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James E. Rogers Chancellor Nevada System of Higher Education 2601 Enterprise Rd. 5550 W. Flamingo Rd., Ste. C-1 Reno, NV 89512 Las Vegas, NV 89103 Phone: (775) 784-3222 Phone: (702) 889-8426 Fax: (775) 784-6520 Fax: (702) 889-8492

SPECIAL MEMORANDUM

DATE: April 30, 2009 TO: NSHE Board of Regents FROM: James E. Rogers Chancellor RE: REGENT COBB’S DISCUSSION OF OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE

NEVADA SYSTEM OF HIGHER EDUCATION I am delighted with the interest and enthusiasm shown by Regent William Cobb in his enclosed report which summarizes the accomplishments of the NSHE institutions. From the extent of the information presented, you can easily see the many hours Regent Cobb devoted to composing this very important piece. It carefully and thoroughly describes the many successes of all eight institutions of the NSHE, including reports from the University of Nevada School of Medicine, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas School of Dental Medicine, the William S. Boyd School of Law and the Health Sciences System. It also indicates how successful and how efficient the System has been in using state, student and donor funds. Think what the System could be if it had funding equal to the 50th percentile funding of the best higher education systems in the Western states. Once more, we are reminded that not only have we made good use of resources, but that a cut of those resources will do much more than reduce fat – a commodity of which the System has little. As we have repeatedly said, these proposed cuts will threaten the very existence of the wonderfully productive programs Regent Cobb describes. Enclosures:

• William G. Cobb, Nevada Board of Regents • College of Southern Nevada • Great Basin College: The Positive Accomplishments of Great Basin College • Truckee Meadows Community College: TMCC Recent Achievements Expanded • University of Nevada, Las Vegas: Top Five Achievements • University of Nevada, Las Vegas School of Dental Medicine: Building on its Successes • University of Nevada, Reno: About the University of Nevada, Reno • Western Nevada College: Five Top Qualities of WNC • David Waterhouse, Associated Students of the College of Southern Nevada • Carmen Ortiz, Associated Students of Truckee Meadows, Truckee Meadows Community College • Eron Sanchez, Student Government Association, Great Basin College • Adam Cronis, Consolidated Students of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas • Jessica Lucero, Graduate & Professional Student Association, University of Nevada, Las Vegas • Michelle Sudano, University of Nevada, Reno • Brithany Thomson, Graduate Student Association, University of Nevada, Reno

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Office of the President Charleston Campus Sort Code W32E 6375 West Charleston Boulevard Las Vegas, NV 89146-1164 702.651.5600 Fax: 702.651.5001

 COLLEGE OF SOUTHERN NEVADA

The College of Southern Nevada (CSN) is one of four community colleges in Nevada. Although based in the Las Vegas area, CSN has three main campuses and 11 academic centers in two counties, serving Southern Nevada’s urban and rural higher education needs. Founded in 1971 with 400 students, CSN has doubled its size over the past decade and now registers over 40,000 students each year (a third of whom are full-time enrollees), making CSN the fourth largest two-year college in the country of its kind. Ninety-two percent of CSN students are residents of Nevada, who can choose from over 3,000 courses in 130 fields of study. More than 1,800 graduate yearly with associate degrees and certificates of achievement; CSN also awards a four-year baccalaureate degree in dental hygiene.

A study by CCbenefits, Inc., reflected that the faculty, staff and students of CSN contribute $1.6 billion to the regional economy. For every taxpayer dollar invested in CSN, they receive a cumulative return of $3.60. A student earning a CSN associate degree will increase their potential earnings to $44,000 per year, 37 percent more than the average high school graduate, which translates into lifetime earnings of some $420,000 more.

Some of the notable achievements by CSN include:

1. In the spring of 2008, CSN’s Online Campus enrolled a total 4,461 full-time equivalent (FTE) students, making it CSN’s second largest campus behind the West Charleston campus (6,785 FTE) and affording CSN the ability to reach a tremendously large distance education audience. More than 25 degrees and certificates are available entirely online. Indeed, in total CSN offers more than 4,800 class sections each semester in response to student demand, with on-site classes traditionally running from 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., providing students with a flexible class schedule to meet their unique needs.

2. CSN’s nursing program routinely produces more nurses than any other public (or private) institution in Nevada, with approximately percent of Nevada’s two-year degree nurses trained in our programs. In fact, CSN is forced to turn away qualified students from the program each semester

3. The Southern Desert Regional Police Academy is a consortium between the Henderson Police Department, the North Las Vegas Police Department and CSN to train and POST certify law enforcement officers for a multitude of agencies (17 last year) in Southern Nevada.

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4. CSN is one of only three institutions in the nation to offer a baccalaureate degree in dental

hygiene. The Charleston campus has a full-service dental practice in operation in which dental assisting and hygiene students complete practicum requirements.

5. Russell’s, CSN’s teaching restaurant located on the Cheyenne campus, is a working restaurant that doubles as a teaching and cooking laboratory. During most semesters, lunch is served daily Monday – Thursday. Under the supervision of our instructors, culinary students prepare the dishes while food and beverage management students serve the guests and operate the restaurant. CSN’s student Hot Food team has won the Nevada State Championship 12 years in a row.

6. CSN is the largest and most ethnically diverse higher education institution in the state, with no ethnic majority. More than 20 percent of the college’s students are non-native English speakers. With more than 900 international students, CSN also attracts students from 48 states, one U.S. territory and 59 countries.

7. Competing since 1999, CSN’s Coyote Baseball Team was the 2003 NJCAA National Champion and has been the SWAC Regular Season Champion each year since while also capturing the Region XVIII Championship in 2008. Several CSN alumni have gone on to play for the pros.

8. CSN’s Division of Workforce & Economic Development provided 137 customized programs to local businesses and organizations in 2008, including CityCenter and General Electric. More than 50,000 students have been trained through workforce development programs since 2005.

9. About 3,000 high school students are earning college credit through CSN’s dual-credit programs with the Clark County School District. CSN’s three Community College High Schools were among the few Nevada high schools that made the latest edition of U.S. News & World Report’s top 100 high schools. CSN delivers college-level coursework to more than 15 high schools, allowing many CCSD students to graduate with an associate’s degree.

10. CSN has more than 500 full-time instructors and 900 part-time instructors. Average class size for a lecture is 23 students and average lab size is 14 students per instructor, creating an intimate atmosphere for student learning. CSN has outstanding relationships with community businesses, offering students the opportunity to intern backstage at a Cirque show or take a culinary class from the pastry chef for Ethel’s Chocolate. The college also provides a number of enrichment and involvement opportunities including student clubs, honors programs, intramural sports and a student newspaper.

  

Nevada System of Higher Education

Charleston Campus Cheyenne Campus Henderson Campus Academic & Learning Centers  

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The Positive Accomplishments of Great Basin College A Response to Regent Cobb’s Request

April 15, 2009 Some of Great Basin College’s more notable accomplishments are: Workforce Development Great Basin College has worked closely with private industry, businesses and health care providers to provide training and education to fill the critical workforce needs of rural Nevada. Academic and technical training programs have produced over 700 skilled professionals since 2004, and upgraded the skills of thousands of others. GBC’s associate degree nursing program is the primary supplier of registered nurses within the college’s expansive six county, 62,000 square mile service area. Approximately 42 students are enrolled in the two year program at any point in time. Since 1979, the presence of a steady supply of qualified nursing program graduates (267 to date) has met the workforce needs of acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, school districts, and home health agencies located in rural Nevada. National Licensing Examination pass rates have exceeded 80% in the past three years. The Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program is also a mainstay in GBC’s communities and provides vital support for the provision of health care services in rural Nevada. Since 2004, over 500 individuals have completed the 120 hour program and then gained fulfilling employment in hospitals, extended care facilities and home healthcare agencies. Many graduates of GBC’s CNA Program continue their professional development by becoming registered nurses and radiology technicians. GBC’s Bachelor of Science – Nursing (BSN) Program fulfills a long-standing void relative to the educational needs of registered nurses living and working in the geographic isolation of rural Nevada. The program was designed to draw from the college’s existing associate degree nursing program graduate pool as well as from the larger pool of associate degree graduates already working as registered nurses in the college’s service area. With over 12 graduates to date since the program began in January 2005, the goal of the BSN Program to significantly enhance the professional development of registered nurses working in rural Nevada has been realized.

