NEWS

The University of New Mexico has awarded Selena Connealy, Associate Director of New Mexico EPSCoR, an Outstanding Research Staff Award for her exceptional contributions to research administration and leadership within the state's scientific community.

Connealy, who has served with NM EPSCoR for over a decade, was recognized for her leadership during a period of funding uncertainty. She maintained team cohesion and preserved institutional knowledge by retaining key staff members—achievements vital to NM EPSCoR's mission of enhancing research capacity across New Mexico.

"Selena's steadfast dedication to NM EPSCoR's mission and her people-centered leadership exemplify excellence in research administration," said NM EPSCoR Director Gunny Balakrishnan. "Her collaborations with educators across New Mexico have been pivotal in strengthening the state's research infrastructure. During times of change, she has inspired our team to think boldly and advance scientific discovery throughout New Mexico."

Connealy's commitment to empowering educators and researchers in New Mexico began long before her acceptance of the NM EPSCoR associate director position in 2021. Under her leadership, the organization has adopted a Science of Team Science approach to guide statewide collaborative research projects, creating a model that benefits higher education institutions from Portales to Crownpoint.

The award recognizes Connealy's dedication to programmatic excellence and human-centered leadership—qualities that have advanced New Mexico's position in the national research landscape.