The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) Board of Regents has posthumously awarded the Distinguished Nevadan Award to Regent Lois Tarkanian. This award is the highest honor given by the Board and acknowledges Dr. Tarkanian’s contributions in education, public policy, and community leadership in Nevada.
Dr. Tarkanian’s career in education began as a classroom teacher before she became a speech pathologist, principal, and college instructor. She was instrumental in founding one of California’s first private schools for the deaf and later established Nevada’s first full-inclusion program for deaf children at the College of Southern Nevada.
“Dr. Tarkanian’s entire life was dedicated to improving education and strengthening her community,” said Board Chair Amy J. Carvalho. “Her leadership and tireless advocacy shaped programs that have benefited generations of students, and her impact will continue to be felt for years and years to come.”
In addition to her educational endeavors, Dr. Tarkanian served on various boards including the Clark County School Board, Las Vegas City Council, and NSHE Board of Regents. Her efforts were pivotal in expanding educational access and developing healthcare education services like the Las Vegas Medical District and UNLV School of Medicine.
“Lois Tarkanian dedicated her life to serving and educating Nevada’s youth. Her commitment to education and public service was truly remarkable, and I greatly admire her dedication to making a difference,” stated Vice Chair Jeffrey S. Downs.
Beyond elected positions, she was involved with several organizations focused on child welfare, education, and leadership development such as Nevada PEP, Family And Child Treatment (FACT), EMERGE Nevada, Public Education Foundation, among others.
Regent Susan Brager highlighted Dr. Tarkanian’s enduring influence: “I was fortunate to know Dr. Tarkanian not only as a Regent but from our time serving together on the school board… She never stopped working to make Nevada better… She was fearless in standing up for what she believed in.”
Dr. Tarkanian’s legacy endures through programs she influenced as well as Lois and Jerry Tarkanian Middle School named after her which serves as a tribute to her impact on students and families in Nevada.
