Brian Chongtai

The meeting, led by the acting president, focused primarily on the North Las Vegas expansion project, including discussions about the budget proposition, financial sustainability, and the proposed timeline for development, which anticipates groundbreaking in April 2026 and completion in Fall 2027. Key priorities shared by the acting president included cultivating trust, building a transparent budget, expanding access through strategic growth, advancing institutional maturity, and strengthening campus safety following a recent incident. Financial details regarding the North Las Vegas project highlighted a 10-year, triple net lease, significant financial support from the North Las Vegas Redevelopment Agency covering initial rent and utilities, and a favorable market rate standing. The budget discussion emphasized that funding for the new campus activity is predicated on new money, and a $2.5 million one-shot appropriation from the state is designated to cover initial operational years until student activity generates formula funding.

The meeting involved both the Board of Regents and its ad hoc NSU Presidential Search Committee. Key discussion points for the committee included receiving information regarding the president search process, which covered the proposed timeline, recruitment, screening, interviews, and the selection of finalists. Additionally, the committee reviewed and discussed a draft NSU President leadership profile and a draft advertising plan for the president advertisement. The meeting also included dedicated public comment periods and acknowledged the traditional Indigenous lands of Nevada.

The Board meeting agenda included several program proposals for approval. Key discussions centered on the proposal for a Master's Degree in Biostatistics at UNR, which focuses on quantitative analysis in public health, medicine, and biology, and is designed as a high-demand career credential. Another significant item was the proposal for a Master's Degree in Statistics and Data Science at UNR, established to complement recently approved PhD programs and address high demand for statisticians. Additionally, the board reviewed proposals for an Associate of Science degree in Dental Science at CSN, intended as a stackable credential toward the Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and a transfer option for dental school preparation. Furthermore, TMCC presented a proposal for a Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber-Physical Manufacturing to address the skills gap in advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0. Finally, there was a presentation regarding the Complete College America Momentum Pathways Grant, focusing on increasing college completion and decreasing achievement gaps in Southern Nevada through consortium work.

The meeting included discussions on public comments, cybersecurity, and security practices at various institutions. Topics covered the unique challenges in higher education regarding information security, compliance with data regulations, and the importance of training individuals to prevent cyberattacks. The meeting also addressed multi-layered protection tools, security governance structures, and shared services for cybersecurity across institutions.

The self-evaluation report outlines Nevada State College's mission to provide accessible, quality education, promote student success, and strengthen the community. Key areas of focus include advancing academic programs, increasing retention and graduation rates, fostering community partnerships, and enhancing technology and information literacy. The college aims to serve a diverse student population, improve educational opportunities, and contribute to Nevada's economic and civic well-being.