Summary
Patricia Richard has served as Interim Vice President for University Advancement since May 2023. During Patricia’s tenure, the University has experienced its largest fundraising years in history — allowing for increased support of student scholarships, academic programs, and campus infrastructure. Patricia has reorganized the advancement team to enhance internal collaboration and place a stronger emphasis on the donor experience.
Prior to her leadership role in University Advancement, Patricia served as Chief of Staff for President Brian Sandoval, leading initiatives on his behalf, overseeing activities and priorities, and connecting the President and the University to campus and community stakeholders. She was the University’s inaugural Chief of Staff under President Milt Glick and continued in the role with President Marc Johnson. As a member of the President's Senior Leadership Team, Patricia continues to partner closely with University deans and vice presidents to support University priorities.
For nearly three decades, Patricia has led University initiatives that ensure regular contact with alumni and donors, faculty and staff, community leaders and University supporters. While serving as Chief of Staff for 17 years, she has been tapped to take on concurrent leadership roles, spending five years as Director of Marketing, three years as Director of Diversity, and two years as Co-Chair of the Sesquicentennial Committee. Before becoming Chief of Staff, Patricia served University Advancement for 10 years as Director of University Events and Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement.
Patricia is a Big with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern Nevada and Past President of WIN Nevada. Her previous community involvement includes the Renown Community Advisory Committee, RSCVA Special Events Committee, FBI Citizens Academy, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity, and the McQueen Band Parent Association.
A University of Nevada alumna, Patricia holds a Bachelor of Arts in music and a Master of Arts in communication.