UNLV Magazine UNLV Publications

Spring 2002

UNLV Magazine

Barbara Cloud University of Nevada, Las Vegas

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Repository Citation Cloud, B. (2002). UNLV Magazine. In S. DiBella (Ed.), C. Weeks (Ed.), UNLV Magazine, 10(2), 1-21. Available at: https://digitalscholarship.unlv.edu/unlv_magazine/23

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on the cover: Film De{Jarr:mem Vol.lO No.2 Spring 2002 Chair Francisco Menendez Phowb y /Ja11id Phil/ijls

Executive Editor: Suzan DiBella Editor: Catc Weeks 7 Framing the Scene Assistant Editors: Diane Russell, Las Vegas is a favorite baclzd7'0Pfor Hollywood Bctry Blodgett flicles. NoJP,UNLV )sg nnving film depa1'tment is Art Director: John Hobbes 11101'/eing to b1'ing the city to the f01'eg7'ound as a Contributing Writer: Barbara Cloud center for writen) directon, and producers. Photographer: John Litty BY BETIY BLODGETI Calendar Editor: Betty Blodgett Mailing List Coordinator: 12 Taking History Public Suzanne Coronado To professm'And y Ki1'1e, history is about rebuilding an old chicleencoop and Publications Manager: D()nni-1M cA leer chatting with old -ti1'1'lC1'Swho have Director, University Publications and memories a mile long. Reprographics: Les Raschko BY DIANE RUSSELL Director, UNLV N ews and Public lnformation: Tom Flagg Vice President for U niversity and 16 Family Man, Law Man Community Relations: Fred A lbrecht UNL V alumnus R icha1'd Perlzins talks

Alumni Association Officers about politics) parenting, and his cowtmit­ President: Kevin Page wtent to his ho111-etow1'J.)Hendermn . '1st Vice Pres.: Jim Kirkwood BY SUZAN DIBELLA 2nd Vice Pres.: Tina Kunzer-Murphy Treasur er: Kirk Hartle 20 New Scholars on the Block Secretary: Bruce Ford To inspire a diverse new generation to 1'each Member.-at ..L arge: Dianne Weeks beyond the bachelor)s deg ree) the McNai1' Past President: Jim Ratigan Scholan Institute gives underg7'aduates a

Alumni Association Board Mcn1bcrs taste of life as academic research en Dave Drcihelhis Rich Israel BY BARBARAC LOUD Nancy Flagg C hip Johnson Sharlene Flush man Jeff Knight 24 And Justice for All Karen Hare Sam Lieberman As the Thomas & Maclz Legal Clinic pre­ Kirk Hendrick Do nyn Monroe pares its students to he attorneys) it)sfilling C ristina Hi nels Barry Shinehouse a gap in services fin' those with little voice in

the co~H'tsyst em, Clade County)s child7'en. BY CATEWEEKS UNLV Magazine is published in March and September by the Un iversity of Nevada, Las Vegas, 4505 Maryland Pkwy. Box 45 10 1Z , Las Vegas, N V 89154- 10 12. World Wide Weh Address: departments hrrp://www.un Iv .edu/ UN LV is an A A/EEO inst itution. 2 Message From the President 28-29 Calendar 3-6 News 30-31 Class Notes

S PIU NG 2 002 + 1 Developing Our UNLV Receives $2.6 Million Grant New Alumni for Biotechnology, Cancer Centers Scholarship Targets

UNLV recently received a grant of more sequencing capabilities." Local Minorities Metropolitan Character than $2.6 million from ilie U.S. Health and UNLV President Carol C. Harter A newly established UNLV Human Services Administration for the acknowledged Nevada's U.S. Sen. Harry Alumni Association scholarship, ear­ university's Cancer Institute and new Reid and U.S. Rep. Jin1 Gibbons for ilieir marked for minority students with Biotechnology Center. assistance in acquiring the federal funding high potential for academic success, everal months ago in my annual State of the University validation of the academic merit of these programs, and it is a Biology professor Penny Amy, principal and for their support of the university's will further the goals of the state address, I had the opportunity to update the campus com­ pleasure to see them receive such resounding endorsement. investigator on ilie grant proposal, said that research programs. "This is yet anoilier Millennium Scholarship program. Smunity on a number of our recent noteworthy successes, While these examples of accomplishment speak to issues of the Biotechnology Center will serve as a indication of the level of sophistication of The UNLV Alumni Association's many of which support our goal of becoming a premier urban quality, we have on our minds issues of quantity lately as well. facility for forensic DNA and otl1er our research here at UNLV, as well as our Millennium Plus Scholarship is research university. In addition to detailing these achievements in With nearly 24,000 students now enrolled at UNLV, the great biotechnology training programs, including interest in partnering wiili government intended to help Millennium Scholars the speech, I also discussed the fact that we are beginning to focus need for new land and space has led us to examine opportunities an environmental testing lab, which can be agencies and private industry to serve tl1e pay for books and fees. This year it our energies in ways that reinforce the metropolitan character of for expansion of the campus in downtown Las Vegas and in vari­ used to provide water quality testing for community," Harter said. will award $500 per semester to 10 our institution; since that time, several significant developments ous locations in the northern part of the city, as well as in the city microbial contaminants. Berch Henry, manager of Metro's graduates of Community College have occurred that further support this effort. All in all, the devel­ of North Las Vegas, and, of course, on property contiguous to "We have formed a partnership with Forensic DNA Laboratory, said the High School in Las Vegas. opments of the last year are beginning to take us in some impor­ the campus. the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Depart­ Bioteclmology Center's DNA profiling "These high school students were tant new directions that I believe you will find interesting. The possibility of land acquisition in these urban areas - or ment's (Metro) Crime and Forensic DNA facility vvi.ll enhance training programs at targeted because they have been areas that will soon be urban - has given us a renewed labs to create a laboratory that will be spe­ Metro. "Workshops will be held for those involved in a 'college' setting vision for the campus, one that I believe will prove to cially equipped to train people nationwide attending UNLV's cell and molecular biol­ through the Community College of Regional campuses located in the urban core of make a great deal of sense over time. We are, after all, in forensic science and human DNA profil­ ogy / biotechnology programs, for employ­ Soutl1ern Nevada for t\vo years and the valley will give us the opportunity to strengthen striving to become one of the finest urban teaching ing," Amy said. "In addition, researchers ees in current state or private DNA profil­ their potential for success at UNLV and research universities in the country. What better from the UNLV Cancer Institute will have ing labs across the nation who need aca­ is high," said Pam Hicks, director of our role as a major player in the economic growth place to do so than in locations that reinforce the new and modern facilities, both in the demic refresher training, and for people school and community relations and urban aspects of that goal? Regional campuses located form of research laboratories and in spe­ with science backgrounds who want post­ coordinator of the Millennium and cultural development of Southern Nevada. in the urban core of the valley will give us the oppor- cialty analyses, such as tissue culture and graduate, hands-on training in DNA tech­ Scholarship program at UNLV. "In tunity to strengthen our role as a major player in the flow cytometry, as well as in DNA niques for employment potential," he said. addition, the scholarship program is First, the growing sophistication of our institution can be seen economic growth and cultural development of Southern Nevada; designed to help the university meet on several fronts. For exan1ple, it was recently announced tl1at they will give us the chance to help build and rebuild our sur­ its diversity goals." UNLV is now ranked within the National Doctoral Universities rounding areas, while supporting our city and further developing UNLV Moves Up in Best Colleges Rankings Applicants must be eligible for the category of U.S. NeJVs & World Report)s annual America)s Best our urban character. Millennium Scholarship, which was Colleges guidebook. UNLV moved up from the classification of I am excited to say that this vision is quickly becoming a reali­ UNLV now is ranked within the Teaching in 2000, a number of institutions established to encourage Nevada stu­ "Regional Public Universities" to ilie classification of "National ty. In December, UNLV was able to acquire three buildings and National Doctoral Universities category of have moved into new peer groups. dents who perform well in high Doctoral Universities" and is now ranked along with 249 other 18 acres of land in the heart of Las Vegas at 1700 W. Charleston US. NeJ.Vs & World Repo1't>s UNLV is ranked under school to stay in the state for college. doctoral-degree-granting universities, many of which strongly Blvd., the site formerly owned by the Employer's Insurance annual America)s Best Colleges National Doctoral Universi­ Recipients must graduate from a emphasize research. This is excellent news for us, and we are Company of Nevada. With 185,000 square feet of building space, guidebook. ties, sharing placement in the Nevada high school, have a grade committed to continuing to move up within that classification. a parking lot with more d1an 700 spaces, and a central-valley According to the maga­ fourth tier with institutions point average of at least 3.0, pass all Another development of which we are proud is the selection location just offl -1 5, the site is quite valuable in terms of its zine's annual campus rankings such as Portland State Univer­ areas of the Nevada High School of one of our faculty members, Dave Hickey, as the recipient of a potential for multiple uses. Its location in the center of the com­ report, UNLV has been sity, tl1e University of Massa­ Proficiency Examination, and be resi­ MacArthur Fellowship from the John D. and Catherine T. munity's primary medical district makes it an excellent site for moved up from tl1e classifica­ chusetts, tl1e University of Cen­ dents of Nevada for at least two high MacArthur Foundation. The first Nevadan to receive this presti­ some of our biotechnology and health care-related programs. tion of "Regional Public Uni­ tral Florida, the University of school years. gious award, Hickey, a professor of art theory and criticism at Given our commitment to establishing a presence in this district - versities" to the classification Houston, and Georgia State. "The Alumni Association began UNLV since 1992, is one of the most respected art critics in both at the recently acquired site, as well as at an academic med­ of "National Doctoral Uni­ The universities are listed alpha­ the Millennium Plus Scholarship pro­ An1erica today. We are fortunate to have such a highly regarded ical center being proposed by Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman - versities." It now is ranked betically within each tier. gram to help ensure Nevada's best individual on our faculty, and we congratulate him on the award. we are carefully examining which programs ·would be best suited along with 249 otl1er doctoral-degree­ UNLV is also included in students become alumni ofUNLV," Additionally, several of our programs have received eitl1er their to the various facilities. granting universities, many of which the report's list of colleges whose 2000 said Kevin J. Page, Alumni Associa­ provisional or regular accreditations, including some that are For example, one of the buildings at the new regional campus strongly emphasize research. The report graduates incurred the least debt load, tion president. quite difficult to achieve, such as those for tl1e William S. Boyd will be an ideal location for UNLV's School of Dentistry. The explains that because of refinements to the indicating it is a good value. UNLV For more information, contact School of Law, the physical therapy program, computer science, facility has been designated as the site that will house the categories developed by the Carnegie ranked lOth out of 25 doctoral universi­ Hicks at (702) 895-2891. and the School of Social Work. The accreditations serve as clear contimted on page 32 Foundation for the Advancement of ties that received this distinction.

