A leader is someone who commands a group or organization. A good leader is someone who is in command and communicates integrity and solid decision-making ability. A great leader is someone who has earned the respected of those they work with and the community they serve. The 2024 class of Most Respected Leaders consists of these great leaders. These men and women are executives and decision makers who are providing guidance to the next generation of business leaders.
Chosen by a panel of judges who review their history, community work, leadership and plans for the future, the 2024 Most Respected Leaders have all created a legacy in our great state. Each of this year’s honorees have shared insights on the following pages. Congratulations to all the Most Respected Leaders. Nevada Business Magazine and PNC Bank are proud to recognize your accomplishments and contributions to Nevada.
Corporate Sponsor
Denette Suddeth
Regional President and Head of Commercial Banking
– Nevada PNC Bank
PNC Bank is proud to sponsor Most Respected Leaders once again. Congratulations to this year’s winners on your well-deserved recognition. Thank you for the significant impact you have made and continue to make to our great State of Nevada.
Nevada has experienced phenomenal growth over the last several years. PNC is proud to be part of that growth and we are excited to work with our community leaders to ensure that Nevada continues to be a place where people want to be. As residents, industries and world-class events continue to head our way in 2025, strong business and organizational leadership are more important than ever.
Leadership is about more than what happens in the office – it’s how you use your influence and strengths to positively impact those around you, inside and outside of the workplace. It’s about mentorship, inspiration, and the ability to see the big picture. We have no doubt that with these leaders at the helm, our community will continue to thrive for years to come.
Like these Most Respected Leaders, PNC is committed to making business decisions that have a positive impact on those we serve. When our communities prosper, so do we. PNC recognizes its role as a pillar of our communities and that’s demonstrated by our philanthropic investments and engagement.
Congratulations to all the 2024 Most Respected Leaders and thank you to Nevada Business Magazine for shining a spotlight on the importance of excellent leadership.
Jeremy Aguero
Principal Analyst and Founding Partner
Applied Analysis
“Progress through purpose, guided by trust.”
Primary Industry: Research
Principal Location: Southern Nevada
Nevada Citizenship: April 1974
Jeremy Aguero is a principal analyst and founding partner of Applied Analysis, an economic, fiscal and policy research firm based in Las Vegas. Jeremy has played a pivotal role in shaping Nevada’s growth through data-driven analysis and strategic policy development. His reputation for trust, integrity and collaboration has made him one of the most respected voices in economic policy across the state of Nevada. He was instrumental in securing $750 million in public funding for Allegiant Stadium, solidifying southern Nevada’s role as a major sports and entertainment hub. He has also played key roles in private-sector initiatives such as the Tesla Gigafactory expansion and the ongoing Athletics’ stadium development. Additionally, Jeremy served as treasurer of the Host Committee for Super Bowl LVIII.
What do you love about Nevada?
What I love most about Nevada is that it is a community people have chosen—a place where generations have come for better opportunities. My mother’s side arrived in 1905; my father’s side immigrated from Cuba in the 1960s. Their belief in this state built a future for our family, and I deeply value that legacy.
How did you get into your field?
I got into this field through a mix of serendipity and hard work. I started Applied Analysis in a basement apartment with the simple idea that if I could help people do what they were trying to do—better—they would keep hiring me. That idea still drives our business 27 years later.
How have you earned the respect of your team?
I have earned the respect of my team by focusing on people and purpose. Initially, I led by example—no one would outwork me. Over time, I learned true leadership is about service: empowering others with the tools and support they need to succeed. That creates lasting mutual respect.
What are the most important traits of a leader?
The most important traits of a leader start with integrity, which builds trust. Empathy fosters connection, and vision gives purpose. Adaptability helps navigate challenges, but above all, leadership is about service—lifting others to succeed. True leadership is measured by the success and growth of your team.
What contributions to Nevada are you most proud of?
