President Sandoval Statement on Passing of Charles Mathewson

October 28, 2021

Charles Mathewson was truly one of Nevada’s visionary leaders and a proud member of our Wolf Pack Family. Throughout a career that saw him transform International Game Technology from a small northern Nevada gaming machine manufacturer into the industry’s worldwide standard-bearer, Charles, or “Chuck” as he was known to his friends, demonstrated throughout his extraordinary life the art of the possible and helped make Nevada into what it is today.

He said many times he loved our University, and his generosity in making the dreams of our students, faculty, staff and alumni a reality can be seen throughout our campus, from the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center which as one of the most technologically advanced libraries in the country transformed an entire University, to the many gifts he provided in support of major capital projects as well as endowed chairs in gaming studies and entrepreneurship, and strong support of Wolf Pack athletics.

His legacy will also include his championing of what is now called the Mathewson University Gateway, which fittingly in the years to come will be the physical manifestation of the connectivity and shared vision for the future that exists between our campus and downtown Reno. Chuck’s example was one that all Nevadans could relate to: Respect the value of great ideas, encourage the value of great ideas in others, and use all of your energy and support in making these dreams a reality.

His efforts boosted northern Nevada at a time when it was truly needed; his encouragement inspired a new generation to become entrepreneurial leaders in a variety of fields. Lauralyn and I wish to express our sincere condolences to Chuck’s wife Stacie and his family.

President Brian Sandoval
University of Nevada, Reno