Honorary Degree: Judy Zanotti
Judy Zanotti is a native New Mexican, born in Gallup and then spending most of her life in Albuquerque. She has a deep family history in our state as her grandparents came to New Mexico from Italy in the early 1900s. She was the first in her family to graduate from college, earning a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s degree in special education — both from UNM. Her multiple contributions to New Mexico and UNM are significant and leave a lasting legacy.
Zanotti has 35 years of professional and management experience. Her strong organizational commitment, vision, and leadership is demonstrated through her in-depth experience in human resources and public affairs, as well as community issues, political process, and fund raising.
Judy Zanotti has played a pivotal role in changing New Mexico laws to acknowledge the rights of children with disabilities and provide special education services in public schools. Her advocacy and participation in a landmark lawsuit in the 1970s led to the creation of state laws to guarantee special education services for special children. One of Judy’s nominators characterized her contribution in this way, “Ms. Zanotti was a tireless champion and leader in this cause, which has helped to improve the lives of thousands of families and students with disabilities.”
Judy Zanotti was the founding executive director of the Albuquerque Association for Children with Learning Disabilities. She also was the Executive Director/President of New Mexico First, and the Executive Director of the State Bar of New Mexico. Additionally, her career has included executive positions with PNM and the Gas Company of New Mexico. Judy’s multiple volunteer contributions have positively affected many non-profits including, but not limited to, Carrie Tingley Hospital, National Hispanic Cultural Center, the UNM Foundation Board of Trustees, the UNM Alumni Association, and the UNM College of Education and Health Sciences. She currently serves on the leadership team for World Vision's Albuquerque Chapter of Women of Vision and is a member of the International Women’s Forum and the UNM College of Education Alumni Chapter and Friends Board.