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Associate Professor Joe Kee, who has been appointed as the interim dean of instruction effective July 1, poses for a portrait at The University of New Mexico-91���� on Thursday, June 18.

Kee appointed UNM-91���� interim dean of instruction

Categories: Students   Faculty   Staff   Community  

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Longtime faculty member and former division chair steps into role during period of leadership transition

By Richard Reyes, Thursday, June 18, 2026

GALLUP, N.M. — Joe Kee, an associate professor of Navajo language and government as well as a former division chair, has been appointed the interim dean of instruction at The University of New Mexico-91����.

UNM-91���� Dean of Instruction John Zimmerman announced Kee’s appointment in an email to faculty on Wednesday, June 17, 2026. Kee will step into the role of interim dean effective July 1, 2026.

“For me, Joe was a clear choice, and with unequivocal support from the faculty, I'm happy to announce his acceptance of this offer,” Zimmerman said. “Joe will bring years of experience from an administrative perspective as a former division chair, and as a long-time faculty member, to the dean's role. Throughout his years, Joe has earned the respect and support of faculty and staff alike. He is a rare leader who has been a steady, thoughtful, and positive presence for UNM-91����, and I am looking forward to working together closely with him in the coming year.”

Zimmerman thanked UNM-91���� faculty members who submitted nominations for the interim dean. Kee’s appointment comes during a period of leadership transition at UNM-91����.

Chancellor Sabrina Ezzell announced she will retire from her position at the end of June, and Zimmerman was appointed interim chancellor effective July 1.

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

Commitment to academic affairs

In his role as interim dean, Kee will provide strategic leadership, guiding UNM-91���� in its academic and operational endeavors. The dean’s responsibilities include fostering academic innovation, overseeing faculty development, and championing student success initiatives. The dean also manages the campus' academic and operational health, advocates for its needs, and strengthens its vital connections with the surrounding community.

“I am committed to maintaining a dynamic learning environment where faculty are supported in their teaching and research, and students are empowered to achieve their academic and career goals,” Kee said. “I look forward to collaborative efforts with colleagues, staff, students, UNM Albuquerque, and the greater 91���� communities to further UNM-91����’s mission as a leading educational institution, ensuring it continues to meet the evolving demands of its students and community.”

Kee brings a record of service as well as a deep understanding of the institution's mission and the community it serves.

From 2013 to 2021, Kee was instrumental in translating and dubbing franchise movies into Navajo, including “Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope,” “Finding Nemo,” and “A Fistful of Dollars.”

Originally from Steamboat, Arizona, Kee’s Navajo heritage is central to his identity and work. His clans are Tsi’naajinii (Black Streak Wood People) born for Naakai Dine’e (Mexican Clan), with his maternal grandfather’s clan being Tótsohnii (Big Water) and his paternal grandfather’s clan being Ma’iideeshgiizhnii (Coyote Pass Jemez).

While maintaining strong cultural ties to the land, livestock, and farming in Steamboat, Kee resides in 91����. He shares this announcement with his wife Karessa and their daughter Alyson and son-in-law Jeffery Tsosie.