The easy answer would be the big projects—the Raiders relocation and development of Allegiant Stadium, the Tesla expansion, or the Pupil-Centered Funding Plan. But honestly, what I am most proud of are my three children, born here in Nevada, and the company I built with my lifelong friend, Brian Gordon, where remarkable people do meaningful work.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I have embraced is simple: “Be where your feet are.” It is a reminder to stay grounded in the present and fully engage with the work and people in front of you. Real progress happens when you focus entirely on the moment, building stronger relationships and achieving better results.
What would you like your legacy to be?
I want my legacy to reflect the values that have guided my life: to be a credit to the mentors who shaped me, a role model for my children and a true partner to my wife. Above all, I hope my work helped others make their mark on Nevada, empowering future generations to lead and improve our state.
Tim Brooks
Owner and General Manager
Emerald Island Casino and Rainbow Club Casino
“Every day is a good day!”
Primary Industry: Hospitality
Principal Location: Southern Nevada
Nevada Citizenship: March 1997
Tim Brooks has spent his entire career in the hospitality and gaming industry and has been running Emerald Island Casino and Rainbow Club Casino for over 20 years. He has over 35 years’ experience in upper-level management and ownership in the gaming and food and beverage industries. His areas of expertise include establishing the highest levels of service, his ability to interpret financial data, cut costs, manage and motivate personnel and bring businesses and communities together. Tim has a unique ability to interpret market trends and develop marketing strategies to continually bring people and businesses to the community. He proudly serves on a number of boards in Henderson, was previously named City of Henderson Economic Development Private Sector “Person of the Year” in 2010 and served as Chairman of the City of Henderson Special Budget Ad HOC Committee in 2013. He has been a proud Henderson resident since 1998.
What do you love about Nevada?
I love our state because of the sense of community, and the positive business climate.
How did you get into your field?
I was recruited by a gaming corporation in 1996, and the rest is history.
Why have you been successful?
I have been blessed to have multiple mentors in both my personal and business life. I truly enjoy the people who work beside me and for me, and count them as friends which allows me not to work a day in my life.
How have you earned the respect of your team?
I work hard to set an example and treat others how I would like to be treated, with both honesty and compassion.
What are the most important traits of a leader?
Do not be afraid to do the work; treat others well and live by example.
What contributions to Nevada are you most proud of?
Providing a positive work environment for others to thrive. I am so proud of the charitable organizations I have been able to support throughout my career. I believe we create change one day at a time.
How has your industry changed in recent years?
Technology has changed everything, from social media, gaming devices, food and beverage and beyond. One thing that never goes out of style is superior customer service.
Who was a mentor to you?
My father. He was a kind and good person and I miss him everyday.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t live beyond your means.
Why do you think you are respected in this community?
I always try to do the right thing even if it’s not easy and to my benefit.
How important is community involvement for a business-leader?
On a scale of one to ten, a ten.
What is the most difficult thing you’ve encountered as a leader?
Implementing change.
What would you like your legacy to be?
To be remembered for the positive contributions I have made to help others, and for those who knew me to smile when they think of me.
Mark Brown
Chief Executive Officer
Miracle Flights
“Something good happens in my life every day and if I am not paying attention, I will miss it.”
Primary Industry: Nonprofit
Principal Location: Southern Nevada
Nevada Citizenship: January 1961
Mark Brown currently serves as chief executive officer of Miracle Flights and brings with him an extensive background in philanthropy work, marketing, communications, public policy and government affairs. His past leadership includes chief executive officer of Mark Brown Communications, Zen Entertainment and partner and president of R&R Partners, an advertising, marketing and public relations corporation. Mark also served as executive vice president of The Howard Hughes Corporation and executive vice president of Station Casino. Mark has an extensive background in nonprofit activities, chairing numerous organizations and raising millions in external fundraising. He also managed all philanthropic donations for both the Howard Hughes Corporation and Station Casinos where he directed contributions exceeding $40 million throughout Nevada and the western United States. Mark also led the effort to raise over $25 million dollars as the multi-year chair of the Clark County School Growth Committee. Mark currently serves as a member of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee.
