The University of New Mexico, Relying on Diversity As its Strength

One of DiversityWorking's latest diversity company member is the University of NewMexico, which was established in 1889 to serve as the state's flagship educational institution. According to its website, UNM is the only Hispanic-Serving Institution in the U.S. that is also classified a Carnegie Research University with Very High Activity.

Part of the UNM's identity are its age-old traditions, like its nickname Lobo, Spanish for wolf, known and “respected for his cunning, feared for his prowess, and is the leader of the pack. It is the ideal name for the Varsity boys who go forth to battle for the glory of the school...” Then there is the University Lobo Mascot which started with a real lobo back in 1920. Today, two human mascots, "Lobo Louie" created in the early 1960's, and "Lobo Lucy" created in the early 1980's, are part of the school's cheering squad. Other UNM's time-honored traditions are its colors Cherry and Silver, the “Alma Mater” and and the Fight Song.

Its commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in the diversity of its people, including the studentry - a cross-section of cultures and backgrounds. As of fall of 2013, 28,644 students were enrolled at the main campus, while 7,609 students were at branch campuses and education centers. Under its employ are more than 20,000 people statewide, including employees of University Hospital.

As an equal opportunity employer, it hires and retains a diverse workforce and is dedicated to the goal of building a culturally diverse and pluralistic faculty and staff workforce. We are committed to teaching and working in a multicultural environment.

More than just representational diversity, the University of New Mexico is now moving beyond it towards promoting Inclusive Excellence, which is integrating diversity and excellence by bringing together diverse worldviews, diverse research ideas and the ability to teach to multiple ways of learning and knowing. In building Inclusive Excellence our students are better prepared to work and interact in a diverse world.

As it grows more committed to equity and inclusion, the University of New Mexico continues to thrive.