January 30, 2014

Dear Colleagues:

On Friday, I was asked to assume the role of acting president of UNLV by the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents. I am truly grateful to the board for its confidence in me and I look forward to continuing my service to the university.

It is critical that we continue the momentum generated by Neal Smatresk and his leadership team and accelerate our pace on several initiatives as we prepare for the next president of UNLV. Tier 1, the medical school, the stadium project — these are efforts that will allow UNLV to grow into the next echelon of universities and I am committed to their progress.

I have been involved with UNLV since I first arrived in Las Vegas more than 25 years ago as a volunteer and, more recently, as dean of the Harrah Hotel College. Our campus plays a vital role in our region’s economy and serves as an important resource for our community, so UNLV cannot stand still during this time of transition. I think of myself as a leader, not a caretaker. I look forward to working with you and intend to make a difference in my time as president.

I firmly believe that the hard work of UNLV faculty and staff has already placed the university on an excellent path. With outstanding campus leadership, including John White firmly at the academic helm and a strong support team, we are focused on the future of our university. All of us need to play a part in the success of UNLV. I look forward to hearing your ideas about how we can take our great plans and make them realities.

Sincerely,
Don Snyder