UNLV Graduate College

Tomorrow is your day! We can’t wait to see you cross that stage. ✨

Grad Rebel Student Highlight: Kris Miguel

Kris Miguel is a third-year doctoral candidate in the Department of Teaching and Learning. His research interests center on pre-service teaching, teacher self-efficacy, and student experiences in educational environments. Prior to attending the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), Kris earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. He completed the Graduate Mentoring Skills Certification and the Graduate Research Certification.

While in his program, he has had the opportunity to collaborate on research papers within the UNLV College of Education, gaining firsthand experience in research and academic publishing. In addition to his work with the College of Education, his collaborative research has expanded across interdisciplinary topics and departments, including Computer Science and Public Health. His research examines student experiences, curriculum, and school climate within educational settings.

From August 2024 to 2025, he supported UNLV’s student-run newspaper, The Scarlet and Gray Free Press, as its news editor and is an active member of the Graduate Rebel Student Association, Grad Pride Alliance, and Q:UNLV. He also serves as a graduate student liaison for the Graduate Studies Committee and a Grad Rebel Advantage mentor.

Outside of his work across campus, Kris has also presented at professional conferences, including the Literacy Research Association 2025 Annual Conference, the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education conference, and the Association of Teacher Educators conference.

Before the tassel turns, take a moment to reflect on your journey. What are you most proud of? ❤️

Stay prepared for an easy commencement process! 🎯

As we reflect on the My Professional Origin Story series, we would like to extend a special thank you to our final lecturer of the Spring 2026 semester, Dr. Satish C. Bhatnagal. Your remarkable career spanning over 50 years has left a lasting legacy at UNLV. We are grateful for your insights and wisdom, and we look forward to your continued contributions to our Rebel community.

UNLV

Grad Rebel Student Highlight: Hieu Le

Hieu Le holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and is currently completing a Master of Public Administration and Certificate in Nonprofit Management and Graduate Mentorship. He also works as GPSA’s graduate assistant, where he helps manage their Cap & Gown Program for graduate students, supports GPSA operations and events, and assists with the annual Research Forum.

Hieu is the founder and president of the Nevada Esports Education League (NEEL), Nevada’s largest esports focused nonprofit organization dedicated to using gaming as a pathway for education, leadership, and career development for young people. His work focuses on expanding opportunities for students in underserved communities and empowering young leaders across Nevada.

Hieu has contributed to several major initiatives in Nevada. He successfully lobbied for World Esports Day in Nevada as a state holiday, played a key role establishing an official "EVO Day" in Las Vegas which recognizes the Evolution Championship Series (Evo) world championship of fighting games, assisted in setting a Guinness World Record for the largest video game display on the Resorts World screen, supported efforts contributing to over $3 million in funding for the development of three student unions at the College of Southern Nevada, and organized the first Voter Block Party at UNLV to promote civic participation among young voters.

Driven by a passion for community building, technology, and youth empowerment, Hieu continues to champion esports as a powerful platform for education, career development, and cultural connection.

Are you ready, Grad Rebels? 🎓 Your moment is almost here! Celebrate the journey, the late nights, and the wins along the way.

My Professional Origin Story: Satish C. Bhatnagar

The mathematical sciences professor reflects on a path that began with a one-year appointment and grew into a 52-year career as UNLV’s longest-serving faculty member. Be sure to join us today, Tuesday, April 28, from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. to hear his incredible journey.

https://www.unlv.edu/news/article/my-professional-origin-story-satish-c-bhatnagar?utm_source=unlvtoday&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=unlvtoday-20260427

Take advantage of Graduate College resources and workshops by emailing [email protected] 💻📖