NSHE Pays Tribute to Remarkable Legacy of Former Regent and Assemblyman, Jason Geddes
The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) deeply mourns the loss of a distinguished former member of the Nevada Board of Regents and the Nevada Assembly, Dr. Jason Geddes. Dr. Geddes leaves behind an enduring impact that will forever be woven into the fabric of our state’s academic institutions.
“Regent Geddes was a passionate and stalwart leader of the Board of Regents and NSHE for 16 years. He served three terms as chair and five as vice chair, a testament to his leadership and ability to bring people together,” said Board of Regents Chair, Amy J. Carvalho. “He was always welcoming and available for regents to discuss our work. Regent Geddes was a mentor and trusted advisor to many throughout his years at the System. His legacy is longstanding, and he will be sorely missed.”
“Jason Geddes was incredibly genuine and lived his passion. I worked with him during his assembly campaign, and I vividly recall him pulling his son in a wagon, going door to door to share his message and uplift. His campaign wasn’t just grassroots; it embodied him. He inspired many, including myself. I wouldn’t be a Regent if it weren’t for him,” said Board of Regents Vice Chair, Jeffrey Downs. “He poured his heart and soul into everything he did, from his time in the assembly to his many years as a Regent, all to serve his community and our state. He was a true public servant in every sense of the word.”
Dr. Geddes was one of the longest-serving recent Regents, having served from 2006 to 2022. In recognition of his significant impact, he was awarded Regent Emeritus status at the September 8, 2023, Board of Regents meeting.
A lifelong Nevadan, born in Winnemucca, Dr. Geddes’ roots in the state’s education system run deep from attending Traner Middle School and Sparks High School to the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), where he served in student government and public service.
Beyond the Board of Regents, Geddes made meaningful contributions to the Nevada State Assembly, influencing committees on Education, Judiciary, and Natural Resources. His professional journey included roles at Washoe County School District, the City of Reno, and Nevada Environmental Laboratories.
“Dr. Jason Geddes’ unwavering dedication to advancing our academic institutions and commitment to public service have left an indelible mark. Dr. Geddes’ contributions, spanning from his role as a Board Chair to his impactful civic engagements, reflect a lifelong commitment to the betterment of our community. We mourn his passing and honor the lasting impact he leaves behind, which will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of educators and leaders within the NSHE family,” said Patricia Charlton, Chancellor of the Nevada System of Higher Education.
NSHE extends heartfelt condolences to the Geddes family, acknowledging the profound loss. Dr. Jason Geddes’ legacy will forever inspire those privileged to work alongside him.
