The Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost is pleased to announce that after the completion of a national search, Erin Messer has been selected as the new Associate Vice President for Academic Resources. Currently serving as the Associate Budget Director in the Office of Financial Planning, Budget & Analysis, she will begin to transition into this role starting June 19, 2023. Messer, a UNLV alumna and seasoned budget and HR professional, takes over for Gina Strebel who will retire next January after 37 years of dedicated service to UNLV.

As the central budget and human resources officer in the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost, Messer will be instrumental in implementing policies and procedures to support the budget, finance, recruitment, and hiring needs across the Provost’s division. This includes all academic and administrative units integral to supporting the academic mission of the university.

Equipped with an extensive background in business management, budget analysis, and human resources, Messer is well-positioned to guide the Office of Academic Resources in implementing progressive strategies. In her new role, she will direct her efforts toward streamlining processes, enhancing the use of the university’s financial and human resource systems, and improving the overall quality of services.

“We are delighted to have Erin join the team as we evolve and adapt to meet the needs of our growing university,” said Executive Vice President and Provost Chris L. Heavey. “Erin’s commitment to creating a modern, service-oriented environment will be crucial in our pursuit to make the Office of Academic Resources a premier resource for our faculty and staff.”

Before joining UNLV, Messer held multiple positions in the private sector. Her experiences have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of financial management, budgeting, and reporting. Beyond her financial responsibilities, Messer’s role in the Office of Academic Resources will include coordination of recruitment and hiring; professional position review, ranking, and pay range assignments; unit reorganization; employment contract revisions; extra-contractual compensation; and other personnel and HR matters.

In an effort to foster greater integration, enhanced systematization, and data-driven operations, Messer will serve as part of a core team recently formed to develop comprehensive strategies to ensure efficient business processes and seamless coordination among all offices under the Provost. This integration will lay the groundwork for more effective tracking and delivery of services to directly benefit the campus community.

Messer expressed her enthusiasm for her new role, saying, “I am eager to bring my experience and passion for my work to this new challenge. Together with the amazing team at the Office of Academic Resources, I am confident we can further elevate our services and become an even stronger support unit for our remarkable faculty and staff.”