Armando A. Bustamante has been the director of enrollment management and student success at the University of New Mexico-Valencia Campus for almost two years.
He moved to New Mexico in 2006 from Nebraska and met his future wife, Brenda, three years later. They have been married for almost 14 years and live in Albuquerque.
Bustamante has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in secondary education/social sciences and a master’s degree from New Mexico Highlands in social work (clinical bilingual/bi-cultural).
The couple have two children, daughter, Anahí, 12, and son, Adán, 8.
Q If you became invisible for the day, what would you do?
A “I’d sneak into sports events, Husker sideline or Dodgers dugout access, and experience it all from there without anyone knowing.
Armando Bustamante is pictured at Isotopes Stadium during a New Mexico United game when his son’s soccer team got to walk out with the United players.
Submitted photo“I’d also probably visit some historic sites, just to take in the atmosphere without the crowds. As an introvert, the idea of being around people without needing to interact would be perfect. Plus, I’d have fun seeing what life looks like when no one notices you.”
Q What’s the weirdest thing you believed as a kid?
A “As a kid, I genuinely believed that being a garbage collector would be the best job ever. I loved the idea of riding on the back of the truck, hanging off the edge like it was some superhero transport.
“I thought it looked adventurous and fun, every stop a new surprise. The garbage collectors looked like they didn’t have a worry in the world and that they had so much fun. This has made me appreciate the work that everyone does and how everyone is important.”
Q What does your ideal weekend look like?
A “My ideal weekend is a mix of chill and connection. I’d start off with a morning cup of coffee and maybe catch a game, especially if the Dodgers, Huskers or New Castle are playing. Then I’d want to spend time with my kids, maybe coaching my son’s soccer game or going to see my daughter dance.
“Evenings would be low-key: playing a few video games to unwind, reflecting on the day and just appreciating the slower pace or watch a movie or a series with my wife.”
Q If you could only have three things on your bucket list, what would they be?
A “My top three would be taking a Mediterranean cruise — something about that region’s blend of history and beauty has always fascinated me.
“Next would be going to a Dodgers game at Dodger Stadium, just to soak in that energy in person.
“Lastly, I’d love to travel across the U.S. and Mexico, exploring both big cities and small towns, and diving into the history and culture I’ve always felt connected to.”
Armando Bustamante and his wife, Brenda, have been married for almost 14 years.
Submitted phototQ Do you have a secret talent? What is it?
A “It’s not necessarily a secret talent to everyone. I think it is my ability to cook, especially when it comes to grilling. I’m not a fan of baking (too precise for me), but give me a grill and some good ingredients and I’ll spend hours being busy. It’s more than just food, it’s how I relax, connect with people and show care.
“Whether I’m experimenting with marinades or cooking for family after a long day, it’s one of my favorite creative outlets.”
Q Have you ever seen a ghost? Where?
A “There was one moment I still think about. I thought I saw my late mother-in-law holding my niece’s hand. It was so clear, and it felt so real but she had already passed away. Still don’t fully know how to explain it. It wasn’t scary, more comforting, like she was watching over us. I’ve never had another moment like that, but it definitely left a lasting impression on me.”
Q If your dog, cat or other pet could talk, what’s the first thing it would say?
A “My dog, Pandora, would probably say, ‘Finally! I’ve got so much to tell you.’ She’s got personality, and I feel like she’d be full of opinions about our routine, her food, so she might just say ‘Toss me the ball.’
“With all the pets my family has had over the years, from geckos to cockroaches, I’m sure they’d all chime in with their own wild stories and pet complaints if they could talk.”
Q If you could have a lifetime supply of anything (except money), what would it be and why?
A “I’d go with a lifetime supply of quality time — uninterrupted moments with family, at games or just being present for those quiet moments that matter.
“Life moves fast, and between work, family and everything else, it’s easy to miss the little things. Having unlimited time to really soak in memories, support my kids and be involved without stress? That’s more valuable than anything you can buy.”
Armando Bustamante and his wife, Brenda, with their daughter, Anahí and son, Adán, at Anahí’s elementary school graduation.
Submitted photoQ You’re granted three wishes. What are they? (And you can’t ask for more wishes.)
A “Alright, no loopholes, just three solid wishes. First, I’d wish for a magical passport that lets me teleport anywhere instantly. One blink and I’m walking the streets of Madrid or sitting in the stands at a Ravens game with my son.
“Second, I’d want a self-cleaning, enchanted grill that always cooks everything perfectly, juicy steaks, sizzling tacos, no flare-ups, no stress.
“And third, I’d wish for lasting health and happiness for my family. At the end of the day, all the adventures and food in the world mean more when the people you love are well and thriving.”
Q Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
A “In 10 years, I hope to still be working in education, advocating for students and making access to college more attainable, especially for first-generation students like myself.