2 • UNLV MAGAZINE SPRING 2002 • 3 Nevada Business Hall of Fame Inducts its First Honorees Becker Family Donates Alumni Association Recognizes Top The newly established Nevada Business me Mesquite Vistas master-plarmed com­ $2 million to support me public legal clin­ $1 Million to UNLV Graduate, Non-Alumni Supporters Hall of Fame recently inducted its first munity and me Oasis Hotel-Casino in ic at me UNLV WilliamS. Boyd School of members- William "Si" Redd, E. Parry Mesquite. Law (see "And Justice For All," page 24). Football Program Attorney Bill Koot and business execu­ gives to non-alumni supporters of me Thomas, and Stephen A. Wynn. In 1995, Redd and his wife were Wynn, former chair­ A $1 million donation made in the tive Don Snyder recently received me university. UNLV's College of Business and named "Philantllropists of the Year" at me man of me board and name of the late Ernest A. Becker Sr. Alumni Association's top awards. Snyder was elected to Boyd Gaming's Andersen, a leading international profes­ Fourth Annual National Philantllropist chief executive officer of will help turn UNLV's football facility "Both Bill and Don are deeply commit­ Board of Directors in April1996, and, in sional services firm, created the Nevada Day conference. The Redds have support­ Mirage Resorts Inc., is into a premier train- ted to the Soumern Nevada community January 1997, he was named Boyd Business Hall of Fame to honor the state's ed numerous charities and women's assis­ widely credited wim ing center for sm­ and to UNLV," said Kevin J. Page, associ­ Ganling president. He is a former chair­ top business leaders who have significantly tance programs, including Temporary transforming Las Vegas dent-athletes. ation president. "They are continually man of the board and chief executive offi­ contributed to the economic prosperity of Assistance for Domestic Violence. into a world-renowned The gift will willing to offer tl1eir leadership, and cer of First Interstate Bank ofNevada. He Nevada and brought positive recognition As chairman of me resort destination. allow the team's their dedication enhances UNLV's abil­ also has been involved in starting local to the state. board ofValley Bank of The Mirage, which opened in football practice ity to provide superior educational businesses in Southern Nevada, including "It is a great honor to recognize the Nevada (now Bank of November 1989, quickly changed me para­ facility to be oppormnities to its smdents." the Fremont Street Experience (serving as inaugural inductees into the Nevada America of Nevada), digm by which all casino hotels since have upgraded with a The association named Koot, a retired its initial chairman and CEO) and Business Hall of Fame," said Richard Thomas helped to create been designed. The opening of The Mirage state-of-the-art prosecutor for the Clark County dis­ BankWest ofNevada (as a co-founder). Flal1erty, dean of the College of Business. me major funding ignited a $12 billion building boom, which playing surface, trict attorney's office, its Alumnus of Snyder is actively involved in numer­ "Their hard work, success in me gaming source for Las Vegas' resulted in Las Vegas becoming me fastest­ helping turn the the Year. During his 30-year tenure ous business, charitable, and civic organi­ and banking industries, and leadership have growtll during me growing city in me United States and the newly named with the district attorney's office, he zations in Nevada. He is me former chair­ made a tremendous impact on me lives of 1960s and early 1970s. top tourism destination in me country. Ernie Becker Sr. held numerous administrative positions man of the UNLV Foundation, the those who live and work in Nevada." In addition to his contributions to me Wynn's latest Las Vegas Strip project, Le Football Fields and retired as chief of the major viola­ United Way of Southern Nevada, and me In 1980, Redd area's economic development, Thomas Reve, is currently under way. at Bill "Wildcat" tors unit. He led me prosecution of Naman Adelson Hospice. founded International has committed significant resources to me Wynn is active in a multimde of com­ Morris Rebel Park into some of the area's most serious crinlinal In addition, the association awarded Game Technology, me community tllrough his generous dona­ munity affairs and is a recipient of an hon­ one of the nation's top cases as well as the office's implementation the 2001 Outstanding College Alumnus world's leading gaming tions to charities and UNLV. Along with orary doctoral degree from UNLV. training sites. In addition, of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Awards to: Tony Gladney, College of machine manufacturer, Jerome Mack, Thomas provided $1 mil­ Andersen's Las Vegas office will provide the athletic department's Organizations Act, better known as RICO. Liberal Arts; George Maloof Jr., William headquartered in Reno. lion to construct me Thomas & Mack administrative and publicity support as well strength and conditioning center Koot earned a bachelor's degree in F. Harrah College of Hotel Administra­ Redd also became co­ Center on me university campus. The as donate more than $45,000 to UNLV at the Lied Athletic Complex now will political science from UNLV in 1966. tion; Paige (Zielinski) Russell, Howard owner and developer of Thomas & Mack Co. also recently gave for the Nevada Business Hall of Fame. carry the name of Ernie Becker Sr. After a tour of duty in Vietnam wim the R. Hughes College of Engineering; "Our father was a strong supporter Marine Corps, he graduated magna cum Lucy Klinkhammer, College of Educa­ of the school and its athletic teams laude from University of San Diego law tion; Tom Brooker, College of Business; Alumni Across the Country Help Recruit New Students from the first day they were founded," school. He joined tl1e district attorney's Curtis Fairman, College of Fine Arts; Ernie Becker Jr. said. "With his own office in 1972. Rafael Villanueva, Greenspun College A UNLV admissions program is turning allllllni across the Rodriguez said she believes the program offers allllllni another history of playing football, this is a Snyder, president of Boyd Ganling of Urban Affairs; Kameran Haq, College country into recruiters for the university. way to give back to their communities. "I have found that this pro­ great way to honor his name and help Corporation, received the Silver State of Health Sciences; and Ashish Sharma, Through me Rebel Recruitment Program, allllllni in 16 states gram is beneficial for all mose involved," she said. "Smdents are further enhance the quality of the Award, the highest honor tl1e association Honors College. have volunteered to represent their alma mater at college fairs and able to hear about UNLV from someone who has experienced it Rebel football program, which he to make congratulatory phone calls to newly accepted students. firsthand, and the community gets to see the products of our uni­ loved so much." Allllllni recruiters will receive training on how best to promote versity - our graduates." The donation ranks among the Alumni Association Honors Faculty with Awards the university to prospective smdents, said Kristi Rodriguez, assis­ Alumna Brenda Mason joined the program when UNLV need­ biggest in history designated solely The UNLV Allllllni Association recent­ professor of counseling; Henry Selvaraj, tant director for admissions. The Rebel Recruitment Handbook ed a representative at a college fair in San Diego. She tells prospec­ for Rebel football. Other notable ly armounced the recipients of this year's assistant professor of electrical and comput­ offers general information on admissions, financial aid, scholar­ tive smdents how her education helped her reach her career goals. donations to the program include the Smdent-Centered Faculty Awards. er engineering; Krystyna Stave, assistant ships, and housing. Recruiters attending events also will receive a She is now a lawyer with the U .S. Attorney's Office. $1.2 million over 1 0 years from the The association presents the awards professor of environmental smdies; and video that details college fair etiquette. "UNLV has always been a big part of my life," said Mason, Boyd family during the 1980s and each year to SLX professors who excel in Jean Whitney, professor oflegal writing. She hopes the program will expand to include such activities as who earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees at UNLV. "I $500,000 given by George Maloof Jr. making students tl1e focal point of their In addition, the association presented letter-writing campaigns and send-off receptions. am proud to be an alumnus and happy to give back to the school in September. teaching efforts. this year's Smdent-Centered Project The Allllllni Association is helping to fund training sessions in when I can." In recognition of the donation, Professors chosen for the 2001-02 aca­ Grant Awards to Carol Jensen, director of San Diego, Chicago, and New York. "The program has a high Other notable allllllni recruiters include former U.S. Rep. James the John Robinson Honorary demic year are Margot Mink Colbert, asso­ the Urban Mfairs Smdent Advising potential for growtll," Rodriguez said. "Our high-need areas Bilbray and Linda Milam, mayor ofidaho Falls, Idaho. Coach's Award was given posthu­ ciate professor of dance; Aimee Govett, Center, and to Walter C. Vodrazka Jr., include California, Hawaii, New York, New Mexico, Colorado, For more information, contact Rodriguez at (702) 895-4678 mously to Ernie Becker Sr. clinical assistant professor of curriculum transportation systems analyst with the and Washington." or e-mail her at [email protected]. and instruction; Patricia Markos, associate Transportation Research Center.

4 + UN LV MAGAZINE SPRIN G 2002 + 5 -Dave Hickey, pro­ Counseling Center. Under his direction, Clark County School District as a teacher fessor of art theory and the center established a walk-in crisis and administrator. Hicks is a past presi­ criticism, received a counseling progran1, developed preventive dent of tl1e UNLV Alllll1ni Association MacArthur Fellowship and educational progran1s on a variety of and has served 14 years on its board. from the John D. and issues, and partnered with the School of - Martha Watson, Catherine T. MacArthur Social Work and the counseling and psy­ dean oftl1e UNLV Foundation. He will chology departments to ·provide clinical Greenspun College of receive $500,000 over training for graduate students. Urban Affairs, is the five years to pursue any creative endeavor - Colleen Peterson, director of Nevada representative to of his choosing, "no strings attached." The UNLV's Center for Individual, Couple, tl1e board of the Western purpose of the fellowship is to reinforce and Family Counseling, now serves on the States Arts Federation. the importance of the creative individual in Nevada Board of ExaD1iners for Marriage Founded in 1974, society. According to the MacArthur and Family Therapists. Nevada Gov. vVESTAF is a non-profit sen~ce organiza­ Foundation, Hickey spurns ideological Kenny Guinn appointed Peterson to the tion dedicated to the creative advancement agendas and chan1pions what some consid­ board, which reviews licensure of martiage and preservation of the arts in 12 Western er to be outmoded notions of beauty, and family therapists, hears complaints, states. Watson's duties include serving as a artistic vision, and the virtues of the mar­ and revie·ws and in1plements laws related liaison between WESTAF and tl1e arts ketplace. The first Nevadan to receive the to the field. Peterson is a clinical assistant community in Nevada. award, Hickey joined UNLV in 1992. professor in the department of counseling. - Lawrence M. Scheier, associate pro­ -Jay Bybee, a pro­ - With the new year, fessor of counseling in UNLV's fessor in the WilliamS. John Robinson added Greenspun College of Urban Affairs, Boyd School of Law, the title of director of received a two-year grant fi·om the was named assistant intercollegiate atllietics National Institutes of Healtl1 to study tl1e attorney general in to his football coach effectiveness of a school-based drug abuse charge of the Office of designation. As atllietics ~~ prevention progran1. The $375,000 grant Legal Counsel at the director, he will oversee John Robinson is integral to a collection of ongoing stud­ Neon lights, stunning red rocks, and countless casinos U.S. Justice Depart­ 17 Division I intercolle­ ies already under way at the Weill Medical have made Las Vegas a favorite backdrop for Hollywood ment. President Bush nominated Bybee giate sports progran1s, 212 emplo' yees, College of Cornell University, where for the position. He will advise Attorney and a budget of more tl1an $15 million. Scheier worked previously. He was part of flicks. Now, Francisco Menendez and the growing film General John Ashcroft on the constitu­ Robinson will continue to hold the head a team tlut developed a drug abuse pre­ department are working to bring the city to the fore­ tionality of legislation and executive football coach position. He ended the vention program for middle-school chil­ ground as a center for writers, directors, and producers. orders. He has taken a leave of absence 2001 season as college football's llth­ dren. Scheier said tlus new study exaD1ines By Betty Blodgett from the law school, where he special­ winningest active coach witl1 a record of whether tl1e program deterred or reduced izes in constitutional law, administrative 119-55-4. drug use among the youtl1 in the manner law, and civil procedure, and plans to - Retired Clark County School District hypotl1esized. return after his tenure with the Justice educator Pamela Hicks is UNLV's new - Ann Williams, who "~ receive a Department. director of school and community rela­ bachelor's degree in hotel management ould Las Vegas become tl1e next and directed by Menendez, associate pro­ younger brother, Manolito, out of tl1e gang -Jamie Davidson, assistant vice presi­ tions/ Millennium Scholarship com·dina­ tl1is May, won the Kopf Student Hollywood? fessor and chair of the UNLV film depart­ culture by securing !lim a part-time -in dent for student wellness, was named the tor. Hicks helps recruit students to UJ\TLV Achievement Scholarship Award from the It could if Francisco Menendez ment, was one of four films that received Spanish, 11udia tiempa- job. But a robbery 2001 President's Outstanding Profession­ from the local school disuict. She also KopfFanlliy Foundation. In addition to andC the UNLV College of Fine Arts have a 2001 award in the Second Annual Latino shows Carlos that he is unable to control al Staff Member of the Year. He was u·acks Millennium Scholars at UNLV and receiving a sigrtificant cash award, she ''~ any say in tl1e matter. Filmmaker Showcase short-film competi­ his brother's destiny. In the end, Carlos director of Student Counseling and Psy­ provides outreach about tl1e program to tour California and Europe extensively as Willie films featuting Las Vegas are not tion and aired on the cable network realizes that he only has control over his chological Services when he was selected tl1e school district. Hicks began working an intern at 20 world-renowned vvineries. wmsual, one written, directed, and pro­ Showtime in September. own life and tl1at Manolito must choose his for the award. Davidson came to UNLV at tl1e university last year as a faculty The tour "~ include hands-on educational duced entirely in Las Vegas - by UNLV The plot revolves armmd Salvadoran own path. in 1994 as a staff psychologist and quickly member in the College of Education. She experience at tl1e restaurants associated College of Fine Arts faculty members and inlmigrant Carlos Bonilla, who is deter­ Wl1ile Media Tiempa has been receiving assumed a leadership role at the Student worked for more tl1an 30 years witl1 tl1e with tl1e V\IDeties. students, no less - is rare. That is, until now. mined to make an honest living in Las accolades as it makes the rounds of the Media Tiempa, a 45-nunute film written Vegas. Carlos hopes to get !us adopted film-festival circuit, Menendez says the real

