NSHE Regents’ 2025 Distinguished Nevadans, Honorary Degrees Announced

The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) Board of Regents has announced the recipients of the 2025 Distinguished Nevadan Award, the most prestigious award conferred by the Board, as well as honorary degrees that will be presented at NSHE’s spring commencement ceremonies.

Distinguished Nevadans

The Distinguished Nevadan Award recognizes prominent individuals who have made significant contributions to the cultural, economic, scientific, or social advancement of Nevada and its people.

This year’s Distinguished Nevadans include:

• Lois Esther Tarkanian, Ph.D. (Posthumous, nominated by Regent Susan Brager) – A dedicated educator, speech pathologist, and public servant, Dr. Tarkanian’s lifelong contributions to education and community service helped shape Nevada’s educational landscape. She co-founded Nevada’s first full-inclusion program for deaf children and was instrumental in the development of the UNLV School of Medicine. She also served on the Clark County School Board, the Las Vegas City Council, and the NSHE Board of Regents.
• Claytee White (Nominated by Chair Amy J. Carvalho) – A pioneering historian and the founding director of the UNLV Oral History Research Center, White has worked tirelessly to preserve the history of Southern Nevada, particularly the stories of the African American community and the Historic Westside. Through her leadership, over 4,000 oral histories have been collected, ensuring that Nevada’s rich and diverse history is accessible for future generations.

Honorary Degrees

Honorary degrees are awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the improvement of academic programs and student life at one of NSHE’s eight institutions.

Great Basin College – Honorary Baccalaureate Degree

• Caroline McIntosh – A lifelong advocate for education in rural Nevada, McIntosh has served in various leadership roles, including as Superintendent of Lyon County School District and Head of School at Nevada Virtual Academy. She has played a key role in workforce development programs at Great Basin College and has been a champion for expanded educational opportunities in White Pine County.

Nevada State University – Honorary Master’s Degrees

• Jason Frierson – As the first African American U.S. Attorney for the District of Nevada and former Speaker of the Nevada State Assembly, Frierson has been a steadfast advocate for justice, education, and public policy. His leadership has helped advance policies supporting public education funding and equity in higher education.
• Marydean Martin – A philanthropist and literacy advocate, Martin’s contributions to Nevada State University include the establishment of the nationally recognized Marydean Martin Library and the Marydean Martin Writers’ Project. Her support for literacy, student scholarships, and library initiatives has transformed the educational experience for Nevada students.
• Richard Perkins – A former Nevada Assembly Speaker and a key figure in the founding of Nevada State College (now Nevada State University), Perkins has been instrumental in shaping higher education policy and economic development in Nevada. His ongoing service as a Nevada State University Foundation Board Member underscores his commitment to student success and institutional growth.

University of Nevada, Las Vegas – Honorary Doctorate Degrees

• Joe Murphy – A dedicated philanthropist and business leader, Murphy has supported UNLV for over 15 years through contributions to the Rebel Athletic Fund and the establishment of scholarships at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine. His generosity has helped countless students achieve their academic and professional goals.
• Claytee D. White – As a historian, researcher, and advocate for cultural preservation, White has made lasting contributions to UNLV and the broader Nevada community. Her dedication to documenting oral histories has provided an invaluable record of Nevada’s evolving social and cultural landscape.

University of Nevada, Reno – Honorary Doctorate Degrees

• Ralph Burns – A Numu (Northern Paiute) Elder, Burns has been instrumental in preserving and teaching the Paiute language and culture. As a Paiute Language instructor at the University of Nevada, Reno and the Reno-Sparks Indian Colony, he has ensured the continuation of Indigenous knowledge and traditions. His work has enriched the academic and cultural experience of students across Nevada.
• Marilyn Newton – An award-winning photojournalist and historian, Newton has documented Nevada’s history for over five decades. Her work, much of which is housed in UNR’s Special Collections, has captured defining moments in the state’s past and provided invaluable insight into Nevada’s cultural evolution.

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact Elizabeth Callahan at ecallahan@nshe.nevada.edu or 702-522-7021.