Teaching & Learning

Alumni Spotlight: Gabriela Kula ‘19

July 15, 2026

Originally posted: Mar. 13, 2026

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: Gabriela Kula

Degree: ‘19 M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction

Current Employer: Fragner Seifert Pace & Mintz

Have you ever experienced teacher burnout? How did you navigate that?

When I was teaching the video production program in journalism. I wasn’t interacting with other teachers. I was just isolated in this computer lab by myself, and nobody else was teaching the curriculum I was teaching. My UNLV classes and my Teach for America program were really helpful with that because it gave me a time every week to go to class and talk about the issues I was dealing with in the classroom.

What skills did you gain as a teacher that are or have become useful for you?

I found my teaching skills so helpful for law school itself. When you’re a teacher, you become the perfect student. That was really helpful for going back to school because I knew that you had to be an active listener. You have to take notes in a way that you’ll remember. All of these things that maybe I wouldn’t have paid attention to if I didn’t learn it as a teacher first.

Tell me about you as a person not a professional. Favorite hobbies? 

I lived in Boston for college, then I moved to Vegas to teach, and then I moved to San Diego for law school. I’ve traveled at least a little bit. I’ve spent my twenties all around the country, which was really cool. These days, I do things that excite me. I try to go to concerts wherever I can. I just went to Mau P. He’s a DJ, and he does these crazy long sets. I went to one of his sets, and it was six hours long.

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

Coming Home and Working Together Reflections on the 11th Annual Summit on Nevada Education

July 15, 2026

Originally posted: Feb. 24, 2026

By: Sakinah Musa

For Sarah Ledon, UNLV alumna, ’04 M.Ed. Curriculum and Instruction, and senior vice president of Leading Educators, the 11th Annual Summit on Nevada Education was more than a homecoming. It reflected the continued commitment of education and mental health leaders and practitioners to Nevada’s students. 

“There is something powerful about coming home and seeing how far the work has come,” she shared. 

Hosted by the College of Education on Saturday, Feb. 7, this year’s gathering focused on embracing purpose, collaboration, and progress, particularly in advancing Nevada education and mental health.

From a welcome address by Dean Danica Hays to opening remarks by Interim President Chris Heavey, to a powerful keynote address by Lisa Hinkelman, the event provided a platform for education and mental health professionals, researchers, and community leaders to share perspectives and discuss student- and workforce-centered solutions.  

In case you missed it, here are some major highlights and takeaways. 

K-12 and Higher Ed Alignment Equals More Student Opportunities

A panel of heavy hitters, including two district superintendents, the state superintendent, and the state’s higher education chancellor, explored the state and future of education and mental health in Nevada. Moderated by Rocio Hernandez of The Nevada Independent, the discussion explored the need for more connection between grade levels and schools to drive progress. 

 “From the moment students enter school to the point they enter the workforce or return to education later in life, our systems have to work together,” said Nevada System of Higher Education Chancellor, Matt McNair. 

Strategies for a Future-ready Nevada Workforce

A breakout session, presented by Irene Bustamante Adams, Milt Stewart, and Xue Xing, focused on fostering the future of Nevada’s workforce through education. The speakers emphasized integrating apprenticeships and industry credentials into learning environments, building strong work-based learning partnerships, designing sector-based career pathways, and preparing learners for a fast-changing economy through AI literacy, adaptability, and human-centered skills. 

Honoring Lifelong Contributions

This year’s Summit attendees witnessed and celebrated the second UNLV College of Education’s Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The 2026 class inductees: Dale Erquiaga, Carolyn Reedom, Sandy Miller, and Communities In Schools of Nevada (CIS), were honored for their commitment to excellence and lasting contributions in education, mental health, policy leadership, workforce development, and service in Nevada.

“Celebrating local heroes was the most inspiring. It’s great to know there are so many people out there who care about the field!” Malvyn Barlaw, a CSSD teacher, shared. 

Change in Education Begins With Listening to Students

In her keynote address, Lisa Hinkelman, Founder and CEO of Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX) and author of Girls Without Limits, shared evidence-based strategies for supporting students, especially teenage girls, and creating empowering environments and experiences for them. It begins with listening. 

