The Nevada System of Higher Education is pleased to announce three finalists who have reached the final rounds of consideration for the vacant NSHE Chancellor position. The search for the next chancellor has been rigorous and extensive, and these three finalists have emerged as top contenders for this prestigious role. The finalists are Charles Ansell, M.S.; Lawrence M. Drake II, Ph.D. and Kathleen M. Marshall, J.D. 

Ansell currently serves as the vice president for research, policy, and advocacy at Complete College America. With a strong background in higher education and policy, Ansell has been a relentless advocate for favorable policy and legislation, resulting in significant increases in graduation rates and state appropriations. His expertise in collaboration and strategic vision makes him a compelling candidate for the Chancellor position.

Drake II is the current interim president and dean of the college of business and entrepreneurship at Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, Fla. With a wealth of leadership experience, including serving as the president/CEO of The Executive Leadership Council and as a division president/CEO at The Coca-Cola Company, Drake brings a unique perspective to the table. His accomplishments in improving retention rates and establishing partnerships demonstrate some of the many capabilities in his career of expanding access and opportunities to higher education.

Marshall has an extensive background in politics, law and education. Currently serving as the executive director of the Nevada School Choice Partnership, Marshall has been instrumental in advancing educational opportunities and access across the state. Marshall is a former Lieutenant Governor, Treasurer and Senior Deputy Attorney General for the state of Nevada. Her expertise in educational policy and her dedication to equity and diversity make her a strong candidate for the chancellor position.

Each of the finalists brings a high caliber of skills and assets that would support NSHE across the state. Their diverse backgrounds and accomplishments demonstrate their commitment to educational excellence and their ability to lead and inspire change. NSHE is confident that any one of them would be a valuable asset to NSHE, contributing to the advancement of higher education in Nevada and the success of our students.

The search for the next chancellor will continue with open forums and interviews with each finalist on June 27 and 28. On June 29,  during the next NSHE Chancellor Search Committee meeting, Chair Joseph C. Arrascada and representatives of The Bryan Group, a search firm hired to assist in finding the next chancellor, will provide a report on each open forum. The Bryan Group will also present an overview of the background and qualifications of each finalist, including reference feedback, prior to their interview with the Chancellor Search Committee.

The Committee will discuss and assess the finalists and may recommend a nominee or nominees for consideration of appointment by the full Board of Regents at a meeting to be held on Friday, June 30 at 1 p.m.

The selection of the next chancellor of NSHE is a critical decision that will shape the future of higher education in Nevada. NSHE looks forward to the opportunity to engage with the finalists and make a well-informed decision for the benefit of students, faculty, and the entire Nevada community.