-BC CLINICIAN EDUCATOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

KATHLEEN C. FABIAN, DNP, CPNP-AC/PC, NEA-BC

CLINICIAN EDUCATOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

MARYAM HAMIDI, PHD, MSPH, RN ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

CAITLIN A. KOPP, RN, CPN LECTURER I

TEIO NABEE, DNP, BS, RN CLINICIAN EDUCATOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

HIRES

DOMINIQUE N. BRANIFF

HUMAN RESOURCES REPRESENTATIVE

MIKAELA BUNCH

ACADEMIC ADVISOR

CYNTHIA CODY PROGRAM COORDINATOR

TIFFANI CORAM

ADMISSIONS ADVISOR

ZACHARY CORDELL

STUDENT RECRUITMENT SPECIALIST

MOLLY A. COVINGTON, MSN, RN NURSE EDUCATOR

WEI FANG

SR BIOSTATISTICIAN

TWILA FIRMATURE

ADMISSIONS ASSOCIATE

ARELIS FLORES

TRAINING PROJECT CONSULTANT/LACTATION COUNCILOR - CHAMPS

CHRISTINA M. GARCIA-TENORIO, MA DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL PLACEMENTS

KATRINA A. GILBERT SR FISCAL SERVICES TECH

ROBERT A. GRENVILLE SIMULATION PROGRAM SPECIALIST

FACULTY

DEBORAH O’BRIANT, DNP, APRN, FNP-C

ASSISTANT DEAN OF PROFESSIONAL GRADUATE PROGRAMS

HECTOR OLVERA-ALVAREZ, PHD PE

ASSOCIATE DEAN OF RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP

LESLIE D. PETERS, MSN, RN LECTURER I

TORSTEN ROHDE, MSN, RN LECTURER I

AFEEFEH SALEH, MSN, RN LECTURER I

SHANNON A. STARKEY, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC

CLINICIAN EDUCATOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

STAFF

ANJELICA HERRERA ADMIN ASSISTANT III

ALEXANDRA N. JACOBS TRAINING PROJECT CONSULTANT

LEIGH H. KADER TRAINING PROJECT CONSULTANT

BHAWANA KAFLE RESEARCH ASSISTANT

CAITYA KANIATOBE TRAINING PROJECT CONSULTANT/LACTATION COUNCILOR - CHAMPS

ALLEGRA S. LACY, BS HUMAN RESOURCES TECH

SAMUEL LACY

ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR FOR THE ASSOCIATE DEANS

ANGELIC J. MADRID FINANCIAL AID OFFICER

SARA NUGENT HS RESEARCH SPECIALIST

RODGER RUSHING

STUDENT RECRUITMENT SPECIALIST

LANDREE M. SALAZAR

TRAINING PROJECT CONSULTANT

VINCENT C. SARRACINO, MBA RESEARCH ADMINISTRATION DIRECTOR

PROMOTIONS

SASHA POOLE, PHD, RN ASSISTANT DEAN FOR UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION CLINICIAN EDUCATOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

ABIGAIL L. REESE, PHD, RN, CNM NURSE-MIDWIFERY PROGRAM DIRECTOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

GINA ROWE, PHD, DNP, MPH, FNP-BC, PHCNSBC, BC-ADM, FNAP ASSOCIATE DEAN OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS, CLINICIAN EDUCATOR, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR

LISA M. TAYLOR, DNP, RN, FNP-BC, BC-ADM, CDCES

DEI DIRECTOR, CLINICIAN EDUCATOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

BRANDI TETREAULT TRAINING PROJECT CONSULTANT/LACTATION COUNCILOR - CHAMPS

THADDEUS J. TORREZ SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR

RENEE VARELA-KARNES HUMAN RESOURCES TECHNICIAN

PROMOTIONS

AMANDA M. ABEYTA-REY EVENTS PLANNER

BRANDY M. BENNETT PROGRAM COORDINATOR

MANUEL GRIEGO PROGRAM SPECIALIST

REBECCA J. GRINER PROGRAM SPECIALIST

HEATHER D. HOLTER ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT TO THE DEAN

CONSUELO D. MEDERO SUPERVISOR, ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

MIRANDA L. OLGUIN PROGRAM COORDINATOR

ALEXIS B. TIEFA, MED PROGRAM SPECIALIST

LOBO NURSE

1970s

COLLEGE OF NURSING

CLASS OF 1975 reunited to celebrate 50 years since graduation.

ALLISON KOZELISKI, Class of 1975, received the Nursing Legend Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence.

1980s

ANN MUSINSKI, Class of 1983, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

SUZANNE SMITH, Class of 1983 and 2007, received the Nursing Legend Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence.

College of Nursing Class of 1975 alumnae celebrated their 50th graduation anniversary.

MEGAN DUNLAP-RADIGAN, Class of 2007 and 2011, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

KYM HALLIDAY-CLEAR, Class of 2004, received the Distinguished Nurse of the Year Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence.

KEITH HAYNIE, Class of 2008, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

MARLENE BETONIE, Class of 1994, received the Nursing Legend Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence.

