Growth Brings Change

New Leadership Appointments in the UNM College of Nursing

The University of New Mexico College of Nursing has experienced dramatic growth over the past several years. This rapid expansion has included increases in the student population, a heightened need for clinical education and the need for more robust centralized facilities – all critical in order to meet our state’s health care shortage and better serve our community. 

As of July 1, 2021, the following faculty have taken leadership positions to move the College forward in streamlining operations to advance the delivery of nursing education and actively engage the call to meet the health care needs of New Mexicans.

“We have strong leadership at the College and these additions will not only allow us to continue the growth but will also ensure that we maintain excellent academic programs, clinical work and research that addresses the needs of our communities,” says Christine E. Kasper, PhD, RN, dean of the College of Nursing.

Carolyn Montoya, PhD, RN, CPNP, FAAN, FAANP

Interim Executive Vice Dean

Montoya, a professor, has been serving as the College’s associate dean for Clinical Affairs. She previously served in multiple leadership positions within the College, from practice chair, to associate dean of academic affairs to interim dean. In her new role, she will oversee all academic operations.

Kristen Ostrem-Niemcewicz, DNP, RN, CNM, FNP-BC, EFM-C, FACNM

Interim Assistant Dean of Undergraduate Education

Ostrem-Niemcewicz, an associate professor, has a strong history of leadership as the Master of Science in Nursing Program director and formerly as the Midwifery Concentration coordinator. 

Christine Cogil, DNP, RN, FNP-BC

Interim Assistant Dean of Graduate Professional Programs

Cogil, an associate professor, holds a secondary appointment with the Department of Dental Medicine. She previously served as the FNP program coordinator and is familiar with the various areas of advanced practice nursing.

Jan Martin, DNP, RN

Interim Assistant Dean of Clinical Affairs

Martin, an associate professor, is the program director of the College’s Geriatric Education & Health Maintenance Clinics. She also provides administrative leadership to El Pueblo Health Services and the Medically Fragile Case Management Program at the UNM Center for Development & Disability. She previously served as the primary liaison on all faculty practice contracts.

Judy Liesveld, PhD, RN, PPCNP-BC, CNE

Interim Associate Dean of Innovation & Community Outreach and Professor

Liesveld, a professor, has held multiple leadership roles in the College. Most recently she served as the associate dean for Education and Innovation.

In addition, the following faculty member will be continuing in her role:

Patricia Ann Watts Kelley, PhD, RN, FNP-BC, GNP-BC, FAANP, FAAN

Associate Dean for Research & Scholarship

Dr. Patricia Higgins Endowed Professor in Nursing

Watts-Kelley’s contributions to expanding the College’s research footprint after her initial appointment last year have been enormous. Her leadership and expertise with regard to research and scholarship have benefited both College of Nursing faculty and students.