Diverse paths, shared success: UNM's 2026 Inspiring Graduates

Each year in the days leading up to Spring and Fall commencement, the University Communication and Marketing team honors graduating Lobos whose stories reflect the many paths that lead to success at The University of New Mexico. It has become a meaningful tradition celebrating the leadership, resilience, determination, and individuality that define the Lobo experience.

For the campus community, commencement is more than a ceremony - it is a celebration of journeys shaped by different experiences, backgrounds, and ambitions. As graduates cross the stage to receive their diplomas, they represent the many schools, colleges, programs, and communities that make up the fabric of UNM. Though their paths may differ, they are united by a shared commitment to learning, growth, and making an impact beyond the University.

The Class of 2026 reflects the spirit of UNM: diverse paths, shared success. These graduates are researchers, artists, educators, advocates, entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, and future leaders whose stories demonstrate the strength found in community and the power of perseverance.

While it is impossible to feature every graduate, we hope these stories offer a glimpse into the diversity, spirit, and achievements of the Class of 2026.

Congratulations, Lobos - you've earned this moment.

Macaiah Shendo | Master of Public Health
By Bryan Schroeder and Photos & Video by Allan Stone

Macaiah Shendo, a student in The University of New Mexico College of Population Health (COPH), is pioneering a new field of brain health care for Indigenous peoples in New Mexico. But if you ask him, he's no trailblazer. He believes he's simply doing what he was raised to do: help his community.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Shendo, who is from the Pueblo of Jemez, saw his community struggling and knew he had to do something to help.

He switched his educational track from mechanical and aerospace engineering to psychology, eventually landing at the COPH. In a matter of days, he will graduate with a Master of Public Health degree with a concentration in epidemiology-and he will be one step closer to becoming potentially the first-ever "Indigenous neuropsychological epidemiologist," he said.

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Solomon Gbara | Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communication
By Megan Borders and Video Dylan DeYapp

If you've spent any time in the McKinnon Center for Management on The University of New Mexico's central campus, chances are you have crossed paths with Solomon Gbara. He is a constant presence in the second-floor open study area. It's his favorite place to connect with his fellow students, study, and coordinate impactful meetings and events, all of which make him a cornerstone at the Anderson School of Management.

Gbara entered UNM knowing he wanted to get the most out of his education. He learned early on that it's not just what you know, it's also who you know. So, he hit the ground running, knowing that an education from the Anderson School with a concentration in entrepreneurship would leverage his skills and future.

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Malia Dumlao | Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communication
By Dani Rae Wascher and Video Justin Otsuka

Malia Dumlao's college experience took an unexpected turn, leading her from the track & field all the way to the sidelines of an NFL stadium. She is living proof that nothing is out of reach - if you're willing to try.

Growing up in Roswell, New Mexico, Dumlao came to The University of New Mexico on the Presidential Scholarship, one of the most prestigious awards a student can earn.

"Being able to be one of those students, to represent the scholarship, is amazing," Dumlao said. "I got to know my donors and seeing them every year at the Presidential Dinner is such a cool feeling. Being able to thank the people who helped support my education means so much."

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Dava Manes | Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
By Megan Borders

Dava Manes is living proof that it's never too late to rewrite your story for yourself, your family, and every future student who has ever wondered whether they waited too long to earn a college degree. Making her an inspiration to everyone she meets.

She has reframed education as a lifelong endeavor rather than a youthful requirement. She is the mother of two teenagers, a successful TikTok creator, an entrepreneur, and a lifelong learner.

At this spring's undergraduate commencement ceremony, Manes will walk across the stage, highlighting years of hard work, perseverance, and navigating life's challenges to earn her bachelor's degree in sociology. A dream she has had for more than 20 years, and at 40, she will achieve it.

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Taya Perales | Bachelor of Business Administration
By Dani Rae Wascher

"My perspective on UNM has definitely changed throughout my time here and has become more and more positive each year."

While Taya Perales calls Albuquerque home, she has also found a new one at The University of New Mexico. Originally drawn to the university because of the Lottery Scholarship, her perspective quickly shifted once she set foot on campus.

t was during her sophomore year that her journey truly began to unfold. At the time, Perales was serving as an American Indian Student Services ambassador when one of her supervisors encouraged her to apply for student employment full-time positions. That's when she discovered Anderson's SEED - Student Engagement, Empowerment and Development.

Through her work with SEED, Perales helped organize events and guided students as they navigated scholarship and internship opportunities. Working primarily with seniors, she gained early insight into what was possible.

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