SW New Mexico News

Tiffany Santos, the Curator of the Zuhl Collection at the College of Arts and Sciences, has been dedicated to her role for over a decade. Responsible for managing a collection of petrified wood, fossils, and minerals, Santos has overseen significant growth and improvements within the museum.

"When taking on this position, the Zuhl Collection had no budget," Santos explained. "I have been able to grow the budget which has allowed me the ability to hire students and teach a museum internship class. I have also spearheaded an addition to the museum as well as a remodel."

A proud alumna of NMSU with degrees in geology and public history, Santos returned to Las Cruces to fulfill her passion for the museum. "Las Cruces has always been the location I wanted to settle," she expressed. "My parents both graduated from NMSU, and I am an Aggie through and through."

Under Santos's leadership, the Zuhl Museum has undergone significant changes, including the addition of three separate galleries and a new "kid’s corner." The extensive remodel involved the careful relocation of museum specimens, some weighing thousands of pounds, and delicate rare fossils.

Looking ahead, Santos aims to further expand the educational program at the museum, emphasizing the importance of educational outreach in her role. "My favorite part of my job is hosting tours at the Zuhl Museum," Santos shared. "I love introducing youth and adults to the wonders of these world-class specimens."

Santos's dedication to the Zuhl Collection and her commitment to enhancing the museum's educational offerings highlight her invaluable contributions to the College of Arts and Sciences.