What do you love about Nevada?
From a business standpoint, Nevada has always been a “can do” state. Las Vegas welcomes people with dreams and has a business climate that allows those dreams to come to life. The people in Nevada have a certain optimism that is hard to find elsewhere.
How did you get into your field?
I had retired with time on my hands, and I was introduced to Miracle Flights. The organization was struggling a bit to grow to help more sick children receive distant medical care. I was offered the job of CEO and I took the job thinking it would be for a year or two. Now, nine years later, primarily because of our incredible staff, we have grown into an organization that pays for 700 flights a month for children who need distant medical care.
Why have you been successful?
Someone once told me to do one extra thing a day in your job or personal life. And when you look back after a year you have done about 340, plus or minus, extra things and you can’t help but have success. And you know what? It works like magic.
How have you earned the respect of your team?
I don’t take for granted that I have earned the respect of my team. I work to do something every day to earn their respect.
What are the most important traits of a leader?
My view of leadership has evolved as I have gotten older. Integrity has always been near the top of my list and empathy is now right up there. Good leaders use empathy to build rapport with clients, customers and their team members. Good decisions always seem to be derived from empathic leadership.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
My dad told me that it is easy to do the right thing when everyone is looking. But it is a true measure of a person to do the right thing when no one is paying attention.
Who was a mentor to you?
I would have to say John Goolsby, former CEO of the Howard Hughes Corporation. Former U.S. Senator Chic Hecht also played a big role in my early professional life.
How important is community involvement for a business-leader?
If you are committed to improving the community where you live and conduct business, it is a must. Some of my most cherished relationships have been made through my community involvement.
Kevin Burke
Chief Executive Officer
Burke Construction Group
“It is not what you are capable of, but what you are willing to do.”
Primary Industry: Construction
Principal Location: Southern Nevada
Nevada Citizenship: September 1990
Kevin Burke, is the CEO of Burke Construction Group, a general contractor specializing in comprehensive construction management and sustainable building services. He also co-founded Matter Real Estate Group in 2018 and devises innovative, custom-building solutions for the company’s developments. Kevin was appointed four times by the Governor of Nevada as Chairman of the Nevada State Contractor’s Board and served as a Board Member from 2008-2019. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Nevada Contractors Association, Associated General Contractors and the UNLV Foundation Board of Trustees. Kevin continues to play a key role in some of the construction industry’s most distinguished organizations and is committed to supporting local charities.
What do you love about Nevada?
I love the entrepreneurial spirit and sense of community. We are a pro-business state. I love the weather and the outdoors [and] the creative energy that is part of the DNA of the state. There is an edge to our state that yearns to do more and be better.
How did you get into your field?
My brother founded our company in 1984, and I joined him in 1989. Since we were little kids growing up in a small farming community in Kansas, we always knew we would be in business together. He picked construction and I followed him. We are both engineers by education and training, so construction was a natural field for us both to pursue.
How have you earned the respect of your team?
We have a high-performance work culture, and I lead by example with a strong work ethic. I never ask anyone to do something that I have not done or am willing to do. I prioritize engaging with my team by listening to their ideas and concerns, openly communicating decisions, providing active coaching, celebrate along the way (wins both big and small) and ensuring they feel valued and empowered.
What are the most important traits of a leader?
You have to have a vision and with great clarity be able to articulate it and then get people to buy into it. You cannot pay people enough to care enough so they have to believe in the mission at its core. You have to be able to quickly adapt to an ever-changing world. Think quick and move quicker. Time is not your friend. You must be resilient.
What contributions to Nevada are you most proud of?
I take immense pride in witnessing what Burke Construction Group has accomplished over the past 40 years. We have had the privilege of helping build and shape the community, contributing to the growth and innovation that defines our city today. As I drive through the city, I am constantly reminded of the role we’ve played in its transformation.
