UNLV College of Fine Arts reports increased programming, media coverage and a student Emmy for Commercial Center sponsorship

Representatives from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas College of Fine Arts updated the Clark County Redevelopment Agency on July 16, 2025, about a sponsorship program that brought arts and culture programming to Commercial Center and other redevelopment areas.

Tom Michelle, the county liaison to the program, said the partnership completed its second season with 10 events (16 events across two seasons), increased student participation and broader media coverage. The program focused on music, visual arts, theater, dance, architecture, live performance and film, and included a series of “parking‑lot plays” staged across multiple Commercial Center locations.

“Last season we had more programming, more student participation, more audiences, more press and PR,” Michelle said. He reported 26 features across television, radio, online and print outlets and an estimated media value exceeding $1 million. Michelle also said a student documentary produced in the program’s first season won a Pacific Southwest Regional Student Emmy Award.

UNLV said it plans another season with new programs, expanded marketing and possible marquee events intended to drive larger audiences. The presenters said the initiative gives students direct community engagement and creates informal interactions between performers and audiences.

There was no board action requested; UNLV presenters said they expect to return with a formal proposal to the agency in the coming months.