Faces of CNM: Armad Johnlouis

Armad Johnlouis is a busy man. Last year he saw 2,355 students from 49 different programs in his role as the advisor for CNM’s School of Health, Wellness & Public Safety. He’s on track to see even more students this year and loves every interaction with someone seeking their path forward.

“I want to see people succeed, it’s as simple as that,” Armad says.

Armad also sees some of himself in the students he serves. He became the first person in his family to get a college degree when he graduated from CNM with an associate degree in accounting. He then went on to get a bachelor’s in education at Eastern New Mexico University and will soon be back at Eastern for a master’s.

His job can be challenging because most people come to an advisor when they have a problem. Armad says he’s seen a lot of frowns, and plenty of students have cried in his office, but he always finds a way to represent CNM’s core value of Be Caring and help them solve their problem.

“It feels really good to fix things and set people off in the right direction,” he says. “I’m glad to have a challenge every day.”

As an African American leader on campus, Armad says he’s always happy to help students of color not only navigate the college but also find a way to be as successful as possible.

“I’m here to give everyone the opportunity to rise,” he says.

Outside of work, Armad is known as a long-time Chicago Bulls fan. He’s 38, so he grew up in the Michael Jordan era and never gave up on the team after Air Jordan grounded his career, even though the Bulls haven’t made the playoffs since 2006.

He’s also a dedicated and loving father. His daughter, who’s now 15, was born while he was at CNM and he says she’s been his north star throughout.

“I’d never held a baby until I’d held my own, and she definitely set me on my path,” he says. “Without her as my constant, there’s no telling where I’d be right now.”