Welcome to our Fall 2025 University of Nevada, Reno's College of Liberal Arts Insider Magazine. This magazine captures the overview of amazing things happening with the College, including student, faculty and alumni highlights. We hope you enjoy!
University of Nevada, Reno • Insider Magazine • Fall 2025 Edition
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
New Center for Constitutional Law D iscover how our College is evolving with a dedicated space for law and justice. Read more on page 8. First-Ever Alumni Trip to Italy! The College of Liberal Arts launches an inaugural international journey. Read more on page 12. Faculty Secures $300K+ in Research Funding Faculty member secures $300,000+ NSF Grant for ongoing language revitalization research. Read more on page 14.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
03 FROM THE DEAN
10 UNDERGRADUATE SPOTLIGHT
04 THE COLLEGE’S STRATEGIC PLAN
11
GRADUATE SPOTLIGHT
05 THE COLLEGE’S STRATEGIC PLAN
12 INAUGURAL ALUMNI TRIP: EUROPE
06 THE COLLEGE’S
13
INAUGURAL ALUMNI TRIP: EUROPE
IMPACT REPORT 2025
07 ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR 2025
14
FACULTY HIGHLIGHTS
08 THE INSIDE SCOOP: CLA STYLE
15 FACULTY HIGHLIGHTS
09 THE INSIDE SCOOP: CLA STYLE
16
SUPPORT AND CONNECT
FROM THE DEAN
To the College’s wonderful alumni..
As Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, it’s both an honor and a joy to connect with you, our well-accomplished alumni, whose impact in the world continues to make us proud every day. You are living proof of the power of a liberal arts education. Whether you’re leading in your profession, serving your community or exploring new paths, you exemplify what it means to be a critical thinker and problem solver in a dynamic and ever-changing world. Thank you for carrying the mission of our College with you and for showing what’s possible when curiosity, compassion and creativity lead the way. There is so much to be excited about here in the College. We’re launching a new Center for Constitutional Law, which will be a hub for research, civic engagement and student opportunity. We’re also in early conversations about a potential name change for the College; one that more fully reflects the evolving scope and impact of our programs. New academic initiatives are also taking root, including a Forensic Studies Certificate Program designed to prepare students for careers at the intersection of science, justice and public service. Meanwhile, our alumni community is becoming more connected than ever through new initiatives like our Alumni Spotlight video series (now available on our YouTube channel) and an exciting Italian Alumni Trip planned for next fall. All this momentum is powered by your example and support. Every day, you demonstrate the real-world value of a liberal arts education. You inspire our students, energize our faculty, and remind us that our work has meaning far beyond the classroom. Thank you for being a part of this journey. We are proud of you, always, and we look forward to continuing to grow and celebrate together.
DEAN, COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS
2 0 2 5 - 2 0 3 0 THEME 1: Invest in People Foster an environment that attracts
and retains students, faculty and staff from diverse backgrounds. Provide students and faculty with the resources they need to excel in their areas of expertise. Create well-equipped, attractive and welcoming workspaces that enhance creativity and productivity.
THEME 2: Serve Our State Produce well-educated graduates who contribute productively to the state and nation. Increase public programming and outreach efforts to communities outside the University. Foster partnerships with businesses, government agencies, community organizations, public schools and other external stakeholders.
Guided by committees and thoughtful deliberation, the College's latest
strategic plan charts a focused path forward.
STRATEGIC PLAN
THEME 1: Invest in People THEME 3: Research, Create and Innovate
Advance the College’s contributions to the University’s aspirational goals for AAU membership and enhanced R1 status by strengthening academic research, scholarship and graduate education. Infuse our research mission with enhanced research and creative activities support for academic faculty. Pursue innovative initiatives to strengthen graduate education.
THEME 4: Tell Our Stories Celebrate the achievements of our faculty, students and alumni through targeted media and marketing initiatives. Emphasize the centrality of the College to the University’s mission.
66 Undergraduate Minors
2.965 Undergraduate & 377 Graduate Students
91.4% College Retention Rate
(Fall ‘24 to Spring ‘25)
40 Undergraduate
$5.9M Undergraduate Support, FY24
& 10 Dual Degrees Offered
Impact Report 2025 Highlights
$881,773 Graduate Support, FY24
20 Master & 8 Doctoral Degrees
Donor Support Raised in FY24 $5.1M
3 Online & 5 Accelerated BA/MA Programs
1:20 Faculty : Student
ALUMNUS OF THE YEAR 2025 ONDRA BERRY
From the classroom to command: Ondra Berry exemplifies the power of a liberal arts education
MARINA BUCINI
As an alumnus of the Department of Political Science, retired Major General, Ondra Berry, has carved an extraordinary path of leadership and service. From serving in the highest ranks of the Nevada Air National Guard to influencing community and organizational change, Berry credits the roots of his success to his liberal arts education. “When it comes to leadership, team building, working with people, problem solving, research and figuring out life’s most complex problems in an organizational or community setting, I reflect right back here to liberal arts,” Berry says. His words resonate deeply, highlighting how the versatility and depth of a liberal arts background shape adaptive, insightful and effective leaders. This year, Berry was named Alumnus of the Year by the University of Nevada, Reno’s College of Liberal Arts. This well-deserved honor was celebrated at this year's Annual Awards Ceremony. He attributes his development of both technical and transferable skills; such as critical thinking, communication and strategic problem-solving—to the broad, interdisciplinary foundation he received in this College. Now a respected leader far beyond the classroom, Berry stands as a powerful example of how a liberal arts education can inspire lifelong impact in service, leadership and beyond.
