News Stories

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: Claire Lustumbo ‘18

July 15, 2026

Originally posted: Nov. 7, 2025

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: Claire Lustumbo

Degree: ‘18 M.Ed. School Counseling

Current Employer: Clark County School District

How did UNLV prepare you for your career?

Networking through UNLV has been extremely helpful. Not only did they prepare me for my job, but I’m also still friends with many of the cohort members I graduated with, and we bounce ideas off each other. To be able to have those connections that I made through UNLV has been awesome.

Why is having a mentor important?

I think having a mentor, one that is still in the field and still has their feet on the ground, is important because they can be real with you about the struggles you may face, know good problem solving skills, and how to fix things.

What advice do you have for current UNLV students?

I think my biggest piece of advice is putting yourself first and realizing that you can’t pour from an empty cup. Before you get to the field, make sure you know how to set boundaries for yourself and know what makes you feel the happiest and the calmest because the best educators are aware of themselves and happy with themselves first before being able to help 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: 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 Profile: Special Education: A Different Kind of Food for the Soul (Edrie Ward)

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Oct. 5, 2023

By: COE Communications Staff

Edrie Ward never wanted to be a teacher. It was the furthest thing from her mind when she was burnt out from her first career in hospital administration. She thought it was time to open the soul food restaurant she’d always dreamed of. Eager for a change of pace, she got her B.A. in Business Administration and MBA. And just when she thought she was done with the rigors of studying and paper writing, a seemingly random phone call sent her in a completely new direction. 

Answering the Call

“I thought it was a prank call,” she remembers. The persistence of the unknown caller, urgently seeking teachers, convinced her to explore the opportunity further. Soon, she found herself sitting in a room with representatives from UNLV, considering the prospect of becoming a certified teacher through the Expedited Alternative Route to Licensure program.

A dash of perseverance, a sprinkle of the unexpected, and a pinch of passion would be her recipe for success. And while she might not have fulfilled her dream of opening her restaurant, working with her special education students has since become an even more satisfying food for her soul. Driven by the belief that every child, regardless of their challenges, deserves the opportunity to surpass expectations, her career in education took off.

Encouraging Life-Long Learning and Growth

Graduating from UNLV in August 2007 with a master’s in special education was just the beginning. Edrie’s commitment to lifelong learning led her to complete an additional course, Train the Trainers. There, she was equipped to educate fellow teachers on the importance of embracing diversity in the classroom.

As a special education teacher at Brinley Middle School, she uses teaching methods that prioritize building students’ confidence. She believes that “when students feel comfortable and safe, that’s when learning can really begin.” Instead of punishment, Edrie emphasizes choices, nurturing an environment where students can grow and make positive decisions.

Diversity is the Spice of Life

Edrie’s most recent achievement, being named Southern Nevada Black Educators Initiative (SNBEI) Educator of the Year, reflects her dedication and impact on the education community. Upon receiving the award, her initial shock underscored her humble and selfless approach to her profession. “I never do things in the hope of getting recognized,” she remarked. The award serves as a testament to the lives she has touched and the difference she has made in the lives of her students and colleagues.

Her unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in education is exemplified through her involvement with SNBEI and UNLV’s African American Alumni Club. She has lobbied for fairness and empowerment for all teachers, striving to ensure that the voices of underrepresented educators are heard and valued. Her advocacy extends to promoting diversity in the teaching profession, believing that children need to see educators who look like them.

Embracing Life’s Twists

As she continues to impact young lives, Edrie’s future goals include finishing her Ph.D., teaching abroad post-retirement, and sharing her knowledge with educators around the world. Her message to aspiring educators is simple yet powerful, “persevere, prioritize balance, and remember that even if you only impact one life, you’ve accomplished something truly remarkable.”

Edrie Ward’s journey from the corporate world to special education is a testament to how fulfilling a career in education can be. Her willingness to pivot and nourish the souls of her students and fellow educators and students serves as an inspiration to all. Edrie’s journey proves that sometimes, the most fulfilling careers are those we never planned for but embrace wholeheartedly.

