Dear Colleagues,
As we celebrate spring commencement this week and mark the end of another academic year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we have accomplished as a university.
Throughout the year, I have witnessed firsthand your passion for our students and your commitment to our community. It has been evident through your work in our classrooms, by our growing portfolio of impactful research and creative activities, and in your dedicated service to our region and university.
ÐÔÊӽ紫ý exists to help our students succeed and to advance knowledge in new and innovative ways.
Commencement is the culmination of that mission – showcasing not only what our graduates have achieved, but also their incredible potential. Thank you for guiding our graduates – and those students continuing at ÐÔÊӽ紫ý – along their academic journey, and for sharing your wisdom, your passion, and your time. Every one of us, regardless of position, has a role in a student’s journey and their overall experience at ÐÔÊӽ紫ý.
Over the past week, we’ve had the privilege of celebrating graduating classes from our professional schools. And starting tomorrow, we’ll host the first of three university-wide commencement ceremonies at the Thomas & Mack Center. More than 3,700 new graduates will walk across the commencement stage this spring and join an alumni base that’s now nearly 160,000 strong.
Though our graduates hail from 34 states and 62 countries, the overwhelming majority come from right here in Southern Nevada. They’ll be entering a workforce that’s changing rapidly and needs their energy, their new ideas, and their fresh perspectives. And they’ll be equipped with a degree from an R1 university.
I hope to see many of you at our commencement ceremonies this weekend as we congratulate the ÐÔÊӽ紫ý Class of 2026. I am especially proud of the unique stories of academic and research strength, leadership, and tenacity displayed by each member of the graduating class.
As we begin the summer months, I hope you are able to take some time to rest and reflect on a productive year and prepare for what promises to be a busy fall semester. For those who will be on our campuses throughout the summer months (make sure you take a break, too), I look forward to seeing you around.
Again, thank you for all you do. We all have a lot to be proud of. Take heart in your accomplishments. ÐÔÊӽ紫ý’s momentum is strong and our success is reflective of your commitment to our university.
Warm wishes,
Chris Heavey
Interim President