Who was a mentor to you?
My older brother who we lost tragically in 2002 in a cycling accident. I try to honor him and my parents every day.
Why do you think you are respected in this community?
I firmly believe that we must always choose what is right over what is easy. Throughout my career, I have made it my mission to contribute in ways that align with the values of collaboration, integrity, innovation, and growth. One of the guiding principles I live by comes from Maya Angelou’s words: ‘I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.’ This resonates deeply with me because I strive to foster meaningful connections and leave a positive impact on those around me.
Keith Burrowes
Managing Member
Sierra Integrated Systems
“Aim for the highest standards and ethical practices in everything I do.”
Primary Industry: Electrical Contracting
Principal Location: Northern Nevada
Nevada Citizenship: July 2001
Keith Burrowes is the Managing Member of Sierra Integrated Systems (SIS), which was founded in 2002. The company provides low voltage and electrical contracting services, including lighting design, audio, video, lighting control, smart home systems and electrical infrastructure including on-site generators to homeowners and commercial customers. Previously, Keith was president and chief executive officer of Lectrix International BV, jointly owned by American Electric Power, Bechtel and Siemens. The company developed markets in power quality and reliability for data centers and other industrial customers globally, and merchant transmission projects in North America. Keith has over 30 years’ experience in positions of increasing responsibility, including 28 years at Bechtel, a leading engineering and construction company. Keith is a licensed contractor in Nevada and California and is past chair for both the Reno Philharmonic Association and the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN).
What do you love about Nevada?
I love northern Nevada’s stunning geography and its friendly, welcoming residents, which contribute to an outstanding quality of life. The influx of new residents, especially high-net-worth individuals attracted by remote work and no state income tax, has also greatly supported our growth.
How have you earned the respect of your team?
I listen to my team when their input is aimed to improve business success, not just for personal gain. Each year, I have updated our company’s Strategic Roadmap and sought feedback, leading to valuable input and strong team buy-in.
What are the most important traits of a leader?
A leader must have technical knowledge of the business, a visionary outlook on the economy and technology, and the ability to implement tools like software and AI to improve business efficiency and labor productivity.
Who was a mentor to you?
Riley Bechtel, the CEO of Bechtel, was my greatest mentor, but I’ve been fortunate to have several other mentors throughout my career.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
As a Christian, I pray for God’s guidance in business decisions. I also appreciate staying informed on industry trends through my involvement with Home Technology Specialists of Northern America (HTSA).
Why do you think you are respected in the community?
I always tell the truth and take responsibility for the work we do, even if we make a mistake.
What contributions to Nevada are you most proud of?
I appreciate being selected as Chair of the Reno Philharmonic Board and the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada during my career. Sierra Integrated Systems has grown, and we have been members of HTSA since 2005.
What is the most difficult thing you’ve encountered as a leader?
Finding good employees that blend with our culture. Currently we have 30+ employees.
What would you like your legacy to be?
I care deeply about my employees and feel confident in the leadership of our new general manager, who blends well with the team.
Bryce Clutts
President, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner
Metcalf Builders
“To whom much is given, much is expected.”
Primary Industry: Commercial Real Estate
Principal Location: Northern Nevada
Nevada Citizenship: Born and Raised
A native Nevadan, Bryce Clutts serves as Metcalf’s president, chief executive officer and managing partner providing executive leadership of Metcalf’s mission, as well as its strategic and cultural initiatives. He joined Metcalf Builders in 2018 and quickly moved to a managing partner position in 2020. Bryce has nearly 30 years of experience in the construction industry as an estimator, project engineer, project manager, operations manager, executive and principal. His experience includes warehouse/distribution, manufacturing, mining, civil, multi-family, public works, central plants, office buildings, medical, and hospitality projects across the United States. Bryce’s affiliations include organizations such as Vistage, the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN), NAIOP of Northern Nevada, Northern Nevada Development Authority, Nevada Builder’s Alliance and the Associated General Contractors of Nevada, among others.
