Over the course of Kim Kaplan’s 17 years as the director of human resources for University Libraries at UNLV, she has helped create invaluable resources and programs supporting faculty recruitment, supervisory competencies, training, internal communications, and more.
After putting in a long day supporting faculty, staff, and student employees, she looks forward to heading home and spending time with her husband and their 2-year-old standard poodle, Dudley. And maybe a trip to the Magic Castle.
First, let’s talk about the poodle in the room. Who is this very good boy?
My sweet boy, Dudley, who is named after Dudley Do-Right. He is a standard poodle who is wicked smart, loves to play, and is so loving. Dudley is a rescue and will be 2 years old next month. Even though he has destroyed three pairs of my shoes, along with several other items in the house, we love him and have learned to really pick things up and control his access in the house. You don’t dare leave your socks around because you will soon be trading treats for your socks.
My husband and I have had several toy poodles and a few other breeds before Dudley, but the standard poodle is the best breed by far. But this comes with a warning they are not lap dogs even though Dudley tries to be. They need a lot of attention, training, exercise, but most of all you, and you will be loved forever.
How do you describe your position within the Libraries?
As the Libraries human resources director, I am a resource, partner and advisor with 29 years of human resources generalist experience. I enjoy supporting the dean of Libraries, the Libraries leadership team, faculty, staff, and student employees. I help supervisors with employee relations questions and issues. I have an important role as a supervisor, but I’m also a mentor to the two young HR professionals on the Libraries HR team.
Tell us about your work before coming to UNLV.
I worked locally in human resources for Harrah’s/Caesars’ Entertainment at the property level and at the corporate offices. I worked with and supported over 4,800 employees at the Rio property. When I moved to the corporate office, I worked with and supported 1,200 corporate employees.
What first attracted you to switch from the private sector to UNLV?
When you work for the gaming and entertainment industry, you can and will have a lot of fun while working hard. I was ready to continue my HR career in a new environment focused on learning and preparing people to be successful in their chosen career paths.
How does the Human Resources department support the overall Libraries?
The Libraries HR team is responsible for recruitment and employment activities for all classified staff, administrative and academic faculty, and student employees. We partner with other university units such as UNLV Human Resources and the Provost’s Office. The team organizes employee training development opportunities and supports employee recognition and appreciation.
What makes working in the Libraries enjoyable for you?
I have had the opportunity to work with student employees in the Library Administration office over the years and many of them worked with us for most — if not all — of their academic career. It is fun to work with them, watch them learn and grow, and then celebrate with them when they graduate. When they return to say “Hi” and share their successes, it is always heartwarming.
What’s one thing that people might be surprised to learn about you?
I’m an associate member of the Magic Castle in West Hollywood, and my husband is a magician member. We had a lot of fun preparing him for his audition to be a member. His magic mentor, Leo Behnke, sponsored my husband for membership and was an important part of our lives for many years. We have made numerous trips over the years to the Magic Castle with Leo and on our own to enjoy the performances of magicians from around the world. Unfortunately, Leo passed away last year, and I can’t express enough how much we miss him.
What’s the most Vegas thing you’ve done since moving here?
While working at the Rio, I had the opportunity to perform as a test cast member in the Carnival in the Sky at the Rio in the Masquerade Village back in the day when it was new. During a David Copperfield show at Caesars, David made a rose appear and handed it to me. I think this was an early sign that magic was going to be a big part of our lives.
What are you currently streaming?
Franklin, Masters of the Air, The New Look, Gilded Age, and rewatching Emily in Paris seasons while waiting for the fourth season. And we love all shows related to Star Wars.