6 + UNLV MAGAZ I NE SP RI N G 2 00 2 + 7 at UNLV in 1999 was d1e professional film creation of Medio Tiempo was an invalu­ crew training program. Through a partner­ able experience. He served as second assis­ ship with d1e Entertainment Development tant director and also spent some time in Corporation and Citibank/ Citigroup, dlis fro nt of the camera as an actor in a sup­ program targets non-UNLV students, porting role. specifically casino employees and welfare­ "It was great to be able to take the to-work participants, and trains them to knowledge dut we learned in d1e classroom work on professional film sets. and apply it to an actual hands-on produc­ "The professional film crew traitling tion," Mayen says. "You learn more by program is designed to help working doing. For exan1ple, as second assistant Nevadans cross over into careers in film director, it was my responsibility to make production and to create a trained work­ sure the actors were ready to go and in force to serve the emerging needs of the place before the director yelled, 'Action'"' Los Angeles film industry when it comes to In Las Vegas, filnling took place at El Las Vegas to shoot films," Menendez said. Mercado del Pueblo grocery store and at With all of this groundwork laid, Casa Veracruz and Pepe's Tacos restaurants. Menendez's vision to create a co-cunicular When Menendez traveled to !lis native El film project finally could become reality. In Salvador to capture footage for a small por­ 1999, he received a $30,000 university­ tion of d1e film, Mayen, who also is from Filming Medjo n empo as a co -curricular El Salvador, served as a location scout and project offered students, such as sponsored Plaruling Initiative Award grant, line producer. To capture the flavor of the Anthony Ma ranville (above, ri ght) , a a donation of can1era equipment from hands-on learning opportunity. William Panavision, and more than $40,000 of in­ Central American country, Mayen worked Muchow (right, in black cap) served as kind donations from local providers. with Salvadoran cinematographer David assistant director for the film. The project also received a $90,000 Pinto to find just the right locations for U.S. Department of Commerce grant, filming, such as the village of Panchimalco, success of the film is that it marks the which was used to acquire state-of-the-art which was chosen for its colonial church first co-curricular project by UNLV's film post-production equipment for the film and cobblestone streets. department. Menendez helped to expand the department. This grant was awarded "It was important not to compronlise "Ever since my arrival at UNLV in curriculum by creating the production and d1rough the Experimental Program to d1e visual reality of the filn1 . So, as much as 1990, I've had this idea that it would be screenwriting sequences, serving as the film Stimulate Competitive Technology possible, we tried to shoot in actual Latino great to create a film project that would department's director of film production (EPSCoT), which supports efforts to environments," Mayen says . bring together the department's faculty and screenwtiting, designing the depart­ enl1ance local business d1rough technology Reflecting on the experience of making members and students," Menendez ment's non-linear editing facilities, and development. Medio Tiempo, Mayen says d1e students explains. "You see university stage produc­ beginning a master of fine arts in screen­ With Menendez as director, film produc­ involved wim the project agreed mat they tions, where faculty members direct and writing degree progran1 - the first graduate tion instructor Warren D. Cobb as produc­ can1e away wid1 a much greater under­ standing of d1e realities of filnunaking. "As design and the theatre students do every­ film degree to be offered in the state. er, and cinematography professors Deron Medjo nempo was shot in 17 days. UNLV loca­ students and future filmmakers, we share a thing else. This model intrigued me, and I Menendez points to others- in particu­ Albright and Michele Hugo handling d1e tions included the Performing Arts Center thought, 'Why not take everything we offer lar, film professor Hart Wegner and camerawork, Medio Tiempo was shot in 17 great sense of pride and accomplishment in Plaza outside Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall. in the film curriculum and put it into an College of Fine Arts Dean Jeff Koep - as days in April 2000 at locations both on and the success of the final product," he says. actual hands-on project involving the stu­ also being instrwnental in the depart­ off campus. The crew completed the final As an added bonus, the entire pre-pro­ d1e making of d1is film, me students came dents and faculty? "' ment's growth during that tin1e period. cut of the film in January 2001. duction, production, and post-production to understand me intricacies involved in the But before such a project could happen, "Hart Wegner provided me with guid­ The crew included more than 30 UNLV process was captured in a 12-minute docu­ production process and how me director is a film department needed to exist. When ance and the room to grow, which was film students -whose shifts were limited mentary, "Telling a Latino-American entirely dependent on dle talents of me Menendez joined UNLV, only seven stu­ especially valuable for me since I was a new to si.x hours to ensure they could attend Story: The Making of Medio Tiempo," producers, me actors, dle department dents were enrolled in what was then the faculty member working in my first univer­ classes- and several members of the local which will be used as a teaching tool for heads, and the crew. Everydling d1at we and video program at d1e film studies program in the College of sity job," Menendez says . "Dean Koep has commmlity participating in the profession­ future film classes and a model for other said mat we would accomplish wim this California Institute of d1e Arts. Liberal Arts. By 1996, the program had been incredibly supportive of the film al film crew training program. The movie's co-curricular projects. project can1e to pass - wid1 even more suc­ "The character of Carlos grew out of grown to 70 students, become its own department and our efforts to expand dif­ cast consisted primarily of professional "It was just amazing how well it ali came cess d1an we expected." extensive writing workshops during my department, and moved under the College ferent programs, especially by helping us actors from Los Angeles working under toged1er," Menendez says. "This project The script itself was an important com­ graduate work," Menendez says , "From of Fine Arts. In the fall 2001 semester, an to find creative ways in whi ch to work with contract from d1e Screen Actors Guild. gave faculty, students, and me Latino com­ ponent of this success. d1e beginrting, the character of Carlos enrollment of more than 250 students the local community." For UNLV film major Eduardo May en, munity an opportunity to become involved Menendez began writing d1e script for spoke to me deeply and !lis wounds and made film studies one ofUNLV's fastest One of the creative community partner­ who hopes to become a cinematographer in d1e reality of professional film produc­ Medio Tiempo in 1989 while stili a graduate obstacles were close to my heart. As a growing majors . ship programs that Menendez established when he graduates, participating in the tion. Through their direct involvement in student in d1e master of fine arts in film writer and as a native of El Salvador, the

8 + UNL TT MAGAZINE SPR I N G 2 002 + 9 success of Media Tiempa is its ability to send Las Vegas," Koep says. "It also demon­ continued f rom P1'evious page The Movies I Watch a message of hope to people, especially to strates that a ratl1er new film progran1 \Vas Film about L.A. Angst: Magnolia {1999) Over and Over Again those who feel disenfranchised." able to develop - on a relatively low budget Film by an Exiled Director: In Media Tiempa, the gang culture dom­ in relation to what is usually spent in the Los Olvidados (1951) By Frandsco Menendez inates Manolito's choices, but by the end industry- a high-quality film that caught French Film: Wages of Fear (1953) "What's your favorite film?" of the film, he makes his own decision to the attention of industry professionals." This is probably the most dreaded leave the gang culture and pursue an edu­ Ultimately, Menendez hopes tl1e success From Down Under: The Piano {1993) question for a film academic. It is an cation at UNLV. of this co-curricular film project will create Guilty Pleasure: The Pink Panther impossible question to answer because, "My intent was not to make a recruit­ opportunities for more local film produc­ Strikes Again {1976) as a lover of film, my taste and interests ment film for the university," Menendez tion by UNLV film graduates. Idiosyncratic Character: Rushmore {1999) run wide and deep. Needless to say, I am says. "But, I am a big believer in the impor­ "As Las Vegas continues to grow into a Kidnapping Drama: High and Low (1963) enriched by the films of Bergman, Capra, tance of an education, and the overriding major film center, it is important for the Love Triangle: Casablanca (1942) Ford, Hitchcock, Kieslowski, Kubrick, theme of the film is making those positive College of Fine Arts film department to con­ Male Bonding Film: The Deer Hunter (1978) Polanski, Ray, Welles, and Wilder. The choices in life that will help to better your­ tinue to educate our students in the realities Mid-life at 30 Movie: Beautiful Girls (1996) fact is there are too many great films and self and others." of professional film production," Menendez · filmmakers that get ignored whenever College of Fine Arts Dean Jeff Koep says. "We are helping to create the architects Modern Mexican Cinema: any top-100 list is published. says that while Media Tiempa was produced of tomorrow's films - the screenwriters, Amores Perras (2001) Nonetheless, I began this task by by an academic department at a university, directors, producers, and cinematographers - Movie About Film Exec.: The Player (1992) studying the selection of my frequently When filming moved to El Salvador (above), film student Eduardo watched DVDs, laser disks, and tapes. Mayen (right), returned to his homeland to scout locations. it is important to note that the film stands and as Nevadans, these graduates are going Movie About Making Movies: This list is not a best-film ranking. It on its own as a quality piece of filmmaking. to be more likely to want to make their The Stunt Man {1980) does not begin with Citizen Kane (1941). "Media Tiempa is an important film in movies here in Las Vegas. Movie Featuring Reno: The Misfits (1961) Instead, I share with you some favorites story became more personal as I worked to put his story that it addresses issues faced by the "When yo u talk about filmmaking here Movie Featuring Vegas: Lost in America that stand up to multiple viewings. Some on it draft after draft." on film, Hispanic/ Latino community in in Nevada - and the possibility that Las (1985) are award winners, others have been The idea for the story actually began Menendez Vegas could become the next Hollywood - Movie I Should Hate: Fight Club (1999) derided and dismissed by critics, but all even earlier when Menendez was an under­ again set his it's not about job titles, celebtity, money, Movie My Students Hate: Gladiator (2000) hold a special place in my heart. graduate at the University of Puget Sound. script aside. and prestige; it's about providing the right In the spring of 1984, Menendez took a When the education and tools so tlut those who want Nair Revisited: LA Confidential (1997) Action: Die Hard {1988) semester break from his studies and UNLV grant to make movies here can do just that." m Obscure British Film : Witnail and I (1981) American Mob Film: GoodFellas {1990) returned to El Salvador, which was in the materialized in 1999, he Police Drama: Stray Dog (1950) Atypical French Product: throes of a bloody civil war. He worked as a blew the dust off his script and asked col­ Political Film: Under Fire (1983) La Femme Nikita (1990) stringer for Time magazine and as a liaison league Sean Clark, who directs Ul\TLV's Movie stills provided materials for marketing Revisionist Serial: Raiders of the Bizarre Adaptation: Luhrman's for Jane Wallace of CBS News. graduate screenwriting program, to serve as Media Tiempo to film-festival audiences Lost Ark {1981) W.S. Romeo and Juliet (1996) During the war, Menendez says, about story consultant. around the world. Romantic Comedy: Notting Hill (1998) British Gangster Film : one-third of the population fled El Salvador. "As a director, my work has always Satire: Monty Python and the Holy Grail Long Good Friday (1981) Many immigrants settled illegally in the begun and ended wi th the script," (1975) Classic: The Third Man (1949) American Southwest, where they found Menendez says. "It was important for me to Sequel: Godfather II {1974) Coming of Age: The Graduate (1949) jobs and sent money back to their families make the story of this specific Latino immi­ in El Salvador. grant accessible to a wide audience. I sensed Small Italian Film: I Vittelone (1953) Costume Drama: Shakespeare Snake Pit (a movie filled with unsympa- in Love {1999) "It was important for me to tell the that the more specific I was, the more story of these unsung heroes who worked human the story would become, and the thetic characters): The Sweet Smell Creepy Holiday Movie: One Magic to keep my country alive economically dur­ more relevant it ·would be in illuminating of Success {1957) Christmas (1985) ing the war," Menendez says. "I thought, the condition of thousands of Latinos in the Suspense: The Silence of the Lambs (1990) Cross-gender Conundrum: 'If I don't tell tllis story, who will?"' United States today." Tech Nair: The Matn'x {1999) The Crying Game (1992) After finishing graduate school in 1989, Before its official film-festival debut, Thrill: Jaws (1975) Directorial Excess: Apocalypse Now Menendez set his script aside until 1992 Media Tiempa was shown to about 100 Time Travel Flick: Back to the Future (1985) (1979, not Redux) when he began refining the story. He pre­ teen-agers attending the sun1mer 2001 Ensemble of Performances: sented Ius 40-page script at tl1e 1993 Latino Youth Conference held at UNLV. Tinderbox (an explosive and revolutionary On the Waterfront (19 54) University Film Video Association Media "The kids were moved to tears and gave movie): Do The Right Thing {1989) Epic: Lawrence of Arabia (1962) Writing Session in Philadelphia, where it it a standing ovation," Menendez recalls. Twisted Underbelly: Blue Velvet (1986) Existential Comedy: Groundhog Day (1993) was a runner-up for awards given by both "That's why you make films - to make that Unlikely Subject: Trainspotting (1996) Family Film: E. T. (1982) the Hispanic Film Project and the American human connection. All of a sudden, the kids Use of Emotional Editing: Film Institute Minority Filmmakers who were watching the film saw themselves The Limey {1998) continued on next page Program. But without the financial backing and their own struggles. To me, the real

