Dear colleagues,

Artificial intelligence is having significant impact on all aspects of higher education enterprise, just as it is in all walks of our lives. We have several faculty and staff actively engaged in AI research and education and in using AI in non-academic operations. While these activities continue to grow at NMSU, they remain fragmented, limiting our ability to fully leverage existing strengths for greater impact, visibility, and collaboration – particularly with funding and government agencies.

To address this challenge and elevate NMSU's AI initiatives to national importance, I am pleased to announce that Dean Enrico Pontelli of the College of Arts & Sciences will serve as the Special Advisor for AI. In this role, Dean Pontelli will lead efforts to unify and coordinate our AI activities across campus (academic and non-academic), enhance their visibility, and foster large-scale collaborations that attract external funding.

Dean Pontelli brings a wealth of experience to this position, having served as NMSU's representative to the New Mexico AI Consortium and as the leader of its educational subcommittee. His deep understanding of AI activities at NMSU and his established connections at state and national levels make him uniquely qualified to guide our institution's efforts in this critical area.

Let's come together to establish NMSU as a national leader in AI research, education, and in all of our academic and non-academic operations. We are NMSU, and our future is defined by our commitment to excellence.

During this Thanksgiving week, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you for the opportunity to serve NMSU. It is a privilege to connect with you each through the "We are NMSU" messages. I am encouraged by your feedback, including suggestions and corrections.

On behalf of the Office of Academic Affairs, I wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving!

Lakshmi N. Reddi
Interim Provost
New Mexico State University