School of Social Work welcomes new director

Mary Nienow joined the College of HEST as the new director of the School of Social Work in summer 2024. With deep roots in social work education and a passion for strategic growth, Nienow brings experience, energy and vision to the role.

“I was looking for an opportunity to grow my leadership skills and was drawn to the Southwest to be closer to family and enjoy the beauty of New Mexico,” says Nienow. Before joining HEST, Nienow served as the bachelor of social work program director at St. Catherine University.

Nienow earned her bachelor’s from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire and her master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. During her first year at NMSU, Nienow has made many strides.

“My priority is to develop a strategic plan focused on five key goals: creating a responsive and robust curriculum, promoting student success, engaging community stakeholders, supporting faculty collaboration, and ensuring the program’s long-term sustainability.”

To learn more about social work, visit socialwork.nmsu.edu.