PNMGC Team

  

Ruben Loza
Project Assistant

rloza@unm.edu

Ruben Loza is originally from Mexico City, Mexico, but has spent a large part of his life growing up in Los Angeles, California. He holds a BFA in graphic design from the Savannah College of Art and Design and is currently working on his master’s degree in the Department of Chicana and Chicano Studies. Ruben has served as co-chair of the Chicanx Studies Graduate Student Association (CSGSA) and is a part of the son jarocho collective housed in his department.

Ruben’s main academic interests concentrate on art projects that integrate the US-Mexico border. As a member of PNMGC, he wishes to help students of color in need of support or who could benefit from the student-led organization’s offering of educational resources.


 
 
 
 

 

Avery Dixon
Project Assistant

adixon23@unm.edu

Avery Dixon was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where she developed a deep appreciation for her community and the opportunities available to students pursuing higher education. She is currently working toward her Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a concentration in accounting, a field that aligns with her passion for organization, problem-solving, and financial literacy.

Avery is thrilled to serve as a Program Assistant for the Project for New Mexico Graduates of Color (PNMGC), where she hopes to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for both undergraduate and graduate students. She understands the importance of mentorship, advocacy, and creating spaces where students feel empowered to ask questions and seek guidance. Through her role, she aspires to help students navigate their academic and professional journeys with confidence.

Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Avery enjoys a variety of creative and social activities. She has a love for acting, often participating in local theater productions or exploring different performance styles. She also enjoys baking, experimenting with new recipes, and sharing her creations with friends and family. In her free time, she can often be found playing video games and board games, enjoying the challenge and camaraderie they bring.

Avery is incredibly excited to be part of the PNMGC team and looks forward to contributing to its mission of equity, support, and empowerment. She is proud to be a Lobo and is eager to make a positive impact within her university community. Go Lobos!


 
 

Ferdinand Forku Kwarteng
Project Assistant

Ferdinand Forkuo Kwarteng is a dedicated professional with expertise in public finance, budgeting, and financial management. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public administration with a concentration in public finance at the University of New Mexico. Ferdinand brings valuable experience from roles as a Project Assistant at the Centre for Health Policy and the Office of Graduate Studies, a Teaching Assistant at Anderson School of Management, and an Accounts Officer at Ghana’s National Health Insurance Authority.

He holds a BSc in Administration (Accounting) from the University of Ghana and possesses strong skills in program management, financial analysis, and stakeholder engagement. Passionate about leadership and public service, Ferdinand aspires to work as a Certified Public Accountant for the federal government, contributing to finance, budgeting, and public administration.

Originally from Ghana, he moved to the U.S. in 2023 and values cultural exchange. His involvement with PNMGC has enriched his academic and professional growth, fostering mentorship, networking, and community engagement. He also serves on GPSA’s Legislative Steering Committee and is committed to leadership, policy analysis, and financial education. In his free time, he enjoys volunteering, soccer, tennis, ping pong, and hiking.