Regents Appoint Chris Heavey as Permanent UNLV President
The former interim president takes the role permanently following record growth in enrollment and research funding.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in People
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UNLV students and faculty have a new permanent leader as the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents appointed Dr. Chris Heavey as the university's president. Heavey, who served as the interim president since April 2025, now takes the role permanently following the resignation of former president Keith Whitfield.
Why it matters
The appointment provides stable leadership for the campus during a period that saw record-setting academic and enrollment milestones. Maintaining this momentum is central to the university's mission as it manages a growing student population and its Carnegie R1 research classification.
During Heavey's time as interim leader, UNLV reached a record enrollment of nearly 34,000 students and saw annual research expenditures reach $134 million. The university also recently completed a seven-year accreditation review with zero recommendations for improvement.
The players
Chris Heavey
The newly appointed permanent president of UNLV who previously served in the role on an interim basis.
Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents
The governing body responsible for university appointments and policy decisions.
Keith Whitfield
The former UNLV president who resigned from the position in March 2025.
The details
The Board of Regents approved the permanent appointment under a policy allowing interim presidents to transition to the role after one year. Heavey brings over five years of experience at the university, having previously served as executive vice president and provost. The board authorized a new employment agreement to finalize the transition.
Timeline
March 2025: Keith Whitfield resigned as president.
April 2025: Dr. Chris Heavey began serving as interim president.
October 2026: The Board of Regents appointed Heavey as the permanent president.
Beyond the Strip
The university's leadership transition comes as the campus cements its status under the Carnegie R1 and Community Engagement classifications. This appointment follows the precedent of the current state policy allowing for internal promotion of interim leaders to stabilize high-level institutional goals.
The permanent leadership status provides continuity for the university's 34,000 students and the local faculty body. Future updates regarding university policy or strategic changes will be handled under Heavey's direction as president.
The takeaway
The appointment of an insider ensures that the current academic and research trajectory remains a priority for the coming years. Residents and stakeholders should watch for upcoming university board meetings to see how this transition influences future long-term campus planning.
Further reading
For more details on the university's leadership and faculty, see the People section.
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Should university boards prioritize promoting interim leaders to permanent roles over conducting external searches?