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GBC Positive Accomplishments April 15, 2009 Page 2 of 8  GBC’s radiology technology program began in fall 2007 and averages approximately 23 applications each year. A total of 26 students are enrolled at any point in time in the two-year program and complete their clinical rotations in communities across the state, including Pahrump, Ely, Winnemucca, Fallon, Carson City and Elko. Following graduation, these same individuals fill critical radiology staffing needs in both rural and urban Nevada communities. GBC radiology technology graduates have achieved an excellent performance record on the National Certifying Board Examination. Our Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Program continues to grow and offer a variety of basic and advanced EMS courses and programs. Over 113 students completed EMS related courses during the 2008 calendar year. GBC was recently approved as an American Heart Association training site by the Regional Emergency Medical Services Authority (REMSA) which enables GBC to provide a broader range of basic and advanced life support programs to its service area residents and employers. In fall 2007 GBC began its Human Services Program with the support of a Health Resource and Service Administration (HRSA) grant and has continued to grow in student enrollment and programs offered. Total student enrollment in human services courses was 119 this semester, almost twice that of last Fall. Practicum sites include Elko District Court’s Juvenile Probation, Elko’s Family Resource Center, drug and alcohol treatment agencies, adult day care facilities, and outpatient health clinics. GBC has applied for another HRSA Grant to fund the establishment of a BA in human services in order to address the human services needs of rural Nevada. • Health Care Partnerships:

o Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital o American Red Cross, Winnemucca o Great Basin Imaging o Founding member, Elko County Center for Rural Health

• Career and Technical Education, Business and Industry

• Enrollments o Overall, Career and Technical Education (CTE) program enrollments are up. The

Electrical System Technology program enjoyed double enrollment numbers compared to previous years, complementing the opening of the Electrical Industrial Technology (EIT) building. The Diesel and Welding Technology programs are running two sections of students to accommodate the increased enrollments, and the Instrumentation program and the Millwright Technology programs are up slightly.

• Industry Partnerships

o Contract Training Agreements In the fall of 2006 Newmont signed a training agreement to train

employees over two years for 60,000 man hours of training. This contract

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GBC Positive Accomplishments April 15, 2009 Page 3 of 8  

was fulfilled by hiring two instructors to teach in the areas of Mobile Diesel and Fixed Maintenance. This contracted ended, and as of April 1, 2009 Newmont has renewed this agreement and GBC will be training up to 450 Newmont employees.

In the spring of 2008 Barrick Goldstrike signed a one year training agreement to train their employees in the area of Mobile Diesel Technology. This agreement allowed GBC to hire one instructor, and will serve up to 300 Barrick employees.

In the fall of 2008 Barrick Goldstrike signed a second contract with GBC to provide training in the area of Fixed Maintenance and will serve up to 300 Barrick employees. An additional CTE instructor was hired to provide this training.

o Manpower Training Cooperative (MTC) Scholarships The MTC scholarship program was established in 1994 and has served

over 1,500 students. This scholarship currently provides students with $5,000 for tuition, books, tools, and a paid internship from the awarding industry sponsor. Over the life of this program local industries have donated over $5 Million dollars towards this scholarship program.

• CTE Programs o GBC has reacted to community and industry requests by either creating or

resurrecting the following programs: Fire Science Management - One year Certificate and Associate of Applied

Science Degree Industrial Energy Efficiency - Associate of Applied Science Degree Medical Transcription – Certificate of Achievement

• Other Business and Industry Partnerships o Member and principal driver, Elko County Economic Development Authority o OneNevada Newmont Training Partnership o Southern Nevada Workforce Investment Board o Elko, White Pine, Humboldt, Lander County School District partnerships o Northeastern Nevada Partnership (Elko, Lander, Pershing/Humbodlt counties)

Rural Outreach/Distance Education Great Basin College has increased its service area to 62,000 square miles to provide education and training opportunities to nearly two dozen communities in rural Nevada. Through distance education delivery, GBC provides access for hundreds of place-bound Nevadans. Fifty-two percent of all of GBC enrollment utilizes distance education platforms. Prior to 2006, GBC served five rural counties and 47,000 square miles. In 2006, GBC brought Nye County into its service area, and now serves 118,000 people over 62,000 square miles of Nevada. The GBC service area encompasses six rural Nevada counties, 56% of the entire geographic area of Nevada.

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GBC Positive Accomplishments April 15, 2009 Page 4 of 8  With 1.9 persons per square mile, GBC has one of the largest and most sparsely populated service areas of any institution of higher education in the United States. To serve the people of this area, GBC has dedicated considerable resources to distance education. Twenty percent of GBC enrollment is through interactive video (IAV), sometimes connecting as many as seven sites in a single class. GBC uses almost 40% of the total IAV capacity of Nevada, and provides 62% of all credited classes delivered through this technology. Thirty-two percent of GBC enrollment is through the internet. Enrollment in online classes has grown 486% since the fall of 2004, and has grown by a third in just the last year. Completion rates of GBC online classes are more than 70% on average, compared to about a 50% rate nationally. Many classes utilize combinations of online, IAV, and live instruction. GBC considers itself a leader in effective distance education. Distance Education Highlights • Pioneer NSHE institution in innovative IAV and distance learning platforms • On-going upgrades of distance learning technologies • Innovative use of distance technologies

o Integration of social networking in BlackBoard o Piloting Second Life learning islands

• Use of distance learning technologies to increase student services opportunities o Ongoing use of IAV for SGA functions o Ongoing use of IAV for Student Clubs and Organizations o Community use of IAV technologies for various social services programs o Partnerships providing IAV technologies with other state agencies to create

efficiencies Baccalaureate Degrees Great Basin College now offers five select baccalaureate degrees previously unavailable in rural Nevada. Because GBC offers baccalaureate degrees, there are now many critical professional positions in areas such as education and social work being filled in rural Nevada communities. Great Basin College was one of the first community colleges in the nation to begin offering select baccalaureate degrees. This undertaking was not to deviate from a community college mission, but to enhance it and fulfill unmet educational needs throughout our rural service area. Critical professional needs in several areas were not being met, particularly in education, social services, health care, and in technical fields. The jobs were present, but it was difficult to recruit from outside the area into smaller towns. Once people were hired for positions, they often left after very short tenures. Capable people live in these small towns, but they are place-bound by conditions of family, employment, and other economic situations. Also, in the past several years, the demographics of our students have included local high school graduates who started their education at larger institutions then returned to GBC to complete their degree because of the more personalized atmosphere. By bringing the educational opportunities to the people already

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GBC Positive Accomplishments April 15, 2009 Page 5 of 8  living in these towns, they are now not only filling local job openings, but are being retained in these positions for a longer term. Elementary and Secondary Education Degrees The Bachelor of Arts in Education was the first four-year degree program developed by GBC. Elementary Education was identified as being the first Bachelor’s degree because of the need among rural Nevada’s school districts. The college was also encouraged to respond because of an identified population of interested students. GBC now has added a major in Secondary Education and provides certification in Special Education and Teaching English as a Second Language. Since 2001, GBC has granted 121 Education BA degrees in Elko County (Elko, Wells, Wendover), 39 in Humboldt County (Winnemucca), 12 in Lander County (Battle Mountain), and 23 in White Pine County (Ely, Lund). This past December GBC graduated the first two Education BA degrees in Nye County (Pahrump). School districts are very satisfied with GBC graduates, in part because GBC students are provided with early and frequent field experiences to be prepared for some of the unique conditions of rural Nevada. Rural Nevada’s school districts now do little to no recruiting out of state, and the teachers stay with the schools for longer periods of time, especially in the smaller communities. Bachelor’s of Applied Science (BAS) After implementing the BA program, GBC created the first Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree in Nevada. The degree allows students with AAS degrees (formerly terminal degrees) to now complete their Bachelor's degrees, and even move on to Master’s degree programs and other professional programs, including law school. Many people with degrees in technical areas were finding their careers in mid-management limited by their lack of a Bachelor’s degree. To date, the program has accepted over 300 applicants, and by this spring will have graduated over 100. Many of the students in this program are working, taking classes on a part-time basis. The program provides them with skills in the area of management, as well as increasing their skills in some specialized emphasis areas. The emphases are in Management in Technology, Instrumentation, Digital Information Technology, Agricultural Management, and Land Surveying/Geomatics. The surveying program is the only program in Nevada for developing licensed professional land surveyors. Bachelor’s of Arts, Integrative Studies (BAIS) The BAIS program includes two emphases to educate students broadly and integratively in the fields of Social Sciences and Resource Management. Graduates from this program have found employment in a wide range of settings ranging from private business to social services, state agencies, and federal land management agencies. Many students participate in this program, which emphasizes the synthesis of information to draw valid and verifiable conclusions in a variety of settings.

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GBC Positive Accomplishments April 15, 2009 Page 6 of 8  Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing (BSN) The BSN program is designed specifically to provide more advanced health care education for place-bound populations in rural communities of Nevada. It builds specifically on Associate Degree Nursing programs after the student has become an RN. Most of the program is regularly available online, with clinical classes being scheduled collaboratively in community health care facilities. In the short time of its existence, the program received immediate accreditation and already has 12 graduates working in rural Nevada who would not have otherwise been able to complete their degrees. Nineteen more are accepted to the program. Bachelor’s of Social Work (BSW) 3 + 1 Program In collaboration with the UNR Social Work Department, GBC facilitates the delivery of course-work and field experiences for granting BSW degrees. GBC delivers the first 3 years of course-work for the program, and UNR delivers the senior level courses in GBC’s classrooms. The degree is granted from UNR. Thus far the degrees granted include 15 in Elko, 4 in Winnemucca, 1 in Battle Mountain, 1 in Owyhee, and 4 in Ely. Eighty-three percent are employed within the area in which they trained, and 17 seniors are admitted to the program for the coming fall. This program has been very important in placing people in critical social work functions within hospitals, child protective services, and drug and alcohol agencies in small communities where the need is great. Home Grown Professionals in Rural Nevada • Data indicates that students who study in a particular area will stay in a particular area. GBC

uses this information to the advantage of rural Nevada’s communities. o Preparing hundreds of professionals for careers in their hometowns o Those professionals contribute to their profession and to their communities o Because of the long-term presence of professionals in Nevada’s rural communities,

quality of life increases substantially. Volunteerism increases Contributions to non-profits increase Employment stabilizes Social services stabilize Dependence on government subsidies declines

“Sticky Campus” The campus community has increasingly become a “sticky campus.” Housing (dorms, suites, married and family apartments) is at 100% occupancy for 08-09. There are increased diversity programming and student activities through Student Life, Student Government Association (SGA) and the Intellectual and Cultural Enrichment Committee (ICE). The programming and events reach out beyond the Elko campus to Battle Mountain, Ely, Pahrump, and Winnemucca with on-site events and/or utilization of interactive video technology whenever and wherever feasible.

