Shelly C. Lowe has recently assumed the presidency of the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, New Mexico. According to the most recent federal information, the college enrolls about 750 undergraduates and 75 graduate students. Women represent about 60 percent of the undergraduate population.
With over two decades of experience in senior administrative roles, Dr. Lowe has an extensive background leading Native and Indigenous student development, curriculum development, and faculty and staff advancement for higher education institutions, Indigenous communities, and national organizations. Most recently, she served as chair of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Earlier, she was director of the Native American program at Harvard University. She has also held various administrative and teaching positions with Yale University and the University of Arizona.
“IAIA is an extraordinary institution dedicated to nurturing creativity, innovation, and leadership within Indigenous communities,” said Dr. Lowe. “I am deeply honored to join this vibrant community and look forward to building upon the visionary work of my predecessors and the board of trustees to further IAIA’s mission, support student success and programs, and strengthen its national and international presence.”
A citizen of the Navajo Nation, Dr. Lowe earned her bachelor’s degree in sociology, a master’s degree in American Indian studies, and a Ph.D. in higher education administration all from the University of Arizona.



I do not know if this is the right format for this question, but I have two large beautiful paintings of Indian women is that I would like to donate to IAIA, if they were done by my brother Gene leyba, he obtain his masters from Highlands University, taught within the Moriarty school system, move to Dallas to resume his profession and had many of his paintings within the galleries within the Dallas community. I am his brother Tony Leyba , I am now my ’70s, and not in the best of health and am downsizing within my home and have been asked by other family members if there’s a possibility that they can be donated so they can be enjoyed by the students and community. If there’s a possibility or any other ideas I would appreciate it thank you.
Congratulations….what an Institute and I wish her well…may they prosper under her guidance and community support.