COMMUNITY COUNCIL
OPINION: Diversity in leadership is critical for New Mexico's economy
At the sa国际传媒官网网页入口 Hispano Chamber of Commerce our mission is to promote economic development, enhance economic opportunities and to provide business and workforce education with an emphasis on the Hispanic and small business communities in sa国际传媒官网网页入口 and New Mexico. That is why we question the announcement from the University of New Mexico of five presidential finalists; none of whom represent the largest demographic of our state.
UNM is more than a flagship institution 鈥� it is a cornerstone of our state鈥檚 identity, economy and future. As a federally designated Hispanic-serving institution in a majority-minority state, UNM carries both a distinction and a responsibility: to reflect, serve and uplift the communities that define New Mexico.
This concern is not about checking a diversity, equity and inclusion box. It is about whether our institutions are fully aligned with the people they serve. In New Mexico, where Hispanic heritage is deeply woven into our history and daily life, representation in leadership is not symbolic 鈥� it is strategic. It shapes priorities, builds trust, and signals to students, faculty and families that opportunity at the highest levels is both real and attainable.
We recognize that presidential searches are complex and competitive. We also acknowledge that qualifications, experience and vision must guide any final decision. But outcomes matter. When a search process yields a finalist pool that does not reflect the diversity of the institution or the state, it is appropriate 鈥� and necessary 鈥� to ask why.
Were diverse candidates actively recruited? Did the process create barriers, intentional or not, that narrowed the pool? And what message does this send to the next generation of Hispanic scholars and leaders?
These questions are not criticisms for their own sake. They are an invitation to do better 鈥� not just in this moment, but in the long-term cultivation of leadership.
If we are serious about equity and excellence, then we must invest in building stronger pipelines for Hispanic leadership in higher education. That means mentoring, sponsorship and partnerships that prepare talented individuals to step into roles like this one. It also means greater transparency and accountability in how leadership decisions are made.
The business community understands the value of diverse leadership. It drives innovation, strengthens organizations and connects institutions more authentically to the communities they serve. The same is true in higher education.
UNM has an opportunity right now 鈥� not just to select its next president, but to reaffirm its commitment to being a true Hispanic-serving institution in practice, not just in designation. That commitment will be measured not only by who is chosen, but by the priorities, partnerships and outcomes that follow.
We stand ready, as a business organization and as partners in New Mexico鈥檚 future, to work alongside UNM in strengthening pathways to leadership and ensuring that our institutions reflect the richness and diversity of our state.
Being a Hispanic-serving institution is not simply a title. It is a promise 鈥� to students, to families and to the future of New Mexico. And like any promise, it requires intention, accountability and leadership that understands the communities it is called to serve.
Ernie C鈥檇eBaca is the president and CEO of the sa国际传媒官网网页入口 Hispano Chamber of Commerce and a member of the sa国际传媒官网网页入口鈥檚 Community Council.
