Kyle Ethelbah is a seasoned educator with more more than 25 years of experience in higher education, including two decades of service at UNLV and leadership roles at the University of Utah and the University of Arizona. His career has included work on student success initiatives, oversight of federally funded academic support programs, and leadership of teams serving diverse student populations. Most recently, as director for college programs in UNLV’s Dr. William W. Sullivan Center for Academic Enrichment and Outreach, he oversaw TRIO and AANAPISI initiatives, supported major federal grants, and guided programming and staff development that contributed to improvements in student retention and completion outcomes.

In addition to his administrative responsibilities, Ethelbah has contributed to university and external initiatives through participation on committees, advisory groups, and professional boards. His work has included developing program policies and conducting program assessments. He has also been active in national service through organizations such as the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and has delivered presentations to the US Congress and professional organizations on student support and program effectiveness.

As Associate Vice President for Institutional Engagement & Experience, Kyle will guide UNLV’s efforts to strengthen engagement, reinforce shared values, and support a positive and mission-aligned campus culture.

Kyle has a bachelor’s degree in cultural and linguistic anthropology from the University of Arizona (97), a Master in Public Health degree from UNLV (09) and a Doctor of Education degree, with a focus on organizational change and leadership, from the University of Southern California (25).