Serving Those Who Served: Alumna Amy Lesher’s Journey in Veterans Support

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Oct. 28, 2025

By: Sakinah Musa

“Each time I hear that they get their benefits, it’s rewarding,” says Amy Lesher. 

Her journey to working in Veterans Affairs (VA) was anything but straight. Amy, a proud UNLV alumna, ‘18 BS Human Services and ’23 MSW Social Work, began her professional journey with an unexpected pivot. 

Born into a family of educators and veterans, she tried to follow tradition by starting her undergraduate degree in secondary education. However, she soon realized that teaching in a classroom wasn’t her calling and transitioned to human services. 

The program would go on to equip her with skills she now employs in her role as a SOAR social worker who helps homeless veterans get their social security benefits. 

The Path to Veterans’ Support

“What I really liked about the human services program is that you could go into the field and explore the different career paths,” Amy said. 

With two practicums, one at a mental health agency and the other with UNLV Project FOCUS, she gained hands-on experience in assisting people with varying needs. Naturally, she would have gone for a master’s in mental health, but her desire for the flexibility to work anywhere guided her to social work.  

In her first experience working in a VA  medical-surgical unit, she found herself drawn to supporting those who served. With a family of veterans, including her father and grandfathers, she understood how they often struggled with getting service-connected benefits. 

She jumped on an opportunity to work on a housing program jointly run by the VA and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. After shadowing field workers helping homeless veterans access rental assistance, her calling was clear.

Beyond the Paperwork

Amy’s work extends beyond pushing paper in an office. At least twice a week, she meets veterans at shelters, transitional housing, or at their Section Eight residences. She helps them navigate complex bureaucratic systems and educates them on their VA and Social Security benefits. 

Amy’s experience has shown her that the veteran community is vast and varied, including people of color, women, transgender individuals, and naturalized citizens from other countries. Her priority is helping every eligible vet successfully apply for their benefits. Occasionally, she steps in to address other immediate needs, such as utility payments and even getting original copies of naturalization papers. 

“I am the next line of defense after their case managers,” she stated. 

Amy’s approach reflects compassion and the understanding that supporting veterans requires meeting them where they are, literally and figuratively.

A Legacy of Service

Amy’s empathy extends beyond her clients. She channels the same commitment to community service through mentorship and volunteering as an alumni mentor. She believes in helping students navigate their professional paths.

“I have always enjoyed mentoring other people and validating the experiences they’re going through,” Amy shared. 

Her advice for students and alumni seeking to make a difference is simple. Volunteer in areas interesting to them, remain open to unexpected opportunities, and approach service with empathy and dedication.

Amy Lesher exemplifies UNLV’s commitment to community service through her work. Her journey demonstrates how education, empathy, and unwavering dedication can create meaningful social impact. 

Alumni Spotlight: Krystal Green ‘16

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Oct. 24, 2025

By: COE Communications Staff

Name: Krystal Green

Degree: ‘16 M.Ed. Early Childhood Education

Current Employer: Clark County School District

What are some key aspects of campus culture that helped prepare you for the professional world?

The university has a strong connection to Las Vegas industries—especially education and hospitality—so they’re not guessing at what employers want. The programming was specific, supportive, and designed with working adults in mind.

What is something people don’t know about your field that you believe they should know?

The passion for helping students grow is powerful. Whether you’re in a classroom or in a leadership position, seeing a child reach a milestone—whether it’s a performance or graduation—is incredibly rewarding.

What advice do you have for current UNLV students?

Keep going—no matter what. Life throws challenges your way, and sometimes you need to take big leaps and break them down into baby steps. If financial aid falls through or you hit other roadblocks, don’t stop. Just slow down if you need to, but keep moving forward. That persistence is everything.

