Ann Filemyr

Ann Filemyr, Ph.D., is the founder and Director of the PhD in Visionary Practice and Regenerative Leadership at Southwestern College (Santa Fe, NM). Previously, she served as the fourth President of Southwestern College (2018-2024), Vice President for Academic Affairs (2014-2018), and Academic Dean at the Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) (2005-2014). Her career spans over three decades in higher education, including roles at Antioch College as Department Chair, Associate Professor, Full Professor, and Vice President/Dean of Faculty (1996-2005). She earned her Ph.D. from Union Institute & University with a dissertation analyzing intersections of nature, culture, and identity through indigenous frameworks. Her academic specialties include Women Studies, Africana Studies, Peace Studies, Environmental Studies, Education, and Communications.

Education Background:

• Ph.D. in Cultural & Interdisciplinary Studies (Union Institute & University)
• MA in English (Creative Writing/Poetry, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee)
• Bachelor of Philosophy (Self-Designed Major in Creative & Performing Arts, Thomas Jefferson College)

Research & Creative Work: Dr. Filemyr’s interdisciplinary research bridges ecology, identity, and cultural frameworks. Her poetry explores themes of healing, environmental stewardship, and transformative education. She has published eight poetry collections emphasizing art as a medium for social and personal transformation. Her work often intersects with indigeneous knowledge systems and clinical art therapy practices.

Labs/Teams: She leads the New Earth Institute at Southwestern College, which offers transformative educational programs integrating mind-body-spirit paradigms. This initiative expands the college’s mission of consciousness-based education through community lectures, certificate courses, and healing-focused conferences.

Grants & Advising: As an academic leader, she has pioneered numerous educational programs and guided graduates in visionary practice disciplines. Notable advisees include Crystal Hoffman, Anna Mills, and Linnea Knoespel (among others listed).