The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) Board of Regents has appointed Matt McNair as the new Chancellor after a national search effort. As the NSHE Chancellor, McNair will act as the chief executive officer, collaborating with the Board and institutional presidents to advance education efforts, bolster community relations, and direct the future course of higher education in Nevada. The NSHE serves over 100,000 students annually through its network of two research universities, a state university, four community colleges, and an environmental research institute.
Amy J. Carvalho, Chair of the Board of Regents, expressed confidence in McNair’s appointment: “Mr. McNair brings the kind of experience and perspective we need to lead a system as diverse and far-reaching as NSHE. The Board was looking for someone who not only understands what’s at stake for Nevada students and families, but who can also build strong partnerships and deliver real results. We believe he is the right person to help shape the future of higher education in our state.”
Regent Susan Brager, Chair of the ad hoc Chancellor Search Committee, indicated that the appointment was the result of extensive efforts and input gathered statewide: “The search process gave us the chance to listen to a wide range of voices, from campus leaders to community members. Mr. McNair stood out not just for his leadership background but for the way he engaged with the issues that matter most to Nevadans, like access, accountability, and student success.”
The selection process for the new Chancellor involved a comprehensive national search led by the Board’s ad hoc Chancellor Search Committee, assisted by an executive search firm. Three finalists were chosen to engage with the public in forums conducted in northern and southern Nevada, followed by interviews with an advisory group and the search committee. Input from students, faculty, staff, and the community at large contributed to the committee’s ultimate recommendation to the Board of Regents, which approved McNair’s appointment in a special meeting.
McNair takes over from Interim Chancellor Patricia Charlton, who has been leading NSHE since September 2023. The Board of Regents acknowledged Charlton for her leadership during the transitional period.
Matt McNair’s professional history includes key appointments at notable research universities. He formerly served as Vice President for Economic and Corporate Engagement at Ohio State University and President of the Ohio State Innovation Foundation, where he directed significant achievements in licensing revenue and corporate alliances. His recent experience includes serving as the interim CEO of the South Carolina Technical College System Foundation, and he currently heads Cardinal Advisors and founded TrustLab. McNair is an alumnus of the University of Nebraska College of Law and the University of Kansas. His accolades include being recognized as a Midlands Business Journal 40 Under 40 honoree.
For any further information or media inquiries, Elizabeth Callahan can be contacted at ecallahan@nshe.nevada.edu or 702-522-7021.
