Fernando Lovo, 36, has been appointed as the new Vice President and Director of Athletics at the University of New Mexico (UNM), effective December 1, 2024.

Lovo joins UNM from the University of Texas at Austin, where he served as Executive Senior Associate Athletics Director for Operations. His appointment follows a national search to replace Eddie Nuñez, who departed for the University of Houston in August.

With extensive experience in collegiate athletics administration, Lovo's career includes notable positions at:

• University of Texas at Austin
• Ohio State University
• University of Houston
• Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL)

His expertise spans operations, revenue generation, fundraising, and student-athlete development. At Texas, he oversaw major capital projects and operational improvements, working alongside respected coaches like Urban Meyer and Tom Herman.

Lovo's contract includes:

• Five-year term with a two-year extension option
• $400,000 base salary
• Additional $100,000 for media obligations and program promotion

Arriving at a crucial time for UNM Athletics, Lovo will focus on:

• Enhancing program competitiveness
• Building financial stability
• Supporting football program development under Coach Bronco Mendenhall
• Maintaining the strong tradition of Lobo basketball

Lovo holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and a Master's in Sport and Fitness Administration from the University of Florida. He will relocate to Albuquerque with his wife Jordan and their two children.

UNM President Garnett S. Stokes praised Lovo's appointment, citing his experience and leadership style as key factors in the selection. Chris Del Conte, Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics at Texas, endorsed Lovo as a "great leader, innovator, and human being."

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