FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Suzanne Ernst (702) 889-8426

RENO - Responding to a proposed call-up of 35,500 National Guard and Reserve troops, Chancellor Jane Nichols today announced that Nevada's public universities and community colleges will accommodate the schedules of students, employees and faculty involved in the activation

"In the weeks ahead, members of our campus communities will be called to active duty to serve in the defense of our country. They will be leaving behind their families and their loved ones to go into harm's way. We will not, however, let them leave their dreams behind of a better life through higher education," said Dr. Jane Nichols, chancellor of the University and Community College System of Nevada. "I have called upon the presidents and faculty of our community colleges and universities to do everything within their power to help these dedicated citizen soldiers."

Nichols also emphasized the point that campuses are meant to provide an atmosphere of tolerance and inclusiveness. "The UCCSN family needs to come together across all ages, races, nationalities and religious beliefs. This, like no other time, is a time to be one."

Comprising two doctoral granting universities, a state college, four comprehensive community colleges and one internationally acclaimed research institute, the UCCSN 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 100,000 students.