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GBC Positive Accomplishments April 15, 2009 Page 7 of 8   Student Life, SGA, and student clubs and organizations have teamed up to promote activities on campus and this year has held over sixty events for students. This includes off-sites as well. Student participation has seen a 20% increase this school year. As an example, on the SGA sponsored movie nights, it is not unusual to see 200 students gather together. Several factors have contributed to the “sticky campus” concept: GBC has more full-time students. Enrollment statistics note an increase in a more traditional younger student population. Student housing began a “wait list” last summer. The combination of factors points to students desiring more extracurricular activities and events. With coordinated efforts between the Student Government Association and Student Life and Housing, students have become more connected. Other examples include the growth of Red Ribbon Week, an annual drug and alcohol awareness program. Student Life partners with Elko’s Partners Allied for Community Excellence (P.A.C.E.) for this and other programs. Students are involved in health fairs, drug and alcohol training and incorporate what they have learned in activities at all campuses. The Student Government Association also visited classrooms this year to motivate and activate students to talk to their Legislators about the importance of support for higher education in Nevada and what it means to each of them personally. The Intellectual Cultural Enrichment Committee (ICE) has representation from all areas of campus, including administrative and academic faculty, staff, and students. The theme for this year’s ICE programming is Empowerment. Former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Conner spoke on what it was like to be a successful female attorney in the 1950’s. University of Baltimore Distinguished Professor Dr. Lenneal Henderson performed Chautauquas of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., W.E.B. Dubois and Thurgood Marshall. 30% Growth Through retention activities, creation of new programs, and expansion of our services and service area we have increased our full time equivalent (FTE) enrollment by 30% since 2006. This year we have an extraordinary 9% growth. Many factors contribute to GBC’s recent growth in enrollment. GBC has always had one of the highest community college retention and graduation rates in Nevada, but this continues to improve. Also, after examining the feasibility of various programs, several were initiated in the last few years that have brought in new students for programs that were not available before. Some of these recent additions include the Bachelor’s of Arts in Secondary Education, the BSN, AAS degrees in Radiology Technology, Human Services, and Broadcast Technology, and a Medical Transcription Certificate program. There has been an expansion of health care training programs, including the Nursing AAS program, Emergency Medical Services, and Certified Nursing Assistant. With the constant need for training for the vital mining industry of rural Nevada, there has been an increase in the number of training scholarships as well as continuing upgrades of training for existing employees in both the mechanical/electrical areas and in computing applications. A factor in the

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GBC Positive Accomplishments April 15, 2009 Page 8 of 8  current year has been the state of the national economy. Students and parents are recognizing the value of education that can be received close to their homes. Spring 2008 Northwest Accreditation Report GBC hosted a full scale accreditation visit during the spring of 2008. The Northwest Commission on Schools and Colleges renewed GBC’s accreditation status with no recommendations, a remarkable achievement. GBC also received commendations, including one for treating students, services, and outreach centers located across rural Nevada as if they were on the main campus. The Commission noted that GBC fulfilled this admirably, a difficult job given the size of the service area. Southern Lands Bill GBC along with UNLV and CSN are working with U.S. Senator Harry Reid’s office to obtain BLM land for educational purposes. GBC is slated to receive title to 280 acres on the southeastern edge of Pahrump in Nye County. GBC expects to have the land within the next year and are currently in the preliminary planning stages for a GBC educational center/campus at that site. Southern/Northern Nevada Job Connect GBC has signed agreements with the Southern Nevada Workforce Investment Board (SNWIB) to provide training to Nye County residents. GBC and SNWIB have organized a one stop job service at the college’s facilities in Pahrump. GBC is currently negotiating with Northern Nevada Job Connect for a similar partnership in communities in the northern portion of the service area. Other partnerships with Job Opportunities in Nevada (JOIN) are being discussed, all to provide job training for displaced workers. GBC Foundation GBC has one of the most successful small college foundations in the nation. Since 1983, Great Basin College Foundation has raised nearly $28 million in revenues. It currently holds approximately $7 million in assets. The Foundation has provided for the Norm Goeringer classroom facility in Ely and a new modular classroom facility in Winnemucca. On the Elko campus, the Foundation has been responsible for the construction or furnishing of several buildings, including the community center, theater, fitness center, the Gallagher Health Science Center, and the Electrical and Industrial Technology Building. The Foundation also facilitated the Donald W. Reynolds Campus Enhancement project, a nearly $6 million project that provided for an amphitheatre, clock tower, paved plazas, a running brook and pond, and park-like landscaping on the Elko campus. The Foundation provides more than $80,000 in annual scholarship awards as well.

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Dr. Maria C. Sheehan | Office of the President | (775) 673-7025 | Red Mountain 200 (M1) Dandini Campus, 7000 Dandini Blvd., Reno, Nevada, 89512

775-673-7000 | www.tmcc.edu Nevada System of Higher Education | Dedicated to Equal Opportunity

DATE: April 27, 2009 TO: Regent William G. Cobb FROM: Maria Sheehan, President, Truckee Meadows Community College RE: TMCC Recent Achievements Expanded

TRUCKEE MEADOWS COMMUNITY COLLEGE

1) OVERVIEW

a) Truckee Meadows Community College has served the Reno-Sparks community for more than 35 years. The college takes pride in being an integral part of the community by developing programs that meet the needs of local and regional businesses and students. Over 13,000 students are enrolled in programs leading to associate degrees and certificates in more than 50 academic and occupational areas.

b) TMCC is continually growing and finding new ways to prepare students for the real

world. Offering academic and university transfer, occupational training, career enhancement workshops and classes just for fun, TMCC is the fastest growing college in northern Nevada.

c) TMCC offers:

i) Variety—more than 50 degree and certificate programs. ii) Convenience—at more than 40 sites countywide. iii) Flexible schedules—classes taught weekdays or weekends, in the daytime or evening. iv) Class types—Internet, lectures, laboratory, hands-on, television, one-day workshops. v) Support services—everything from free tutoring to job placement assistance to single-

parent support. vi) Affordability—just over $60 per credit and Nevada senior citizens attend tuition-free!

2) FLAGSHIP PROGRAMS

a) Dental Hygiene i) TMCC’s dental hygiene students consistently rank in the top five of the 263 dental

hygiene schools in the nation for scores on their national dental hygiene board exams. (In 2007, the last year statistics were published, TMCC was number 1 in the nation.) Testimonial: A local dentist, Dr. Jason Sala, stated “point blank - they just put out good people. I’ve hired five” when describing the program.

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Dr. Maria C. Sheehan | Office of the President | (775) 673-7025 | Red Mountain 200 (M1)

Dandini Campus, 7000 Dandini Blvd., Reno, Nevada, 89512 775-673-7000 | www.tmcc.edu

Nevada System of Higher Education | Dedicated to Equal Opportunity

b) Nursing i) In 2008, 98% percent of TMCC’s associate of science in nursing graduates taking the

National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) exam for the first time achieved passing scores. Passing the NCLEX-RN exam is required for those seeking a license to practice as registered nurses (RNs). For the past three years TMCC has scored the highest in the state and at least 10 percentage points higher than the national average.

c) Public Safety i) TMCC trains 82% of northern Nevada’s public safety personnel and has a partnership

with the Regional Public Training Center. TMCC continues to work with local fire, law enforcement and other first responder agencies in providing needed educational opportunities.

d) Transfer i) When considering transfer, 27 percent of TMCC students continue their education at

another institution, typically UNR, where most if not all of their credits are transferred. Testimonial: UNR’s VP for Student Services, Shannon Ellis, stated “TMCC students do exceptionally well at UNR” and “TMCC does a great job preparing students to succeed academically.”

3) STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

a) TMCC received third place in the 2009 Donald W. Reynolds Governor’s Cup Collegiate Business Plan Competition, the only two-year college team to make the finals of this prestigious competition. Team members James Blood, culinary arts, Megan Schlenther, speech pathology, and faculty advisor Karen Cannan, culinary arts, were recognized at an awards ceremony on April 23. Their project, MJ’s Pizzeria, outlined the start-up instructions for a new pizza/bar concept in Reno.

b) In 2008, ten TMCC students took The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) exam and scored above the state and national averages. i) National Exam for Therapeutic Massage:

• TMCC Pass Rate - 100%, • NV Pass Rate - 51.30% • National Pass Rate - 60.02%.

c) Five TMCCgraphic arts students brought home seven Gold and Silver ADDY awards in the student competition. The winners, presented by the Advertising Association of Northern Nevada, will go on to be judged at the regional and national level by the American Advertising Federation.

d) David Culverson, environmental science student, in his first year at TMCCreceived a $4,500 scholarship to do research this summer. The National Science Foundation (NSF)

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Dr. Maria C. Sheehan | Office of the President | (775) 673-7025 | Red Mountain 200 (M1)

Dandini Campus, 7000 Dandini Blvd., Reno, Nevada, 89512 775-673-7000 | www.tmcc.edu

Nevada System of Higher Education | Dedicated to Equal Opportunity

EPSCoR funds research and education in science and engineering. He’ll be working with Dr. Brownyn Haugland, TMCC environmental science instructor, and Dr. Scott Mensing, University of Nevada geography professor.

e) Edith Gonzalez Duarte is the 2008 Regents' Scholar. She earned an associate of arts degree in December of 2008, and will earn an associate of applied science in the dietetic technician program (May 2009) and plans to transfer to the University of Nevada Reno to pursue a degree in international affairs. In 2008, she was a Fellowship Recipient from the Women’s NEW Leadership Research Institute as well as a scholarship recipient of the Nevada Dietetic Association Annual Conference in Las Vegas. Gonzalez Duarte was a legislative intern to Speaker of the Assembly Barbara Buckley for the 24th Special Session and serves as an intern for the 2009 Nevada State Legislature in the leadership office.

4) WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING PROGRAMS a) Nevadaworks, the local workforce development board for Northern Nevada, recently

awarded TMCC$41,600 to help in the retraining of displaced workers in the areas of computer proficiency and workplace skills. Participants will learn word processing skills, spreadsheet applications, and how to use the Internet for job searchers and business applications. The courses will combine lecture with hands-on applications.

b) TMCC just received federal appropriations for nearly $300,000 to recruit and train low-income, first-generation students in Northern Nevada. The focus is on access and equity for underrepresented, at-risk students.

5) COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS a) The college’s new solar technologies lab is an excellent example of public-private

partnerships in Northern Nevada. NVEnergy provided a generous $100,000 donation to TMCC to purchase the equipment. In addition TMCC is pursuing federal stimulus dollars to build and sustain the college’s renewable energy program. The college currently has 58 students enrolled in the program.

b) TMCC joined with the Academy of Arts, Careers and Technology, the Academy for Career Education, Sierra Nevada Job Corps and the Western Apprenticeship Coordinator’s Association to provide the 3rd Annual Technology Expo. The event featured demonstrations in automotive repair, computer technologies, renewable energy, electronics and many other high-demand good-paying career fields.

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Five Top Achievements  

Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity Research has a positive economic impact to the region and to the state. A 2008 study found that $1 in state money invested in UNLV research generates over $4.50 in economic impact. Cutting edge research informs and improves teaching and learning outcomes for undergraduate and graduate students and draws scholars from around the world. Las Vegas and the region offer unique research opportunities, often of global significance, for study of sustainable desert cities, rural/frontier environments, urban growth, immigration and health. Specific, recent university recognition includes:

The National Science Foundation ranks UNLV in the top five fastest growing research institutions in the country on the basis of new publications in sciences and engineering;

• UNLV faculty are currently conducting research that includes development of a device to assist the visually impaired; equipment for monitoring solar and wind power; and the collection, analysis, and dissemination of data measuring the well-being of children and youth in Nevada.

• UNLV chemistry professor Dong-Chan Lee recently received the prestigious CAREER award from the National Science Foundation. This competitive award is the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government on scientists and engineers beginning their independent careers. Lee will receive $484,000 over a five-year period to support his ongoing research on making organic solar cells more efficient.

• UNLV faculty have received a number of sizable grants for environmental research, including projects on dust emissions and their effects on air quality in Clark County; high-efficiency generation of hydrogen fuel; the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail; and climate change in Nevada.

Strengthening and Integrating our Commitment to Diversity Our efforts to enhance both diversity and inclusion are critical to creating a rich academic experience for our university community. Specific actions/accomplishments include:

• Creation of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and hiring a Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion, a cabinet level position; • Development of a more diversity-sensitive admissions process; • Formulation of a “Statement of Commitment to Recruitment of Diverse Students;”

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• Printing of a Spanish-language recruitment brochure targeting especially first generation Latina/Latino college students and their guardians/parents;

• Hosting the inaugural Students of Color Leadership Symposium;

• Opening of the new Multicultural Center/Centro Multicultural offering programmatic, recreational, meeting and office space for our multicultural community; and • Collaborating with the Clark County School District to host local students in the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) program that targets middle school students through mentoring, tutoring, and advising programs with the goal of improving high school graduation rates and transition into college.

Expanded Commitment to Sustainability UNLV is committed to being an aggressive leader in sustainability by serving as a valued resource and model for others in the region and nation. In support of this goal, UNLV has:

• Signed the American College & University Presidents Climate Commitment; • Established a Sustainability Policy; • Formed a Sustainability Task Force; • Developed an expanded turf reduction program; • Hosted two sustainability conferences with expert panelists from the Las Vegas community discussing effective strategies for incorporating sustainability and climate change topics into undergraduate, graduate, and K-12 education; and • Demonstrated dedication to “green” building with the opening of two new state-of-the art buildings, Greenspun Hall (anticipating LEED “Gold” status) and the Science and Engineering Building (certified LEED “Silver”).

Student Life UNLV has evolved from a high-percentage commuter to a primarily full-time student population. This shift requires more on-campus resources and support. With the building of the award winning Lied Library, the new student union, and the Recreation and Wellness Center, campus life has been dramatically changed. The Student Union and the Recreation and Wellness Center are funded primarily from student fees that the students assessed themselves. In addition, this past fall, we dedicated the new Academic Success Center that provides a strong base of support for successful transition into college life and through to successful graduation.

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Completion and implementation of UNLV’s Strategic Plan With collaborative input from both the campus and community, UNLV completed a year-long planning process, Focus 50:100, with the summer 2008 approval of a new Strategic Plan. This plan defines what attributes and shared values will guide our growth, defines our educational and research mission, guides our decision making, and serves as a blueprint for resource allocation.

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School of Dental Medicine

“Building On Its Successes” April, 2009

I am excited to write you about one of the “Best Kept Secrets” in Nevada -- the UNLV School of Dental Medicine (SDM). This outstanding NSHE component has endured some significant “growing pains” to become an institution that is emulated by many of its peer institutions in dental education. The programs at the SDM have earned the designation “full accreditation with no reporting requirements” through 2012 by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association. The School of Dental Medicine is an investment that continues to pay high dividends for citizens of this state. US SURGEON GENERAL’S REPORT ON ORAL HEALTH IN AMERICA (2000) The 2000 Surgeon General’s Report on Oral Health in America alerted our country to “the full meaning of oral health and its importance to general health and well-being.” It further reported on the “silent epidemic” of dental and oral diseases that disproportionately affect some population groups, “with poor children and poor older Americans particularly vulnerable “. Furthermore, “members of racial and ethnic minority groups also experience a disproportionate level of oral health problems”. This disease was described as one that “restricts activities in school, work, and home, and often significantly diminishes the quality of life”. DENTAL NEEDS IN NEVADA Nevadans are no strangers to oral and dental diseases, including dental caries (cavities), periodontal disease (gum disease) and oral cancer. It is particularly distressing to hear anecdotal evidence of school nurses describing that when sending children home with a cold they usually get better; however, when you send them home with a toothache you know they will not get better unless they receive dental treatment. We rely on several indicators to demonstrate that this “silent epidemic” is taking its toll on our citizens. For example, the Nevada State Health Division’s publication, 2006 Nevada Burden of Oral Disease reported the following:

6431 patients were seen in Nevada’s hospital emergency rooms for acute dental problems. The estimated cost of these hospital treatments were just short of $4 million – problems that could have been treated less expensively by dentists or prevented altogether.

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In the category of “Untreated Dental Caries in Nevada” (Children Ages 2-4): Children Age 2-4: 54% have untreated cavities (vs. 23% of US population) Children Age 6-8: 71% have untreated cavities (vs. 50% of US population) Children Age 15: 61% have untreated cavities (vs. 59% of US population)

Of the 17 counties in Nevada, 14 of them are designated as “Health Professions Shortage Areas” by the federal government. (Included are Clark and Washoe counties.)

The estimated dentist-to-population ratio in Nevada is 53.8 per 100,000 population. This is below the national average of 63.2 dentists per 100,000 population.

The use of tobacco products is on the increase in Nevada, which significantly increases the risk for oral cancer in our citizens.

