Dear Colleagues,
Ericka Smith, Vice President for Human Resources and Chief People Officer, recently announced that she will leave UNLV at the end of November to be closer to her family on the East Coast. I am grateful to Ericka for her leadership and contributions to UNLV, as well as her commitment to supporting the university throughout this transition.
I recognize that this is a particularly important leadership role with responsibility for our greatest asset -- our people. I’d like to share information about what the campus community can expect in the coming months.
Permanent Leadership Search
Before her departure, Ericka has graciously volunteered to work with a national search firm to initiate the search for her successor. Her expertise and institutional knowledge will be valuable as we seek candidates whose experience and leadership align with UNLV’s mission and values.
Michelle Sposito, director of the Office of Equal Employment and Title IX, will lead a search committee made up of representatives from across the university. We anticipate bringing candidates to campus after the new year. When the time comes, I encourage faculty and staff to participate in opportunities to meet the candidates and provide feedback. It’s important that we include diverse perspectives in the decision-making process. We’ll share details on these opportunities as they become available.
Interim Appointment
Effective Nov. 23, Jared Christensen will serve as Interim Vice President for Human Resources and Chief People Officer. Jared’s experience across HR functional areas and knowledge of relevant federal, state, NSHE, and UNLV compliance requirements make him well positioned to serve in this interim role.
Jared currently serves as Assistant Vice President and Executive Director for Human Resources Business Partners. In this position, he oversees benefits, compensation, talent acquisition, human capital management, human resources information systems, and the human resources business partners program.
Jared came to UNLV in 2021 as the director of employee relations where he provided guidance on performance and employee engagement, policy navigation, and labor relations. Before coming to UNLV, Jared led comprehensive human resources functions in various leadership roles at Management & Training Corporation, building on his earlier HR experience at the University of Utah and Mercer Human Resources Consulting.
Throughout his time at UNLV, Jared has demonstrated his commitment to creating and maintaining positive relationships with employees at all levels. He works collaboratively on numerous campus committees and advocates for UNLV as part of NSHE’s Human Resources Advisory Council.
Please join me in welcoming and supporting Jared in this interim role. I also encourage the campus community to stay engaged as we move forward with the national search. Thank you for your continued support throughout this transition.
Sincerely,
Chris Heavey
President