What do you love about Nevada?
From a personal perspective I enjoy the amount of public land that is available for hunting, fishing, and exploring throughout the state. From a business perspective, we are incredibly diverse.
Why have you been successful?
The philosopher Seneca once said, “luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity”. I am lucky to have met my wife at a very young age. She and my children have been supportive throughout my career, and they are my foundation. In business I have worked hard to recruit and develop talent. As a result, I have been lucky to have been surrounded by incredibly honest, hardworking, and talented people throughout my career.
What contributions to Nevada are you most proud of?
As a native Nevadan it has been an honor to spend half of my career in southern Nevada and half of my career in northern Nevada. That has allowed me to serve on community boards, local and state commissions, and industry associations where I have been able to make a small impact throughout the state of Nevada.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Thoughts become things, choose the good ones.
How has your industry changed in recent years?
The number of skilled trades is decreasing rapidly. It is estimated that more than 40 percent of the current construction workforce will retire by 2031. This is a challenge for our industry and will become a crisis if we do not educate our children and their parents on the benefits of our industry and the quality of life it can provide.
Who was a mentor to you?
There have been many, but I would have to say my two grandfathers. Both were men of faith, married to the same woman more than 50 years, served their country, raised their families, had successful careers and positively impacted their communities.
Why do you think you are respected in the community?
I have tried to live my life by doing the right thing, even when no one was looking. I was told years ago to “preach often and use words when necessary”. I believe my actions speak louder than my words.
What would you like your legacy to be?
That I was a man of faith, devoted husband, loving father, genuine friend, visionary and compassionate leader, and community partner. I hope that my time on this earth was used for good and that my influence helped to make a small part of this world better.
Robert Finnegan, PE
President and Owner
FEA Las Vegas
“Far and away the best prize life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.”
– Theodore Roosevelt
Primary Industry: Engineering
Principal Location: Southern Nevada
Nevada Citizenship: July 1971
Robert Finnegan, PE has over 45 years’ experience providing engineering services for hotel/casino resorts. Many of his designs have become the standard in the hospitality industry. He, along with Boyd Erickson, CPD, founded FEA Consulting Engineers in 1990. Robert is a graduate of the mechanical engineering program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and is registered as a professional engineer in fifteen states. He is certified by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). Robert is a past president and member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers, Inc. (ASHRAE), where he was recognized as Nevada Engineer of the Year and received the ASHRAE Presidential Award of Excellence.
What do you love about Nevada?
What I love most about Nevada is the opportunity it offers. I’m grateful my family moved here in 1971, and I had the chance to be part of this state’s incredible growth and development. On top of that, we’re just a short drive from some of the best outdoor adventures in the country.
Why have you been successful?
My success boils down to perseverance. I’ve weathered economic downturns and world events, always pushing forward. I’ve also been fortunate to partner with Boyd Erickson, who shares my vision and drive.
How have you earned the respect of your team?
I earn my team’s respect by being transparent and showing that I genuinely care about their well-being and success. I often tell my wife that the people in our firm share many of the same goals and values I’ve always had, and it’s my job to create an environment where they can thrive and showcase their talents.
What are the most important traits of a leader?
For me, the most important trait of a leader is humanity. A leader must be tough but fair, while also choosing kindness in every interaction. It’s about striking that balance between strength and empathy.
How important is community involvement for a business leader?
Community involvement is essential for any business leader. It’s not just about charity; it’s about actively giving back through mentoring, like our internship programs with UNLV Engineering students and outreach to middle and high schools. I always remind our team that working with interns is a privilege—it’s a two-way exchange, and teaching others helps us grow as well.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I ever received was to seek business guidance only from successful business owners. They’ve weathered both good and bad times, and their insights come from experience and perseverance.
What is the most difficult thing you’ve encountered as a leader?