Therefore, it is evident that Nevadans suffer from preventable oral diseases that have been increasingly linked to systemic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, low birth-weight babies and diabetes. The UNLV School of Dental Medicine was originally conceived in the late 1990’s in order to deal with some of these preventable diseases that ravage our citizens. FACILITIES The Shadow Lane campus houses a 150,000-square-foot state-of-the-art dental education complex comprised of 205 dental chairs, digital radiography facilities, pediatric, oral surgery and emergency clinics (including Nevada’s only wheelchair lift for dental treatment); clinical simulation laboratory, classrooms, research facilities and office space. An impressive feature of the Shadow Lane Campus is the SDM Simulation Laboratory. This unique facility allows student-doctors the opportunity to “practice” on mannequins under simulated, real-life conditions. Thus, student-doctors are able to hone their skills in a variety of clinical situations prior to their first encounter with a patient. EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS The dental school offers an accredited four-year, full-time Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) program. Curriculum includes biomedical and oral health sciences, competency in dental practice, clinical and professional studies, public health and externships, oral health promotion, oral cancer prevention. The SDM established a unique curriculum that integrates the biomedical, dental, and behavioral sciences in a way that enables each student to reach his/her full potential. Interestingly, its student-doctors don’t purchase textbooks – they utilize a commercial educational modality known as Vital Source Technologies. This system of “electronic textbooks” enables them to use up-to-the-minute resources which are easily accessible 24/7 on their laptop computers. In addition, the SDM utilizes contemporary electronic features in its classrooms to more efficiently prepare students for careers in patient care, research, or academics.

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Since its inception, the SDM has enjoyed an impressive increase in the number of students who apply for the 75 places in the entering class. What is even more impressive is that the 2008 application cycle produced 2,654 applicants. Simply stated, 1 of every 4 applicants in the US who applies to dental school applies to the UNLV School of Dental Medicine! The Class of 2012 has some impressive academic credentials: a science GPA of 3.33 and a cumulative GPA of 3.48. Approximately 70% are Nevada residents. Nevada colleges are also well-represented, with 13 alumni of UNLV and 13 from UNR. The remaining students represent such prestigious universities as UCLA, UC-Berkeley, and the University of Texas. This class will also be very diverse: 2 Hispanic and 2 African-Americans and 14 Asian/Pacific Islanders will be among its ranks, representing approximately 22% of the class. Additionally, the class is made up of 42% females, a proportion that is consistent with other dental schools in the country but which represents a significant increase to the SDM student population.

The School of Dental Medicine also offers advanced education programs in two recognized dental specialty programs:

A 30 to 36-month master’s degree in oral biology and a certificate program in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics.

A 24-month graduate certificate program in Pediatric Dentistry.

Orthodontics/Dentofacial Orthopedics Specialty Program Last year, over 550 patients signed up to receive orthodontic treatment under a fee schedule that is considerably more affordable than fees in the private sector. Dental residents and faculty also provide treatment to patients who qualify for public assistance (Medicaid) as well as those with developmental problems who are unable to afford care. This program is completely self-supportive and receives no state funds. It recently announced a reduction in its class size from 16 residents to 4 residents, and it will become a 3-yr Masters Degree program. Pediatric Dentistry Specialty Program On August 1, 2008, 4 dental residents enrolled in this inaugural program, which is funded by a grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the US Department of Health and Human Services. This will enable the SDM to expand its critical role in providing badly-needed oral health services to area children and adolescents. This program will also provide care to children and adults with developmental and other special needs – an often neglected population with little access to dental care. It will house one of the only wheelchair lifts in the state which will increase access to those who are disabled. Dental residents will also be providing care at the Enterprise Clinic and various surgical centers in the area.

Pending approval from the Commission on Dental Accreditation, an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) Program will be offered in the Fall of 2009.

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DENTAL CARE FOR THE UNDERSERVED Shadow Lane Clinics Last year, over 37,000 individual patient visits were recorded, and over 38,000 individual dental services were provided. Over 15% of the patients fell into the < 20 years of age category and >27% were over age 50. Fees at Shadow Lane clinics are approximately one-half those charged in private practice – a valuable resource for an area with an average median household income of only $35,000. The savings to the patient population this past year was approximately $1.1 million. When one considers that over 56% of its patients live in zip codes surrounding the SDM, it is clear that the SDM is meeting its goal of serving the underserved in our community. Enterprise Clinic / MLK Boulevard Last year, over 17,000 individual dental services were provided to area patients. 41% of these patients were under the age of 20, and 27% were over the age of 50. Also, $480,245 in dental services was provided under a “sliding-fee scale” for our patients with limited resources. This is the equivalent to $850,071 of dental services billed through the “usual-and-customary-fee” schedule of area dentists. Consequently, this SDM facility provided $369,826 in discounted dental services to area residents in FY 07 – 08. Give Kids A Smile The SDM has hosted this event since the Shadow Lane clinics opened in 2003. The SDM students, staff, and faculty partner with local volunteer dentists, dental hygienists, and the dental supply industry to provide pro-bono dental services to local children. Between 2007 and 2008, over 600 children were treated. In 2008, over $118,000 of free dental care was provided to children who were not able to receive care elsewhere. Head Start In the Las Vegas area, approximately 1/3 of children enrolled in Head Start are uninsured. In 2007, 207 children under the age of 5 received dental screenings through the SDM. An astounding 47% of these children had untreated dental caries (dental cavities). Smiles for Success This program is conceived and coordinated by the local student chapter of the American Association of Women Dentists (AAWD). Patients from the local women’s shelter (Shade Tree) receive basic dental services (exams, cleanings, fillings, extractions) at no cost to them. In some cases, these treatments help women prepare for job interviews. This activity has occurred annually since 2006. Saturday Children’s Clinic This activity was founded and organized in its entirety by dental students Aaron Bjarnson, Nathan Hawley, Ashley Hoban and Kevin Olson. Its goal is to provide pro bono quality, comprehensive dental care to children ages 5 through 12. Patients are referred by the Southern Nevada Dental Society and the Clark County School District. Clinical sessions are held 3 times per year. To date, faculty and student dentists have volunteered more than

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1,000 hours to treat children, and this activity has provided care at more than 240 patient appointments. UNLV/1-Day Program Homeless Treatment Clinic This program is a community-based collaboration with Huntridge Teen Clinic, Clark County's Project Homeless Connect, and the Community Coalition for Oral Health's 1DAY Program. Homeless patients are treated by dental students and supervising dental faculty, who provide them with no-cost treatment on a monthly basis. Treatment is provided at Huntridge Teen Clinic's facility on Maryland Parkway in Las Vegas. To date, 100 patients have been treated by SDM faculty and student doctors. It is significant to note that SDM student-doctors and faculty were involved in providing hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of uncompensated dental services at night and on weekends to Nevada residents, both children and adults, at the Shadow Lane Clinic – services they would not likely receive anywhere else. COMMUNITY SERVICE One of the more impressive characteristics of the SDM is its enthusiastic commitment to community service. This is manifested in a variety of activities that have been eagerly embraced by its faculty, staff, and particularly by its student body. I am delighted to share below some examples with you. All of these activities are ongoing and will continue throughout the year. A detailed listing of events are attached to the conclusion of this report “2007-08 UNLV School of Dental Medicine – Community Outreach Activities” (Attachment A).

Elementary School Educational Activities This program has been in existence since the SDM enrolled its first class in the fall of 2002. Its mission is to provide oral health and disease prevention and nutrition education to area elementary schools deemed “at risk” by federal standards. The SDM has worked cooperatively with school nurses to sustain this program. To date, over 25,000 students have benefitted from this program. Senior Center / Assisted Living Centers Educational Activities The mission of this program is to provide oral health and disease prevention and nutrition education to area senior citizens. Oral health and oral cancer screenings are also provided. To date, over 1,200 local senior citizens have benefited from this program.

Crackdown on Cancer This is a program designed to educate Nevada youth on the risk factors for oral cancer resulting from tobacco use. This program is funded through a continuing grant from the Fund for a Healthy Nevada and Trust Fund for Public Health and the UNLV School of Dental Medicine, and is offered to all high schools in Nevada, including over 35 rural sites. The program is also offered to various middle schools.

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• 53,000 high school and middle school students screened since 2001 as part of the Crackdown on Cancer Program (as of January 31, 2007). • 96,000 Nevada students have attended the presentations since its inception. • About 30% of statewide screenings occur in rural areas. • Over 1,300 suspicious oral lesions have been found in students who have Been screened as part of the Crackdown on Cancer program.

UNLV Sgt Clint Ferrin Memorial Clinic This activity is named for the brother of one of our student-doctors who was killed in action while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. It was established to treat members of the Nevada National Guard who are non-deployable as a result of significant dental disease. These “citizen soldiers” often have no dental insurance and have limited resources to access regular dental care. This clinic has been a collaborative effort between the Armed Forces and the UNLV School of Dental Medicine.

Dental School Simulation Course This course is offered semi-annually to college students who are interested in a dental career. The 2-day course offers clinical and didactic presentations along with hands-on experience in dental procedures on a mannequin. This course was entirely conceived and organized by two of our dental students, and serves to raise funds for student activities. It has just completed its second year of existence, and it’s significant to note that research on its activities has been published in peer reviewed journals.