10 + UNLV MAGAZINE SPRING 2002 + 11 Takin

eing in the right place at the right Think of history and you accounts and descriptions of historical has gained most of his public Iustory expert­ In tl1e 1980s, when his failier was head­ time. Sometin1es that's what it's all think offat textbooks filled events relative to me area.)) ise mrough extensive hands-on work. ing up ilie historical foundation in Galveston, Babout. "In some ways, I would say I was kind of Texas, Kirk volunteered on preservation proj­ And history professor Andy Kirk with facts, right? Professor illi all this talk about the value of born into it," he reflects. Born in Virginia to ects mere while earning money as a recon­ believes he has found that kismet at UNLV. Andy Kirk thinks of rebuild­ public history work, maybe it's a failier who was an archaeologist for struction contractor for 150-year-old homes. What better place to launch a public his­ ing an old chicken coop and Wtime to have Kirk explain exactly Colonial Willian1sburg - which Kirk Later, he interned for me National Trust for tory program than at a public university what public llistory is. describes as tl1e "most notable experiment in Historic Preservation, serving on ilie Barn committed to forging partnerships with the of chatting with old-timers "Public llistory is everything iliat's not public history in An1erica"- and to a moili­ Again progran1, wllich saves historic rural community? who have memories a mile teaching history in a classroom," he says. er who volunteered as a docent for a llistoric buildings from demolition as corporations And, what better time could this be hap­ long. That's all part of "And tl1ere's a whole universe of things iliat home museum iliere, Kirk was exposed to buy out fanllly farms. pening than now when residents of both historians have always done tl1at fall under public history at an early age. "I don't know Aliliough Kirk worked in me public his­ Las Vegas and the state ofNevada have today's public history. this broad rub tic of public history." if I got it by osmosis or what, but my par­ tory field willie earning his degrees, he had begun showing significant interest in public For years, historians have worked in a ents were living and doing public history." few chances to take public history classes By Diane Russell history and public preservation projects? variety of non-school settings, including during !lis studies. He earned "This is really ideal," says Kirk, who museums, homes, and national parks, where bachelor's and master's degrees came to UNLV in 1999 specifically to create Already, students in tl1e fledgling pub­ iliey develop exhibits, write historic from tl1e University of Colorado at a graduate-level program in public history. lic history program have garnered valuable "The public history program, accounts for displays, and conduct tours. Denver in 1989 and 1992 respec­ "Tllis university is an innovative institutidn experience working with the ongoing Las under me leadership of Dr. Andy Kirk, has But, he says, until relatively recently, aca­ tively. In 1998, he received a doc­ that wants to try new things, and public his­ Vegas Springs Preserve project and the made a significant impact in tl1e commu­ demically trained historians had to adapt torate in Western history from ilie tory, while it has been practiced for many Goffs School preservation project. Many nity and region even tl1ough it is a rela­ ilieir skills to tl1eir public history work. Few University of New Mexico. years, is fairly new as an academic pursuit. more projects await their attention. tively new program within tl1e department llistorians received trairting specifically in tl1e Based on !lis own experience, he "At tl1e same tin1e, you have a comn1u­ Jim Frey, dean of the College of of history," Frey says . field, he says. "There was just a disjuncture really nity and a state tl1at are just now reaching Liberal Arts, which houses me history "Dr. Kirk and his students have devel­ In the 1940s, water gushed tl1e population size necessary to support departn1ent, says tl1e public history pro­ oped projects in oral history, archival between ilie trairting of historians and what through the Las Vegas Valley substantial numbers of public history and gram is earning !ugh marks for its work in preservation, and historic site designation iliey often ended up doing," says Kirk, a Water District's Well No. 3. Photo courtesy of the preservation projects. It's a terrific match." the community. mat enable us to chronicle and preserve traditionally trained academic historian who Las Vegas Valley Water District.

12 + UN LV M A G AZ I N E SPRI N G 2002 + 13 began advocating that more In fact, tl1e history of the se ttling of Las information available to a wide variety of As Kirk sees it, UNLV is just the univer­ universities needed to offer Vegas is not tm!ike the history of many humanities researchers. sity to be so intricately involved in such an programs in public history, The Little Spring towns, according to Kirk. A dominant natu­ "Willie the settling basin does not fit the tmusual parmership with a non-profit his­ Springhouse was built in which surfaced as an academ­ 1917 to keep I ivestock ral feature - in tllis case, meadows fed by stereotype of a llistoric resource, it played a torical preservation association. ic pursuit in the late 1960s. out of Las Vegas' water water bubbling up out of tl1e ground­ crucial role in the early growth of Las "UNLV is a very flexi ble institution that "It sprang up as part of supply. It was once in attracted people to tl1e area. Vegas ," Kirk says. really embraces tl1e idea of new and innova­ the larger social history danger of being bull­ "What you've got there is an entire Ius­ Kirk also uses tl1e preserve as a Ia bora­ tive programs," he says. "I also think it is dozed to make room for movement, which was a expansion of U.S . 95. Its tory of how humans lived in the Mojave tory for historic preservation. He takes significant that President (Carol C. ) H arter desire to tell history from collapsed roof (below, Desert encapsulated in a 180-acre parcel classes tl1ere to show tl1e students its wells , has made it part of the university's mission the ground up, to tell popu­ in a 1998 Water District that's been almost perfectly preserved - and old water derricks, and buildings. "It's just to build links between tl1e university and photo) has been careful­ lar history, the history of it's right smack in tl1e middle of town," a perfect place for me to take my classes tl1e community. ly restored. 'regular' people," Kirk says. Kirk says. "This is a really unique resource, and say, 'Here are all the issues of Ius to ric "That's exactly what public history "A lot of historians said, 'If not only for Las Vegas; it would be a preservation,"' he says. "This semester, does. My job is to work directly with tl1e we're going to tell the sto­ unique resource anywhere. It is essentially a we 're going to be working to actually community in a variety of ways to create ries of regular people, why cultural preserve and a biological preserve. " physically restore tl1e cllicken coop tl1at's links between scholars and people who are not tell them to the regular UNLV public history students will be out there." out in the community so that UNLV pro­ people, not just abmtt the involved in the Las Vegas Springs Preserve Kirk is quick to point out tl1at, while the fessors and students will serve as resources regular people? ' project in a variety of ways between now involvement of the public Ius tory students for the community." ~ "So, a focus emerged on and 2005, when the preserve opens to mark at the preserve is recent, many other trying to develop programs the 1 OOth anniversary of the founding of UNLV professors and students from areas to train historians to take Las Vegas, Kirk says. such as biology, environmental studies, their really useful research Their first involvement will be as inter­ architecture, and engineering have con­ skills and gear them toward viewers for "Voices from the Past," an oral tributed tl1eir expertise and energy to the products that would be llistory project for which Kirk serves as project over tl1e years. / "The Las Vegas Springs aimed directly at the public, Preserve is a really incredi­ director. The students will talk with long­ Greg Seymour, a 1997 UNLV master's rather than giving the public bly innovative project," he time Southern Nevadans about the early graduate in archaeology, is the archaeolo­ a diluted version of an aca­ says. "It is being run by days of Las Vegas, especially their recollec­ gist for tl1e preserve. H e says he's glad to demic product." tl1e (Las Vegas Valley) tions concerning water. add tl1e public history students to ilie list The project was a success; the school­ Water District, whose normal job is to find "Those histories will become part of of those assisting in the work. ecause almost all historians do public house now is on the historic register, having water and deliver water. Willi real foresight multimedia exhibits in the cultural center "What the students are doing for me is history work at one time or another, received national approval last fall. When the that the entire region ought to be thankful there," he says. "We want to piece togetl1er extremely valuable and, at the same time, Btaking courses specific to tl1e field is California State Office of Historic for, the district decided to take a 180-acre tllis incredibly interesting story of the rela­ they are getting a variety of wormwhile a good idea for all history graduate students, Preservation put its stamp of approval on the parcel of land that it owns and turn it into tionsllip between water and people in tl1e experiences out here," he says. Kirk maintains. UNLV's graduate history project during tl1e nomination process, it a preserve." Mojave Desert. Seymour is also working with Kirk and students seem to agree; Kirk estimates that took the exu·a step of issuing a special com­ The preserve is adjacent to the district's "The idea is very forward-thinking. Not his students on Preserve Nevada, ilie state's about 75 percent of them take at least one mendation to the UNLV students. The Desert Demonstration Garden and is visible only do we want to save these people's llis­ officialllistoric preservation association. public history course. office noted that tl1e exemplary nomination from eastbound U.S. 95 between Valley tories and get these interviews, but we want Former U.S. Sen. Richard Bryan heads tl1e "Experience is the key to the program," should be used as a model by others. View Boulevard and Rancho Drive. to do it in a way that, 20 years from now, recently established association, and Kirk he says. "During their training they work Another group ofUNLV graduate stu­ "The land is the site of the original school kids can access them on whatever serves as its executive director. UNLV his­ directly with tl1e public. Instead of doing dents currently is drafting the nomination springs and the site of original human !ubi­ kind of technology is available at the time," tory professor Sue Fawn Chung is another traditional research papers, they do things of the Lincoln County Courthouse in ration in our valley. It's really the only rea­ he says. "It really is a first-class project by key player vvith the group. like national register nominations." Pioche for national historic status while oth­ son that Las Vegas exists. It was the reason any standard, and I think it will be a nation­ Nevada is one of the last states to estab­ One group of students wrote the nomi­ ers are cataloging artifacts from the Cold Native Americans settled here; it was the al model for tllis kind of thing." lish such an organization, a fact that Kirk nation to put the historic Goffs School­ War at the Nevada Test Site and in the U.S. reason the Mormons stopped here; it was Joe Thompson, a history graduate stu­ says works to the association's advantage. house on the National Register of Historic Department of Energy's Las Vegas office. tl1e reason the Union Pacific built a railroad dent, is working to complete photo docu­ "We get to build one that is really particu­ Places . The building is located in Califor­ One student is serving an internship - a town here. And, ultimately, it was the rea­ mentation of the settling basins at tl1e pre­ larly suited to Nevada, which is a unique nia's Mojave Desert near the Nevada bor­ requirement for all UNLV graduate stu­ son that the resort community could even serve. Thompson is doing a very precise state geograpllically, demographically, and der. Preparing the nomination is not as dents majoring in public history - at the exist in its early years. " type of documentation that adheres to tl1e historically," he says. Kirk (right, holding an old broom han­ simple as filling out a form, Kirk points Lberace Museum, helping with the To many Southern Nevadans, Kirk main­ stringent requirements of tl1e Historic The non-profit organization is based at dle) talks with Greg Seymour, archaeolo­ out. Before the writing could even begin, redesign of the collections tl1ere. tains, tllis history is virtually unknown. American Building Survey and the Historic UNLV and will be run largely by the pub­ gist for the preserve, at the old chicken the students extensively researched tl1e One project Kirk discusses with particu­ "Some people think Las Vegas just sprang Engineering Record, a system tl1at records lic llistory graduate students, an arrange­ coop on the property. In the early 1900s, the spring's caretaker, who lived in a schoolhouse's past so they could justifY lar enthusiasm is tl1e ongoing Las Vegas to life out in the ether with some gangsters critical information about historic buildings, ment that Kirk believes is unique in small house in the area, ensured valley the nomination. Springs Preserve project. involved somehow. " structures, and artifacts and makes that America. residents had a constant supply of water.