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

Brandon Raymond Wilson Special Education Scholarship

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Oct. 21, 2025

By: COE Communications Staff

Raymond Wilson has heard the phrase, “Put your money where your mouth is,” more times than he could count. So, when he decided to make his first personal gift to support UNLV, the Silver State Schools Credit Union (SSSCU), senior vice president and chief financial officer (SVP/CFO) chose to instead put his money where his heart is–with his son, Brandon.

In addition to a very early Autism diagnosis, Brandon benefited from parents who were aware and engaged in finding an effective treatment for their son. His mom, Kathryn Wilson was a nurse at the Cleveland Clinic, and Ray became an advocate within Brandon’s school community. “Brandon almost had his own classroom, as well as a tutor assigned to him,” Ray recalls. Brandon, now 34, lives semi-independently in California, working in the consumer retail industry and training in the motion picture industry. Having seen the power of knowledge, resources, and advocacy in Brandon’s life, Ray is investing in the power of special education for others.

A Career Driven by Giving Back

Philanthropy and community give back have always played a role in Ray’s work. “When I first came to Las Vegas the thing that shocked me the most was the challenges facing teachers, students, and the state’s education ranking.” he reflects. 

In addition to his role as SVP/CFO, Ray also serves as the president of the SSSCU’s People Over Profit (POP) Foundation. The foundation oversees numerous projects and initiatives to support educators and students, as well as to improve education standards statewide.

As he approaches his retirement, Ray is looking for ways to make a difference on a more personal level. He has seen a lot of growth and progress in Southern Nevada over the years, but the region’s education challenges persist. “There are a lot of positive things happening in Las Vegas, but we still have to find ways to continually grow and uplift education,” Ray notes. 

Putting a FOCUS on Special Education

Motivated to make a difference in special education, he committed to funding the Brandon Raymond Wilson Special Education Scholarships for two students pursuing careers in this field each year. 

In addition, the scholarships will also support two students with intellectual and developmental disabilities pursuing post-secondary learning opportunities each semester through the College of Education’s Project FOCUS program. The comprehensive post-secondary education program provides inclusive, accessible, and productive career education for Southern Nevada’s adult college-aged students with intellectual/developmental disabilities. In addition to building confidence and job readiness skills, participants are prepared for competitive, paid employment and independent living in an inclusive community setting.

“I want to give an opportunity to those who, in the absence of a scholarship or access to the FOCUS program, would either be in financial hardship or not have the chance to continue their study at all.”

Ray is a big believer that we’re all blessed with a skill set that can be used to help support and lift up others. Grateful to be in the position that he is after a successful career, and proud of his son’s resilience, he looks forward to contributing to the collective effort of the college through this new scholarship. “I’ve always wanted to do something to create a legacy on Brandon’s behalf,” he shared. Noting the vital role of special education teachers, “I believe in progress and that there are others who care about the educational landscape, but it takes a village.”

Curating the Future: UNLV’s Journey to Establish the Dunn Family Assessment Collection

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Oct. 17, 2024

By: COE Communications Staff

“If this was just a regular book collection, we could clear some shelf space,” said Amanda Melilli, Associate Professor and head of UNLV’s Teacher Development & Resources Library (TDRL)—but it’s not. Navigating how to steward the generous $1 million endowment from the late Douglas Dunn, is the monumental task ahead of Amanda and co-librarian and Professor Samantha Godbey. Working together to curate the Dunn Family Assessment Collection is an exciting opportunity for the pair. 

Help from an Unexpected Source

The Dunns were neither native Nevadans, nor alumni and their children did not attend UNLV. Rather, Doug and Karen were retirees to the desert and champions for education who considered UNLV a worthy place to continually honor the work of their parents, Lloyd and Leota Dunn, who wrote the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test and other assessment tools still widely used today. 

The Dunn Family Foundation pledged their first major gift in 2017, creating the Dunn Family Chair in Educational Assessment Fund. While this initial donation supports research on assessment for a faculty member within the College of Education, the need for advancing and providing access to additional assessment resources to learners and local educators persisted. 

