The University of New Mexico

09/17/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/17/2024 11:54

Enhancing efficiency: Key departmental changes in ISS

In an ongoing commitment to fostering excellence and driving efficiency, UNM Institutional Support Services (ISS) has implemented several strategic changes throughout the first half of 2024, designed to better serve the campus community. These initiatives include two departmental restructurings, appointing an interim and incoming director, and launching a new department.

Together, these updates demonstrates ISS' proactive approach to aligning resources with the evolving needs of The University and enhancing our ability to deliver impactful solutions. Additionally, in the latter half of 2024, an upcoming retirement will bring about further changes.

Restructuring Design, Construction, & Space Planning at UNM
Beginning in February of 2024, UNM Capital & Space Strategies (CSS) and UNM Planning, Design & Construction (PDC) entered a reorganization process aimed at amplifying our institution's success. This strategic realignment is designed to optimize project workflows, promote functional alignment, and strengthen our ability to deliver high-quality outcomes efficiently. Capital & Space Strategies has expanded to become UNM Campus Capital & Space Planning (CCSP), which is focused on long-range vision plans and programming, project readiness, and university-wide planning coordination.

Planning, Design & Construction has been restructured to UNM Facilities Design & Construction (FDC). FDC focuses on implementing funded and approved projects, collaborating closely with CCSP and campus stakeholders on estimates and project feasibility, and aligning university-wide project management processes and design standards. While CCSP and FDC have distinct responsibilities, they work collaboratively in the development of the campus and supporting the facility needs of The University.

Campus Capital & Space Planning Director Appointment
Institutional Support Services announced recently that Rosemary (Rosie) Dudley has been selected as the new director of Campus Capital & Space Planning. In this role, Dudley will lead ISS efforts in strategic planning and development, ensuring that our campus facilities and spaces meet the evolving needs of our university community. Dudley brings over 27 years of experience in urban planning, design, and capital project management. She has been with UNM since 2020, where she has played a critical role as a University Planner, including facilitating the recently approved Integrated Campus Plan, where she engaged with campus and community stakeholders.

Dudley's extensive experience includes leading multidisciplinary teams, facilitating community engagement, and managing large-scale projects from conception through completion. Her leadership will be instrumental as we continue to create and maintain outstanding environments that support UNM's mission and right-size The University. Rosie's commitment to sustainability, strategic problem-solving, and collaborative planning will guide our efforts in optimizing campus spaces for the future.

Facilities Design & Construction Interim Director Appointment
This summer, ISS named Jeff Zumwalt as interim director of Facilities Design & Construction. ISS would like to express its sincere gratitude to Zumwalt for stepping into this role. Zumwalt's extensive experience in energy management, deep understanding of campus infrastructure, and skill in enhancing workplace culture provided invaluable leadership. His guidance and dedication helped navigate the department through this time of transition, ensuring continuity of service and support for both clients and staff.

ISS' dedicated team continues to work diligently throughout the search process for the Facilities Design & Construction director. ISS is excited about what the future holds for FDC and remain committed to ensuring a smooth transition as the department moves forward.

Office of Sustainability Making Impacts Early
Additionally, ISS announces the successful launch of a new department, the Office of Sustainability, led by Anne Jakle, which spearheads initiatives that further UNM's sustainability goals. This department focuses on developing and implementing strategies to reduce the campus's environmental impact while promoting a culture of sustainability across The University.

The Office of Sustainability has made significant strides in advancing environmental initiatives on campus. Recent achievements include conducting UNM's first-ever waste audit at the Student Union Building, co-sponsoring a successful Sustainability Expo, and forming a Campus Tree & Arboretum Advisory Committee. The office also launched a comprehensive baseline data gathering effort, greenhouse gas inventory, and UNM was accepted into the prestigious RMI Clean Energy Academy.

Facilities Management Director, Al Sena announces retirement
Al Sena, director of Facilities Management for the past seven years, has announced his intention to retire in February 2025. ISS would like to thank Sena for his contributions to UNM and Facilities Management. As ISS prepares for this change, ISS will soon begin developing a transition plan and starting the search for his successor. This process will include gathering feedback from campus stakeholders, assessing current services, and reviewing alignment with the evolving needs of The University.

Creating Sustainable Space for UNM
As these changes unfold, ISS wants to emphasize that the goal remains clear: to create a more dynamic and responsive division that's aligned with UNM's mission of collaboration and innovation and is responsive to the State's needs. The steps ISS is taking now will lay the groundwork for even more effective processes and a stronger, more resilient university environment. ISS is grateful for the dedication and flexibility of our community during this time and look forward to the positive impact these updates will have across campus.