Nancy Esposito has nearly 20 years of experience in higher education, with a career centered on creating pathways for student success and advancing equitable access to education. As a first-generation college graduate, Nancy understands the transformative impact of higher education and is passionate about helping students overcome barriers, build connections, and achieve their academic and professional goals.

In her current role as graduate engagement and retention coordinator within the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) School of Nursing, Nancy leads initiatives that strengthen graduate student engagement, support academic progression, and promote retention and degree completion. Through her work, she has developed and implemented student-centered programs, including helping establish the School of Nursing’s first emergency grant to provide financial assistance to students experiencing unexpected challenges. She also supports graduate student success through her involvement with the Graduate MENTORS peer mentorship program, where she mentors students and fosters a sense of belonging and community.

Nancy’s commitment to student success extends throughout her career at UNLV. Previously, as the retention, progression, and completion (RPC) coordinator in the College of Education, she established the college’s first peer mentorship program, PALS, creating opportunities for students to connect with peers and build a stronger sense of belonging. Her dedication to the broader UNLV community is also reflected in her service as a faculty senator, member of the Administrative Faculty Committee, and former president of UNLV Comadres, where she contributes to initiatives that support an inclusive and engaged campus community.

Nancy also previously served as an instructor in UNLV’s Department of Counselor Education, School Psychology, and Human Services, where she taught undergraduate courses focused on counseling, human services, and multicultural issues. She earned a bachelor’s degree in human services from California State University, Fullerton; a master’s degree in counseling from California State University, Long Beach; a master of public administration from UNLV; and a doctorate in public policy from UNLV. Her research focuses on higher education policy, particularly the relationship between college affordability, financial stress, and student retention and degree completion.