Jennifer Belch found her way to UNLV through a path shaped by both personal and professional experiences. After college, she relocated to Southern Nevada as her husband began his career, and over time, she found herself drawn to work rooted in service and connection. Since joining the Division of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement in 2022, she has supported the behind-the-scenes work that helps leadership, alumni, and campus events stay connected and running smoothly.

Prior to UNLV, Belch worked in the Clark County School District, but she wanted to make more of an impact on students’ lives after graduation. “Alumni Engagement stood out to me because becoming an alum is such a meaningful milestone, and I wanted to contribute to strengthening those lifelong connections between graduates and the university,” she says.

Outside of work, Belch volunteers in the community and enjoys participating in local events. She says those experiences reflect what she values most in her work at UNLV: building relationships, supporting others, and creating a sense of connection.

In recognition of those contributions, she recently received the 2026 UNLV Classified Staff Rookie of the Year Award.

Are you originally from Las Vegas?

My husband was born and raised in Las Vegas. After we graduated from college, he secured his career here. While I’m not originally from Las Vegas, it has truly become home, and I’ve really enjoyed becoming part of the UNLV and local community.

Can you walk us through what your day looks like? 

My day-to-day responsibilities involve supporting leadership, coordinating meetings and events, managing communications, and helping ensure that operations run smoothly across multiple areas. No two days are exactly the same, which keeps the role dynamic and engaging.

My favorite part is the opportunity to volunteer and support different departments across the university. It allows me to build relationships and contribute to the broader UNLV community.

Your nominators praised you highly as seen in a few of their comments below. How does it feel to receive this award recognizing your hard work and commitment to UNLV?

• “Jennifer does not simply support UNLV; she strengthens it.”
• “What sets Jennifer apart is her remarkable reliability and her readiness to help with whatever is needed no matter how large or small the task may seem.”
• “She understands that the success of one team contributes to the success of the university as a whole, and she consistently acts with that broader perspective in mind.”

It truly feels like a huge honor. I’m very grateful to work alongside such supportive and dedicated colleagues, and I appreciate all those who took the time to nominate me. It definitely came as a surprise, and it means a lot to be recognized in this way. It motivates me even more to continue contributing and supporting the team.

How do you decide what to take on when so many requests and opportunities come through your office?

I try to prioritize opportunities that support others, especially those who are volunteering their time to give back to the university. If I can help make their efforts more successful or efficient, I’m always willing to step in. I focus on where I can add the most value while still ensuring that core responsibilities are met.

What’s something people might misunderstand about alumni and donor events?

I think people often underestimate how many individuals are involved behind the scenes to make these events run smoothly. It takes a lot of coordination, planning, and teamwork across multiple departments to ensure everything is successful and creates a meaningful experience for attendees.

It would surprise my colleagues to learn… 

How much I enjoy volunteering outside of work and how involved I am in supporting different community organizations. Giving back has always been an important part of my life, and I try to carry that into both my personal and professional roles. I hold strong personal values rooted in service, personal responsibility, and supporting strong communities, and those principles guide how I approach my work, my relationships, and my commitment to helping others.

What part of the job feels most meaningful to you?

Supporting efforts that help build relationships between the university and its alumni and donors. Knowing that the work I do behind the scenes helps create opportunities for students and strengthens the UNLV community is incredibly rewarding.

If you could have a conversation over coffee with any UNLV alum (or honorary alum), who would you like to meet?

Any UNLV alum who has remained actively engaged with the university and continues to give back in meaningful ways. It’s inspiring to learn how their experience at UNLV shaped their journey and what drives their ongoing commitment to supporting future students.

I also believe it’s important that we take the time to truly get to know our alumni, understanding their experiences, listening to their perspectives, and meeting them where they are. Those kinds of genuine connections reflect the lasting impact and strong sense of community that UNLV creates.

What has been the biggest takeaway from your time in this division so far?

Seeing just how many alumni are willing to give back their time, energy, and resources. It really speaks to the strong connection people have with UNLV and how much they value their experience here.

What do you like to do for fun?

I really enjoy spending quality time with my family, my dogs, and my neighbors. I value those connections and the strong sense of community they bring. Many of my neighbors are proud UNLV alums. I also enjoy staying involved through volunteer activities, attending local events, finding ways to stay connected to the city, and traveling to enjoy and appreciate the beauty of our country.

Any advice for someone just starting out as an administrative assistant at UNLV?

Stay organized, be open to learning, and build strong relationships across campus. Never stop learning and growing in your role. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and take initiative when opportunities come your way. Taking advantage of classes and professional development opportunities is also important; they can help you grow your skills and better understand the university environment. Getting involved in campus events, committees, and organizations is a great way to learn the culture, expand your network, and feel more connected to the UNLV community.