The 2008 recession was by far the toughest challenge I’ve faced. The construction industry didn’t just slow down—it came to a halt. While even major retailers like Walmart saw a 20 percent drop, we experienced a near 75 percent decline in business. Navigating that storm tested us, but in the end, it made us stronger and more resilient.
What would you like your legacy to be?
I hope to be remembered as a fair, innovative leader who created opportunities in the engineering profession—someone who championed energy efficiency and sustainable building practices, always with an eye toward protecting our environment.
Carolyn Goodman
Mayor
City of Las Vegas
“I believe in truth.”
Primary Industry: Government
Principal Location: Southern Nevada
Nevada Citizenship: August 1964
Carolyn G. Goodman and her husband moved to Las Vegas from Philadelphia in 1964 as relative newlyweds arriving in August with only $87 between them. Initially, her husband, Oscar (a member of the Pennsylvania Bar), worked for the District Attorney’s office while Carolyn began work in the hotel industry. Carolyn raised their four small children while simultaneously earning a master’s degree in counseling at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Carolyn became the mayor of the city of Las Vegas on July 6, 2011. Her husband of more than a half century and 12-year, term-limited mayor administered the oath of office. It is the only known instance of a spouse succeeding a spouse as mayor in the United States. Among her priorities as mayor, Carolyn has championed improvement in inner-city schools pushing for early learning preschool programs and tutorials for ESL students and their parents. She brought together a coalition of public, private and nonprofits partners to participate in the achievement based and measurable educational initiatives. She has proven her deep commitment to the community and continues to be devoted to the highest quality of life for all southern Nevadans by her efforts and dedication.
What do you love about Nevada?
Nevada is a land of opportunity.
How did you get into governing?
I was tricked!
Why have you been successful?
I love what I do.
How have you earned the respect of your team?
Consistency has helped me earn the respect of my team.
What are the most important traits of a leader?
A good leader should have traits of fairness, listening, being nonjudgmental and honesty.
What contributions to Nevada are you most proud of?
I’m proud of raising my family in Nevada and what we have all contributed to the state.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Carpe Diem – Seize the Day!
Why do you think you are respected in this community?
I think my truthfulness and humor have earned respect from the community.
How important is community involvement for a leader?
That really depends on the community.
How has the city changed in recent years?
Las Vegas has seen immeasurable changes in the past several years.
Who was a mentor to you?
My parents were my original mentors.
What is the most difficult thing you’ve encountered as a leader?
October 1, 2017 – the Route 91 Harvest music festival shooting had a profound impact on southern Nevada.
What would you like your legacy to be?
I believe my children are my legacy.
Punam Mathur
Executive Director
Elaine P. Wynn & Family Foundation
“Leadership is ultimately about inspiring ‘followership’.”
Primary Industry: Nonprofit
Principal Location: Southern Nevada
Nevada Citizenship: July 1982
Punam Mathur serves as executive director of the Elaine P. Wynn & Family Foundation, a private foundation that exists to advance fundamental change, primarily related to equity, civil rights and conservation. She also operates her own business as a speaker, trainer and writer. From 2009-2012, she was an officer of NV Energy, serving as vice president of people resources and as vice president of employee and community engagement. She joined NV Energy following 13 years in the gaming industry, most recently serving as an officer and senior vice president, corporate diversity and community affairs, for MGM Mirage, now MGM Resorts International. During her tenure, MGM received numerous awards in her areas of responsibility. Additionally, under her leadership the company’s philanthropy program, including its centerpiece employee-directed foundation, set new standards for strategic philanthropy and employee engagement within the gaming industry. Prior to joining the gaming industry in 1996, she had been with the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce for six years.
What do you love about Nevada?
I adore Nevada’s “can-do” spirit.
What are the most important traits of a leader?
The traits I have valued the most in leaders I’ve been fortunate to work directly for are authenticity, clarity, audacity, compassion and consistency. And, for me, that they possess a sense of humor and humility have been important too.
