F. Chris Garcia

About Me

F. Chris Garcia, an esteemed educator, scholar, researcher, author, public opinion pollster, and higher education administrator, has made significant contributions to academia and the Hispanic community throughout his illustrious career. Born on April 15, 1940, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Garcia's roots in the state run deep, with a lineage tracing back to an early settler in the Santa Fe area in 1598.

Growing up in Albuquerque, Garcia was the eldest of six children born to Flaviano Perea Garcia and Crucita A. Garcia. He began his educational journey at St. Francis Catholic Xavier School, where he spent his formative years. In 1947, his family relocated to Albuquerque's north valley; in 1957, Garcia graduated from Valley High School.

Following his high school graduation, Garcia joined the New Mexico Air National Guard, serving six years while pursuing higher education at the University of New Mexico. His dedication to learning and teaching prompted him to major in Government and Citizenship, earning a Bachelor of Arts in 1961. Encouraged by his mentors, Garcia continued his studies at UNM, obtaining a master's degree in Government and Education and a Secondary Education certificate.

Driven by his passion for education, Garcia sought to prepare himself for a career in teaching at the college level. Consequently, he embarked on an academic journey that led him to the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where he began his studies in political science in 1964. Later, he transferred to the University of California, Davis (UCD), where he completed his doctoral program in political science, culminating in a Ph.D. in 1972.

Returning to his roots at the University of New Mexico, Garcia held various esteemed positions, breaking barriers as the first native New Mexican Hispanic to serve as college dean, academic vice president, and ultimately, university president from 2002 to 2003. His leadership and vision left a lasting impact on the institution and its students.

In addition to his administrative roles, Garcia is renowned for his contributions to research and writing in political science and education. His work has advanced academic discourse and provided valuable insights for the Hispanic community.