NSHE Mourns the Loss of Dr. Lois Tarkanian, Regent and Advocate for Education
The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) mourns the loss of Dr. Lois Tarkanian, a devoted member of the Board of Regents and a tireless champion for education and public service. Throughout her remarkable life, Dr. Tarkanian dedicated herself to improving the lives of students, families, and communities across Nevada and beyond.
“Dr. Tarkanian wasn’t just a colleague; she was a friend and a mentor to so many of us,” said Chair Amy J. Carvalho. “Her thoughtful guidance and genuine passion for making a difference in students’ lives were inspiring. Her influence reaches far beyond the institutions she served and her legacy of compassion and dedication will always be remembered. She will be profoundly missed.”
Dr. Tarkanian’s journey in education began as a classroom teacher before she advanced to roles as a speech pathologist, principal, and university instructor. Her deep connection to Nevada started in 1973 when she and her family moved to Las Vegas. Her late husband, Jerry Tarkanian, became the legendary head basketball coach at UNLV, a role that cemented their family’s place in the state’s history. Yet, Dr. Tarkanian’s legacy extends far beyond her family name’s association with athletics. Her leadership and advocacy have left a lasting impact on education and public service.
Dr. Tarkanian’s dedication to serving her community was evident in her time on the Clark County School Board and as a Las Vegas City Councilwoman, where she represented Ward 1 for over a decade. In 2020, she was elected to the NSHE Board of Regents, where she brought her vast experience and passion for education to Nevada’s higher education institutions.
“Dr. Lois Tarkanian had a remarkable way of connecting with people. Her passion for education and her belief in the transformative power of learning were evident in everything she did,” said Chancellor Patricia Charlton. “She leaves behind a legacy of hope and opportunity for generations of Nevada students, and I feel privileged to have known her.”
Dr. Tarkanian’s contributions will be remembered not only for their scope but for their heart. She believed in the power of education to transform lives and worked tirelessly to ensure that opportunity was accessible to all.
The Nevada System of Higher Education extends its deepest condolences to Dr. Tarkanian’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working with and knowing her. Her legacy will live on in the students, educators, and communities she inspired.
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact Elizabeth Callahan at ecallahan@nshe.nevada.edu or 702-522-7021.