14 + UNL V MAG A ZI NE S PRI N G 2 00 2 + 15 Alumnus Richard Perkins unexpected depth of the comment, "has a dad who got me into police work, has risen through the ranks significant impact on your life. " and it was because of hin1 I began Though he has never used the story in to understand the importance of on the job and in the Nevada his election materials, you know he thinks giving back to the conmmn..ity Capitol. The legislator and of it often. You also don't doubt for a through public service." deputy police chief talks about minute either the ve racity of the story or Perkins rose through the ranks its impact on him. And therein lies some of the department, working first as politics, parenting, and his h..int for those seeking to understand the a uniformed officer and then as a commitment to his hometown, success of a man who has risen to become detective in a variety of areas. He Henderson. one of the most powerful political figures came to the notice of his superiors in the state: In an age when politicians are for his dedication in conducting by Suzan DiBella viewed with a cynical eye by pundits and child abuse investigations, and he citizens alike, Perkins' integrity is often evenrualiy moved into supervisory acknowledged as one of his most appeal­ roles . Today, he serves as deputy hen Richard Perkins sat down ing qualities. police chief in charge of operations. W with his family in 1996 to dis ­ He is , after ali, both a devoted family His election in 1986 to the cuss whether he would run for the state man and a longtime police officer, both office of president of the Assembly for a third time, he experienced indications of life choices that speak to Henderson Police Association With the full support of his family, Perkins entered one of those golden moments in the lives issues of character. But how did this soft­ Nevada politics. He and daughter Ashley met then­ marked a pivotal point in his life. of politicians when real life spontaneously spoken man, hailed for his dedication and President Bill Clinton as Perkins' political mentor, Joe "In my capacity as the presi­ produces the kind of story that could be the respect he commands, come to choose a Dini, looked on. dent of the police association, I used in campaign literarure. second career in a field so often disparaged? built relationships with various The story goes like this: As he does at in high school and a state wrestling cham­ elected officials, especially with members the start of every election season, he asked pion," says Perkins, who had reached most of the City Council since we negotiated his wife and five kids whether they were he story begins in Henderson, of of his 6-foot-5-inch height as a teen-ager. labor agreements with them," he recalls. willing to make the kind of commitment a Tcourse. "I was recruited by several colleges in d1e "So I began to work on some campaigns, political campaign requires of a fanlliy. It l "I've lived here in Henderson my West to play football, and I had an academ­ and then my involvement spread to the was then his daughter Ashley, 10 at the l entire life, probably within about a two­ ic scholarship to go to Reno. But I chose state level when I began lobbying on time, volunteered a line that he could mile radius of my current home," he says. to go to UNLV and stay close to home." issues related to the state Public have used in a brochure. He acknowledges he grew up hearing Though he attended UNLV full time Employees' Retirement System. " "Daddy," she asked, "if you don't do plenty of comments ridiculing his home­ the first year, it would take him the better When the state reapportioned its voting it, who's going to do it?" town as a "hooterville" or as having a part of the next 20 years to finish college, districts in 1991, Perkins, a Democrat, The earnesmess of her inquiry floored "white cloud" of pollution, but he never taking classes whenever he could fit them found himself living in a new district with­ Perkins. longed to move away. in between career and family obligations. out an incumbent. "All the same people I "It's not that I believe I'm truly the After graduating from Basic High "I worked in the construction trades for had helped along the way said, 'Hey, it's only person who could do the job. But School in 1979, he chose to attend UNLV a couple of years, then started my career yo ur turn.' So I took the opportunity to to have that kind of support from your over several other schools that had recruit­ with the Henderson Police Deparm1ent in run and was successful." fanlliy - and that kind of trust fiom a 10- ed him. 1984," he says, noting that he followed his Perkins found that he enjoyed canl­ year-old," he says, still marveling at the "I was an All-American football player late father into the deparm1ent. "It was my paigning. "I like getting out to meet with

SPRING 2002 + 17 people and talking with them," Perkins Because of his continuing career in law property could be made available. He came His law enforcement work also helped says. "About 90 percent of them are very enforcement, he has been called upon by back to me several months later and said shape Ius communication skills, which have positive people, and even if there are some many state leaders for advice about bills that tl1e idea had support." served hin1 well in the Legislature. who want to take you to task, they do it in pertaining to crinllnal justice matters. In While Perkins believes the Henderson "I've been characterized as a 'gentle a very constructive way. Some of them are fact, in 1995 he worked closely witl1 then­ college will have tremendous benefits for giant' or something along tl1ose lines. I just mad at you, though, and that's fine , Gov. Bob Miller on tl1e most sweeping the entire state, he acknowledges that some don't raise my voice; police work taught me too. Even so, I enjoy getting out there and overhaul of crinllnal statutes in evada's controversy initially surrounded me plan to that. If you go to a fanlliy fight, it does you hearing what's on their minds." history. He was also involved in a great deal create a new college while Nevada's oilier no good to scream over ilie top of them. If of legislation aimed at improving educa­ institutions, including UNLV, were vying you talk in a lower tone, iliey have to talk tional accountability and standards. for limited state dollars. that way as well." fter serving his first term in 1992- In 2001, he succeeded veteran "I have absolutely no interest in harm­ A 93, Perkins was re-elected into an Assembly Speaker Joe Dini. ing UNLV in any way," he says. "I tlllnk Assembly evenly split between Democrats "Joe was my mentor," says Perkins. UNLV will benefit from the creation of iili the personal qualities of and Republicans in 1994; he was chosen to "He taught me more about legislative poli­ this next institution more than any other W born integrity and finesse, be the Democratic floor leader that year. In tics than any one person. We have a entity. If some of the undergraduate load Perkins is often perceived as having great bis t\vo subsequent terms, he was selected father/ son relationship." can be carried by the Henderson college, political potential. Asked about his political to serve as majority floor leader. Also in 2001, Perkins was gratified to then UNLV can put more of its resources aspirations, he says he is keeping most Through the years, Perkins introduced a bring to fruition a project near and dear to into research and graduate progran1s." doors open. number of bills he is proud to have spon­ his heart - the creation of Nevada State Perkins goes on to add that he has the "I have such an interest in public policy sored. College in Henderson, which is expected to highest regard for UNLV and tl1e educa­ that I will want to be involved in it for "There are a whole host of legislative open this fall. tion he received there. He graduated in some time to come," he says, adding that initiatives that I proposed in my five ses­ The idea for the four-year college came 2000 witl1 t\.vo bachelor's degrees, one in he would not, however, be willing to leave Perkins, above with Henderson police officer Frank Fuentes, sions," he says. "The very first one I intro­ from Perkins, who, in 1995 and 1997 crin1inal justice and one in political science. the state in the near future. says police work offered excel­ duced and passed was a bill that requires watched tl1e Legislature fund the Redfield He says studying both fields contributed "Right now, my world does not encom­ lent training for politics. At left, parenting courses to be included in high satellite campus, which is affiliated with significantly to his ability to perform effec­ pass Washington, D.C. I have young chil­ Perkins addresses attendees at school curriculums in the state. That inter­ UNR, Truckee Meadows Community tively in his roles as a law enforcement pro­ dren, and that just doesn't fit the plan. I'm the Police Memorial rededica­ tion that takes place in Carson est grew out of my years as a child-abuse College, and Western Nevada Community fessional and as a legislator. not going to uproot them. Also - save for City every year. investigator. You see, I feel \Ve teach them College, in the northern part of the state. He recalls fondly working with now­ the last several months - Washington has math and science, and all those very "I came back and said, 'By golly, if retired crinlinal justice professor John been a pretty caustic place to practice pub­ important academic subjects, but we don't higher education is going to grow in this Horvath. "John was just an extraordinary lic policy. So, Nevada is my focus ." teach them how to be adults. I wanted state, we need it to grow in Southern guy," Perkins says, noting tlut at the time And, he notes, since he's not an attor­ them to know that a child makes noise, Nevada. We are bursting at me seams down he was taking Horvath's courses, he was ney, he is precluded from becoming a judge and it smell s, and needs diapers, and, most here. So I spoke wiili Mayor (Jim) Gibson already serving with the Henderson Police or attorney general, and the roles of ilie importantly, tl1at tl1ere are alternatives to to find out if a four-year college fit into his Department. "He dealt with me on an other major constitutional offices - con­ whacking it." vision for the city of Henderson and if adult level and with respect for my status as troller, treasurer, secretary of state - don't a working professional." involve setting policy. That leaves him wiili homes, with its sense of community and its because I've been able to accomplish so In political science, his mentors were one sizable possibility to consider: the office open spaces, I truly believe it's a community many things I've wanted to pursue." professors Jerry Sinuch and Dina Titus, a of governor. with a great quality of life. I know our For now, he says he feels fortunate to be fellow legislator. "As much as I liked learn­ "It's been talked about," he acknowl­ motto may sound corny, but it's true: 'It's a able to balance the responsibilities of dual ing the practical side of politics that Dina edges, "but if you asked me today if I'm place to call home."' careers and fanlliy life. Willie he adnuts it taught, I also enjoyed the political tl1eory going to run for governor in four years, I It's also a place he would happily contin­ can be challenging to juggle it all, he tries to classes I took from Jerry." wouldn't know tl1e answer. Four years is a ue to serve as deputy police chief if all of the keep perspective and recognize priorities. Though lus coursework certainly made lifetime in politics. But if it's an opportunity more grandiose political talk were to cease "During the legislative session, I come lum more knowledgeable about the politi­ in four years, I'll analyze it with my fanlliy." tomorrow. home on weekends to spend time witl1 my cal process, he says it was his "day job" In the meantime, Perkins says he is con­ "I'm living a dream," he says. "I really fanlliy and to take care of my work responsi­ that provided him with the best prepara­ tent to support his hometown, >vhich, he am. My paying job in law enforcement is a bilities here at me office. But it's also very tion for Ius legislative leadership roles. notes for ilie record, does not face the job I love. I've been given opportunities common for me to fl y back home on a "I tllink ilie best training I ever got for ridicule it once did. here in the department that have been very Tuesday or Wednesday night for a school politics was police work," Perkins says. "It "Henderson is now the second largest fulfilling. And then working in public policy, play or a basketball game because it's so taught me to deal with conflict, to seek con­ city in ilie state," he says with pride. "I being successful in my campaigns, and feel­ important to the kids." sensus, and to de-escalate crises. It taught think it has grown to become the envy of ing tl1e support of the constituents are all And you can bet his attendance at those Perkins, a member of UNLV's 1980 wrestling team, finished his bachelor's degrees in criminal me to be able to judge people very quickly, other local governments. With its cultural experiences more fulfilling than I can events isn't about ilie photo opportunities justice and political science in 2000. (Yearbook photo courtesy of UNLV library Special Collections. ) which is a very important skill in politics." and recreational activities, with its nice express. I could never have any regrets available there. m

18 + UN LV 1llfAGAZI NE S PRI N G 2002 + 19 The program is named for Ronald E. At tllis event, instead of reading papers tl1e students' research abilities. McNair, a scientist and astronaut who died before an audience, researchers put infor­ "The McNair Scholars Institute is tl1e in 1986's ill-fated Challenger mission. The mation about their projects on display only program in tl1e country that provides McNair Scholars Institute came to UNLV boards and talk personally to visitors about this kind of experience for undergradu­ in 1999 through the efforts of the Center the findings. ates," Barlow says. "Most students have to for Academic Advancement and Outreach. UNLV President Carol C. Harter rely on individual advice about graduate To inspire a diverse new It is a partnership between the center and describes the institute as a marvelous exam­ school from their professors." the UNLV Graduate College. ple of a student-centered program. "It pro­ The Mer air program is designed to generation to reach beyond In the program's first year on campus, vides a unique opportu1lir:y for several of encourage more minorities to consider the ba,chelor's degree, the 11 students participated in the McNair tl1e most talented w1dergraduate students graduate studies witl1 the goal of eventually McNair Scholars Institute Scholars Summer Research Institute, an at UNLV to work witl1 some of tl1e beconling professors. extension of the program. This year, eight extraordinary faculty on can1pus in order to William Sullivan, who works extensively gives undergraduates a students are putting their knowledge and learn about how to design, implement, and with underrepresented groups as executive taste of life as academic intellect to work researching issues in their report research while at tl1e same time director of the Center for Academic researchers. respective fields. gaining knowledge about the role of the Enrichment and Outreach, praises the pro­ By Barbara Cloud To qualify for the progran1, the McNair university professor," she says. granl as "proof that, with proper tutelage students must have completed at least 49 Harriet Barlow, director of graduate stu­ and unbridled tenacity, all students can credits with a mininmm grade point aver­ dent services in the Graduate College and achieve academic excellence." age of 3.2 and must be U.S. citizens or the McNair Summer Research Institute Barlow hopes to see tl1e program grow. The undergraduates in UNLV's permanent residents. They must also be coordinator, says tl1e progran1 offers a taste "I would like to have 20 to 30 students McNair Scholars Institute honed valu­ low-income or first-generation college stu­ of the graduate student-professor expeti­ participating a year," she says, noting that able skills while researching a vast dents or members of a group traditionally ence. For tl1e sun1mer program, she identi­ each year the program gets better. range of topics - from faraway stars underrepresented in graduate education. fies and matches faculty mentors and One recent improvement is a UNLV and down-to-earth waste to connect­ Each McNair Scholar intern receives a interns, coordinates tl1e poster session, and Graduate College scholarship designated for ing with others in love and business. stipend, the one-on-one guidance of a fac ­ oversees the publishing of the annual those who have completed the McNair The McNair Scholars Institute, a ulty mentor, graduate school preparation McNair Scholan Instit~t te Jo urnal. Scholars program. This scholarship covers national program that encourages seminars, Graduate Record Exam study Barlow said she has no difficulty finding UNLV graduate school tuition and fees. undergraduates to pursue advanced workshops, free tutoring services, financial professors to serve as mentors for the stu­ The university also waives graduate college degrees, takes the learning process aid assistance, and help with the graduate dents. The mentors praise the students as application fees for McNair Scholars from beyond the classroom by pairing quali­ school admissions process. talented and hard-working and express Ul\TLV and other schools participating in fied undergraduates with faculty men­ The progran1 offers another opportunity appreciation for the research help. tl1e national progran1. tors. Together the students and men­ seldom enjoyed by undergraduates: getting Hence, the mentors enthusiastically write All of the 2000-01 McNair Scholars tors complete in-depth research proj­ published. The institute publishes a journal letters of reconm1endation for the students have enrolled in or are applying for gradu­ ects, exploring opportunities usually of the students' research papers. when they apply to graduate school. Because ate, law, or medical school. Here, four enjoyed just by graduate students. They also present the results of their of the close professor-student interaction, the undergraduates share their experiences as research at a special "poster session. " letters are personalized and speak directly of McNair Scholars.

