Nevada State University President Dr. DeRionne Pollard to Transition to New National Role

Dr. Amber Lopez Lasater will serve as Officer in Charge in Dr. Pollard’s absence

The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) today announced that Nevada State University (NSU) President Dr. DeRionne Pollard will step down from her role effective September 5, 2025, to become President of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), a national organization representing more than 1,000 institutions across the country. Her last day on campus will be July 31, 2025. She begins her new role at AACC in September and will become the first woman to lead the 105-year-old organization.

Dr. Pollard, who has served as NSU’s president since 2021, leaves behind a legacy of transformational leadership. Under her tenure, the university achieved the following:

• Increased enrollment, retention, and graduation rates.
• Secured institutional accreditation by the Northwest Commission and specialized accreditation for key programs.
• Secured over $25 million in private philanthropy and local, state, and federal grants to advance important student success and workforce development initiatives.
• Launched an Athletics Program, including the state’s first collegiate Women’s Flag Football and Men’s Track and Field teams.
• Expanded concurrent enrollment partnerships with high schools across Southern Nevada, making higher education more accessible and affordable for students.
• Renamed institution from Nevada State College to Nevada State University.

NSHE Chancellor Matt McNair praised Dr. Pollard’s impact and expressed confidence in the university’s future.

“Dr. Pollard has led Nevada State through a period of remarkable growth and progress,” said Chancellor McNair. “She has elevated Nevada State’s role in the state and the country. She is a strong and thoughtful leader, and it is no surprise that she has been selected for a nationally prominent role.”

NSHE Board of Regents Chair Byron Brooks also praised Dr. Pollard, noting that “Nevada State has thrived under Dr. Pollard’s leadership, and she actively engaged community leaders to bring opportunities to students and broaden the impact of NSU.”

“Serving as President of Nevada State has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional life,” said Dr. Pollard. “Over the past four years, I have witnessed the incredible growth of our students, faculty, and institution. Together, we expanded access, reimagined student success, and forged powerful partnerships that elevated the promise of this institution. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished and deeply grateful for the opportunity to lead such a vibrant and mission-driven community. As I prepare to take on this new role at AACC, I carry with me the lessons, values, and spirit of Nevada State.”

Chair Brooks noted that “I am looking forward to working with Chancellor McNair and the full Board to determine next steps that will ensure continuity and strong leadership at NSU. We will conduct campus visits to obtain feedback from faculty, students, and staff. More information will be forthcoming as the process takes shape.”