The University of New Mexico

08/29/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/29/2024 06:34

UNM launches Asset Management Program to advance campus sustainability and resource management

The University of New Mexico administration has officially adopted a new Asset Management Program (AMP), a comprehensive initiative to expand collaboration, transparency, and holistic management of The University lands and facility assets. This innovative program represents a significant step towards realizing the vision of One University.

Utilizing the recently approved Integrated Campus Plan (ICP), the AMP will implement land use and facility investment strategies to support the UNM 2040 strategic framework by strengthening efforts to achieve holistic land planning, strategic facility investment, optimized space utilization, and right-sizing the campus.

The strategies developed and implemented by the AMP will address the institution's facility and space needs, including educational innovation and research collaboration. The AMP supports planned and unexpected developments of UNM lands to support student success, research excellence, and the health of New Mexico communities. It integrates UNM's land use and facility investments as One University.

History and Background
The Asset Management Program (AMP) was initiated by UNM Institutional Support Services (ISS) in January 2021 in response to the growing need for responsible resource management, coordinated space utilization, and asset management. It was born from the recognition that some UNM campus buildings have reached the end of their useful life, necessitating a thoughtful and data-driven approach to determine their future. The program is built on a foundation of transparency, collaboration, and a commitment to UNM's long-term success.

The AMP was first launched with an Asset Management Program Advisory Committee, comprised of diverse stakeholders from The University community. This group has contributed to the program's development and implementation, providing a broad perspective and expertise and ensuring that the AMP's strategies align with UNM's mission and goals.

Asset ManagementCommittee (AMC) Roster and Representatives
With the official adoption of the AMP by The University administration, the AMC has been established. This diverse group of University leadership collaborates to provide valuable insights and expertise for the development and implementation of the Asset Management Program land and facilities strategies for The University:

  1. Provost Office: Oversees academic and faculty matters at the university.
  2. EVP for Finance & Administration: Manages financial and administrative operations.
  3. CEO/EVP for Health Sciences & UNM Health System: Oversees health sciences programs and the health system.
  4. Various VP Offices: Represent different areas of The University, such as Research, Equity & Inclusion, and Institutional Support Services.
  5. Deans: Responsible for academic colleges or schools.
  6. Branch Chancellors: Represent branch campuses and unique campus needs.
  7. Chief Information Officer: Manages information technology and technology-related decisions.
  8. SVP Clinical Affairs: Oversees clinical programs and healthcare-related initiatives.
  9. COO, UNM Hospital (UNMH): Oversees the operations of the UNM Hospitals and clinics.
  10. Chief of Staff, President's Office: Provides support in administrative and strategic matters.
  11. Athletics: Represent athletic programs and student-athlete initiatives.
  12. Policy Office: Develops and manages institutional policies and procedures.
  13. University Council: Provides legal counsel and guidance on legal matters.

These representatives collectively contribute their knowledge, perspectives, and expertise to ensure that the AMP aligns with UNM's mission, goals, and values, making the program a collaborative and inclusive effort to enhance the university's asset management practices.

Why the Asset Management Program?
"The AMP is a strategic response to the evolving needs of our university and the imperative to manage our assets responsibly," said Shawna Wolfe, vice president for Institutional Support Services at UNM. "It allows us to make informed decisions, address deferred maintenance, prioritize sustainability, and enhance the student, faculty, and staff experience."

How the Asset Management Program and Committees Work
The AMP is a multi-faceted program with key components:

  • Facility Assessment: Comprehensive assessments of all buildings on campus to determine their current condition and needs.
  • Prioritization: Buildings will be ranked based on condition, mission importance, and potential for rehabilitation or replacement.
  • Financial Analysis: Careful evaluation of UNM's budget and financial resources to make informed decisions about facility reinvestment.
  • Land Use Planning: Assessment of the best use of UNM's land assets to support our long-term vision.
  • Sustainability Focus: Sustainability is a core element of our decision-making process. UNM is committed to reducing our environmental footprint.

The purpose of the AMC is to support, advise, and make recommendations to the UNM President regarding facility and land use decisions. The committee prepares an annual report containing AMC recommendations to the President regarding land use and facility decisions and is ready to provide alternative recommendations upon the President's request.

Importance to UNM 2040 Vision Goals
The AMP is aligned with UNM's 2040 strategic framework. It sets the stage for a more sustainable, efficient, and responsive university better equipped to serve our students, support our communities, and advance research excellence.

Shawna Wolfe further emphasized, "The AMP embodies UNM's commitment to right-sizing the campus. By aligning our physical assets with UNM 2040 goals, we're ensuring that our campus continues to thrive and support the needs of our students and community."

For more information about the Asset Management Program, visit ISS Campus Environments.