“I’ve been here 12 years now, and people have asked me for an assessment collection every year,” said Samantha. The Dunns answered the call again, this time preparing an endowment fund donated in perpetuity to build something meaningful and sustainable.  Without it, “we wouldn’t be able to have this type of collection because assessment resources are so expensive and ever evolving.” added Amanda.

A Never-Ending Collection

Once the collection is available, it will never truly be finished. The genre is active, with new assessment resources constantly being developed and updated. Amanda explained that, “there will always be new things that we can add, and we will be actively maintaining the collection over time.”

Building such a new and dynamic resource collection takes a lot of planning and flexibility. The Dunn Family Assessment Collection will feature both digital and print tests, tools, books, and guides, requiring varying degrees of care. This year, Amanda and Samantha are focused on research, finding out how other libraries across the world are handling similar collections. They are also working closely with the libraries’ acquisitions department on ordering and cataloging these new materials. “We need to institute new procedures and management protocols—plan out the physical space in the TDRL and how these materials will be secured. Once those are in place, we can begin ordering materials.” Amanda laid out. 

The structure of the endowment allows for flexibility in how funds can be spent. This component provides opportunities for the team to invest in professional development, and eventually bring on a graduate assistant to help facilitate collection staffing needs.

When available, the Dunn Family Assessment Collection will be a community resource housed in the TDRL. In line with the library’s mission, the collection will cater primarily to the needs of College of Education students, providing tools to expand the knowledge of future educators so that they can access the most contemporary materials that may not be on their radar. A few elements of it will also be accessible to faculty and local in-service teachers. “There’s not really a collection like this in Southern Nevada,” Amanda marveled looking forward to getting the work started.

UNLV’s Nevada Forward Receives $3 Million Prestigious Hawkins Center Grant to Continue Educator Apprenticeship Program

July 13, 2026

Originally posted: Oct. 16, 2024

By: Nancy Weaver

LAS VEGAS, NV, October 16, 2024 — The U.S. Department of Education’s Augustus F. Hawkins Center for Excellence awarded $2,977,816 million to Professor Kenny Varner (principal investigator) and Dean and Professor Danica G. Hays (co-principal investigator). The five-year grant will expand the workforce development efforts through Nevada Forward Initiative at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), specifically addressing Nevada’s teacher shortage. 

“The Hawkins grant is prestigious, highly competitive, and exclusive to Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), such as Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) like UNLV. Its timing aligns with UNLV’s MSI Success Summit on September 27, making it even more relevant,” explains Varner. “Augustus Hawkins‘ legacy directly connects to our mission of linking workforce development with teacher preparation and this grant enables us to extend his impact throughout Nevada.”

The Hawkins Center supports comprehensive, high-quality state-accredited teacher preparation programs at HSIs. The center’s goal is to create a more diverse teacher workforce prepared to teach in underserved elementary and secondary schools and close student opportunity and achievement gaps. 

Nevada Forward was founded in 2021 thanks to $6.11 million grant from the Elementary and Secondary School Relief (ESSR) Fund and serves as a prime example of how funding pilot initiatives can lead to innovative and effective solutions to support student achievement and educator effectiveness.  

“This grant will help us continue Nevada Forward’s pioneering teacher apprenticeship program to address workforce challenges,” notes Hays. “Since 2021, state and federal support for teacher apprenticeships has shifted the landscape for Nevada’s teacher workforce and the children and communities they serve.”

The Hawkins grant is another milestone in the college’s long-standing commitment to developing innovative approaches to improve educational equity. For example, the recently launched HSI STEM Resource Hub, led by Associate Professor Blanca Rinćon and funded by a nearly $3 million National Science Foundation grant, creates a community of STEM scholars at HSIs who are cultivating their culturally responsive and relevant skills. In addition, Associate Professors Federick Ngo and Stefani Relles were awarded a five-year, $1.2 million research grant from the Institute of Education Sciences to examine the effects of Nevada’s Corequisite Reform policy on learning, college outcomes, and post-graduation earnings, especially affecting students of color.