Rhing ~tar: Adam Villarreal

Adan1 Villarreal set his sights on a doctorate in theoretical astrophysics/ cosmology after his experience as a McNair Scholar. "I experienced professional collaboration with a wonderful mentor and learned a wide array of data reduction techniques tl1at will certainly help me out when I an1 a research assistant in gradu­ ate school," he says. Villarreal worked with UNLV physicist/ astronomer Jeremy King, who has a National Science Foundation grant to study approximately 5,000 stars in low-resolution spectra and about 200 in both high- and low-resolution spectra. "Adam worked on tl1e !ugh-resolution group and really made a

20 + UN L V M A G A Z I N E S PRI N G 200 2 + 21 ARole Model for ~cholan : Ronald McNair

The late dent in what has to be done," King says. "He's the hardest-working atmosphere can help determine its age. Our sun is considered an Ronald E. McNair undergraduate at UNLV." "old" star because its supply of lithium has been depleted. Older Love Connectiom: 6i~elle ~tewart believed that As part of a larger star-mapping project that King is doing, stars are more likely than young stars to have planets around them. "before you can Villarreal analyzed data obtained fi·om the Cerro Tololo Inter­ "Given the astounding discoveries of planetary companions Giselle Stewart, a Stewart, a Pana­ make a dream come true, you American Observatory in Chile. Villarreal compared the chemical around sun-like stars over the past few years, and the potential junior in the commu­ manian African-Amer­ must first have implications these have for our understanding of how life might nication studies pro­ composition of nearby sun-like stars with that of our own sun. ican, expects to grad­ one." Astronomers have found that some chemical compositions are arise in the universe," the astronomical community is particularly gram, researched love uate in May 2003 McNair's dream more likely than others to indicate the existence of planets around interested in the chemical composition of stars, Villarreal wrote for and conflict manage­ with a bachelor's was to become a sun-like stars. In particular, measuring the lithium in a star's his poster session. m ment under the men­ degree in communica­ scientist. Although he grew up in a poor torship of Beth Semic, tion studies. She plans South Carolina community, he earned a assistant professor of to study organization­ doctorate in laser physics and eventually communication and al communication in joined NASA's elite space program. McNair was on his second space flight an expert on interper­ graduate school when the Challenger shuttle exploded sonal relations. before becoming an in January 1986. The Challenger's crew, Grounded Experience: Mariam Bakhtary "When people organizational con­ including Christa McAuliffe, the first become involved in sultant for businesses. NASA Teacher in Space participant, died A more down-to-earth project was the Bakhtary says the progran1 showed relationships, they The research expe­ in the accident. "Biodegradation of Low-Level Nuclear her new possibilities for her fuh1re. As have relational goals rience sparked her Congress created the McNair Scho lars Institute to encourage students of color, Waste Packaging Material," a team effort a child she saw fi·iends die in her and expectations of interest in the subject as well as low-income and first-genera­ native Afghanistan when Soviet bombs their partners," Stewart wrote in the and has given her confidence to pursue by Kevin Hughes and Mariam Bakhtary, tion undergraduates, to follow in mentored by Penny Amy in the department destroyed her school. This experience paper that resulted from her research. master's and doctoral degrees. McNair's educational footsteps by of biological sciences. forged her resolve to become a physi­ "These expectations can also be affected "I was able to gain valuable experi­ enrolling in graduate studies. The goal of this ongoing project is to cian so she could help others. by a person's perception of love and how ence in how to properly conduct research McNair made a fine role model. He determine which bacteria are most effective Bakhtary conducted her McNair they choose to express love. " as well as how to develop a quality thesis graduated magna cum laude with a at degrading materials such as waste pack­ research while taking classes, working Building on the Love Attitude Scale and dissertation," she says. "I believe this bachelor's degree in physics from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical aging materials. In containers of soil for UNLV, and volunteering at a local developed by other researchers, Stewart experience has provided me with an State University. In 1971, at the age of hospital. Her work in the McNair pro­ paired the love styles identified in the advantage when the time comes to apply obtained from the Nevada Test Site, the 26, he earned a doctorate in laser researchers buried samples of materials that gram has not diminished her interest scale wi th different conflict management to graduate school. " physics from the Massachusetts Institute had been treated with different kinds of in medicine, but she now considers styles. After conducting a lengthy survey, For her part, Semic felt rewarded by of Technology. His research at MIT led to bacteria, or, for control, no bacteria at all. medical research a possibility. she investigated whether the pairings rep­ her mentoring activities. "It gave me the new applications for highly excited poly­ In the process, the undergraduate Mentoring through the McNair resented valid connections. opportunity to work with an extremely atomic molecules. researchers had to maintain sterile condi­ Scholars program proved to be an For example, is an individual who has bright, highly motivated student," she He was selected for the space shuttle program in 1978, one of 35 chosen from tions to ensure that the results they invaluable experience for Amy as well. a passionate love style and who is attract­ says. "It was truly a privilege to guide 10,000 applicants. He made his first "The McNair Scholars Program gave me an of year," says the professor. "The students ed to a partner with a particular physical Giselle, one-on-one, through the obtained really came from the bacteria, not space flight in 1984, only the second from extraneous sources. They also gained opportunity to get to know two talented learned about research techniques involving appearance likely to manage conflict research process and watch her develop African-American to fly in space . direct experience using a laser scanning students and to have them assist in my environmental microbiology, and I got a through collaboration, competition, or skills that will carry her successfully into microscope. research program during a very busy time helping hand when we needed it most." m compromise? her graduate studies. m

He compared the importance of a manager's "soft" skills, such as Edward will be the first in his family to receive a degree and has An Appetite for Re~earch: Paul Edward being able to understand the emotional state of an employee, to funded his college education hin1self ilirough scholarships and "intellectual intelligence." When it comes to motivating employ­ loans. He left home when he was 15 . Then, higher education was Paul Edward says that exploring a subject in depth - in his case, ees, Edward determined, a high IQ is not enough for a successful "more of a luxury, and hard work was a priority simply for exis­ a business project- whetted his appetite for more independent manager. tence," he says. study. Since working with management professor Dan McAllister This kind of independent study particularly suits Edward's Still, he finds more ilian financial reward in tl1e McNair pro­ on a project titled "Leadership and Emotional Intelligence (EQ): needs. An accident five years ago cost him his hearing; so, altlwugh gram. "The financial stipend iliat ilie McNair program offers is Success Requires More than IQ," Edward has gone on to another he reads lips, the typical classroom setting can limit his learning. tertiary to tl1e emotional benefit and tl1e valuable experience," independent project witl1 economics professor Hans-Hermann "Less than three years ago, I never thought I would succeed in Edward says. Hoppe. reaching a baccalaureate," he says, noting that he will graduate witl1 He plans to be a business educator wiili a focus on helping Edward's McNair project investigated workplace success and his business degree in May. "Now I envision my Ph.D. from future peers who are burned out in teaching. He also hopes to tl1e relationship between intellectual and emotional intelligence. Harvard, Stanford, or anotl1er of the top-10 U.S . institutions." raise the general public's interest in higher education. m

22 + U N LV .M A G A Z I N E S P R I N G 2 0 0 2 + 23 erry Smith* didn't bring much hope with him to "Clinical legal education is founded on tl1e principle the legal clinic housed inside a little gray barracks that adult students learn best by doing rather than by just Ton the grounds of a convened elementary school. reading or listening to lectures," says Berkheiser, associate Frustrated by paperwork filled with legalese, Srnitl1 professor and director of the Juvenile Justice Clinic. tl1ought maybe, just maybe, the clinic could help him "Students learn how to be attorneys here by doing tl1e save 14-year-old James* from years in a juvenile correc­ exact things they will do after graduation, but with a big tions facility. safety net. " "Th.is boy is not a problem child, but if he stays in tl1at The Thomas & Mack Legal Clinic is a first step in system, they will make him a problem," Smith says of h.is establishing a center for children and fanlliy law research former neighbor. "I know he has and policy development at ilie potential. He just needs a home Boyd School of Law. "Some law so he can find his way again." In Clark County, children in school clinics offer a smattering The teen-ager once lived with the court system often have not of all the different types of law his mother and five siblings in practices out there," Berkheiser Smith's Las Vegas neighbor­ had access to legal representa­ says. "The clinic committee hood. He'd watched the chil­ tion. That)s changing as the decided we wanted to do some­ dren grow but worried about Thomas & Mack Legal Clinic thing with an overreaching their upbringing by a motl1er theme and an integrated focus. " who battled drug addiction. prepares its students to be The focus on cl1ildren was an "One day, I noticed the boy had attorneys while helping fill a easy decision, given a vast com­ marks on h.is back," Smith says. gap in community services. munity need. Clark County's "I told tl1e mother I was going rapid growth has t