Summer 2008 Activity Summary: 157 predental students from 26 universities 74 dental student volunteers (roughly 1/3 of the student body) 15 faculty volunteers

RESEARCH Since its inception, the SDM has secured $7.2 M in competitive grants and awards. For a relatively young institution, this data reflects the SDM’s commitment to UNLV’s emerging research agenda. Included in its research activities is a robust program of student research. During the last academic year, 14 students from the SDM and 28 faculty presented scientific papers at national and international research meetings. This represented one of the highest proportions of student researchers by a dental school in the U.S. FACULTY The distinguished faculty of the SDM reflects an impressive array of individuals recruited from the ranks of academia, research, and clinical practice. The school has a very well-rounded and engaged faculty that consists of seasoned teachers as well as some of the brightest young faculty in the country. Many of them have been the recipients of national honors and awards, and they are well-respected among their peers. There were 11 publications in professional

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journals by SDM faculty in FY 07-08. The faculty is also distinguished by its rich ethnic and cultural diversity that reflects our society-at-large. 57 faculty have full-time appointments, and 52 have part-time appointments. STUDENTS SDM Students Produce 2009 Video on Patient Care and Community Service

SDM’s Student Government has produced a video highlighting the many contributions of SDM students to the community and the impact they have on the lives of Nevada citizens. The video features patients talking about the excellent care they receive at SDM as well as students commenting on the exceptional quality of SDM’s educational program. This video will be available for viewing on SDM’s website.

SDM Students Organize Miles for Better Smiles 5K Run & 1 Mile Walk

SDM students organized and conducted a successful charity run/walk in early March 2009. More than $10,000 in donations and pledges were received and will help defray a portion of the costs for patients who cannot otherwise afford basic dental care. Over 250 people from SDM and the community came out to support the event, and over a dozen corporations and several dozen persons donated time, money and/or supplies. A Committee of students and faculty members will determine distribution of the funds in support of treatment for eligible patients.

SDM ASDA Chapter Earns National Awards in 2009

SDM’s chapter of the American Student Dental Association received the following: 1st Place Awards in national competitions involving all U.S. dental schools; The Ideal ASDA Award, given to the best chapter in the country; The Fundraising Award, given to the Chapter that executes the best

fundraising activities; The Crest Healthy Smiles Award, given to the best Community Outreach

Program; The 1st Place Crest/Proctor & Gamble Community Dentistry Award

included a cash prize of $2,600 to support student outreach activities; The Chapter and its officers/delegates have won numerous other awards in

prior years; SDM ADEA Chapter Receives National Award in 2009

SDM’s student chapter of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA) received the national Award for Outstanding Activities at ADEA’s 86th Annual Session (2009). This is the 2nd consecutive year that SDM’s student chapter has been recognized at the national level.

Each year since 2006, a UNLV School of Dental Medicine student has been

elected to the Administrative Board of the National Council of Students of the American Dental Education Association (ADEA). Additionally, over

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this same time period, a greater number of UNLV SDM students have held national positions within ADEA than students from any other dental school in the United States or Canada.

SDM Students Lead National Associations

Student-doctors at SDM have been elected or selected to serve in numerous positions for national professional associations including:

The student representative on the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA);

Officers of the American Student Dental Association (ASDA) and for the American Dental Education Association (ADEA);

Delegate to the Nevada Dental Association. Between 2006 and 2009, SDM had more elected student representatives

serving ADEA than any other U.S. dental school. SUMMARY These are some snapshots of the impressive accomplishments of the UNLV School of Dental Medicine. These accomplishments support the fact that the SDM is fulfilling its original mission to provide Nevada with much needed dentists and to educate a generation of oral health providers who have a firm foundation in contemporary biomedical knowledge and clinical skills, coupled with a deep commitment to serving their communities. It is truly one of Nevada’s “Best Kept Secrets” and will be NSHE’s source of pride for many years to come.

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Attachment A

2007-2008 UNLV School of Dental Medicine – Community Outreach Activities 10,984 toothpaste and toothbrushes were given to children and adults attending the community outreach activities. Community activities completed: • 8,113 Oral Health Education Presentations • 2, 871 Oral Health Screenings • 116 Dental Treatments • 499 Fluoride Varnish Applications • 218 Sealant Applications • 868 Hours of additional Outreach Activities were conducted by DS3 dental students • Two (2) Third-Year dental students completed a total of 3 weeks in externship rotations

at 2 Rural Nevada Dental clinics Fall 2007 • 89 children received oral health screenings at the Pahrump Health Fair, September 1, 2007 • 15 adults received dental treatment at the Meeting Everyone’s Needs with Dignity (MEND) Center, Pacoima, CA, September 8, 2007. • 155 adults received oral hygiene information at the Community Partners for Better

Health 4th Annual Choose and Move Festival at the Doolittle Community Center, September 8,

2007. • 135 children received Oral Hygiene instruction at Montessori Visions Academy, September 17, 2007. • 200 Patients at the Health South Rehabilitation Hospital Community Heath Fair were given information and handouts on the UNLVSDM, September 21, 2007. • 157 Special Needs residents at Desert Regional Center re3ceived oral health screenings from September 22 to December 8, 2007. • 207 CDI Head Start Children received oral health screenings, from October to

November, 2007. • 94 senior residents at 4 Assisted Living Centers received oral health cancer screenings from Oct. to Dec., 2007. • 75 adults received oral health information at the Truck Health Fair, October 12, 2007. • 98 children and adults received oral health information at the Principium “Make a Difference Day” Fair at the KCEP parking lot, October 20, 2007. • 414 senior residents at 19 Assisted Living Centers received an oral health presentation,

October 23, 2007. • 101 At-Risk Hispanic children and adults received dental treatments at the Flying Doctors Outreach in Indio, CA, November 4, 2007. • 105 children and adults received oral health instruction and 59 children and adults had

oral health screenings, Moapa Health Fair, Paiute Indian Tribe, Valley of Fire, Oral Health Screenings, November 4, 2007

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• 60 Homeless Adults received oral health screenings at the 15th Annual Project Homeless Connect Health Fair, November 6, 2007.

• 45 children received oral health instruction and 25 children had oral health screenings, YMCA Meadows Lane, November 15, 2007 by members of the Hispanic Student Dental Association.

• 78 Middle and High School Students were given a presentation on “Careers in Dentistry” And a hands-on Lab exercise from the UNLV Upward Bound Program conducted by the Hispanic Student Dental Association at the UNLV SDM, November 17, 2007. • 822 elementary school children at 5 at-risk elementary schools received oral health

screenings by the Colgate Bright Smiles Bright Futures Program in partnership with the School of Dental Medicine, Week of December 3-7, 2007.

Spring 2008 • 5,686 children from Clark County School District (CCSD) Elementary Schools were given Oral Hygiene Instruction (DEN 7156), Spring 2008 Semester. • 158 children had sealants placed on their teeth, January to December, 2008 through the Seal Nevada South Program. • 65 Middle and High School Students were given a presentation on “Careers in Dentistry” and a hands-on Lab exercise from the UNLV Upward Bound Program conducted by the Hispanic Student Dental Association at the UNLV SDM, March 8, 2008 • 144 high school students received oral health information at the UNLV CAEO Gear-Up

Health Fair at Rancho High School, April 20, 2008. • 46 children received oral health screenings and fluoride varnish at the Victory Baptist Church Health Fair, April 27, 2008. • 60 children received oral health screening and dental sealants placed on their teeth at the

Tonopah Health Fair, Tonopah, NV on April 12, 2008. • 898 elementary school children at 5 at-risk elementary schools received oral health

screenings by the Colgate Bright Smiles Bright Futures Program in partnership with the School of Dental Medicine, Week of May 14-20, 2008.

Summer 2008 • 868 Hours in Community Service were completed by third-year dental students during The fall, spring and summer semesters as part of their DEN 7359 Community Outreach Course. • 99 Children and adults received oral health screenings and fluoride varnish placed on Their teeth at the Safe Street Health Fair at the Cambridge Recreation Center on May 31, 2008. • 125 children and adults were given oral hygiene information at the Clark Community School Health Fair, June 23, 2007. • 163 adults were given Oral Hygiene Instruction at the Lieburn Senior Center health Fair, July 15, 2007. • 150 children and adults were given oral health instruction at the Clark Community School Health and Safety Fair, June 20, 2008. • 99 children had fluoride varnish placed on their teeth at the Pahrump Back-to-School Health Fair, Pahrump, NV, August 3, 2008.

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• 475 children were given oral hygiene information at the Clark Community School National Night and Back-to-School High Fair, August 5, 2008. • 67 children received oral health screenings and fluoride varnish at the Frontier Girl Scouts Back-to-School Health Fair, August 11, 2008. • 188 children received oral health screenings and fluoride varnish at the 10th Annual Nevada Youth Alliance Back-to-School Health/Education Fair at the CSN Cheyenne Campus, August 16, 2008. • 1 Third-year dental student completed a two-week externship (July 21-August 1) at the Owyhee PHS Indian Hospital in Owyhee, Nevada. • 1 Third-year dental student completed a one-week externship (July 28-August 1) at the Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry Clinic in Yerington, Nevada.

