ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The University of New Mexico has announced the appointment of Fernando Lovo as the next Vice President and Director of Athletics, a significant move aimed at steering the institution’s athletic programs into a promising future. Lovo, who currently serves as the Executive Senior Associate Athletics Director for Operations at the University of Texas at Austin, will officially assume his new role on December 1, 2024.
In making the announcement, UNM President Garnett S. Stokes expressed her enthusiasm, highlighting Lovo’s extensive experience and engaging leadership qualities. She stated, “We are excited to welcome Fernando Lovo to the University of New Mexico. His extensive experience and dynamic leadership style make him an exceptional choice for this pivotal role. Fernando’s commitment to fostering an environment where our student-athletes can thrive academically and athletically is genuinely inspiring.”
Stokes underscored the alignment of Lovo’s proven track record with the university’s values and expressed confidence in the positive impact he is expected to have on the Lobo athletic programs and the broader community. “Under his leadership, our athletic programs will continue to excel and positively impact our community,” she added, welcoming Lovo and his family to Albuquerque and New Mexico.
Lovo’s Athletic Administration Background
Lovo boasts a robust portfolio in collegiate athletics administration, having held key positions at several prominent institutions, including Ohio State University and the University of Houston. Notably, he also has experience in the National Football League (NFL) with the Jacksonville Jaguars. His career has been marked by a comprehensive approach to athletics administration, characterized by the creation of high-performance environments that support both athletic excellence and the holistic development of student-athletes.
At UNM, Lovo will oversee all facets of the university’s NCAA Division I intercollegiate athletic programs. His responsibilities will entail aligning the athletic department’s activities with the university’s mission, managing finances, ensuring compliance with NCAA regulations, and nurturing community relations.
“I am truly honored and humbled to be selected to lead UNM Athletics and to build upon its rich tradition,” Lovo said in response to his appointment. “I look forward to engaging with the Lobo community, building strong relationships, and ensuring our athletics align with the university’s mission and values. Together, we will strive for excellence and create lasting memories for our students and fans. Thank you for welcoming me and my family into this incredible community. Go, Lobos!”
Looking Ahead
Lovo’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for the UNM athletics department, which is looking to enhance program competitiveness while navigating conference dynamics and managing emerging financial commitments that support student-athletes. “After an extensive national search that attracted significant interest, we are confident that Fernando Lovo is the right person to guide our athletics program forward,” stated Del Archuleta, the chair of the search committee and a prominent New Mexico business leader. He noted that Lovo’s qualifications, authenticity, innovative approach, and commitment to student-athlete success distinguished him among a competitive pool of candidates.
At 36 years old, Lovo will become the 14th Athletic Director at UNM and the fourth Lobo AD within the past 32 years. His selection has garnered support from several key figures in the athletic community, including head football coach Bronco Mendenhall and head men’s basketball coach Richard Pitino, both of whom have expressed optimism about Lovo’s potential to elevate UNM Athletics.
Mendenhall praised Lovo as “a bright, articulate, and passionate administrator who has accomplished great things in his young career,” while Pitino articulated excitement about Lovo’s vision for the athletic program. Chris Del Conte, Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics at the University of Texas, added accolades for Lovo, stating he is “a great leader, innovator, and human being whose integrity and values are second to none.”
Educational Background and Acknowledgments
Lovo obtained his Bachelor’s degree in political science and government in 2010, followed by a Master of Science in Sport and Fitness Administration/Management in 2012, both from the University of Florida. He is married to his wife, Jordan, and the couple has two children.
Stokes also took the opportunity to express gratitude towards Dave Williams, who served as the Interim Vice President and Director of Athletics during the transition period, highlighting his dedication and leadership that ensured continuity as UNM moved forward following Eddie Nuñez’s departure.
The UNM community eagerly anticipates a formal press conference to introduce Lovo in the near future.
New Mexico Offensive Coordinator Named Frank Broyles Award Nominee
In an impressive debut season, New Mexico’s offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Jason Beck has been recognized as one of 65 nominees for the prestigious Frank Broyles Award, which honors the top assistant coaches in college football. This recognition comes as Beck has overseen an extraordinary offensive turnaround, currently leading the Lobos to the No. 4 offense in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).
Beck’s offensive unit has shattered records, ranking fourth nationwide with an average of 484.5 yards per game. Additionally, the Lobos hold the third spot on the single-season scoring average list with 33.82 points per game. A highlight of the season has been quarterback Devon Dampier, who has set records for total offense, completing the season with 3,657 yards, while his 332.5 yards per game ranks sixth in the FBS.
Dampier’s impressive performance includes leading the Mountain West with 28 touchdown passes, just five shy of breaking UNM’s single-season record. He has also achieved a remarkable feat by logging five games this season with over 100 yards rushing and passing in the same game, establishing a new benchmark for the Lobos in both single-season and career categories.
As the Lobos prepare to face Hawai’i this weekend, they are vying not only for a victory but also for a chance to secure bowl eligibility for the first time in eight years.
New Mexico Men’s Basketball Team Continues Strong Home Performance
The New Mexico men’s basketball team achieved another commanding victory, maintaining its unbeaten home record with an 80-58 win over reigning Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) champions, Grambling State. The Lobos (4-1) demonstrated resilience, unleashing a vigorous 19-2 run to break open a tightly contested game at The Pit.