Thomas & Mack Donation Enhances The clinic offers free legal services to low-income people who "The Thomas and Mack families, for whom our campus sports Programs funded through the donation could include visiting otherwise would not have access to representation. and events facility is named, have continued to be among the most professorships and a scholarship program that would help stu­ 'People Resources' at law School Another clinic program focuses on law student externships. generous donors to, and visionary supporters of, UNLV," Harter dents take non-paying externships at public-interest law practices Through this program, students work under the close supervi­ says. "Indeed, it was the vision of Jerry Mack and Parry Thomas that instead of paid positions with private law firms during summer A $2 million gift from Joyce Mack and the Thomas family sion of experienced attorneys in positions with state and feder­ led to the acquisition of the land our campus now occupies. breaks. will help the WilliamS. Boyd School of Law enhance the human al courts, at non-profit law practices, and in government "This example of generosity by Joyce Mack and the Thomas Expansion of the externship program will help the school bet­ element in its clinic programs. offices. family will enable us to enhance our legal clinic, which provides ter serve its part-time students. The school also hopes to offer "The clinic committee believed that this money would be "The externship program rounds out the learning experi­ superb educational opportunities for our law students. We are most externship placements out of state and overseas, Geer says. best used for people resources- not books or paperclips or ence for our students," says professor Martin Geer, director of grateful to the donors for providing us the resources to undertake "The gift also may allow us to develop a fellows program, like bricks-and-mortar building," says Mary Berkheiser, clinical direc­ the externship program. "Working directly with professionals in this crucial project." many law schools have," Berkheiser says. "Fellows programs tor and associate professor of law. "We hope this generous gift law practices and the judiciary gives students a deep under­ Joyce Mack proposed the gift as a way to honor her husband, enable schools to hire law school graduates and give them a start will help us enrich our students' experiences by offering them standing of their future roles as lawyers within the system. It Jerome "Jerry" Mack, who died in 1998. The law school has named in teaching." opportunities to expand their legal foundations well beyond also enhances the writing and research skills they will need to the clinics in honor of the donors. "Jerry Mack, certainly a leader in Berkheiser hopes to see the public clinic program grow from the classroom before graduation." apply to their own practices once they graduate." building the Las Vegas community, was a champion of the establish­ the 32 students who can now participate each year to approxi­ The Thomas & Mack Legal Clinic currently specializes in UNLV President Carol C. Harter says the gift to the clinic ment of a law school at UNLV. He worked on that project over the mately 60 students. Currently, qualified students are selected for child welfare and juvenile delinquency cases with plans to and the funds provided by the Nevada Legislature provide an course of several years and offered to provide financial support to the program through a lottery system with preference given to expand into other legal areas related to children and families. excellent example of public and private collaboration. such a law school," said Dick Morgan, dean of the law school. students in their final year of study. m 18 & 20 Men's Tennis: UNLV vs. Oklahoma 25 Music: Ul\TLV Wind Orchestra Concert N. State- March 18. Drake- March 20. 1:30pm. 7:30pm. AHCH. 895-2787. MccreA 2 0 02 FTC. 895-3207. 25-28 Men's Tennis: MWC Championship. 20 University Forum Lecture: "Why Can't I See All day. FTC. 895-3207. the Mountains? Haze Over Las Vegas." 1-2 Dance: Dance Arts Spring Concert. Call for 7:30pm. MBMA. 895-3401. 26 Performing Arts Center's Charles Vanda times. JBT. 895-2787. Master Series: Moscow Grigorovich Ballet: 22 American Theatre•Arts for Youth: Pippi Spa1'tacus. 8pm. AHCH. 895-2787. 1-3 Women's Tennis: UNLV Spring Invitational. Longstocking. lOam & Noon. AHCH. All day. FTC. 895-3207. 895-2787. 26-27 Dance Arts: Concert III. Call for times. BBT. 895-2787. 2 Concert: Las Vegas Philharmonic Concert N. Performing Arts Center's Best of the New "Classic Maste rworks." 8pm. ARCH. 895-2787. York Stage: Linda Eder. 8pm. AHCH. 26 & 28 Softball: UNLV vs . New Mexico ­ 895-2787. April 26, 5pm. Colorado State -April 28, Women's Basketball: UNLV vs. Utah (MWC). Noon. EMS. 895-3207. 5pm. TMC. 895-3900. 22-23 Women's Tennis: Ul\TLV vs. BYU- March 22, 2pm. Utah - March 23, l0an1. FTC. 30 Music: UNLV Jazz Ensemble II Spring Men's Basketball: UNLV vs. New Mexico 895-3207. Concert. 7:3 0pm. BBT. 895-0862. (MWC). 7:3 5pm . TMC. 895-3900. 22-24 Baseball: UNLV vs. Utah. Call for times. 3-10 Theatre: Top Gi1'ls. Call for times. BET. WBS. 895-3207. 895-2787. 24 Southern Nevada Musical Arts Society: Mcpj 2002 5 University Forum Lecture: "Aspects Orchestra and Chorus Concert II "Grand ···· ······ ·· ··········· ················································' ········ of Rhythm and Melody in Spanish Music." Mass in C." 3pm. AHCH. 895-2787. Moscow Grigorovich Ballet Spartacus 7:30pm. BMC. 895-3401. 26 Women's Tennis: Ul\TLV vs. Auburn. I 0:30am. April 26 6 Women's Tennis: UNLV vs. William & FTC. 895-3207. 1 Music: UNLV Choral Ensembles Spring Mary. 2pm. FTC. 895-3207. Men's Tennis: UNLV vs . Auburn. 1:30pm. FTC. Concert. 7:30pm. AHCH. 895-2787. 7 Music: "African-American Music: A 895-3207. 10 Theatreworks USA: Peter Pan. lOan1 & Noon. 2 University Forum Lecture: "Get to the Point: Celebration." 7:30pm. BMC. 895-3008. 27 Music: Kitarni Hakuyou Band. 7:3 0pm . AHCH. 895-2787. Integrating Acupuncture into Western Medicine." 7: 30pm. MBMA. 895-3401. 7-9 Men's Basketball: Mountain West AHCH. 895-3734. Baseball: UNLV vs. Southern Utah. 6:30pm. Conference Tournament. Call for times. 29-30 Softball: UNLV vs. BYU - March 29, lpm. WBS. 895-3207. 3-12 Theatre: How to Sttcceed in Business Ti na Mabanta TMC. 895-3900. UNLV Women's Golf Team Utah- March 30, 3pm. EMS. 895-3207. ll Music: UNLV Symphonic Winds Spring Without R eally Trying. Call for times. JBT. 895-2787. 8-10 Men's Golf: Las Vegas Intercollegiate. 29-31 Men's Tennis: UNLV vs. Air Force­ Concert. 7:3 0pm. AHCH. 895-3733. Call for times and locations. 895-3207. March 29, 1:30pm. New Mexico- March 30, University Forum Lecture: "Greek Body 3-5 Music: UNLV Opera Theatre One Acts. 8-10 Softball: UNLV Mini Tournan1ent II Noon. San Diego State- March 31, Noon. Language: Evidence in Art and Archaeology." Call for times. BBT. 895-3332. For more information on with Oregon, Boston College, and Notre FTC. 895-3207. 7:30pm. MBMA. 895-3401. 4 Las Vegas Philharmonic: Concert V, Season events and publications, visit Dame. Call for times. EMS. 895-3207. 29-31 Baseball: UNLV vs . New Mexico. Call for 12 Music: UNLV Chamber Chorale 16th Annual Finale. 8pm. AHCH. 895-2787. UNLV's Web site at 9 Performing Arts Center's Charles Vanda times . WBS . 895-3207. Home Concert. 7:3 0pm. BMC. 895-2787. 6 California Theatre Center: The Reluctant www. unlv.edu Master Series: Vienna Chamber Orchestra D1'agon. 9:30an1 & ll :30am. AHCH. with Philippe Entremont. 8pm. AHCH. 12-21 Theatre: Louder Than Words. Call for times. 895-2787. 895-2787. &l!Jri! 2002 BBT. 895-2787. ll-12 Baseball: UNLVvs. BYU. Call for 14 Music: Chen Zong Yin, guest artist recital. 8 Music: UNLV Symphony Orchestra Concert VI. times. WBS . 895-3207. 2pm. AHCH. 895-3736. 7:30pm. AHCH. 895-3949. 13-15 Men's Tennis: UNLVvs. Southern 16 & 17 Baseball: UNLVvs. Southern Utah. 10-12 Baseball: UNLV vs. Air Force. Call for Miss- March 13. Ball State- March 14. 1 Baseball: UNLV vs . Arizona State. 6:30pm. 6:30pm. WBS . 895-3207. times . WBS. 895-3207. AHCH: Artemus Ham Concert Hall North Carolina State- March 15. Call for WBS . 895-3207. 17 Music: UNLV Community Band Concert II. 12 Performing Arts Center's The World Stage: BBT: Black Box Theatre times. FTC. 895-3207. 3 & 6 Softball: Ul\TLV vs. UC Riverside- April 3, 7:30pm. AHCH. 895-3733 . Sweet Honey in the Rock. 4pm. AHCH. BMC: Beam Music Center lpm. San Diego State- April6, 5pm. EMS. Linda Eder 13-17 Theatre: Annual Spring Ten-Nlinute Play 18 University Forum Lecture: "Landscape Images 895-2787. DBFA: Donna Beam 895-3207. Festival. 8pm. PHT. 895-2787. of the Colorado Plateau" (slide-illusu-ated). Fine Art Gallery March 22 15 University Forum Lecture: "President John EMS: Eller Media Stadium 14-15 Women's Tennis: UNLV vs. Pennsylvania - 4 University Forum Lecture: "Afghanistan, Islam, 7:30pm. MBMA. 895-3401. Adams: A Performance Lecture." 7:30pm. and the Problem of Terrorism." 7: 30pm. FTC: Frank & VICki Fertitta March 14, 2pm. Indiana - March 15 , 2pm. 19 Las Vegas Philharmonic Concert: Peter Call for location. 895-3401. Tennis Complex MBMA. 895-3401. FTC. 895-3207. Schickele meets PDQ Bach. 8pm. AHCH. 16-18 Baseball: UNLV vs . San Diego State. JBT: Judy Bayley Theatre 5 Music: UNLV Invitational Choral Festival. 895-2787. MBMA: Marjorie Barrick 15-30 Photography Exhibit: Spring 2002 Call for times. WBS. 895-3207. Museum Auditorium Exhibition, "Ni9ne," featuring photos of Call for times. AHCH. 895-3008. 22 University Forum Lecture: "Reading by Poet Nevada Ballet Theatre: World Premiere MSM: Marjorie Barrick Museum nine photographers. Weekdays, Sam-4:45pm; 6 Performing Arts Center's Charles Vanda Master of Natural History and Professor Ralph Angel." 7:30pm. MBMA. Concert. Call for times. JBT. 895-2787. Sat., l0am-2pm. (Runs through May 25.) Series: Australian Chamber Orchestra, featuring 895-3401. PHT: Paul Hanis Theatre Reception, March 22, 5-7pm. MSM. Stephen Hough. 8pm. AHCH. 895-2787. 18 Commencement: 9am & 2pm. TMC. TMC: Thomas & Mack Center 25 University Forum Lecture: "From Political 895-3381. 895-3229 (Hotline). WBS: Wilson Baseball Stadium 7 Performing Arts Center's Best of the New Symbol to Nostalgic Icon: The Kitsch-ification 18 Music: UNLV Symphony Orchestra Concert V. York Stage Finale: Michael Feinstein and Ann of the Mushroom Cloud" (slide-illustrated). 24 Desert Chorale: Annual Memorial Weekend 7: 30pm. AHCH. 895-3949. Hampton Callaway. 7pm. AHCH. 895-2787. 7: 30pm. MBMA. 895-3401. Concert 2002. 7:3 0pm. AHCH. 895-2787. Events are subject w change/cancellation