A Renewed Sense of Purpose

The 11th Annual Summit on Nevada Education closed with a shared sense of purpose and resolve for progress. Across every session, there was a common message: meaningful progress in education and mental health happens when communities listen, collaborate intentionally, and stay committed to purpose-driven action.

“I attend Summit to stay informed, and I often leave with insights I wouldn’t have gained otherwise. This year, I learned about the Inclusion Symposium, an opportunity I didn’t know about until now, and am eager to explore further,” said Ivette Guiterrez, a CSSD special education teacher. 

Educators, policymakers, mental health professionals, community partners and leaders left the Summit energized by new ideas, strengthened partnerships, and a collective vision for a Nevada where every learner is supported, not only academically, but socially, emotionally, and professionally.

As we look forward to next year’s Summit, the UNLV College of Education remains committed to championing innovative research, fostering strategic collaboration, and elevating the voices of students and educators across Nevada.

Wonderful Washoe Rebel | Fall 2025 | Winner Announcement

July 15, 2026

Originally posted: Dec. 3, 2025

By: Jenn Oshiro Rivers

The UNLV College of Education is excited to announce the Fall 2025 Wonderful Washoe Rebel, alumna Sabrina Adkins. Sabrina is a 2006 graduate of the Secondary Education B.S.Ed. program, focusing on English Literature.

An English teacher at Damonte Ranch High School, Sabrina has been a part of the team focused on creating a well-rounded environment for her students to succeed. DRHS has integrated social-emotional learning in their day-to-day and curriculum.

Additionally, the College is proud to recognize Courtney Graylow, a Pre-K educator at Smithridge Elementary School. Courtney earned a masters degree in 2011 in Curriculum and Instruction.

If you know a UNLV College of Education alum living or working in Washoe County who deserves recognition, nominate them for the next award cycle.

Alumni Spotlight: RoAnn Triana ‘99

July 15, 2026

Originally posted: Dec. 19, 2025

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: RoAnn Triana

Degree: ‘99 M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction

Current Employer: Clark County School District

Why did you choose to attend UNLV?

I chose to attend UNLV because I am a first-generation college student, so it was very important for me to stay local, close to home. And my family – for the most part – was a single mom with four kids, and I was the middle child. So, I needed to be close to home, which allowed me to do full-time work at the water district and secure financial aid to help me fund my education.

How has your career evolved over time?

Twenty six years ago, I applied to be a night custodian and a substitute teacher, so I could finish up my master’s (at UNLV) and teach because I already had one child and I was pregnant with my second. From there, I became a dean of students, then an assistant principal, then a principal at two different elementary schools and later on, I got to serve at all three levels.

Tell me about you as a person not a professional?

My husband also graduated from UNLV. Two of my kids graduated from UNLV. My youngest is also in nursing school at UNLV. We are a family of Rebels.

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

Alumni Spotlight: Ben Nguyen ‘16

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Nov. 22, 2024

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: Ben Nguyen

Degree: Class of 2016 M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction

Current Role: CTE Teacher at Clark County School District

Why did you choose UNLV? What led you to pursue a degree in the Education field?

During my undergrad at Dartmouth, I minored in education. Feeling that I could pursue this career path, I participated in the Teach for America (TFA) program.

TFA has a partnership with UNLV, which led me to get my master’s in Curriculum & Instruction.

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

I’m currently a Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher, teaching advanced manufacturing and robotics/computer science.

UNLV helped me connect with the city, and I want to contribute to the success of the manufacturing/automation industry.

Any advice to current students at UNLV?

Be proud of yourself and the impact you have on others. 


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

Alumni Spotlight: Thomas Galstian ‘16

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Nov. 21, 2025

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: Thomas Galstian

Degree: ‘16 M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction (Secondary Math Ed)

Current Employer: Curious Cardinals

What is the most important skill you’ve used in your current role that you gained in your time at UNLV?