What contributions to Nevada are you most proud of?
Establishing the first employee-directed public foundation at MGM MIRAGE and serving as the founding Chair of Three Square are high on the list.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
When things are not working well, the solution will be inevitably found in the
mirror. And, to play the long game.
How important is community involvement for a leader?
It is essential. Being an active part of a community expands and deepens a person’s understanding of their role and impact in a larger context. I think it makes leaders more thoughtful and, therefore, more effective.
What is the most difficult thing you’ve encountered as a leader?
Personally, the two things I continuously work on are effective time management and practicing saying “no” as a complete sentence.
What would you like your legacy to be?
During my short time on this planet, that I mattered.
Karla Perez
Regional Vice President
Universal Health Services
“Be so good they can’t ignore you.”
– Steve Martin
Primary Industry: Healthcare
Principal Location: Southern Nevada
Nevada Citizenship: May 1983
Karla Perez serves as the Regional Vice President of Universal Health Services. In her current role, Karla provides oversight to the operations of Spring Valley, Summerlin, Valley, Centennial Hills, Henderson Hospitals and Valley Health Specialty Hospital in Las Vegas, Desert View Hospital in Pahrump, Northern Nevada Medical Center in Sparks and Sierra Medical Center in Reno. She also provides oversight to ambulatory assets across the state and several physician practices. Karla has worked in the Las Vegas community for 40 years, beginning her career in 1983 as a medical record clerk at Valley Hospital. Through the years, she assumed a wide variety of duties ranging from business development to overall hospital operations. These responsibilities have allowed her to advance her career with numerous promotions over the years that culminated in her current position.
What do you love about Nevada?
I love the people who have committed themselves to making Nevada a better place to live, work and play, the desert sunrises and sunsets, the myriad of outdoor activities and – as a Wisconsin native – the southern Nevada winters!
Why have you been successful?
I do my best to provide access to care and improve the quality of care in the hospitals I oversee. I listen, ask questions, dig deep into financial information, educate myself on what matters to patients, employees, physicians and investors and bring that knowledge to work every day.
How have you earned the respect of your team?
First, I respect my team – their skills, knowledge and abilities representing every aspect of our organization – clinical, financial, operational – because without each of their skills, we could not run effectively. Then, I’ve worked diligently to lead by example, to make difficult decisions with empathy, to ask for and act upon input my team has shared with me.
What contributions to Nevada are you most proud of?
Because of our company, we have 11 hospitals, multiple freestanding emergency departments, graduate medical education programs, urgent cares, physician practices and outpatient services and employ thousands of talented individuals to serve Nevadans and tourists. On a personal note, I’m also very proud of my daughter who is a physical therapist helping fellow Nevadans!
How important is community involvement for a leader?
Community involvement changes our world for the better. When a leader actively participates, it raises the visibility of an organization, which has a ripple effect on others. I have always appreciated Margaret Mead’s quote “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
What is the most difficult thing you’ve encountered as a leader?
For me, it is letting someone go, whether it’s a performance issue or a reduction in force. It’s something that weighs heavily on me because this experience can completely upend someone’s life and livelihood.
What would you like your legacy to be?
I hope my legacy will be that I made a positive difference in the life of my family, in my community and in my industry.
Jill Tolles
Executive Director
Kenny Guinn Center for Policy Priorities
“Life is a gift meant to be given back while you are on this earth.”
Primary Industry: Nonprofit
Principal Location: Northern Nevada
Nevada Citizenship: January 1994
Jill Tolles is the executive director of the Kenny Guinn Center for Policy Priorities. She has taught at the University of Nevada since 2005, where she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Communication Studies. Prior to joining the Guinn Center, Jill served three terms in the Nevada Legislature as the Assemblywoman for District 25. Jill has given back to the community by serving on numerous boards and commissions over the years. She is currently an Education Alliance Board member, recent vice chair of the Attorney General’s Statewide Substance Use Response Working Group, chair of the Northern Nevada Sex Trafficking Task Force, Junior Achievement Hall of Fame Recipient, Aspen Institute Rodel Fellow, FBI Citizen’s Academy Graduate and member of the International Women’s Forum.
