Departments

Student Profile: IPSM helps Alex Chackel continue family sport legacy

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Jan. 31, 2022

By: Kia Cummings

Learning what it means to be a great leader is never straightforward, but honing leadership skills in the face of adversity is critical to the process. Alex Chackel knows this all too well. His recent Special Teams Quality Control Internship with UNLV Football was truly a test of his ability to be a strong leader in the midst of a tumultuous season.

While the sophomore is pursuing his bachelor’s degree in a business entrepreneurship, he’s working to add a certificate in https://www.unlv.edu/ephe/sport-managementintercollegiate and professional sport management (IPSM), which is housed in the College of Education, to his academic credentials. Alex knows what it takes to find balance and maintain priorities while setting lofty goals for himself and his athletes. He’s sped his academic progress by enrolling in summer courses while juggling a full course load and traveling with UNLV Football. You may be wondering, where does he get the motivation to accomplish all of this? Well, it’s all in the family.

Alex’s parents were both NCAA student-athletes, with his mom playing tennis at the University of Washington and dad playing golf at both Oregon and Washington. In addition, his grandfather founded the University of Oregon Sports Network. Alex’s family fostered his love of sports, specifically collegiate athletics. He recalls attending events like the 2015 Rose Bowl, an event marked by his family’s love for the Oregon Ducks and a big victory over Florida State. It was only a matter of time that his academic and professional aspirations would reveal his desire to stay in the game. “I just wanted to take the next step to stay involved in sports since I could no longer play.” This is a sentiment shared by many IPSM students. There is a strong desire to bridge the gap between playing and transitioning to other roles in sport, a feeling Alex refers to as “wanting to get to the other side.” 

That other side, in Alex’s case, is coaching, a niche that IPSM uniquely encourages in comparison to other programs. UNLV’s program is well rounded and provides students with educational experiences that will serve them well no matter which professional path they take. Hands-on work is a perfect addition to classroom learning, and Alex’s internship offered him the chance to apply what he has learned in the classroom in real-life coaching and leadership scenarios.

Through this, Alex is developing his own leadership style, one that centers around consistency, high energy and a positive mindset, regardless of the outcome on the field. In a season riddled with close losses, he experienced first hand the need to be firm, never lowering the bar for excellence, maintaining team standards and pushing the envelope every day, practice and game regardless of yesterday’s score. Alex strives to elevate the team through his own game-day responsibilities like assisting in coaching, self-scout grading, and coordinating the players, as well as preparing reports concerning the opposing teams and compiling practice and game-day film.

The valuable experiences he’s had so far in the IPSM program have only amplified his passion for a career in sport. “This program is something anyone hoping to join the sport industry should enroll in,” says Alex. “Without the program, I’d be missing a lot of learning opportunities. Watching how the coaches interact with the players and each other, paying attention to behind-the-scenes management, and taking in the overall picture has shown me what I am learning in class is truly applicable in my position.”

Alumni Spotlight: Jamie Lohmeyer ‘24

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Jan. 30, 2026

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: Jamie Lohmeyer

Degree: ‘24 M.Ed. Special Education

Current Employer: Innovations International Charter School

What are you doing now and how did UNLV prepare you for your career?

My position is a special education teacher for kindergarten through first grade. Dr. Morgan and Dr. Spies taught me pretty much everything I know and use on a daily basis. Everything I learned from UNLV was valuable. I also went through Project PRAISER with Dr. Brown and Dr. Van Ness. The professors break it down for you and share that real-world stuff; that’s taught me more than just going off the pedagogy.

What advice do you have for current UNLV students?

If possible, volunteer in classrooms prior to going for it. Most of what we learn in the textbooks, until you actually do it, you’re not going to know. Professors give great tips and absolutely listen to them; but if you’re able to, go into a classroom and volunteer.

What is a fun fact about yourself?

My biggest hobby is going to Rebel football games and music concerts. I’ve been to several hundred concerts. Probably Ozzy Osbourne is a top five. I always have music on in my classroom as well.

Are you a COE alum? Let us know what you’ve got going on by submitting a Class Note or getting involved!

Alumni Spotlight: Cyndy Anang ‘15 ‘22

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Jan. 3, 2025

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: Cyndy Anang

Degrees: Class of 2015 M.Ed. Special Education, Class of 2022 Ph.D. Special Education

Current Role: Assistant Professor of Early Childhood at Nevada State University

Why did you choose UNLV? What led you to pursue a degree in education/human services?

I am originally from Ghana, and I came to the USA with my family. I wanted to continue my education, so I applied to UNLV. However, due to my credits, I had to restart my undergrad.

While pursuing my bachelor’s, I was exposed to the UNLV/CSUN preschool. Working with children with disabilities inspired me to pursue an education degree.

What is your current position, and how did UNLV prepare you for your career?

