It takes special care and dedication from various departments, units, and teams to keep the university running smoothly behind the scenes. Often, the people serving in these roles aspire to grow professionally to continue making an impact on campus.
Ku’uipo Nihipali, an administrative assistant in the School of Nursing, started her career at UNLV with the Facilities Management team. For several years, she ensured the many buildings and spaces around campus remained spotless and ready for students, faculty, and staff to utilize.
Her dedication to maintaining a clean and welcoming environment laid a strong foundation for her transition to the School of Nursing, where she continues to support the university community with the same commitment and care.
Throughout the early years of her career at UNLV, Nihipali built lasting friendships with colleagues across various departments. These connections nurtured Nihipali’s passion for patient care, motivating her to pursue her interests in medical care and helping those in need.
She brings her unique blend of compassion and dedication to her new role and is a welcome addition to her team, according to her supervisor.
“She is a go-getter and very detail-oriented about her work, and I love that about her. She's very generous with her time,” said Nakia Jackson-Hale, assistant dean for administration, outreach, and engagement. “I love working with her, so I'm trying to push her to go back to school because I think that this is not the end for her. It's just the beginning.”
Nihipali’s eagerness to contribute to causes for the greater good has led her to participate in the organization of various community outreach events that align with her long-term goals, Jackson-Hale added.
Discovering Opportunity at UNLV
Nihipali relocated to Las Vegas nearly a decade ago. As a mother of three young children, she wanted to serve as a positive example of determination and resilience, even through life’s toughest moments.
It was this resoluteness that pushed her to apply to UNLV, where Nihipali found her career goals aligned with the university’s mission and opportunities to serve the campus.
“I applied for a maintenance position with the Facilities Management department hoping it would be a stepping stone for a long-term career,” she said.
Nihipali learned the ins and outs of the campus, finding her responsibilities rewarding as she contributed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for students and faculty.
“After seven years, I finally gained the confidence to apply for an administrative role and took a chance,” Nihipali said. “I’m glad I did because my dedication to the school and community is what ultimately helped me succeed in the application process."
Nihipali was overjoyed when she received the call confirming that she had secured the administrative assistant position at the School of Nursing.
“I have a deep appreciation and love for the health field,” Nihipali said. “It’s fulfilling to be part of a school that prioritizes well-being and supports individuals on their journeys to become health professionals to serve our community.”
She brings heart to her role, always ready to lend a helping hand and ensure everything runs smoothly. Her contributions are invaluable, shaping the success and well-being of those she serves.
“Working with Ku’uipo has been a pleasure. She brings her warm ‘Aloha spirit’ to work each day, engaging with others in a positive, uplifting way,” said Kayla Sullivan, program director for the direct-entry master's program in Nursing. “Ku’uipo is always ready to take on new challenges and eagerly learns new skills, which enriches our team's dynamic and contributes greatly to our success.”
Serving the Campus Community
Nihipali’s attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and unwavering support of office initiatives enabled her to thrive in her new role.
“Most of my days are spent assisting students in any way I can, whether that’s connecting them with their faculty members, providing clinical guidance, or supporting them through the admissions process,” she said. “I either refer them to the admissions team or help them with any clerical tasks they need. Additionally, I support the faculty here at the School of Nursing in their efforts.”
One of the most rewarding aspects of Nihipali’s job is her involvement in UNLV's Poverty Simulation program — an interprofessional education exercise that helps medical students understand how the challenges of poverty can impact access to healthcare and resources.
"I'm excited about this program! It teaches students how low-income families navigate the healthcare system while dealing with daily struggles like unemployment, homelessness, and limited resources — all while trying to keep their families healthy,” Nihipai said. “Growing up with a single mom who worked multiple jobs, I understand how challenging this can be. It’s essential for our students to realize that not everyone can easily visit a doctor when they’re sick or care for a sick relative. This understanding is crucial to their education."
A Legacy of Caring for Others
Nihipali’s experience in healthcare extends beyond her current role. She hails from a family of health professionals, which has given her a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of the field and the knowledge necessary to serve others.
“My mom, my grandma, my great-grandma, my aunties — basically all of the women in my family — are in various medical professions, including nursing,” she said.
As a teenager, Nihipali assisted her grandmother with in-home patient care. “On one occasion, my grandma asked if I could help with a patient by spending time with her. It was a nice experience, and I decided I would love to do this type of work in the future,” Nihipali said. “That's where my passion to help people came from.”
Nihipali’s grandma also served as a source of inspiration for her journey to care for foster children.
“My grandma was a home nurse for most of my life and a foster parent for as long as I can remember, even during my mom's life. People often say I'm a lot like her, and I’m proud to follow in her footsteps,” she said.
For Nihipali, community service is a way of life, and she brings this passion to everything she does for the students at the School of Nursing.
“I love that I transitioned into this position because I can work more directly with the students. In my last role, I would only see them in passing, but now I can help them on a more personal level,” she said. “Some students even call me directly for help, even if it’s unrelated to a previous issue I assisted with. Being able to support others at home, in the community, and at work makes me feel fulfilled in every aspect of my life.”
What’s Next
When Nihipali isn't busy assisting students and faculty or meticulously tracking events and meetings on multiple calendars, she dedicates her time to her educational aspirations.
“My long-term goal is to graduate,” she said. “I've recently applied to the School of Public Health, so I’m hoping to be accepted. I want to continue my journey at the School of Nursing and advance further in the future. I also have community aspirations, especially working with at-risk youth, and I’d love to incorporate health education into those efforts.”
Nihipali’s professional path has led her to realize anything is possible, and she is determined to carve out a future on her terms.
“It's funny that when I first applied to UNLV almost eight years ago, I thought I wouldn’t get far without a degree,” she said. “However, I’ve been encouraged by my colleagues to push forward and pursue my goals. They’ve reassured me that I can achieve anything and continue my education if I choose.”
Throughout this journey, Nihipali has learned to take it a day at a time to reach the finish line and enjoy each moment along the way. She encourages others who may be in a similar position to do the same.
“Protect your time and peace, and don't be afraid. Don’t let the lack of resources hold you back. If you want something, there’s always a way to get where you want to be.”
Ku’uipo embodies the spirit of UNLV, where individuals are empowered to grow and thrive, reaching their highest potential regardless of their background, challenges, or starting point.
UNLV benefits for employees include discounts on tuition. Learn more about the Grant-In-Aid program.