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ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEVADA, RENO… With a current enrollment of nearly 17,000 students, the University of Nevada, Reno has been the state’s land‐grant higher education institution since its founding in 1874. For more than a century, the increasingly diverse student body has congregated on the historic University Quadrangle and the surrounding core campus, designated as a Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places since 1987. 

The first campus of the University of Nevada was founded in Elko in 1874 but was moved by the Nevada Legislature to Reno in 1885, where at that time more than half of the state’s population was located. The campus’ first building, Morrill Hall, was constructed on a bluff overlooking the city; it was named for U.S. Sen. Justin Morrill, the author of the 1862 Land‐Grant College Act that led to the development of the University of Nevada. The University bestowed its first diplomas to a graduating class of three. 

From 1907 until 1936, the family of Comstock Lode mining czar John Mackay bequeathed sizeable funds to the University which allowed for expansion and development of the campus. The world‐renowned Mackay School of Mines (now the Mackay School of Earth Sciences and Engineering) was funded by the family, as was the picturesque University Quadrangle, modeled after Thomas Jefferson’s at the University of Virginia.  At the north end of the Quad rests the statue of John Mackay, created by Gutzon Borglum, who gained fame as the artist who carved Mount Rushmore.  

The University is not just a historic place, but a location of environmental and scenic  value. The 1985 Nevada Legislature named the 290‐acre main campus in Reno as a state arboretum because of its wide variety of trees, shrubs and flowers. 

Today, the University offers about 180 degree programs from eight schools and colleges, including the state’s School of Medicine. Its range of academic specialties extends from environmental sciences – the University pioneered snow surveying and a method to measure the water content of snow at high elevations, for example – to renewable energy resources, global public heath, the study and deterrence of terrorism and environmental literature. The University has produced six Pulitzer Prize winners in journalism, has a world‐class laboratory that tests seismic stresses on large‐scale structures, features a nationally ranked MBA program and is home to the Davidson Academy of Nevada, where profoundly gifted 11‐ to 17‐year‐olds study at the country’s only free, public specialized school for these students on a college campus. Notable Nevada alumni include famed authors Walter Van Tilburg Clark (“The Ox‐Bow Incident”) and Robert Laxalt (“Sweet Promised Land”), as well as NFL Hall of Famer Marion Motley, who helped break the color barrier in the National Football League in the 1940s. 

Growth is a fact of life at the University, and four new buildings are helping shape the campus’ future. The Joe Crowley Student Union, a four‐story center of campus life, opened in 2007. The building has formed, along with the Mathewson‐IGT Knowledge Center (which opened in 2008), a hub for student socializing, entertainment, leadership and research. The Knowledge Center is one of the most technologically advanced libraries in the country, encompassing all facets of the digital age in a single, multifunctional facility. The other buildings in the group, both slated to open in 2010, are the Davidson Mathematics and Science Center and the Center for Molecular Medicine. 

The University’s outreach component has impact throughout the state and its communities. The University’s Cooperative Extension programs, agricultural experiment stations, laboratories, medical facilities and extension offices allow the University to serve the Silver State in more than 65 cities and towns in all 17 

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counties. In addition, the campus administers 40 University Study Abroad Consortium (USAC) programs in 25 countries – one of the largest study abroad programs in the country.  

Milton Glick is the University’s 15th president, assuming his appointment as the University’s chief executive in August 2006. During his tenure, Glick’s emphasis has been on improving student success, including making significant gains in retention and graduation, substantial growth in the size and quality of the freshman class, and dramatic increases in the retention and number of minority students. Under Glick’s direction, the University has identified five “Keys to the Future” that have provided the institution with an important strategic focus. They include: 1) Create a culture of completion; 2) Create a “sticky” campus featuring facilities and programming that keep students and the community engaged; 3) Do more/better as the institution grows; 4) Increase research capacity and quality; 5) Service to the community and state, with special emphasis on becoming one of the state’s economic anchors and in blurring the lines between campus and community. A set of metrics put in place to evaluate progress have shown significant gains in all of these areas. 

University of Nevada, Reno notable accomplishments: 

• In the last two years alone, Nevada has enrolled 17 National Merit Finalists and, for the first time in school history, was in 2009 named a National Merit Sponsoring school. 

• University students in recent years have established an increasingly high standard of accomplishment in national student competitions. In 2008, the University’s concrete canoe team, comprised of civil engineering students, took first place at the American Society of Civil Engineers National Concrete Canoe competition. In 2009, members of the school’s debate team became the first team ever to capture national parliamentary debate’s two highest national prizes in the same year – the National Parliamentary Debate Association Championship Tournament and the National Parliamentary Tournament of Excellence. University teams in Integrated Marketing Communications (marketing and journalism), Mars Rover (mechanical/materials engineering) and mining engineering have also won national or world titles in recent years. 

• The University’s Master of Business Administration degree program is ranked in the top 20 nationally by BusinessWeek Magazine. Among the top 20, it has also been recognized as the most affordable. 

• By its very proximity, the University is in a unique position to study and research the many facets of Lake Tahoe and its environment. Nevada researchers have studied everything from the lake’s watershed to the effects of wildfire on water clarity. 

• In 2008, University researchers were chosen to head a team of scientists from Nevada who have been charged to conduct a groundbreaking study on climate change in the state of Nevada. The $15 million effort, made possible by the National Science Foundation, will provide the state with much‐needed climate change data and scientific inquiry. 

• Researchers from the University are helping to create the world’s most accurate atomic clock, which will lose only a fraction of a second over the next 14 billion years. 

• The University’s talent in earthquake expertise is nationally recognized. Not only does Nevada have experts in seismology, geology, geodesy and civil engineering, the University is home to one of the largest earthquake simulation laboratories in the country, as well as the state’s seismological laboratory, which has provided Nevada with important data in the wake of a major earthquake events in Wells, Nev. 

• University researchers are part of a team of scientists who are working to save the world’s largest freshwater fish. Their efforts have been chronicled by National Geographic. 

• The University is classified by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Education as a Comprehensive Doctoral institution. This designation places the University in an elite group of universities in the country that offer degrees in the humanities, the social sciences, the sciences, technology, business, education, engineering, public policy and social work. 

• The University’s sponsored research expenditures in fiscal year 2008 were $74.6 million; this represents a 4.2 percent increase over the prior year. 

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• The Institute for the Study of Gambling and Commercial Gaming was established by the University of Nevada, Reno in 1989. As the first academically oriented program of its kind, the Institute serves as a structure to broaden the understanding of gambling and the commercial gaming industries. Its aim is to encourage and promote research and learning so that the multifaceted issues surrounding gambling and commercial gaming and the ways in which individuals and society‐at‐large are affected might be addressed.  

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Western Nevada College Office of the President

MEMORANDUM TO: Regent William Cobb FROM: Carol A. Lucey, President SUBJECT: Five Top Qualities of WNC DATE: April 14, 2009 At our regular weekly staff meeting this morning, college staff responsible for public information, institutional research, planning and assessment met with me to look carefully at the data and evidence that supports our college’s five top qualities. .This work was a pleasure as it helped us all to confirm some great things we believe about our college’s accomplishments, and to reinforce our pride in that success. I have tried to keep the evidence in bullet form for simplicity of use. If you have any questions, please let me know. You will note that much of this data is found in this year’s Annual Report. The website for the Annual Report is http://www.wnc.edu/president/annual_report_0708.pdf . If you would like another hard copy of the report, we can also arrange to send you one. 1. Positive, supportive, and personalized environment for all students, which places an emphasis on student

success and achievement a. Early Alert, Peer Mentoring and Tutoring programs: (page 5 of the 2007-2008 Annual Report) These

programs produced an overall student course completion rate of 82%, with students participating in learning communities having rates as high as 97%

b. Helpful, considerate and flexible faculty: Community College Survey of Student Engagement (CCSSE), 2008 student survey data measures student relationships with faculty at 5.93 out of 7, significantly higher than the national community college norm (page 3 of Annual Report)

c. Student satisfaction with quality of instruction: Of the student course evaluations that were conducted this past year, 93% of student responses indicate their instruction was either “excellent” or “commendable.”

d. High school yield rates: The average percentage of recent high school graduates from our service area who attend WNC is 26%. In Carson City, the number is 39%. (Annual Report, page 14)

e. Student success rates: Over the last ten years, annual college degree and certificate awards increased by 34.8%

f. Student success rates: Over the last six years, the number of full-time students pursuing degrees and certificates increased by 42%

g. Student success rates: Over the last ten years, WNC retention from fall to spring increased from 48% to 60% h. Financial support for students: Over the last ten years, total financial aid awarded increased from under two

million dollars per year, to 4.9 million dollars per year. At the same time, the 2007 college student loan default rate dropped to 6.8%

i. Nursing student success rates: The most recent A.D.N. student successful course completion rate is 96% and the most recent NCLEX pass rate is 91.84%

2. Principles of Community that are derived from our various small communities' most important values, and

are meant to prepare graduates to contribute to their communities a. Formally adopted community values: Principles of Community were adopted by all senates and councils, and

are published and posted in every classroom at each campus and site http://www.wnc.edu/policymanual/iii.php b. College giving rate: Over half of all WNC employees contribute to the annual Foundation “family” campaign

