We Are NMSU – October 28, 2024
Dear colleagues,
Our current process for allocating indirect costs generated from research grants has not been reviewed in the recent past. Several questions have arisen regarding the validity of the expenses funded by the indirect costs. In collaboration with the Faculty Senate, we have established a task force to review best practices from our peers and recommend changes to our current practices. This important review has been a priority for faculty researchers for several years.
Additionally, Interim President Torres and I formed another task force late this summer to assess our current practices for serving international students and the organizational structure of International Student Services. Led by Deans Flores and Pontelli, Senate Chair Chaitanya, and members of the Graduate Student Council, among others, this group is expected to finalize their recommendations shortly.
I am pleased to announce the appointment of two key positions within the Office of Academic Affairs, which will help further our mission to support academic affairs.
Deputy Provost
We are excited to announce that Dr. James McAteer was appointed as Deputy Provost, effective October 16. In this role, Dr. McAteer will act as a vital link between the Faculty Senate and the administration, offering policy guidance and representing the university in negotiations with faculty and graduate student unions. Additionally, he will serve on committees responsible for overseeing program changes and approvals, ensuring coordination across academic units. With two years of experience as Associate Provost and background as a department head, along with a strong commitment to student success and faculty development, Dr. McAteer brings a wealth of academic leadership experience to this position.
Provost Fellow for Faculty Success
We are also pleased to announce that Dr. Patricia MacGregor-Mendoza, professor in the Department of Spanish and Linguistics, has been appointed as Provost Fellow for Faculty Success, effective November 1. In this role, Dr. MacGregor-Mendoza will work closely with faculty across all disciplines to ensure consistency in promotion and tenure processes, facilitate mentoring for junior faculty, and foster a positive, inclusive academic environment. With over a decade of experience chairing promotion and tenure committees and mentoring faculty, Dr. MacGregor-Mendoza has been a strong advocate for faculty development,. Her leadership as the Teaching Academy's P&T Fellow and DIgital Faculty Fellow and her recognition as a Mentoring Award Recipient Highlight her commitment to faculty success.
Please join me in congratulating Dr. McAteer and Dr. MacGregor-Mendoza as they accept their new roles. With these appointments, the Office of Academic Affairs is well prepared to ensure both student and faculty success and make our operations efficient. Our aim is to bring synergy by working closely with the Senate leadership, President’s Office, and with the non-academic support services. In the end, we work in unison; We are NMSU.
Lakshmi N. Reddi
Interim Provost
New Mexico State University