I currently work as an Assistant Professor of Early Childhood at Nevada State University. My classes at UNLV really helped me prepare for my career, and they helped me apply all the theories I learned to practice. I also love to incorporate the research that I learn into my classroom.

What advice do you have for current UNLV students?

Don’t give up!

There will be challenges, but that’s why it’s important to keep going. Nothing in life comes easy, and if they do, they tend not to last. So, make goals and don’t give up. Make vision boards if necessary to keep you motivated.


Are you a COE alum? Let us know what you’ve got going on by submitting a Class Note or getting involved!

Doctoral Student Sean Tory to receive Emerging Leader Award

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Jan. 26, 2022

Written by: James Howley

Sean Tory’s passion for educational empowerment runs deep. The doctoral student will be honored in February by the City of Las Vegas with the Tyrone Thompson Emerging Leader Award, which celebrates up-and-coming individuals with a demonstrated commitment to leadership and potential for innovation, creativity, vision, and positive influence.

Sean was recognized specifically for mentoring Southern Nevada’s youth for more than a decade. “I am delighted to receive the award for service that gives me a lot of satisfaction,” he said.

In addition to his doctoral studies, Sean works as a campus life development coordinator at the College of Southern Nevada. He also advises CSN’s Black Student Union Even with his busy schedule, Sean made time to develop a number of new initiatives, including the Coyote Closet that helps CSN students with access to professional clothing.

He also co-founded the King of Jewels mentorship program, which organizes workshops and conferences aimed to facilitate restorative and transformative justice practice. Taking yet another step, Sean and his colleagues formed “The Men’s Room” – a regular gathering that creates a safe space for black men of high school and college age to express themselves, their emotions, and share experiences. “Black men need to have a safe space to go and be vulnerable,” said Sean.

Slated to graduate in Spring 2023, Sean’s long-term goal is to build PK-12 curricula for critical mentorship programs that help implement restorative justice practices with hopes that, by starting early and providing consistent support, students can experience the power of educational reform and be empowered to continue the drive for positive change.

Noting the evolution of education over the past 20 years, Sean sees more change on the horizon, especially given the changing job market. With mentorships and other efforts, he aspires to be a part of that process.

If his passion for and commitment to mentorship are anything to go by, Tory is sure to play a big part in that transformative process and continue to impact lives for a long time to come.

Alumni Spotlight: Michael Esquejo ‘13

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Jan. 17, 2025

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: Michael Esquejo

Degree: Class of 2013 M.S. Clinical Mental Health Counseling 

Current Role: Therapist at Reno Behavioral Healthcare Hospital

Why did you choose UNLV? What led you to pursue a degree in education/human services?

I wanted to pursue my master’s locally because it was the most convenient, both financially and in terms of opportunities. So, I enrolled in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling program. I really like that UNLV has a diverse and multicultural environment. I also like that research opportunities are endless since it’s an R1 university.

What are you most proud of from your UNLV experience?

I’m most proud to know that I had the potential to take on different opportunities in professional counseling because of the diverse training and clinical experiences I had. The one-on-one relationships I also had with the faculty made me feel supported and helped me learn new things.

What advice do you have for current UNLV students?

No matter what track you are in, “ENJOY IT” as much as you can; it goes by fast, so just make sure you enjoy it while you can.

Why should alumni stay engaged at UNLV?

Life and career building do not end when you graduate; it’s important to stay connected and continue to build a network. It’s also a good way to give back to the community that helps build you as a professional.


Are you a COE alum? Let us know what you’ve got going on by submitting a Class Note or getting involved!

Alumni Spotlight: Theodore Ransaw ‘12

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Jan. 16, 2026

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: Theodore Ransaw

Degree: ‘12 Ph.D. Curriculum & Instruction

Current Employer: Michigan State University

Why did you choose UNLV? What led you to pursue a degree in education?

All of the women in my family are teachers. All the way up to my great-grandmothers on both sides. When my mom started grad school at UNLV, she took me to the library with her. I remember watching my mother pull out books and go through the process of gathering stuff she needed. I enjoyed UNLV. I never had any thoughts about going elsewhere ‘cause it was the first place I went to.

Did you have a mentor while you were at UNLV? Why is this important?

Dr. Green and Ambassador Young are the last two remaining living icons of Dr. King’s inner circle. They spent a lot of time guiding me, preparing me, giving me advice, and going the right way. I still talk to them regularly. One of the reasons it has been most important to me is that I learned a lot about how to handle people, run meetings, and strategize.

What’s a fun fact about you?

I practice Kung Fu. I’ve been training in Kung Fu for around 27 to 28 years. Kung Fu is not really a competition. It’s more about the journey. I also wound up meeting a lot of the UFC fighters. When you’re a martial artist, very rarely do you get a chance to meet all of the top boxers, Jiu-Jitsu guys, and Muay Thai guys in one room. That was super cool.

Are you a COE alum? Let us know what you’ve got going on by submitting a Class Note or getting involved!