Alumnus of the Year, Ondra Berry, pictured with (left to right) Department of Political Science Chair, Carolyn Warner, College of Liberal Arts Dean, Casilde A. Isabelli and University President, Brian Sandoval.
THE INSIDE
NEW Center for Constitutional Law The Center for Constitutional Law at the University of Nevada, Reno, is redefining legal education and civic engagement. Established by the College of Liberal Arts, Dean, Casilde Isabelli and Executive Center Director, Rick Trachok, the Center fosters interdisciplinary research and discussions on the U.S. Constitution’s impact on modern society. Through academic collaboration, community outreach and innovative workshops for educators, this Center ensures a deep understanding of constitutional principles, shaping Nevada’s legal and civic future for generations to come.
At the Center for Constitutional Law unveiling event (pictured left to right): Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, Casilde A. Isabelli; University President, Brian Sandoval; Executive Director of the Center, Rick Trachok; Guest Speaker and Renowned Constitutional Law Scholar, Erwin Chemerinsky; and Dean of the William S. Boyd School of Law, Leah Chan Grinvald.
Nevada’s first: Department of Criminal Justice launches Forensic Studies Certificate Program The Department of Criminal Justice, is excited to announce the launch of Nevada’s first-ever Forensic Studies Certificate Program. Made possible through a unique partnership with the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Forensic Science Division, this innovative program offers students an introduction to the field of forensics, blending liberal arts education in critical thinking, ethics and communication with scientific expertise in biology, chemistry and biochemistry. This course will begin in the Fall of 2025 led by Teaching Assistant, David Astles, Ph.D., who will oversee the program including curriculum development and advising.
SCOOP
MARINA BUCINI
New local partnership brings art education to Lake Tahoe campus The Department of Art, Art History & Design is excited to announce a new partnership with the Nevada Museum of Art, launching our new Arts, Land and Environment Minor. Students will take courses at the museum’s downtown Reno facility and our scenic Lake Tahoe campus, gaining immersive, place-based learning experiences beyond the traditional classroom. We’re thrilled to bring art education into these dynamic cultural spaces and watch our students thrive.
The Lake Tahoe campus proudly welcomes the College of Liberal Arts as we embark on this exciting new academic opportunity.
College of Liberal Arts celebrates their outstanding faculty, students and future scholars at CLA Annual Award Ceremony The 2025 College of Liberal Arts Annual Awards Ceremony was a vibrant celebration of ideas, creativity and community. We honored the arts, humanities and social sciences, recognizing their vital role in shaping a more thoughtful and connected world. More than 100 awards were presented to outstanding students, faculty, staff, alumni and high school scholars from Washoe County. Honorees reflected the strength and diversity of the College’s academic and creative contributions, highlighting the enduring impact of a community united by learning, innovation and connection.
Dean Isabelli thanking Dr. Isabelle Favre for her dedication and hard work within the College of Liberal Arts upon retirement at the Ceremony.
UNDERGRADUATE SPOTLIGHT
Nevada Legislature hosts record number of Liberal Arts interns this legislative session
Over 30 students got the opportunity to work with legislators in Carson City through the Legislative Internship Program.
ANGELA RUDOLPH AUTHOR
Students from the University of Nevada, Reno enrolled in the Nevada Legislative Internship Program are working directly with Nevada State Legislators in Carson City during the state’s 83rd legislative session. Through the program, interns are paired carefully with legislators based on shared interests. From helping with research, writing speeches, assisting with presentations or testifying about bills in front of the legislature, the experiences are exciting and unique for each student involved. This year, a record 31 students are interning through the program, the highest number since the program began in 1968. “Thanks to the generosity of the legislators, more interns than ever have been able to see the legislature in action this year,” Amber Joiner, Ph.D., adjunct faculty in the Department of Political Science in the College of Liberal Arts, who leads the internship program said. “We are lucky to have a longstanding relationship with the legislature that allows our students to participate. Not all states allow student interns access, either due to geographic or academic credential constraints.”
Uncover the impressive achievements of our exceptional grad students! GRADUATE SPOTLIGHT MARINA BUCINI
Graduate student Audrey Andrews has been awarded a prestigious National Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) Fellowship with the National Park Service — a highly competitive, two-year appointment recognizing outstanding commitment to cultural heritage and preservation. Congratulations, Audrey, on this incredible recognition and opportunity to make a national impact! Graduate student, Casey Varabkanich- Payne, has been awarded the prestigious National Science Foundation (NSF) Graduate Research Fellowship (NSF-GRFP) for his impactful project, "Quantifying the Effects of Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy on the Developing Pelvis." This incredible recognition highlights Casey’s dedication to advancing inclusive and meaningful research—congratulations on this well-deserved honor!
