Patricia Charlton

Patricia “Patty” Charlton is a distinguished leader with close to 30 years of experience in Nevada’s higher education landscape. Her story is intricately woven with the fabric of Nevada’s System of Higher Education (NSHE).

Charlton is herself a product of the NSHE, having earned undergraduate degrees from the College of Southern Nevada (CSN) and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). She earned her Master of Public Administration Degree from UNLV and is currently pursuing a doctorate degree in public policy. Thanks to her many years working in Nevada’s higher education leadership and her time as a student within the system, she deeply understands the value of the system. She has seen the power of the system and its eight institutions to change individual lives while simultaneously acting as a driving force for Nevada’s economy and society by addressing workforce needs and fostering innovation.

Charlton’s professional career began at CSN in 1995. It spanned over two decades, showcasing her versatility in various key positions including senior vice president of finance & administration/chief of staff, senior vice president, strategic initiatives & administration, and vice president/provost Henderson Campus/chief facilities officer. Charlton’s impact extended across departments, including finance, facilities, and human resources. Her retirement in 2022 was marked with the title of Emeritus in recognition of her invaluable contributions.

In 2023, Charlton was appointed acting vice chancellor for academic & student affairs, taking charge of coordinating higher education issues, policies, and programs for NSHE’s workforce and community colleges. This paved the way for her current appointment as Interim Chancellor, where Charlton brings both enthusiasm and her wealth of knowledge to the role of the chief executive officer and ex- officio treasurer within NSHE. Appointed by and accountable to the Board of Regents, Charlton is tasked with overseeing NSHE’s administration, executing Board policies and directives, and managing its financial operations. Furthermore, Charlton collaborates closely with institutional presidents to enhance administrative efficiency, foster cooperation among member institutions, and play an integral role in strategic planning, budget presentations, and representing NSHE, including to the governor’s office and the state legislature.

Beyond her administrative roles, Charlton has been actively involved in community service, serving on the United Way of Southern Nevada’s board of directors, and chairing the Clark County School District’s Bond Oversight Committee. Her engagement with the City of Henderson includes roles on the Chief of Police Advisory Council and the Community Education Advisory Board. Charlton’s commitment to community extends to chambers of commerce, including the Henderson Chamber of Commerce, where she served on the Development Authority.

Her participation in organizations like the Goodie Two Shoes Foundation, ESPN Las Vegas Bowl Women’s Huddle, and Voices in Voting underlines her commitment to diverse community causes.