The University of New Mexico (UNM) campus community is marking the departure of President Garnett S. Stokes, who is set to conclude her tenure later this month, not with farewells alone but with lasting tributes. Two new philanthropic initiatives will honor Stokes and her husband, Dr. Jeffrey Younggren, by extending their legacy in higher education and behavioral sciences across New Mexico.
Three longtime donors have pledged a combined $1.5 million to name the entrance lobby of the future Velarde Center for Philanthropy as the Garnett S. Stokes Philanthropy Hall, creating an enduring tribute to the university’s 23rd president and her years of leadership. The naming of the entrance lobby in her name recognizes Stokes’ efforts to advance student success, research, community engagement, and access to higher education, while leading UNM through years of challenge and growth.
UNM President Stokes Recognized
The initiative emerged from the discussions among UNM Foundation officials and current and past members of its board, who wanted to recognize Stokes’ contributions to the university and the state of New Mexico in a lasting way.
The Velarde Center for Philanthropy is currently under construction. It will serve as a center for alumni engagement, charitable giving, and university connections. At the same time, faculty and colleagues in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences’ Division of Forensic Behavioral Sciences created the Garnett Stokes and Jeffrey Younggren Endowment to honor Younggren’s career and contributions to the field.
‘Profound Impact’
The endowment has already surpassed the threshold required to become permanent. It will provide fellowship support for students and trainees in forensic behavioral sciences for years to come. “What is especially meaningful about these tributes is that they emerged from people who wanted to express their appreciation for President Stokes and Dr. Younggren,” said Deidre Sandvick, senior vice president for development. “They’ve each had a profound impact on The University of New Mexico and on the people who know them.”
The tributes recognize not only their accomplishments but also the relationships they nurtured throughout the university community. University leaders said the endowment ensures that their legacy of leadership, mentorship, and service will continue to benefit students, faculty, and academic programs for generations.
Individuals who wish to honor Stokes and Younggren may contribute through June 30 to either the Garnett S. Stokes Philanthropy Hall through the UNM Foundation Center for Philanthropy Building Fund or the Garnett Stokes and Jeffrey Younggren Endowment in the Division of Forensic Behavioral Sciences.