For Sarah Ledon, UNLV alumna, '04 M.Ed. Curriculum and Instruction, and senior vice president of Leading Educators, the 11th Annual Summit on Nevada Education was more than a homecoming. It reflected the continued commitment of education and mental health leaders and practitioners to Nevada’s students.
“There is something powerful about coming home and seeing how far the work has come,” she shared.
Hosted by the College of Education on Saturday, Feb. 7, this year’s gathering focused on embracing purpose, collaboration, and progress, particularly in advancing Nevada education and mental health.
From a welcome address by Dean Danica Hays to opening remarks by Interim President Chris Heavey, to a powerful keynote address by Lisa Hinkelman, the event provided a platform for education and mental health professionals, researchers, and community leaders to share perspectives and discuss student- and workforce-centered solutions.
In case you missed it, here are some major highlights and takeaways.
K-12 and Higher Ed Alignment Equals More Student Opportunities
A panel of heavy hitters, including two district superintendents, the state superintendent, and the state’s higher education chancellor, explored the state and future of education and mental health in Nevada. Moderated by Rocio Hernandez of The Nevada Independent, the discussion explored the need for more connection between grade levels and schools to drive progress.
“From the moment students enter school to the point they enter the workforce or return to education later in life, our systems have to work together,” said Nevada System of Higher Education Chancellor, Matt McNair.
Strategies for a Future-ready Nevada Workforce
A breakout session, presented by Irene Bustamante Adams, Milt Stewart, and Xue Xing, focused on fostering the future of Nevada’s workforce through education. The speakers emphasized integrating apprenticeships and industry credentials into learning environments, building strong work-based learning partnerships, designing sector-based career pathways, and preparing learners for a fast-changing economy through AI literacy, adaptability, and human-centered skills.
Honoring Lifelong Contributions
This year’s Summit attendees witnessed and celebrated the second UNLV College of Education’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The 2026 class inductees: Dale Erquiaga, Carolyn Reedom, Sandy Miller, and Communities In Schools of Nevada (CIS), were honored for their commitment to excellence and lasting contributions in education, mental health, policy leadership, workforce development, and service in Nevada.
“Celebrating local heroes was the most inspiring. It's great to know there are so many people out there who care about the field!" Malvyn Barlaw, a CSSD teacher, shared.
Change in Education Begins With Listening to Students
In her keynote address, Lisa Hinkelman, Founder and CEO of Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX) and author of Girls Without Limits, shared evidence-based strategies for supporting students, especially teenage girls, and creating empowering environments and experiences for them. It begins with listening.
A Renewed Sense of Purpose
The 11th Annual Summit on Nevada Education closed with a shared sense of purpose and resolve for progress. Across every session, there was a common message: meaningful progress in education and mental health happens when communities listen, collaborate intentionally, and stay committed to purpose-driven action.
“I attend Summit to stay informed, and I often leave with insights I wouldn’t have gained otherwise. This year, I learned about the Inclusion Symposium, an opportunity I didn’t know about until now, and am eager to explore further,” said Ivette Guiterrez, a CSSD special education teacher.
Educators, policymakers, mental health professionals, community partners and leaders left the Summit energized by new ideas, strengthened partnerships, and a collective vision for a Nevada where every learner is supported, not only academically, but socially, emotionally, and professionally.
As we look forward to next year's Summit, the UNLV College of Education remains committed to championing innovative research, fostering strategic collaboration, and elevating the voices of students and educators across Nevada.