There’s no greater symbol of our purpose-driven work as a university than commencement, where our newest alumni mark their transition from students to professionals ready to serve and strengthen our community.

I was so proud to welcome thousands of new UNLV graduates during three Fall Commencement ceremonies this week at the Thomas & Mack Center. Research universities like UNLV are designed intentionally to accelerate human potential. That is clearly evident in the accomplishments of our graduates, who are entering both the industries our region needs now and the emerging fields we couldn’t have imagined a generation ago.

Our students’ talent and potential remind us why our work as a university matters. Watching them reach this milestone is incredibly inspiring to me and to all of our faculty and staff at UNLV. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to serve as interim president and lead a university that means so much to me and to so many in Southern Nevada and beyond. 

There’s a lot to celebrate as 2025 comes to a close here at UNLV, from record enrollment and graduation rates to an exceptionally positive university accreditation review, the launch of new academic programs and community initiatives, and the renewal of our Carnegie R1 designation. 

We’ve announced important philanthropic gifts – including the largest endowment in UNLV Athletics history – that will move our university and its programs forward in meaningful ways. 

And a new building for the Lee Business School is moving forward with $68.5M in support from Gov. Lombardo and the Nevada Legislature during the recent special session. Philanthropic efforts to bring the vision to reality are underway. Planned for a site off Maryland Parkway, it will serve as a gateway to UNLV and a hub for innovation, scholarship, and community, preparing the next generation of business leaders and advancing the future of business in our region.

I look forward to sharing more about this exciting project in the spring, including how it aligns with our continuing vision for academic growth, student success, and community impact.  

For now, I wish you and your family a warm, peaceful, and happy holiday season. Thank you for everything you do to support UNLV, and I hope to see you on campus and throughout the community in the new year. 
 
Warm wishes,

Chris Heavey
Interim UNLV President