Zimmerman appointed UNM-Gallup interim chancellor

John Zimmerman, current dean of instruction and longtime faculty member, has been appointed interim chancellor of The University of New Mexico-Gallup, effective July 1.

"John will bring his strong understanding of the UNM system and demonstrated commitment to faculty and student success, community engagement, and institutional collaboration," said Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Barbara Rodríguez. "I am confident that his leadership will provide continuity and support for the Gallup campus during this transition period."

Zimmerman was the chair of the Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Division between 2021 and 2023 and he became dean of instruction in the summer of 2023. He has worked at UNM-Gallup since 2006 - first as an assistant professor of fine art, then as an associate professor of fine art, and finally as a professor of fine art. Zimmerman was also the director of UNM-Gallup's Ingham Chapman Gallery from 2006 to 2021.

He earned a Master of Fine Arts in spatial art from San Jose State University in 2002 and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in ceramics from Bowling Green State University in 1999.

UNM-Gallup Chancellor Sabrina Ezzell announced she will retire from her position on June 30 after nearly four years of service in the top leadership role of the branch campus.

Zimmerman will be responsible for maintaining operational stability; supporting students, faculty and staff; and advancing the mission and strategic priorities of UNM-Gallup.

"It is a humbling experience to be appointed to this role and to have the confidence and support of Interim Provost Rodríguez, Chancellor Ezzell and my staff and faculty colleagues," Zimmerman said. "I cherish these relationships and do not take this support lightly. We will all miss Sabrina terribly, but UNM-Gallup will do what we have always done during challenging times; we will band together, support each other and continue to provide excellent service to our community and region, to whom we are deeply committed."

Rodríguez said a competitive search for a permanent chancellor will begin during the 2026 fall semester.