Nevada State University President DeRionne Pollard highlighted the university’s achievements in 2024 and outlined future priorities during the annual State of the University address. The theme was “Our Mission is Bigger than the Moment,” focusing on affordable education and teaching excellence to aid students’ economic mobility.
In 2025, Nevada State aims to expand campus infrastructure through its SMART Growth Initiative, develop a new strategic plan, and launch an athletics program. A $100,000 donation from the Las Vegas Raiders will support the creation of a Women’s Flag Football program. This sport, along with Men’s Track and Field, will be among the first offered at Nevada State.
“The state of our university is strong,” said President Pollard. She emphasized that sports enhance campus unity and accessibility to higher education. “Nevada State is grateful to have the generous support of the Las Vegas Raiders in this endeavor.”
Myles Hayes, Director of Football Development for the Las Vegas Raiders, expressed enthusiasm for supporting Nevada’s first collegiate women’s flag football program. “Our Inspire Girls flag football program has grown in popularity and is a testament to the power of sports in developing future leaders,” he stated.
The Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents approved a student fee for athletics last December, which is crucial for establishing Nevada State’s athletics program. The Las Vegas Raiders are now a key community partner in this vision.
Additional remarks were given by Amy Carvalho, Chair of the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents; Kevin Osorio Hernandez, president of Nevada State Student Alliance; Dr. Sarah Frey, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs; and student Emma Croft.
