The University of New Mexico Indigenous Peoples Land and Territory Acknowledgement
Founded in 1889, The University of New Mexico sits on the traditional homelands of the Pueblo of Sandia. The original peoples of New Mexico – Pueblo, Navajo, and Apache – since time immemorial, have deep connections to the land and have made significant contributions to the broader community statewide. We honor the land itself and those who remain stewards of this land throughout the generations and also acknowledge our committed relationship to Indigenous peoples. We gratefully recognize our history.
Statement Acknowledging the Labor and Sacrifices of Black Americans
At UNM, we respectfully acknowledge the traumatic history of forced labor of Black Americans who have advanced our country. We are indebted to the enslaved and exploited African Americans who established our U.S. infrastructure and economy, advanced civil rights, and continue to influence popular culture. We are obligated to continuously recognize historic and current systemic oppression and injustices placed on Black Americans. We are grateful to their ancestors; for without them we would not be where we are today.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Molecular Genetics & Microbiology
The Department of Molecular Genetics & Microbiology (MGM) is committed to advancing a diverse and inclusive workforce that promotes research, educational, and service excellence; providing equitable instruction and mentoring for trainees and students; and helping to support equitable care for our diverse patient populations.
We in MGM honor the diversity of the state of New Mexico, with a racially and ethnically varied population that is largely rural. We are proud that our department members vary in their cultural and financial backgrounds, origins, ethnicities, physical abilities, sexual orientations, gender identities, beliefs, and approaches to life and research. Our intent is to create an environment that supports each as a valued individual. MGM is committed to providing an environment based on diversity, equity, and inclusion, free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. We extend this commitment to our research, training, and education programs by creating a diverse, inclusive, and collaborative environment. We believe diversity in education and research is necessary to foster creativity, innovation, and teamwork while promoting representation in our profession and research and improving patient care for our population.
To learn about available programs and services, visit the UNM Health Sciences Center Office for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.
Professor Michelle A. Ozbun, Ph.D. (she/her/hers)
MGM Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
email: mozbun@salud.unm.edu