What it boils down to is acknowledging the skill set that we have as educators, and then recognizing that no matter what we think, it will take community input and collaboration to reach a meaningful result.

How did UNLV help your career path since graduation?

I’m sure we might as well start singing Dr. Olson’s accolades now, but I’ll give a quick shout-out to Travis Olson. He was both my advisor and a professor for several of my classes, who I think embodied transferable skills; really positioning the class as student-oriented, practitioner-oriented. That I think really laid the foundation for how I approach my entire professional career.

What’s something people should know about you (but probably don’t)?

My first language is Russian. People might not immediately recognize that about me. I still maintain Russian. I speak it with my family regularly. It’s been a big part of my own upbringing and culture to recognize the immigrant path in America. That’s something that I’m really proud of.

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

Alumni Spotlight: Todd Polk ‘22

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Oct. 10, 2025

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: Todd Polk

Degree: ‘22 M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction

Current Employer: Arbor View High School

What is something that people don’t know about the field, specifically secondary science teachers, that you think people should know?

I think one thing about science that I think a lot of people need to focus on isn’t so much the facts, but rather the skills. I think the idea of being able to digest data and actually create products or projects is something that I think needs to be paid closer attention to.

Was there a fun/unique class that you took during your time at UNLV?

A summer class that I took that was on special education. Made me think about accessibility in a new way, how some people that are disabled have difficulties that you might not think about. One concept that hits me like a truck now, and one thing I see in “neurotypical kids” is this idea of learned helplessness; which was a concept that was brought on by that class.

Any advice you want to share for current UNLV students?

I encourage education students to utilize the university while you’re on campus, and then consider it a resource once you leave it because UNLV cares about its alumni.

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

Former Classmates Continue to Share Space on Multi-School Campus

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Jan. 31, 2023

By: COE Communications Staff

Two UNLV COE alumni Elena Fabunan, ’09 M.Ed. Educational Leadership, and Lilianna Bonderov, ’06 M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction, ’09 M.Ed. Educational Leadership, have paired up to share a high school campus near downtown Las Vegas. In the new joint venture, the principals of Central Technical Training Academy and the Global Community High School are building the schools’ collective campus culture in the spirit of collaboration and partnership.

One Campus, Two Missions

Central Technical Training Academy is a vocational school offering various technical and trade programs, including electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and welding. Its programs provide hands-on training and prepare students for industry certifications and entry-level jobs. The academy shares its grounds with the Global Community High School is a small-scale high school of choice with a project-based learning and a multilingual approach to education for English language learners.

Despite their different approaches, both schools prepare students for college and career success by providing a culturally inclusive and supportive learning environment. This non-traditional approach to secondary education provides numerous opportunities for students who were likely to face delayed graduation in a traditional high school setting.

Central Tech’s programming features a uniquely flexible schedule allowing students the chance to make up credits. Global students are also afforded a path to graduation so long as they are under the age of 20 before commencement. 

Sharing is Caring

While sharing the space comes with its challenges, Lilliana and Elena recognize the many practical advantages. The collective student body of more than 200 is expected to rapidly grow each year, and the shared campus cultivates a space where the two principals stretch the traditional systems and structures in place to increase student success. 

“Just by the nature of our being on the same campus, we have a lot of opportunities to collaborate,” notes Lilianna, Central Tech’s principal. “Not only do we need to work together on operational aspects, like lunch, campus safety, and traffic, but we also have a chance to share resources and specialized knowledge.”

Sharing a high school campus is no easy feat, luckily it’s not the first time the pair have worked together. They were in the same UNLV graduate program cohort at UNLV and completed all of their coursework together. The two enjoy working together with their staff to overcome barriers to employment for the vulnerable student population they serve. For example, they jointly coordinate workforce presentations, career panels, job site tours, and provide access to the J4NG program, which helps students successfully transition from school into careers. 

The benefits of UNLV’s commitment to community and industry partnership shine bright on this campus. It has equipped Elena and Liliana with a shared experience and set of values founded in their studies at UNLV’s College of Education.

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: 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!