The level of collaboration between units at UNLV to support the university and its goals is something that Tiffany Ponds-Kimbro, assistant director of marketing and communications for the Boyd School of Law, says she find both impressive and attractive.
Why UNLV?
I feel very much that though the Strip may be the focal point of Las Vegas, UNLV is the backbone of the city. The university is a place of commonality and community. It’s important to me that I believe in the mission and values of my employer and I found with UNLV I can do just that.
Where did you grow up and what was that like?
I was born and raised in Cleveland. To me, it was great, even with all of the snow. Cleveland has a huge cultural sector that includes shows, museums, and festivals that happen every year and are so much fun. I really miss The Nutcracker every holiday season, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and trees.
What are a few of your job duties?
I work with the director producing internal and external communications materials like the UNLV Law magazine, print and online advertising, and collateral. I’ve been given the task of the school’s social media to broaden our reach and tell our stories on those platforms. I’ll also be managing and updating the UNLV Law website.
What inspired you to get into your field?
I’ve always been interested in brands and how they share information to their audience. My first introduction to marketing was in print ads in Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar and they were the most beautiful things I’d ever seen. As I started college I learned that all of that communication had to be planned, photographed, budgeted, and then disseminated in a fashion that was best for that brand. I then learned to understand brand in a broader scope and became even more fascinated.
"If I couldn't work in my current field, I would like to...
Teach history, I think. History is usually told in the voice of the “conquerors” and colonizers, but has never really given equal consideration to those conquered and what their traditions and culture were like prior.
A time when you have been daring:
Most recently, in 2012. I moved my entire family to Las Vegas in order to participate in a management program with MGM Resorts International. While I’m not currently with that company, the lessons learned there have stayed with me and benefited me in every subsequent position.
An object in your office that has significance for you:
I have a crayon-colored picture of Oscar the Grouch given to me by one of my best friends. It reminds me to take a step back and not jump to conclusions or get too upset over things that can be fixed. She gave it to me one day when I was being especially grumpy.
Something people would be surprised to learn about you:
I’m a huge fan of the golden era of movies and old Hollywood. I absolutely love Vincente Minnelli, Busby Berkeley, and George Cukor films. I love everything from the dialogue and delivery, to the costumes and music numbers.
Books on your bedside table:
The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich: A History of Nazi Germany, a Regency England romance novel, and I’m eagerly awaiting Becoming by Michelle Obama.