Leading the Lobos in scoring was Donovan Dent, who delivered a standout performance with 22 points and eight assists. Tru Washington contributed significantly with 15 points and a career-high five steals, while Mustapha Amzil narrowly missed a double-double, ending the game with 10 points and nine rebounds.
The game began with Grambling State establishing an early advantage, leading 8-2 within the first few minutes. However, New Mexico quickly rallied, going on a 6-0 run to take their first lead of the game at 13-12. As the first half wore on, the Lobos extended their lead, heading into halftime with a slight 30-26 advantage.
The second half saw the Lobos erupt, starting with an impressive 11-0 run that saw them gain a 41-26 lead, only to build on that momentum and extend the lead to 60-41 with 6:30 remaining in the game. A late surge culminated in a 24-point lead, sealing the win decisively.
Game Notes:
- The Lobos recorded 14 steals, marking their fourth game this season with double-digit steals.
- Dent remains among a select few nationally who have consistently scored at least 12 points and recorded six assists across every game this season.
- New Mexico has not lost a regular-season non-conference game at The Pit for 22 consecutive games.
- CJ Noland made his first start, marking a tactical adjustment to the team’s lineup.
Coach Richard Pitino acknowledged the team’s flat start in the first half but praised their improved performance after halftime. “When we stopped turning the ball over, we started scoring, and our defense was terrific,” he noted.
The Lobos Dominate Texas Southern
In a follow-up performance, the New Mexico men’s basketball team showcased their offensive prowess once again, steamrolling past Texas Southern with a decisive 99-68 victory at The Pit. Improving their record to 5-1, the Lobos remained undefeated at home, while handing Texas Southern their fourth consecutive loss.
Tru Washington led the scoring for UNM, finishing with 19 points and 10 rebounds, marking his second career double-double. Mustapha Amzil matched his career high, contributing 18 points, while Donovan Dent and Filip Borovicanin added 11 and 11 points, respectively.
The Lobos quickly established control of the game, jumping to an early lead. After engaging in several lead changes, UNM ended the first half with a 38-31 advantage and did not look back, scoring 61 points in the second half and limiting their opponents to just 37.
Game Notes:
- All 12 players who appeared in the game scored.
- New Mexico’s 61 points in the second half were the most recorded in a half during Coach Pitino’s tenure.
- The Lobos averaged considerable statistical advantages across multiple categories, maintaining a consistent edge in steals.
Coach Pitino praised his team’s performance, emphasizing the importance of energy and execution. The Lobos will next face Arizona State in the Acrisure Classic, adding another challenge to an already competitive season.
Women’s Basketball: Tough Battle Against Gonzaga
The New Mexico women’s basketball team faced a tough opponent in Gonzaga, ultimately falling 81-68 despite a compelling fight that saw them hang tough through three quarters. The Lobos were led by a strong performance from Destinee Hooks, who scored 24 points, alongside Viané Cumber who contributed 16 points with four three-pointers.
Overcoming an early deficit, the Lobos managed to outscore Gonzaga in the paint and achieve fast-break points, showcasing their competitive spirit. The first quarter saw ups and downs, with the Lobos closing the gap to just two points by the end.
Over the three quarters, UNM utilized strong defensive strategies, managing to enforce turnovers and maintain offensive pressure. However, Gonzaga’s strong finish sealed the game, preventing the Lobos from achieving a comeback victory.
Key Performers and Statistics:
- Hooks recorded her third game this season with over 20 points, continuing her form as one of the team’s primary scorers.
- The Lobos significantly outscored Gonzaga in the paint, attesting to their ability to drive strong offensive plays.
- Cumber’s defensive efforts, particularly her four steals, highlighted her multifaceted contributions.
Despite the setback against Gonzaga, the Lobos remained focused on upcoming matchups, determined to harness the lessons learned from this contest.
Returning to Action Against UC Irvine
The Lobos are scheduled to host UC Irvine in an upcoming matchup, with anticipation building as they look to improve their season record. This contest marks the third all-time meeting between the two teams, with UNM holding a 2-0 advantage in previous encounters.
UC Irvine comes into the game on a five-game win streak, adding an increased level of challenge for the Lobos. As they prepare to face a team averaging 63.2 points per game and boasting a strong defensive record, the Lobos are primed to leverage their home-court advantage to secure a victory.
Notable Volleyball Season Recognitions
In a noteworthy individual achievement, New Mexico’s Lauryn Payne was recognized on the All-Mountain West Team as voted by the league’s head coaches. After a standout season, Payne emerged as a key player for the Lobos, ranking among the top ten in kills per set and points per set within the conference.
With 370 kills this season—significantly up from her previous 76 kills over her first two years—Payne’s performance has been instrumental in propelling her team forward. Her career-high of 26 kills in a recent match against UNLV exemplifies her growth and rising status within collegiate volleyball.
In the wider Mountain West conference, accolades were distributed, with Colorado State’s Malaya Jones garnering the Player of the Year award. As the Lobos strive for improvement, their collective efforts in player development and competitive performance will be critical as they continue their campaign.