Dear Friends and Supporters,
I am writing to share that I will be stepping down as President of Nevada State University, effective September 5, 2025, to accept a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lead the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), a national organization whose mission is deeply resonant with the current moment in higher education and public life. My last day on campus will be July 31, 2025.
Over the past four years, I have had the distinct honor of leading Nevada State through a period of extraordinary growth and innovation. With the unwavering support of the community, we have transformed access, invested in students, and elevated the visibility of Nevada State as a driver of educational and economic opportunity for Southern Nevada and beyond. Though not complete listing, our accomplishments have been significant:
- Increased enrollment, retention rates, graduation rates, and total degrees granted.
- Secured institutional accreditation by the Northwest Commission and specialized accreditation for key programs.
- Secured over $25 million dollars in private philanthropy and local, state, and federal grants to advance important student success and workforce development initiatives.
- Formed the Nevada State Campus Lands Corporation to guide the development of our campus.
- Expanded and deepened services offered through Student Affairs.
- Redesigned shared governance system and policy development process.
- Renamed our institution to Nevada State University.
- Launched an Athletics Program, including the state’s first collegiate Women’s Flag Football and Men’s Track and Field teams.
- Expanded our concurrent enrollment partnerships with high schools across Southern Nevada, making higher education more accessible and affordable for students.
- Deepened partnerships and alliances with municipalities, business and industry, and social service organizations.
I am profoundly grateful for the partnerships and friendships that have made this journey so meaningful. You have been essential to our progress—and I know you will continue to be vital to Nevada State’s future.
In preparation for this transition, I am fully committed to a smooth and quiet handoff and will work closely with the NSHE Chancellor and the Board of Regents to advance an interim/acting president upon my official departure, ensuring Nevada State stays in capable, steady hands. In the interim—given her experience, portfolio, timing, and current work of the institution—I have appointed Dr. Amber Lopez Lasater, Chief of Staff and Strategy, as the Officer in Charge, effective July 31. Dr. Lopez Lasater has served in her current executive leadership role at Nevada State for nearly eight years, and I have full confidence in her ability to guide the institution thoughtfully during this transition. As faculty and students return later next month, she will provide continuity during the intense work that takes place across the institution as a new academic year begins. Nevada State University is well positioned for continued success in the coming years, and I trust NSHE leadership and the Board as they move forward in naming my successor.
Thank you for the privilege of serving this community. I look forward to staying connected and continuing to champion Nevada State wherever my journey takes me.
With deep respect,
DeRionne P. Pollard, Ph.D.
President
Nevada State University