The Nevada System of Higher Education’s Board of Regents has announced the appointment of Christopher L. Heavey, Ph.D., as the Interim President of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. This follows a recommendation by Chancellor Patricia Charlton with input from Board Chair Amy J. Carvalho and Vice Chair Jeffrey S. Downs.
Dr. Heavey, part of the UNLV community for over three decades, has been serving as Officer in Charge since early March. With extensive experience at the university, his past roles include Executive Vice President and Provost, Senior Vice Provost, Dean, and Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education. He is also a tenured psychology professor with a doctoral degree from UCLA and a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz.
Board Chair Carvalho noted, “This decision was shaped by the voices of the UNLV community, and we listened. Dr. Heavey has the experience, the institutional knowledge, and the respect of the campus community needed to lead UNLV during this important time.”
Prior to the recommendation, Chancellor Charlton, Chair Carvalho, and Vice Chair Downs held listening sessions in March with participation from hundreds of individuals including student leaders, faculty, staff, and alumni. There was significant support for appointing someone with a strong connection to the university.
Chancellor Charlton added, “Dr. Heavey has earned the respect of the campus through years of thoughtful leadership and a genuine commitment to UNLV. He understands the complexity of this moment and is well prepared to guide the university with both confidence and vision.”
The Board has also approved Dr. Heavey’s employment agreement, effective from April 25, 2025, to April 24, 2028.
