Española, NM-- Following a nine-month comprehensive search process, Northern New Mexico College has selected its next academic leader. On March 5th, Dr. Pedro L. Martinez was selected as the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs beginning July 1, 2014.
The provost serves as the chief academic officer for the institution, responsible to the president for the creation and implementation of academic priorities for the college, and for the allocation of resources to support those priorities.
Martinez will replace Dr. Anthony Sena who now serves as Northern’s Dean for the College of Arts and Sciences.
“My family and I are excited about joining the northern New Mexico Community,” Martinez said. “More specifically, I look forward to participating in the advancement of an institution that holds a tremendous degree of potential.”
Martinez’s career includes 35 years in academia, including 17 years of progressively responsible administrative experience. He earned a B.S. in Elementary Education and a M.Ed. in Urban Education/Reading Specialist from the University of Hartford, and a Ph.D. from Loyola University in Social Foundations.
Martinez served as Interim Chancellor and Provost/Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at Winston Salem State University where he currently serves as a tenured full professor in the School of Education and Human Performance.
The process for selecting the new Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs began in June of 2013 with the selection of a diverse committee comprised of staff and faculty. The committee received over 90 applicants, eight of whom were interviewed for the position.
Beginning in late January, four finalists visited the Española Campus to participate in a series of forums for students, faculty, staff and community members. Each visit ended with an opportunity for the candidate to meet with the President and members of the Board of Regents.
“The Board and I are pleased with the hard work of the Committee. The process resulted in four outstanding finalists and we are fortunate to add an educator and leader like Dr. Martinez to our team,” said President Barceló.
Northern’s Board of Regents will vote on approval of Martinez’ contract at their March board meeting.
