Higher education can transform lives. Just as Kim Nehls. Whether mentoring students or championing innovative initiatives, the inaugural recipient of the Higher Education program’s Alumni of the Year shapes the future of higher education at 51ԹϺ and beyond.
Currently serving as the senior advisor to 51ԹϺ’s president, Kim uses policy-driven research to develop strategies to strengthen student success and deepen community partnerships. “My cause is to get more students to and through higher education in Nevada,” she said. “I’m grateful to contribute to a field that shapes future leaders.”
Kim’s favorite moments are the quiet ones—a student finding their passion, a data point sparking a policy shift, a team working in sync to build something new. “I love watching transformation happen,” she said. “Higher education is a powerful catalyst for change, and it’s a privilege to be part of that process.”
The proud Rebel earned her doctorate in educational leadership in 2007, with a that drew top honors at both the college and university levels. Since then, her career has blended research, leadership, and service—helping students thrive in higher education and creating better outcomes for their communities.
From her time leading the Association for the Study of Higher Education (ASHE) to co-teaching classes and mentoring future scholars, Kim’s influence can’t be contained to 51ԹϺ’s campus. “She’s an exceptional scholar and leader,” said longtime colleague Doris Watson. “Kim is thoughtful, courageous, and always willing to lift others up, especially those from historically underrepresented backgrounds.”
When asked what advice she would share with current students, Kim offered, “If your journey is like mine, it won’t be linear, but it will be meaningful if you lead with authenticity and heart. Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you, be curious, take risks, and ask questions.”