CHRISTINA O’CONNELL, Class of 1996 and 2021, received the College of Nursing’s New Alumni Award.

2010s 2000s 1990s

CHRISTINE COGIL, Class of 2000, inducted as a fellow by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

AARON SKILES, Class of 2009, 2012 and 2018, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

DANA CONDREY, Class of 2011, received the Home Health & Hospice Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence.

MEGHAN DIETZ, Class of 2019, received the Touch of Life Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence.

DONNA DINEYAZHE, Class of 2017, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

NICOLE GONZALES, Class of 2017 and 2022, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

RYAN HARRIS, Class of 2013 and 2018, participated in an alumni panel for students during Nurses Week.

KIMBERLY HART, Class of 2013 and 2020, participated in an alumni panel for students during Nurses Week.

VICTORIA BARNER, Class of 2012, received the Nurses at the Heart of Healthcare Award from TigerConnect, which honors nurses who have shown exceptional compassion, integrity, and expertise in their roles.

XOCHITH IBARRA, Class of 2018 and 2020, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

ALUMS

KATHRYN MICKEY, Class of 2016 and 2018, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

MICHELLE PEACOCK, Class of 2012, was inducted as a fellow by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

NICHELE SALAZAR, Class of 2014, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

VANESSA TAHE, Class of 2020 and 2022, gave a presentation to students, alumni and the nursing community on Navajo (Diné) Culture & Social Determinates of Health.

TIFFANY WINTERS, Class of 2012, received the Maternity/ Women’s Health Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence.

2020s

MAIA AGUINO, Class of 2024, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

EMILY BUTLER, Class of 2023, was featured in a UNM Health Sciences Newsroom story about connecting with a College of Nursing student in South Korea, titled “How UNM Nursing Connects Students Across the World.”

MARYANNE CHAVEZ, Class of 2021, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

JEANINE FULLER, Class of 2022, received the Emergency Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence.

ELLIE HARVEY, Class of 2020, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

KRISTOPHER JACKSON, Class of 2022, was inducted as a fellow by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

LUIS MARQUEZ, Class of 2020, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

KATHERINE MATTHEWS, Class of 2021, received the Emerging Nurse Leader Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence.

NAHNSEJAY MOUWON, Class of 2024, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

ALEXANDRE PERRIN, Class of 2021, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

ALEXA REYES, Class of 2023, received the Nightingale (Beginning Practice) Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence.

LAUREN RICE, Class of 2023, participated in a promotional video for the College of Nursing.

ARE YOU AN ALUM?

We want to hear from you. Tell us what you are doing, what’s new and share your story. Tag us on social media or email us at MBermel@salud.unm.edu.

JESSICA ROMERO, Class of 2020, received the Ambulatory Care Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence.

CAMILLE A. ROYBAL, Class of 2020, received the Critical Care Award from the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence.

SOPHIA SAGERT, Class of 2022, participated in an alumni panel for students during Nurses Week.

ADOMAS SKAUDA, Class of 2024, participated in an alumni panel for students during Nurses Week.

VAIL WOODARD, Class of 2021, received the College of Nursing’s 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award.

CELEBRATING DR. DAMRON

We’re sending our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Barbara Damron on her retirement. She will be deeply missed at the College of Nursing. Over the years, she’s given so much of her time, insight and heart to this community. Her commitment to nursing, education, research and moving the profession forward has left a lasting and meaningful impact.

BARBARA INCARDONA C. HOLMES DAMRON, PHD, LHD, MSN, RN, FAAN PROFESSOR

Dr. Barbara Damron, who served as a tenured professor at The University of New Mexico College of Nursing and the School of Medicine, retired in July 2025. She also held the Ridenour/Mason New Mexico Nursing Education Consortium Fellowship and previously served as Senior Advisor to the College of Nursing Dean. Before returning to her full-time faculty role, she was UNM’s inaugural Chief Government Relations Officer.

During her career, Dr. Damron was the New Mexico Higher Education Department Cabinet Secretary and State Higher Education Executive Officer, where she had oversight of the state’s 28 public institutions of higher education, four tribal colleges and more than 190 private and proprietary post-secondary schools. She was a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation/National Academy of Medicine Fellow on the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, & Pensions in Washington, D.C., for Sen. Lamar Alexander. She also chaired the New Mexico Education Trust Board. She is currently a Commissioner and Chair of the Western Interstate Commission of Higher Education (WICHE) and a Commissioner for the Education Commission of the States. Dr. Damron has 50 years of experience as an education executive, advanced practice nurse, health care executive, college professor, international consultant and cancer scientist.

Dr. Damron led New Mexico’s statewide Common Course Numbering System, aligning all lower-division courses across community colleges, comprehensive/regional universities, research universities and tribal colleges throughout the state. She reformed the General Education Core Curriculum across these institutions, as well as establishing statewide meta-majors and leading the reform of dual credit in New Mexico – emphasizing quality and useful credential completion. She also developed and was the founding director of the Texas Nurse Oncology Education Program and was the first advanced practice oncology nurse in South Texas. Dr. Damron continues to serve on numerous international, national and state education and health governing boards.