What do you love about Nevada?
I love the people and the land. Nevada is small enough that you can build community and move the needle in ways you can’t in other states. From the stunning open desert landscape and majestic Sierra mountains to the excitement of the strip in the south and the quaint brick neighborhoods in the north, there is so much to explore and enjoy here.
Why have you been successful?
I strive to incorporate everything I have learned about communication, listening, conflict resolution, and collaborative decision-making into my work. I have found that if you treat others with respect, they will most often return the favor.
How have you earned the respect of your team?
They know how much I care about them as people. We take time every week to share one restorative thing we did over the weekend and one thing we have learned in the past week. This has cultivated an environment where we encourage each other to retain a work-life balance and expand each other’s knowledge as we grow together as a team.
What contributions to Nevada are you most proud of?
When I meet someone positively impacted by a law I passed or run into a student years after they graduate and hear about how they use the skills they learned years earlier, I feel so grateful that my life has been a source of good in their lives.
How has your industry changed in recent years?
Although the political landscape has shifted toward a more overtly polarized and contentious environment, people may be surprised to find how much is accomplished in a bipartisan nature. It is essential for our state and democracy to promote factual and beneficial information to support better decision-making by lawmakers and the public.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Feel the fear and do it anyway.
How important is community involvement for a leader?
We cannot thrive as individuals if our community is failing. The health of our state impacts us all, socially and economically. Increasing opportunities for all Nevadans contributes to our collective success.
What is the most difficult thing you’ve encountered as a leader?
Letting go of control. As a sole achiever, you have greater control over your outcomes based on your skill and effort. As a leader, you have to work with other’s strengths and weaknesses and nurture different approaches to accomplishing goals.
Keith Whitfield, PHD
President
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
“Failure should not define you, it is just a speed bump on the road of success.”
Primary Industry: Education
Principal Location: Southern Nevada
Nevada Citizenship: August 2020
Keith Whitfield is an experienced university administrator and prolific scholar in the fields of psychology, health, and aging. President Whitfield joined the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) in August 2020 after serving as provost, senior vice president of academic affairs, and professor of psychology at Wayne State University in Michigan. A student success-focused leader, Keith is proud to oversee one of the nation’s most diverse universities for undergraduates and one that holds the highest recognition for both research and community engagement. An active administrator and researcher, Whitfield has authored or co-authored over 200 publications and has earned over $20 million in funding from agencies including the National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Aging, and the National Science Foundation. A psychologist and expert on the social, psychological, and cultural factors of cognition and healthy aging, Whitfield’s current research focuses on the relationship between stress and longevity in African American families.
What do you love about Nevada?
The openness to make change for the common good.
How did you get into your field of work?
My love of learning and curiosity led me to be interested in teaching and research. I then became a university administrator after achieving the goals I set out for myself academically. I wanted to give back to people [with opportunities] that allowed me to succeed: mentorship, support and sponsorship.
Why have you been successful?
I think I have been successful for three reasons. My parents taught me how to work hard. I persist in the face of failure and challenges. I collaborate with people, which allows me to get by with a little help from my friends.
How have you earned the respect of your team?
By being fair, listening and respecting others’ voices.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Follow your passion, balance your decisions with your head and your heart and listen more than you speak.
Who was a mentor to you?
I have been mentored by a number of people. One of the biggest influences outside of my family has been Freeman Hrabowski, a retired president of University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
What would you like your legacy to be?
That I put the good of UNLV first in every decision I made and that I helped make it a better institution by always putting what was best for people ahead of profits.
Why do you think you are respected in this community?
I think people realize that I care deeply about the success in the community.