“I see myself continuing to support my kids, hopefully watching them chase their dreams. Getting ready to retire so I can devote more time to learning about Latin American history, and finding joy in the balance. Being able to travel and learn more about my culture and others that interest me.”
Q If money didn’t matter, what job would you have?
A “With a lot of life and professional experience behind me, I think I’d love to work full-time in a community sports organization mentoring youth, coaching and building programs that teach teamwork, leadership and confidence.
“I already coach my son’s soccer team, and seeing kids grow both on and off the field is incredibly rewarding.
“On the flip side, I’d also consider something in the video game industry. Gaming has always been a fun way for me to unwind and manage stress, and being part of that creative world, whether through testing, storytelling or community building, would be a pretty cool second act in life.”
Armando Bustamante’s parents with his daughter, Anahí, and nephew during a trip to the Albuquerque BioPark Zoo.
Submitted photoQ Is there anything about you that people are surprised to learn?
A “People are often surprised to learn that I graduated in the largest class in my high school’s history, with just 28 students. My parents always emphasized that education was everything. Neither of them attended high school, but they held education in the highest regard and made it clear that their children would go further. That belief shaped who I am.
“Both my brother and I went on to earn master’s degrees, and I’ve dedicated my career to making higher education accessible to others because I know firsthand how powerful that support and expectation can be.”
Q If you could pick a day to relive again and again, which one would it be?
A “Without a doubt, the days my children were born. Those were moments filled with awe, fear, love and so much hope. I remember holding them for the first time, feeling this mix of responsibility and wonder. If I could relive those days, I think I’d soak in even more of the small details I might’ve missed in the whirlwind. Those were life-changing days I’ll never forget.”
Q Would you rather spend a day without your phone or without speaking? Why?
A “I’d honestly rather spend a day without speaking. As an introvert, silence doesn’t bother me. In fact, I often find it recharging. Being quiet for a day sounds more like a treat than a challenge.
My phone, on the other hand, helps me stay connected to what’s important, whether it’s family, work or just relaxing with a good game or catching up on sports. Silence gives me room to think, reflect and just be without pressure to respond.”
Q What is your biggest pet peeve? Why?
A “I’ve got a few, but top of the list? When someone moves my car seat. I get in and suddenly I’m either hugging the steering wheel or stretching like I’m doing yoga just to reach the pedals. It’s like, why?! I also can’t stand when people talk over others. Unless you’re auditioning to be the loudest person in the room, just let folks finish. And rudeness? Nope. Life’s hard enough, basic kindness shouldn’t be optional.”
A trip to San Juan Puerto Rico with his brother is one of Armando Bustamante’s favorite memories.
Submitted photoQ What is that moment in your life you will always remember?
A “There are two travel moments that stand out as unforgettable. One was going to Puerto Rico with my brother, just the two of us exploring, soaking in the culture, the food and the history. It was a chance to connect and just have fun.
“The other was taking my wife and kids to Mexico City, Querétaro and Celaya. Seeing them experience the places, stories and flavors I’ve always loved was incredibly special. Those trips weren’t just vacations, they were meaningful, memory-making moments I’ll always carry with me.”
Q If you woke up as your 16-year-old self tomorrow, what would you do?
A “I’d tell myself to enjoy the moment a little more. I’d take school more seriously, sure, but I’d also lean into the things that made me happy, like being curious, learning history and dreaming big. I’d probably join more activities, take a chance on new experiences and remind myself that even small towns hold big futures.”
Q What’s the strangest purchase you’ve made (or almost made)?
A “I’m not sure it was weird, but it definitely turned into a travel adventure. While at a conference in San Diego, I took a side trip to Tijuana and bought a large wooden cross. It was beautiful, and much bigger than I realized. Carrying it through the airport was awkward enough, but the real challenge came on the second flight from Denver to Lincoln. The plane was tiny and I had to hold the cross on my lap the entire flight. People were definitely giving me side-eyes like I was on a very personal pilgrimage. Let’s just say it made for an unforgettable trip home.”
Q Where was your most unforgettable vacation?
A “One of my most unforgettable vacations was a trip to Chicago with my wife and our daughter, who was just three months old at the time. It was their first time in the city, and getting to share that experience with them made it extra special.
“We explored Chinatown, walked along the Miracle Mile, visited Soldier Field and spent time at the aquarium. Balancing travel with a baby in tow was definitely a new adventure, but it made the whole trip even more memorable.”
Q If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?
A “There are a few places at the top of my list. First, I’d love to visit Machu Picchu, just to stand in the middle of that history and take in the incredible scenery. A close second would be a Mediterranean trip through Spain, Italy, and Greece. The combination of food, culture and historic landmarks would be a dream come true.
“Third, I’d love to take my son to a Baltimore Ravens football game. It’d be an unforgettable bonding moment. And finally, seeing a Newcastle United soccer match live would be amazing. Experiencing that kind of sports atmosphere in person would check a huge item off my list.”