A leader who can stand firm in turbulent times, invest in the well-being of students and staff, and position New Mexico’s flagship university for the future — those are some of the qualities students, faculty and employees offered this week as the University of New Mexico begins its search for a new president.

The comments came during public listening sessions hosted by the Presidential Search Advisory Committee, which is gathering input ahead of President Garnett Stokes’ planned retirement in July. Stokes, UNM’s first female president and the 23rd to hold the office, announced in September she would step down after eight years marked by efforts to rebuild enrollment, strengthen campus governance and expand research activity.

The advisory committee — made up of regents, deans, vice presi

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