28 + U N L V MAGAZINE SPRING 2002 + 29 1970s Corps and served at posts in James E. Reppert, '85 MA Nevada witl1 secondary responsi­ her husband, Jason, recently University. ... AI Medina, '94 BS as a director for tangben.com and Barbara Case, '99 BS Hotel Germany, California, Texas, and Communication Studies, is an bilities for resorts in Aruba and moved back to Las Vegas \\~th Fitness and Sports Management, as an adviser ''~ili EFC Journal.... Administration, is banquet cap­ Chris A. Beecroft Washington. He and \\~e .Kris associate professor of mass com­ Puerto Rico. Prior to joining their two sons, Jared and '95 BS Healili Education, '00 Wallace W. Hammons, '97 BA rain at The Boulevard Restaurant Jr., '71 BA have a 5-year-old daughter, munication and director of broad­ Hyatt Resorts, he was director of Colbey... . MS Fitness and Sports Manage­ Political Science, is a deputy in San Fran cisco and plans to Political Science, Shelley.. .. Quincy L. Moore, '75 cast journalism at Southern internal audit at the Four Queens Stephanie ment, is a corporate wellness attorney general for the state of open a delicatessen .... Nancy N. oversees more MA Educational Arkansas University in Magnolia. Casino and Hotel, senior account­ Penner, '93 BA coordinator with St. Rose Nevada. A 2000 graduate of Shaw, '99 BS Finance, is a real than 300 attorney Foundations and The Kentucky Communication ant at Boomtown/ Silverton Commun-cation Dominican Hospital in Hender­ Southwestern University School estate agent for Century 21 and non-attorney Counseling, is Association named him its 2000- Casino and Hotel, and held vari­ Studies, is a pub­ son. He promotes health and of Law, he was admitted to the Aadvantage Gold and holds a Chris Beecroft arbitrators as the dean of under­ 01 Teacher of the Year, noting his ous positions at the Desert Inn lic relations spe­ wellness through corporate events Nevada Bar in 2000 and the broker/ salesperson license. Jr., '71 arbitration com­ graduate studies innovative teaching methods and Resort ....L iz Ritter Walsh, '89 cialist with The and community healili screen­ State Bar of California, 9ri1 Stephanie Firm Public ings. He also is a certified District, U.S. Court of Appeals, missioner in the 8th Judicial and student sup- work 1vith student-produced BA English, teaches at Reed High Penner, '93 2000s District Court of Nevada, an port at West Qunicy L. radio, tele,~sion , and webcast pro­ School in Sparks, where she also is Relations & strengtl1 and conditioning special­ in June 200l.. .. Patrick Smith, appointed position. He previously Chester University Moore, '75 grams. He is the first out-of-state the adviser for the school year­ Marketing. Previously, she ist ... .Jos e Luis Melendrez, '94 '97 BA Communication Studies, Robyn Campbell-Ouchida, '00 served as assistant arbitration in Pennsylvania. He is the first educator to receive the award .... book, newspaper, and speech and worked in tl1e public information BA Political Science, is working '01 Master of Public Administra­ MA Communication Studies, commissioner, practiced law in African-American dean at West George Gilbert, '86 BA debate teams. J ostens Publishing office of the Nevada Commission on his master's degree in social tion, works for the city of Las formed All Write Public Relations. Las Vegas, and was an approved Chester. He previously held sever­ Communication Studies, is a recently named the Reed year­ on Tourism. As deputy press sec­ work at ilie University of Vegas and is a volunteer for tl1e She offers public relations, mar­ arbitrator in the Court Annexed al positions at Virginia motivational humorist and speak­ book as a National Sample Book, retary for former Gov. Bob Michigan in Ann Arbor.. .. YMCA of Southern Nevada and keting, and free-lance writing Arbitration Program. He earned a Commonwealth University, er. He focuses on the importance and her speech team earned a Miller, she organized media Mahika Big Brothers/ Big Sisters. He is services .. .. Scott H alper, '01 BA law degree in 1974 from the including director of educational of humor in various aspects of life , traveling trophy for competing in events for President Bill Chandrasena active in the Pi Kappa Alpha Las Criminal Justice, enrolled at University of the Pacific support programs, director of aca­ including business, marriage, and the most rounds at district tour­ Clinton's visits and the National Bartholomeusz, Vegas Area Alumni Associa- Soutlnvesrern University School McGeorge School of Law. ... demic support, and executive health. Since his wife received a naments. Before moving to Reno Governor's Association annual '96 BS Hotel tion .... Bill Wang, '97 MBA, is of Law. He is pursuing a law Dawn Kemp, '72 BA Social Work, director of the Academic Success kidney and pancreas transplant in 2000, she taught in Las Vegas meeting in Las Vegas . She began Administration, is deputy marketing director for degree from SU's three-year pro­ is a deputy attorney general in the Center. He is a trustee to the seven years ago, he has promoted schools while earning a master's her career as a coordinator at a media executive John Deere, overseeing joint granl ....Valerie ta,xation di'~ sion of the Nevada American Counseling Association organ donation awareness. In degree from Grand Canyon R&R Partners, a Nevada adver­ Mahika for the Hilton venture operations in China. He Williams , '01 BS attorney general's office .... Foundation and the author of October, he spoke at the Nevada U niversity. She and her husband, tising and public relations Chandrasena Colombo in Sri lives in Moline, Ill .. ..D avid Recreation, BA Gary W. Brown, '73 BS Hotel numerous articles and book chap­ Donor Network's aruma! dinner. Charlie, have one son, Connor. agency. ... Sara Barrell Harrison, Bartholomeusz, Lanka. As a man- Sorensen, '98 BA Interdisciplinary '96 Administration, is vice president ters. He received a doctorate in H e currently is writing a book on '94 BS Business Administration, agement trainee Criminal Justice, is Studies, was a full of convention sales and services at counselor education from the the positive effects of humor.. .. 1990s opened American National with Hilton International, she led a law clerk for 2001 intern \vith the Baltimore Area Convention University ofiowa and completed Angela Andrich, '87 BS Insurance-The Harrison Agency tl1e housekeeping team's four­ Judge Allen R. the Vilar Institute Valerie and Visitors Association. He and the post-doctoral management Chemistry, is a psychiatrist in Roy Centrella, '91 in Henderson in 2000. The month renovation project at the Earl, 8th Judicial for Arts Manage- Williams, '01 his wife, Suzie, have two sons, development progran1 at Harvard West Linn, Ore., and a 1991 MBA, is controller agency specializes in auto, home, Hilton at Rangali Island in the District, Las ment at the John F. Kennedy Tyler and Travis, and live in University.... Arlene Samen, '77 graduate of the University of for Southwest Gas and life insurance and retirement Republic of Maldives . Previously, David Vegas. He gradu- Center for the Performing Arts Ellicott City, Md .... Gregg Carter, AA Nursing, is a certified nurse Nevada-Reno School of Medicine. Corp. in Las planning. She and husband Jay she was a front desk agent at the Sorensen, '98 ated from Whit- in Washington, D.C. Her duties '73 BA History, received the practitioner 1vith the University She and her husband, Dale Laird, Vegas. An 18-year have two children, Jake and Holiday Inn Boardwalk & Casino. tier Law School in December included events planning for the Sociologist of the Year Award of Utili's Division of Maternal­ welcomed their first child, employee of Harmall .... Jim Geoffroy, '94 BS She and her husband, Nigel, have 2000 .... Antoinette M. Thomas , American Ballet Theatre and the from the New England Fetal Medicine and a critical care Victoria Nicole, on Oct. 11 , Roy Centrella, Southwest Gas, he Business Administration, is man­ one son, Daniel. ...Yi Zhu, '96 '98 BA Sociology, is a real estate National Symphony Orchestra. Sociological Association as well as specialist in obstetrics. After 2000 .. .. Rhonda Williams '91 directs the compa- ager of financial planning analysis MS Accountancy, is a tax analyst agent with tl1e Prudential Before accepting the Kennedy the Outstanding Contributions to returning from a trip to Tibet in Shoulders, '87 BS Business ny's accounting, ta,x, and corpo­ with Verizon Wireless in "~th CCH and managing editor An1ericana Group and a member Center internship, she worked Instruction Award from the soci­ 1999, she developed the One Administration, is director of rate development activities. He Phoenix. Last year, he received for Wo1"id Economic Review and of tl1e Greater Las Vegas for the Henderson cultural arts ology and computers section of H .E.A.R.T (Health Education independent living at the is a certified public accountant an MBA from Arizona State Succeed magazines. He also serves Association of Realtors .. .. department. the American Sociological and Research in Tibet) program. Methodist H ome for Children & and a member of Financial Association. He is a professor of One H.E.A.R. T. educates Tibetan Youth in Warner Robins, Ga. Executives International, Ameri­ -;----- sociology at Bryant College in hospital staff in recognizing and She helps youth in the foster can Institute of Certified Public ------~-- Smithfield, R.I. In the past eight treating obstetric and gynecologic care program gain skills to live Accountants, and the American years, he authored or edited 14 complications as well as offers independently. She previously Gas Association ... . Sue Lynn Reif, · " e r (1'1 m u. books, including Working Women intensive midwifery training. served as coordinator for a '92 BA Psychology, works 'vith in Ame1•ica: Split Dreams, which Georgia foster care reform pro­ numerous exotic and domestic We invite all UNLV alumni to submit'"infgtmation about themselves to UNLV Magazine for inclusion in the Class Notes sec­ was published by Oxford 1980s granl.. .. Kurtis R. Hildebrand, '88 animals as a zookeeper at Happy tion. Plepse fill out.t he forrn below completely, type or print clearly, and avoid abbreviations. Information also can be sub­ University Press in 2000 .... BA Communication Studies, is Hollow Park & Zoo in San Jose, mitted via e-m ail: Please supply h'ome and office telephone numbers so we can reach you if there is a question about your Walter R. Griffen, '73 MS Donald W. Ehehalt, '83 BS Hotel assistant managing editor at the Calif Her background in psy­ entry. We encourage you to submit a head-and-shoulders photograph of yourse(f tG accompany yo 1-1 r Class Notes entry. Vocational Counseling, is director Administration, is assistant direc­ Nevada Appeal in Carson City and chology has proven vi tal to her of senior ministries at Reno First tor of catering at the Four teaches page design at Western work in animal training and United Methodist Church. He Seasons Hotel-Los Angeles at Nevada Community College. behavior. She also is a research earned a doctorate of ministry at Beverly Hills ... .Pe rry K Todd, Under his direction, the Appeal associate with the Pacific the St. Paul School of Theology '84 BS Hotel Administration, is a won first place for best special sec­ Cetacean Group, a non-profit in 1987. He and his wife, Dorothy, member of the Screen Actors tion from the Nevada Press organization for marine conserva­ celebrated their 60th wedding Guild and a pit boss at Palace Association. In 1994, the NPA tion .... Robert Vinson, '92 BA anniversary on Aug. 3l.. .. Jerry W. Station Casino. He has appeared named him best weekly journalist. History, received a doctorate in Chernik, '75 BS Zoology, is a on several tele1~sion shows, He pre1~ous l y worked at the history from H oward University 1979 graduate of the Oregon including X-Files, Melrose Place, Ridgecrest, Calif., Daily Independent in May 2001. He is an assistant H ealth Sciences University and Boston Public, and in the hor­ and the Record-Courier in professor of history at the School of Dental Medicine and ror movie Eat the Rich .. ..J effrey Gardnerville. He lives 11~th his University of Virginia .... Jessica Lee has operated a private dental Wachter, '84 BS Hotel 1vife, Jennifer, in Dayton .... Clair-Kimbel, '93 BS . . ... -. . j--;:, ort - practice in Wasilla, Alaska, since Administration, is self-employed, Ronald S. Ellis, '89 BS Hotel Accounting, is a mall accountant ntnes to: Cate Weeks, UNLV News and Pubh nformatlon, 4505 Maryland Parkway, B"Ol\4510127-Las Vegas, NV 89154-1012; and field accounting coordinator 1986. Prior to that, he was a cap­ offering tree and landscaping Administration, is internal audit fax 702-895-4057; e-m~il [email protected]:edu . tain in the U .S. Army Dental services in Hicksville, N.Y. ... manager for Hyatt Resorts in for Macerich Company. She and ~ ---- ~~------·

30 + UN L V M A G A Z IN E SPRING 2002 + 31 Developing Our Metropolitan Character much-needed space to expand, the acquisition of this property enables us to move forward with many of our plans. continued f rom page 2 I am delighted by this wonderful development. With it, we school's teaching and administrative functions, which will require expand both literally and figuratively, exploring new avenues for clinical, classroom, and laboratory space. Another building will growth and success. It contributes to my belief, as I mentioned house faculty research activities, including a portion of the earlier in this piece, that the university is moving in some signifi­ UNLV Cancer Institute and our new Biotechnology Center, a cant new directions: We are building a stronger presence in the state-of-the-art facility for forensic DNA and other biotechnolo­ Southern Nevada community, reaching out to serve its needs and gy training programs. (Additional details about the new developing along with it a metropolitan character of our own. Biotechnology Center are available in an article on page 3 of this The nuances of that character include a sense of growing sophis­ issue.) Use of the third building at the regional campus is still tication, of being capable and worthy of supporting a city of under consideration. complexity and size. I should make special note here that we appreciate the sup­ So, as you can sec, the past year has taken us to new terrain . port we have received as we have pursued this opportunity for The quality of our programs and faculty are being acknowledged expansion . We are very grateful to Gov. Kenny Guinn and the in unprecedented ways, and our ability to meet the needs of the Legislature for their support of the Dental School during the last campus and the community continues to grow. With these devel­ legislative session, and to the state's Interim Finance Committee, opments, I believe now, more than ever, we are advancing with which recently allowed us to revise our plans for housing the certainty toward our goal of becoming one of the finest urban dental school and to purchase the new property and buildings. research universities in the country. And I look forward to con­ In addition to providing us with a considerable amount of tinuing to pursue that goal. ~

"A lot of the kids we see have mental and emotional develop­ And Justice For All ment problems that feed into their delinquent behavior," continued from page 27 Berkheiser says. "By taking an interdisciplinary approach, we're serving the client by focusing on a holistic solution to both their Students and faculty in the Juvenile Justice Clinic also teamed legal and non-legal problems." with state legislators to draft and pass legislation regarding a juve­ Still, at the heart of the clinical program is the school's pri­ nile's right to an attorney. As a result, Nevada now provides legal mary goal: to turn UNLV's law students into community-mind­ counsel to all juveniles facing felony charges before they plead ed legal professionals. guilty or not guilty. In the past, attorneys were appointed only "In even the best classes, the teaching is still abstract," Appell after the children denied the charges. says. "When students are involved in a real case with the real Leah Ayala, who is in her final year of law school, and other files, they understand in a much deeper way how things work clinic participants currently are working to change the state's and why each step is important. Sometimes studen ts can recite a wardship policy. "When a child is adjudicated in juvenile justice, particular legal theory, but it doesn't always click until they've he becomes a ward of the court- it's like being on probation," actually experienced it." Ayala explains. "But, unlike on tl1e adult side, the wardship isn't Horne, the recent law school graduate, felt that click the first automatically discontinued after that sl.x-month probation. And time he stood up in court as a student-attorney. He represented that's just wrong. A small infraction could become really serious, two young children in a hearing to determine if one child was just because that wardship is still - erroneously- in effect." abused. Their mother had no attorney. The passion tl1at students like Ayala show for the issues is what "I believe the hearing was unfair to the mother of the chil­ makes the legal services above par, says Audrey Fetters, administra­ dren," he says. "This really highlighted to me what I've been tive director of the clinical program and a veteran social worker of taught throughout my law school career: the proceedings are not the juvenile justice system. "One good thing about new attorneys is always fair, particularly for the poor and uneducated." tl1ey bring a fresh perspective," Fetters says. "The clients certainly Yet, Horne's most gratifYing law school experience came at benefit from the students' enthusiasm, and having worked for so the same time. "My first thought was that I was woefully long in the system, I know how jaded a person can get." unqualified to spar against the seasoned DA that would be pres­ Fetters' experience with the local court system will be comple­ ent during the proceeding," he says. "But I stood toe-to-toe mented this year as the program adds a social worker to assist with with the DA and the hearing master and held my own. clinic cases and with interdisciplinary research. Law school faculty "That gave me a tremendous amount of confidence. I real­ and members of other UNLV departments, including social work, ized that I still have a great deal to learn, but I have gathered, special education, and criminal justice, formed a committee to through my legal education, all the tools necessary to serve my tackle community issues from all angles. future clients successfully." m

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