Deanna Merino Contino serves as Chief of Staff at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), providing strategic leadership and executive support to advance institutional priorities and strengthen collaboration across the university. A seasoned higher education leader, Merino Contino brings extensive experience across public research universities, with expertise in student and academic affairs, strategic planning, and operational excellence. Her work is grounded in a commitment to advancing student success and institutional excellence. In her role as Chief of Staff, she works closely with university leadership and campus partners to translate priorities into action, foster effective communication and collaboration, and support initiatives that advance UNLV's mission and continued growth.

Merino Contino's son is a Clark County firefighter. She resides in Henderson with her husband and daughter. Her and her daughter are involved with the Green Valley Chapter for the National Charity League