Human Services Degree Earns Prestigious Accreditation

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Jun. 12, 2026

By: Sakinah Musa

The Council of Standards in Human Service Education, the national accrediting body for human services degree programs, recently approved the accreditation of UNLV’s bachelor’s degree in the field.  According to the council, the program, housed within the College of Education, features a well-aligned, practice-focused curriculum, highly qualified and supportive faculty, and effective assessment processes that yield strong student outcomes and workforce readiness.

Counselor Education, School Psychology, and Human Services faculty have worked diligently to ensure the program’s high standards in curriculum, faculty, and fieldwork are preparing professionals for careers in social and human services

“This designation is an investment in our students’ professional credibility, and it confirms that UNLV’s human services program meets rigorous national standards,” says Tam Villar, the program coordinator. 

Advocacy-Driven Care: This EXHALE Scholar is all in for School-Based Mental Health Counseling

June 17, 2026
Group of seven Project Exhale students

By: Sakinah Musa

Published: Oct. 26, 2025

“My biggest motivation is to advocate for my community.”

When fourteen-year-old Ivana Hernández first arrived from Honduras, she barely spoke English. Each school day felt harder than the last, but she was determined. By the end of high school, not only had she mastered the language, but she also graduated in the top 20 of her class. That triumph—born from persistence and community support—set her on a path to help students who also face invisible barriers in the classroom and the world.

A Citizen with an Immigrant Story

Born in Los Angeles to immigrant parents from Honduras, Ivana was only two months old when her family decided to move back to their home country. She grew up there without knowing she was a citizen until she was 14, and they migrated back and settled in Las Vegas.

“I didn’t know anything about the country and its culture, and it was challenging,” Ivana shared. 

Ivana would eventually assimilate, but she still lacked a sense of belonging. This led her to co-found the student organization of Latinos at the Basic Academy of International Studies – her first step on the path of advocacy. 

“We needed the community, and we took the initiative to create one for ourselves,” she stated. 

Although she didn’t know it then, this would shape her decision to become a clinical mental health counselor, focusing on adolescents and Latinx English language learners. 

Choosing Compassionate Care

Ivana Hernandez sitting on a stool and smiling at the camera

Crediting her choice to pursue higher education to her participation in the Trio Upward Bound program, Ivana initially pursued pre-med at UNLV, but soon, she found herself craving more. 

“I wanted to have a deeper connection with people.”

Ivana switched her major to psychology, but she still had no clear idea of her ideal career in behavioral healthcare.

A new direction came during the three years she worked as an Engelstad Scholar Intern at Volunteers in Medicine of Southern Nevada. There, her work focused on advocacy for the Latinx population. Thereafter, she had a full-circle moment working as an advisor with the TRIO Student Support Services program. In that role, she provided mentorship and academic guidance for first-generation students and high schoolers. 

“That’s when I realized I want to work in my community, and I wanted to do this in a clinically informed way,” she said. 

Seeking a holistic and multicultural approach to providing one-on-one care for adolescents and young adults, Ivana officially enrolled in the clinical mental health counseling master’s program while working as a coordinator at GEAR UP. 

EXHALE: A Platform for Change

Ivana’s career journey took another defining turn when she got accepted into the inaugural cohort of the Expanding School-Based Mental Health Services Scholars program, also known as Project EXHALE. Since most of her professional experience has been in school-based settings, Ivana was excited for the opportunity. 

“Ivana’s desire to learn more about school-based mental health, and her passion for serving clients and their families in Las Vegas, made her an excellent fit for the inaugural cohort,” said Heather Dahl-Jacinto, the Project EXHALE coordinator. 

The new program is a partnership between UNLV, the Clark County School District (CCSD), and the City of Las Vegas. It creates a vital opportunity to increase access to mental health care for local students, particularly at the elementary (K–5) level, where early intervention lays the foundation for lifelong mental well-being and academic success.

“EXHALE builds a bridge for us as clinical mental health counselors to be able to work in school settings,” Ivana said.  

By expanding and diversifying Nevada’s school-based mental health workforce, they are preparing future clinical mental health counselors to deliver trauma-informed, culturally responsive care to students and families. EXHALE scholars receive professional development training and advanced education in school-based mental health services. They would also complete internships in Ward 1 Schools, where they would provide mental health support to K-12 students.

“We’re providing support and resources that students would otherwise have to leave school to receive, often facing multiple barriers in the process,” Heather shared.  

Vision for School Mental Health Counseling

For Ivana, providing advocacy-driven care transforms her resilience into purpose. Her long-term vision includes staying in Las Vegas and strengthening the mental health workforce in the Valley. 

“I think one of the best things I can do is stay here and provide my services to the community,” she remarked. 

Envisioning herself in the near future, Ivana hopes to provide her services in Spanish, help students find the resources and tools they need to succeed, and advocate for policies that make mental health care more accessible and culturally responsive. She also wants to inspire more students to enter the counseling profession.

“These kids need us.”