Biography

Nicole Hudson is a recognized leader in workforce development, adult learning, and the future of work. As the executive director of lifelong learning at UNLV, she oversees innovative non-credit programs, microcredentials, and career pathways that align with evolving industry needs.

With over 30 years of experience in higher education and a background in organizational leadership and human resources, Hudson brings deep expertise in upskilling, reskilling, and creating inclusive learning environments for adult learners. She has spearheaded initiatives that bridge education and employment and empower communities through programming that improves access and equity.

This includes partnering with the Vegas Chamber to develop internship programs, collaborating with the Nevada Department of Training and Rehabilitation on ways to link students to higher-level job opportunities, designing and launching the Thriving Authentically and Career Connections programs to provide career-focused resources and personal development opportunities for students and professionals, and managing the UNLV president’s Southern Nevada Leadership Summit aimed at fostering discussions between employers with other stakeholders on development of actionable workforce strategies.

A frequent speaker and strategist, Hudson also has expertise in enrollment management and online education. She has led initiatives to boost college entry and student retention and developed faculty teaching and technology models. Additionally, Hudson has served as an adjunct professor, instructing business-focused courses on topics ranging from leadership to customer relations to human resource management.