NMSU’s new provost highlights education, social justice

Alan R. Shoho, formerly dean and professor emeritus of the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, began his new role as NMSU’s provost and chief academic officer in April 2023.

“Dr. Shoho has tremendous experience both as an administrator and as a researcher in the fields of education and social justice,” former NMSU Chancellor Dan Arvizu says. “His vision for NMSU aligns with the progress we’ve made toward the goals outlined in our LEADS 2025 strategic plan, and I am sure he is the best fit to help elevate our research and social mobility initiatives.”

Before serving as dean at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Shoho was associate vice provost for academic and faculty support at the University of Texas at San Antonio for two years. He started his academic career as an assistant professor in the University of Portland’s School of Education in 1991.

“Improving student success is critical to NMSU’s future, and similarly equity, inclusion and diversity are integral to creating a healthy culture, where NMSU can re-achieve its R1 status and address grand challenges like racism and generational poverty, and borderland, environmental, health and social issues, to improve the quality of life for all New Mexicans and beyond,” Shoho says.

Previously, Shoho was a high school math teacher in Hawaii, and before that worked as an electrical engineer for Hughes Aircraft Company and Rockwell International. Shoho’s father, a Korean War veteran, earned a degree in electrical engineering from the University of Illinois using the G.I. Bill.

“I have personally experienced how families are transformed with the opportunities created through access to higher education,” Shoho says. “I am very passionate about providing students with the same opportunities.”