When it comes to camaraderie among UNLV’s academic and administrative units, nothing brings people together like a bit of friendly competition. This year, UNLV is once again participating in the City of Las Vegas Corporate Challenge.

The competition, which includes businesses and organizations from across the Valley, runs through May 16. Teams compete in 38 events over 11 weeks — everything from axe throwing and archery to table tennis and track and field — at locations throughout Las Vegas.

Organizing the Challenge

Sonja Rogers, UNLV’s health and wellness program manager, oversees the university’s Corporate Challenge team. She manages registration, assigns captains for each event, communicates details to ensure participants are prepared, and provides support to captains throughout the season.

“This year, we had over 200 people sign up. We actually had to order more shirts because of the demand,” Rogers says, joking that it sometimes feels like she’s working for DoorDash as she runs team shirts around campus. “What excites me most is the increased participation and the number of new captains.”

The competition fits into a larger focus on faculty and staff wellness and is part of UNLV’s RebelWELL program, which develops workshops, resources, and events to foster a culture of health, connection, and community.

“Providing wellness opportunities for faculty and staff isn’t just about individual health — it helps strengthen the whole UNLV community,” says Ericka Smith, UNLV’s vice president for human resources & chief people officer. “Programs like Corporate Challenge give people a chance to connect, build a sense of belonging, and show support for one another.”

Connecting Across Campus

Kathy Lauckner, faculty emerita in the School of Public Health, has participated in Corporate Challenge since 1986. She has seen the event grow and enjoys the social aspect as much as the competition. “It’s fun to meet people from other departments you might not otherwise encounter,” she says, adding that even showing up can help earn points for UNLV.

Amy Stone, assistant professor of medical education at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine, has participated in archery, and 8-ball over the years and led the trivia team to a third-place medal this year — the first time UNLV has placed above fifth in the event. “Practices are especially great because they give us time to connect, so by the time competition comes around, we’re a cohesive team,” she said.

Rachel De Vera, recruitment coordinator in the College of Engineering, has participated in softball, track and field, and indoor and outdoor volleyball over the past three years. "I really think Corporate Challenge is a good community team builder and a great way to get some exercise," she said.

De Vera's participation in the games encouraged her to join volleyball leagues at It's All Volleyball and UNLV's intramural volleyball team. “I like competing with other athletes and enthusiasts working toward a common goal,” De Vera said, adding that little moments — like enjoying chocolate-dipped fruit while watching teammates perform — help make the experience memorable.

Some of the treats for those events are made by fellow participants, including Corporate Challenge veteran Erica Marti, associate professor in Civil and Environmental Engineering and Construction. “I enjoy competition and challenging myself as an athlete, but a highlight has always been meeting other people at UNLV whom I wouldn’t normally meet,” she said, though she noted winning gold for shot put last year felt pretty great, too, but quickly noted that winning isn't everything. “The connections you make will stay with you longer than the thrill of the medal.”

Daniel Mendoza, assistant director for regional and college recruitment in Undergraduate Admissions, has participated in the 5K and bike race for the last five years. “I've been able to make connections with other staff and faculty that I don't typically get the chance to interact with," Mendoza said and remarked on the elation of bringing home a medal. "It's nice to meet others on campus that also have active lifestyles, enjoy competition, or simply making connections and representing UNLV in fun ways."

Crossing the Finish Line

Corporate Challenge culminates in a closing ceremony at 9 a.m. on May 16 at Lorenzi Park. Teams will receive their medals and captains recognized for their leadership.

For those interested in participating next year, Rogers emphasized that there’s an event for everyone. “If you’re not athletic, there are still plenty of options — walking events, trivia, corn hole, pool. We always need participants, especially for larger events like swimming, the 5K, and walking races, which require people across multiple age groups.”

Stone sums it up: “It’s not about being a professional athlete. It’s about meeting new people, sharing some laughs, and being part of something bigger than your department."