ITALY 26' COLLEGE OF LIBERAL ARTS ALUMNI AND DONOR TRIP
Explore Italy with CLA.
Join fellow College of Liberal Arts alumni and donors for an unforgettable Italian adventure this fall! Wander through charming cities, enjoy amazing food and wine and soak up the art, history and culture that makes Italy so magical. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the fountains of Rome, every moment will be one to remember. It’s more than a trip — it’s a celebration of our shared love for the liberal arts. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime getaway — Italy is calling!
TRIP ITINERARY
DAY 1 OCTOBER 5
Arrive in Rome via a private transfer to a cozy boutique hotel. Candlelit welcome dinner.
ARRIVAL IN ROME
Group breakfast in the hotel Enjoy a private tour the National Gallery of Modern and Contempory Art
DAY 2 OCTOBER 6
Evening walking tour of street art in Ostiense District
ROME
Breakfast in the hotel Tour of Via Appia Antica Cooking class. Cityview Dinner.
DAY 3 OCTOBER 7
ROME
DAY 4 OCTOBER 8
Breakfast on your private terrace overlooking the Italian countryside Moped Tour Wine tasting and dinner at local vineyard.
I TAL IAN COUNTRYSIDE
Breakfast on your private terrace overlooking the Italian countryside Explore local iconic town sites Grape harvest at local Vineyard Dinner at farm to table restuarant
DAY 5 OCTOBER 9
I TAL IAN COUNTRYSIDE
DAY 6 OCTOBER 10
Couple's spa day at a luxurious wellness center.
Stroll through quaint shops and pick up charming souvenirs. Celebrate love at a chic rooftop bar.
I TAL IAN COUNTRYSIDE
FAREWELL ROME DAY 7 OCTOBER 11
Return to Rome via first class train.
Last-minute shopping & city exploring for memories. Depart for home, hearts full of unforgettable moments.
SIGN UP HERE!
FACULTY TAKE A PEEK AT 6 OF OUR MANY FACULTY RESEARCHERS WHO’VE BEEN REWARDED GRANTS FOR THEIR PROJECTS THIS YEAR!
The Department of English proudly celebrates Professor Valerie Fridland, Ph.D. , who was recently awarded the prestigious Outstanding Researcher Award by the University of Nevada, Reno. In addition, she has been named a 2025 Woman of Achievement by the Nevada Women’s Fund, recognizing her influential contributions to sociolinguistics and her dedication to public scholarship.
The Department of Anthropology proudly
congratulates Assistant Professor Sandhya Narayanan, Ph.D. , on receiving the esteemed National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER Award . Her project, Analyzing Determinants in Shaping Language Restoration and Development, has secured over $300,000 in research
funding. This milestone underscores Narayanan’s impactful work in the
Ruthie Meadows, Ph.D., ethnomusicologist, writer and associate professor of ethnomusicology within the School of Music , has been named as one of the two 2025- 2026 Roberto C. Goizueta Distinguished Presidential Fellow's at the University of Miami’s Cuban Heritage Collection. This prestigious fellowship will support Meadows’ continued research into the overlooked contributions of Cuban women in jazz, culminating in her second book – an exploration of gender, tradition and transformation within Cuba’s evolving jazz landscape.
revitalization and sustainability of endangered languages—an area where her research continues to make a lasting difference.
HIGHLIGHTS THESE INDIVIDUALS PLAY A CRITICAL ROLE IN ENHANCING THE UNIVERSITY’S R1 STATUS BY BRINGING HIGH-LEVEL RESEARCH EXCELLENCE TO OUR COLLEGE.
The Department of Criminal Justice’s , Professor, Monica K. Miller, Ph.D., was named a recipient of the Nevada Regents’ Researcher Award, an honor bestowed by the Nevada System of Higher Education in recognition of her significant contributions to the University through her impactful research. In addition to this distinction, she was also honored with the American Psychology-Law Society Mid-Career Award , which acknowledges her substantial contributions to the field of forensic and legal psychology in research, theory and practice.
The Department of Gender, Race & Identity’s , Associate Professor, Emily Hobson Ph.D., received her second National Endowment for the Humanities Fellowship for her forthcoming book, AIDS and Abolition: A History of Care Work Against the Carceral State. Her research investigates HIV/AIDS activism within U.S. prisons during the 1980s and 1990s, highlighting the role of peer education, feminist labor and grassroots health advocacy.
The Department of English's , Associate Professor, Katherine Fusco, Ph.D., received a National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Summer Stipend to support her research and writing for Laughing All the Time: A Biography of Anita Loos (1889–1981), a project that explores the life and legacy of the influential American novelist and screenwriter. In addition to the NEH support, she was also awarded a Franklin Research Grant from the American Philosophical Society , further recognizing the significance of her scholarly work.
Let’s Stay Connected! Wherever life has led you — growing your career, exploring new paths or simply finding your way — the College is proud to be part of your journey. We’d love to hear how you’re doing! Reach out to us at shammack@unr.edu to check in!
Support the College Today!
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