Let's Talk UNLV

Dr. Chris Heavey, UNLV's Executive Vice President and Provost, discussed his 32-year tenure at the university, emphasizing his role as the chief academic officer. He highlighted initiatives to support student success, such as monitoring engagement, providing personalized support, and creating a new chatbot for student inquiries. He also mentioned the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), noting UNLV's designations as a Minority Serving Institution (MSI), Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institution (ANNAPISI). Heavey stressed the need for affordable education, more full-time faculty, and new buildings for business, music, fine arts, and interdisciplinary science.

Kyle Broyard, the Housing Assignment Coordinator at UNLV, shared his journey from graduating high school at 17 to his current role. He discussed managing room assignments for 1,800 students, emphasizing the use of the Housing Director tool for accurate billing and student preferences. Broyard highlighted the importance of DEI in roommate matching and the COVID-19 protocols for isolating infected students. He also detailed the collaboration with various campus departments, including the Disabilities Resource Center and dining services. Broyard advised new students to get involved and research housing options, and expressed a desire for new housing developments to enhance the on-campus experience.

AJ Angulo, a Career and Life Design Specialist at UNLV, discussed his career journey from psychology to career coaching, emphasizing the importance of career readiness for students. He detailed the services offered by UNLV's career coaching, including resume assistance, mock interviews, and job search strategies. Angulo highlighted the significance of understanding company mission statements and job descriptions, and the evolving role of AI in the job market. He advised students to attend events, build professional networks, and secure internships by their third year. Success stories included students landing jobs through follow-up emails and immediate job offers during meetings.

Phillip Haynes III, Director of Student Athlete Development at UNLV, shared his journey from playing football at UNLV to working in student athlete development. He highlighted the Empower Her program funded by the Diana Bennett family foundation, aimed at women student athletes and allies. Haynes emphasized the importance of balancing academics, athletics, and personal development, and discussed challenges like scheduling conflicts. He also mentioned collaborating with various campus departments and engaging alumni. Haynes stressed the need for financial literacy and mental health support, noting upcoming events to address these issues. He advised students to make connections early and to fail early to learn and grow.

Isabel Herrera-Pedro, from UNLV's Student Diversity Programs, discussed her educational journey from Clark High School to Utah Tech University, where she pursued a Criminal Justice undergraduate degree and is currently working on a Public Administration master's. She highlighted her role in DEI initiatives, including organizing events like the Hispanic Heritage Month kickoff and the upcoming "Loteria and Lowriders" event. Isabel emphasized the importance of student feedback, networking, and leveraging campus resources. She also shared challenges faced in engaging underrepresented communities and the significance of voter education and student leadership development.

Mario Rodriguez, Assistant Director for Multicultural and STEM Pipelines at UNLV, shared his journey from La Puente, California, to UNLV, highlighting his financial constraints and the importance of scholarships. He emphasized the significance of family influence and the value of a college education. Rodriguez discussed his role in supporting K-20 students, including Spanish-speaking families, and the importance of campus connections for academic success. He also mentioned the need for more scholarships, study abroad opportunities, and cultural center buildings. Rodriguez advised students to persist and not give up, and stressed the importance of community and family support.

Dr. Harriet Barlow, Executive Director of the Intersection Academic Multicultural Resource Center at UNLV, discussed her 27-year tenure and the center's role in supporting first-generation and students of color. The Intersection, established in 2017, offers academic support, financial counseling, and a snack pantry funded by CSUN and MSI. Barlow highlighted the importance of mentorship programs, including a first-generation faculty and staff mentoring initiative. She emphasized the need for more staff and resources to better address student needs, particularly those facing food insecurity and financial challenges. Success stories include students overcoming academic and personal obstacles with the center's support.

Imani Patterson, Senior Assistant Director of Student Diversity Programs at UNLV, shared her journey from being a top student at Valley High School to her current role. She highlighted her involvement in the Black Student Organization, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, and her transition from fraternity and sorority life to student diversity programs. Patterson discussed the planning and execution of identity and heritage month events, emphasizing the importance of student feedback and collaboration with other departments. She also mentioned the "Thriving Authentically" program, which connects students with professionals and employers. Patterson encouraged students to get involved on campus and leverage opportunities for personal and professional growth.

In this episode of Let's Talk UNLV, we welcome back Dr. Lauren Gatto, Assistant Director of First Year Experience at UNLV, along with peer mentors Sky and Georgia. They share their journeys and insights into the transformative power of peer mentorship. Discover how peer mentors at UNLV support new students in navigating the challenges of college life, fostering a sense of belonging, and achieving academic success. Learn about the attributes and training that make an effective mentor and hear inspiring stories of growth and resilience from both mentors and mentees. Whether you're a new student seeking guidance or considering becoming a mentor yourself, this episode is packed with valuable advice and heartwarming experiences. 

Dr. Sammie Scales sits down for an in-depth interview with Patricia Gatlin, UNLV's Talent Acquisition Coordinator.