When Sky Denson chose UNLV, he was thinking like a real estate pro. “Location is everything,” he says.
And for him, Las Vegas offered both a dynamic market for hand's on experiences and a top-tier real estate program at Lee Business School.
He became part of a tight-knit network of faculty, mentors, and industry professionals, president of the Real Estate and Business Society (REBS), and a involved with the Lied Center for Real Estate. This May, he graduates with dual degrees — one in real estate and urban economics and another in finance — plus a minor in global entrepreneurship.
UNLV’s real estate program has gained national recognition in recent years — rising to its ranking of No. 32 for Best Real Estate Bachelor’s Degree Schools, according to College Factual.
Denson credits that to the program’s engagement in the community. “The access to industry leaders, networking events and real-world projects is unmatched,” said Denson, pointing to the program’s emphasis on practical experience.
Entrepreneurial Spirit from the Start
Denson started in business through his family’s wedding venue in Galveston, Texas. At 15, he co-founded his own business to liquidate excess inventory from large retail stores, which included multiple storefronts and a top-ranking eBay store in the region.
“I worked until 1 a.m. most nights, learning every facet of the business — logo design, loan sourcing, inventory management. That experience sparked my passion for entrepreneurship and problem-solving,” Denson says.
Building Experience Beyond the Classroom
Denson’s resume already shows deep industry experience: from working on land acquisition for the Las Vegas Loop at The Boring Company to helping develop master-planned communities at Howard Hughes Holdings. He’s also held roles in tourism, economic development, and investment banking, all while still a student.
“At UNLV, we don’t wait until after graduation to gain experience,” he says. “We are encouraged to take internships early, attend conferences, engage in professional real estate organizations, and participate in case competitions,” he says.
Through the Lee Business School’s Nevada Global Business program, he has studied international business in Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, and England. This May, through the Global Entrepreneurship Experience, his cohort of eight entrepreneurs will be traveling to Japan.
Blueprints from the Past, Inspiration for the Future
Denson’s education included studying the trailblazers who have transformed communities through innovative development. He admires George P. Mitchell, creator of The Woodlands, Texas, for sustainable and environmentally conscious development.
More locally, Tony Hsieh’s Downtown Project in Las Vegas showed Denson how intentional placemaking can both enhance community and spur economic growth.
As he weighs his post-graduation options, Denson says he’ll keep those lessons in mind. “I admire how they didn’t just develop buildings; they built communities,” Denson says. “That’s something I want to replicate in my own career — creating environments where people thrive.
“I want to build environments where people can live, work, play, pray, and connect — a place that fosters a sense of belonging,” he says. “Real estate is more than buildings; it’s about shaping the way people experience a city.”
He’s also focused on giving back. “I’ve been fortunate to receive mentorship and opportunities. I want to make sure future students have even more access to resources, internships, and industry connections,” he says. “It’s about building something that lasts beyond my time here.”
