LAS VEGAS -- At the request of Gov. Kenny Guinn who wants to respond to the needs of those who are battling wild fires across the west, Interim Chancellor Jane Nichols announced today that the University and Community College System of Nevada will extend its registration, financial aid and other deadlines for fire fighters who may be UCCSN students.

These deadlines will be extended until September 18-after fall semester classes begin.

"These young men and women working the fire lines are risking their lives to protect the lives and property of others," said Dr. Nichols. "We felt it was our duty to help them by removing any additional stress about starting the fall semester on time."

Nichols noted that these students will need to carefully weigh their decision about delaying the beginning of their semester since this could put them at a disadvantage academically. "We are, however, asking each institution's administration and faculty members to assist these students after their late start."

To take advantage of the extended deadlines, students, or their parents, must contact the appropriate university or community college by August 30th. They should identify themselves as one of those fighting the wild fires and be prepared to provide their Social Security Number (or student identification number). Verification of their employment as a member of a fire crew must be presented at the late registration.

Students and parents should notify the institution they plan to attend by contacting one of the following :

• Student Services
  Community College of Southern Nevada (702) 651-4002



• Admissions & Records
  Great Basin College (775) 753-2102



• Admissions & Records
  Truckee Meadows Community College (775) 673-7042



• Admissions & Records
  Western Nevada Community College (775) 445-3277



• Registrar's Office
  University of Nevada, Las Vegas (702) 895-3371



• Student Services
  University of Nevada, Reno (775) 784-6196

Comprising two doctoral-granting universities, four comprehensive community colleges and one environmental research institution, the University and Community College System of Nevada serves the educational and job training needs of the nation's fastest growing state. As Nevada's only system of higher education, the UCCSN provides educational opportunities to more than 90,000 students.