News from April 2024


New method reveals genetic function link in deep Earth microbes

Researchers at Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences have developed a new method to link the genetics and function of individual microbes living deep below Earth's surface. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, highlights how this innovative approach can help understand microbial communities' roles in global processes such as the carbon cycle.


Nevada DMV addresses concerns over relocation of Henderson office

The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is addressing public feedback regarding the relocation of its Henderson office to a new site at Silverado Ranch and Valley View in south Las Vegas.


Cortez Masto highlights $9.2M investment for Nevada's clean energy and STEM initiatives

U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto recently visited the Desert Research Institute (DRI) in Reno to emphasize the importance of over $9.2 million in investments she helped secure through bipartisan legislation. The funding is aimed at supporting DRI's research projects, which are vital for advancing Nevada’s clean energy sector, environmental protection, and STEM education.


CSN honors Bernice Cooper as April 2024 Employee of the Month

The College of Southern Nevada (CSN) has announced Bernice Cooper as the April 2024 Employee of the Month. Cooper, who serves as a Senior Specialist at the Testing Center on the North Las Vegas Campus, was nominated by Amber Suzuki for her dedication and collaborative spirit.


Nevada DMV launches WaitWell system statewide for improved appointment efficiency

The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has introduced a new appointment system, WaitWell, across all its metropolitan and rural offices.


Screening of "Storming Caesar's Palace" at CSN includes director Q&A

The College of Southern Nevada is set to host a screening of the PBS award-winning documentary, "Storming Caesar’s Palace," on April 24, 2024. The event will take place at the Charleston Campus in K101 from 4 to 6:30 p.m.


Psychology series explores forensic psychology and criminology

CAPS, in partnership with the Human Behavior Department, is hosting a series called Conversations with Psychology. This initiative aims to delve into various aspects of psychology through engaging discussions. The focus for this month is on forensic psychology and criminology, featuring a panel of psychologists ready to share their expertise.


CSN Women's Alliance hosts election forum with Vote Nevada

The CSN Women’s Alliance, in partnership with Vote Nevada, is set to host a Primary Election Candidate Forum. The event will be held at the North Las Vegas Campus on April 27, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon in the Student Union Ballroom.


Reno-Sparks joins national effort to map urban heat islands

Several local governments and community groups in the Reno-Sparks area are collaborating to map urban heat islands, with leadership from University professor Tom Albright. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in partnership with the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services and Housing and Urban Development. CAPA Strategies provides technical support.


Reno-Sparks joins national effort for urban heat island mapping

Several municipal, county, and Tribal governments in the Reno-Sparks area are collaborating to map urban heat islands in Reno, Sparks, and parts of Washoe County. This initiative is part of a campaign led by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in partnership with the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services and Housing and Urban Development.


Interpreter interns gain hands-on experience at Las Vegas attractions

The Interpreter Preparation Program's class of 2024 is gaining practical experience by visiting various sites in Las Vegas. The students are practicing their interpreting skills during these tours, enhancing their readiness for community work post-graduation.


CSN forms taskforce to integrate artificial intelligence into campus practices

The College of Southern Nevada (CSN) has introduced an AI Taskforce to guide the institution's approach to artificial intelligence. This initiative aims to ensure that AI is integrated responsibly and ethically into the college's learning environment.


CSN hosts faculty reading event for creative writing exploration

CSN faculty members will have the opportunity to present their original works at an upcoming event hosted by the CSN Creative Writing Program. The event invites students, community members, and faculty to engage with diverse forms and perspectives in creative writing.


Study explores impact of groundwater on Californian ecosystems

A recent study published in Nature Water has explored the relationship between groundwater levels and ecosystems in California. The research, spanning 38 years of satellite data, was conducted by a team led by the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) with partners from University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB), Cardiff University, and Desert Research Institute (DRI). This study aims to inform water management practices that consider both human and ecosystem needs.


CSN rallies advocate for transgender respect following regent’s comments

Students, faculty, and community leaders at the College of Southern Nevada are advocating for the respect and acceptance of transgender individuals. This movement comes in response to recent comments by NSHE Regent Patrick Boylan.


Nevada DMV announces service outage due to electrical maintenance

The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has announced a planned service interruption due to electrical maintenance at its Carson City office.


Study reveals complexity behind global extreme flooding

A recent study published in Science Advances has revealed that the risk of extreme floods in watersheds globally is complicated by the compounding effects of multiple flood drivers. The research, co-authored by Guo Yu, Ph.D., assistant research professor of hydrometeorology at DRI, emphasizes the complexity involved in understanding flood risks.


Nevada's new $12 hourly minimum wage takes effect July 1

The Nevada Office of the Labor Commissioner has announced upcoming changes to the state's minimum wage, effective July 1, 2024.