(52%), with this year’s total five-year pledged amount = $178,164 (Annual Report, page 9) c. Emergency planning and community protection: Emergency notification systems and crisis management

training are in place at all campuses d. Attention to needs of disabled students: ADA renovation projects – completed and/or planned

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2

e. Learning communities: Strong student work programs, student government organizations and clubs, and new athletics programs, developed to enhance student engagement on campus – academic achievement of these groups is monitored and reported regularly (see Annual Report, page 5) – Since the advent of athletics, every college team has achieved NJCAA All-American status (GPA>3.0; Win-loss > 50%).

f. No-layoff policy: During the budget crisis, all budget cuts were made by conservative planning, position freezes and staff reassignments and staff buyouts, therefore avoiding any staff layoffs

g. Student demographics match to community: In the last five years, the college student ethnic demographics have come close to resembling those of the communities we serve. Minority retention and graduation rates are at least as good as majority rates

3. Evidence-based planning

a. Budget stability maintained, despite significant fiscal challenges; includes an initial reserve percentage (all funds) of 1.63% for FY09

b. Foundation planning: 2008 feasibility study with results confirming high level of satisfaction with college among community

c. College-wide strategic planning led by SPFIE committee – evidence detailed in beige box on page 3 of the Annual Report

d. Data-driven planning: All college goals tracked by measurable performance indicators published each year in our institutional portfolio and our Annual Report

4. Commitment to institutional excellence

a. Viewed positively by the community: Donors and other community leaders in Foundation feasibility study gave the college an 86% favorability rating, and the college administration a 90% favorability rating

b. External curriculum support: Active curriculum program advisory boards in all five applied curricular areas c. Increasing volume of gifts, despite downturn in economy: 29% increase in number of gifts to the

Foundation – from FY08 to FY09 d. National awards: Information & Marketing earned 5 national awards and 11 regional awards in the past five

years. The Nevada New Century Scholar Award went to a WNC student in 2009 (one award is given to one student who attends a community college in each state).

5. Commitment to diverse communities

a. Community support: 82% of residents from community survey thought that faculty members are committed to student success and are enthusiastic about teaching

b. External advisory boards: Seven community advisory boards support the college with a total membership of 94 from the WNC seven county service area

c. Rural nursing: Sixteen students are admitted to the rural ADN nursing program each year. d. Rural teaching: In collaboration with NSC, WNC supports a bachelor’s program in teaching for rural service

area. To date 33 students have graduated from this program. Of these, 15 have been placed in rural school locations.

e. Rural access: Complete non-lab-based general education curriculum available for every degree program at all campuses and learning centers, via interactive video, web instruction or on site classes

f. Multicultural Festival, Latino outreach, Environmental Film Festival, Faces, Voices & Stories speakers program

g. In collaboration with the university cooperative extension service, created and delivered a specialty crop institute

h. In collaboration with the university cooperative extension service, a Senior College is offered regularly in rural locations

i. Science support to the community: Observatory http://www.wnas-astronomy.info/index.html http://teledocs.blogspot.com/

j. Arts support to the community: Musical Theatre and Gallery Art http://www.wnc.edu/arts/wnmtc/ http://www.wnc.edu/arts/gallery_carson/ http://www.wnc.edu/arts/gallery_fallon/

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David Waterhouse President 3200 E Cheyenne Avenue #1097

North Las Vegas, NV 89030 Phone: (702) 651-4380 Fax: (702) 651-4416 Date: April 13th, 2009 To Whom It May Concern:

I wish to highlight the wonderful and life changing experience of being a student of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Over the past two years, I have studied at the College of Southern Nevada and will be graduating this spring with an Associate of Business degree. I plan to transfer and complete a BSBA in Finance before attending graduate school.

For those that know me, a passion for classroom learning has not always been a strong point of mine. I am the poster child for what is considered a “non-traditional” student. Due to various personal circumstances, I struggled and eventually was forced to drop out of high school. After years of professional and personal growth, I found myself living in Las Vegas realizing that for me to accomplish my dreams and become successful, I must give education another chance. The College of Southern Nevada was the answer.

With only a GED in hand and having recently been laid off from a job in the mortgage industry, I was able to enroll in the College of Southern Nevada. I found that there were many students at CSN with a similar story as myself who were being given a second chance in life. The small class sizes, affordable tuition, and extra attention paid by faculty members have helped students like myself realize their full potential. Through my education at CSN, I have discovered a love for politics, public service, and leadership that have altered my views on life and quite frankly, I am a better person because of it.

Without the supportive nature of CSN’s education environment, this would not have been possible. I will forever be thankful for the opportunities provided to me as a CSN student and will continue to appreciate my new found potential and love for education.

If you have any questions regarding my experience as a student at CSN, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely, David Waterhouse President

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William G. Cobb, Esq. Erickson, Thorpe & Swainston, Ltd. 99 West Arroyo Street P.O. Box 3559 Reno, Nevada 89505 Eron Sanchez, President Great Basin College 1500 College Parkway Elko, NV 89801 Dear Regent Cobb, Before I define my experiences at Great Basin College, I feel it is necessary to give some background about myself. I graduated from Battle Mountain High School at the age of seventeen in 1992. I immediately moved to Pittsburgh and attended the University of Pittsburgh on an Engineering Scholarship. I remained in Pittsburgh for eleven years; I did not complete my degree, but rather became an entrepreneur where I managed my private business for six years. After a few years, I realized that this was not the life for me. I returned to Battle Mountain and applied for the nursing program at Great Basin College. In the spring of 2008, I received my RN degree and am proud to say that I am now a licensed registered nurse. I immediately enrolled in the Bachelors of Nursing program at Great Basin College. While I was completing the RN program, I was very active in the Student Nurses Organization, serving out my last year as the President. This taught me the value of student and community involvement, and I liked it. I wanted to continue in student leadership and I wanted to give back to GBC because where else could a 33 year old from “nowhere” Nevada accomplish so much. Therefore, I ran for Student Body President. During my tenure as student body president, I have worked two jobs. I am working full time as a RN in Elko’s local Skilled Nursing Facility and I work for Great Basin College’s Student Life Department. During this time, I have lived in GBC Student Housing because it allows me to be part of the college experience.

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All in all, this has been the most rewarding year of my scholastic career:

Student Body officers sit on college committees, and as Student Body President I have sat on President’s Council all year

Student involvement in campus activities has doubled

Branch Campuses, Battle Mountain, Pahrump, Ely, Winnemucca, have expanded their student involvement programs

Student Government Association has strengthened its partnership with Elko’s coalition, P.A.C.E.

SGA hosted Elko’s first ever televised Congressional Debate

I hosted ongoing student leadership forums from August to present date. These forums are regarding the current budget crisis within our state on all of our campus sites.

Developed GBC’s student legislative Email program

Met with GBC’s districts Senators and Assemblymen

Hosted first ever Legislative session broadcast to a non-chamber site via interactive video at Great Basin College

Currently, I am running for my second term as Student Body President at Great Basin College. I fully understand the need for a college in a location where students such as I would not have otherwise had the opportunity to obtain a college degree. For this, I am eternally grateful. I will shout GBC praises for the rest of my life! Sincerely,

Eron Sanchez, President Student Government Association

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Why does home mean Nevada to me?   

After graduating High School in 2001 at the ripe age of 17, I moved to Reno and began attending college at the University of Nevada.  Although it was challenging at times, I received the best instruction at this college.  My professors were extremely focused on teaching students the course material and were among some of the most insightful people I have ever met.  The services that were offered on campus gave me the tools to succeed and the right environment to learn in.  From the Core Humanities to the Capstone and Diversity courses, UNR gave me the most well rounded education that anyone could ask for.  This came at an exceptionally reasonable cost, given the fact that I had little family contribution and was a first generation college student.  This institution was where I found myself, where I developed critical thinking skills, and where I developed research expertise.  I entered graduate school in the fall of 2007 and continued on at the University of Nevada.  I plan on graduating in May with a Masters degree and will continue to live and work in this state.  Nevada has provided me with the opportunity of a lifetime and I am excited about giving back what it has given to me.   

Although some of my peers in graduate school are not native to Nevada, they contribute enormously to the breadth and depth of this research institution.  We have some of the brightest students on campus and each one of them contributes something unique to our campus community.  These students picked Nevada for a reason, and they work round the clock to secure research grants and continuously produce groundbreaking research.  The quality of the educational experiences at UNR cannot be measured in dollars and cents; the instruction that is gained here is incalculable.  I am confident that an investment in the students at UNR and other colleges in this state will benefit the citizens of Nevada as a whole by providing the infrastructure needed to sustain this state.    

 I am proud to say that I am a Nevadan and I wear my Wolf Pack insignia with pride.  UNR has given me the chance of a lifetime, and I will be honored to give back to this state what it has invested in me.  As the representative for graduate students it is my honor to serve my peers and help them with their academic goals.  I am delighted to be able to boast about the successes of this institution.  The students at UNR bring out the finest that Nevada has to offer and the continuing support of these students should be Nevada’s top priority.  It is with great pleasure that I write this letter so that everyone knows why… home means Nevada to me.  

Sincerely,  

 

Brithany Thomson, President of the Graduate Student Association  

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