Monumental step in bringing University of Nevada, Reno and Sierra Nevada University together The Executive Committee of the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) has voted to approve the proposal for the University's acquisition of Sierra Nevada University (SNU).

A view looking south on the University of Nevada, Reno Quad, a large lawn area surrounded by trees, walkways and an outer ring of buildings, with Morrill Hall visible at the end of the Quad.

Monumental step in bringing University of Nevada, Reno and Sierra Nevada University together

The Executive Committee of the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) has voted to approve the proposal for the University's acquisition of Sierra Nevada University (SNU).

December 22, 2021

Dear Wolf Pack Family,

I am pleased to inform you that the University received news this week that the Executive Committee of the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) has voted to approve the proposal for the acquisition of Sierra Nevada University (SNU) by the University of Nevada, Reno, contingent upon the approval of the United States Department of Education.

This is an important milestone in an ongoing process that is still subject to approval by U.S. Department of Education, the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents, and the Nevada Commission on Post-Secondary Education.

It is important to remember that as we enter 2022, SNU will continue to operate as a separate university until all governing bodies and supervisory agencies have approved the acquisition. The University will also seek approval of the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents for degree programs that will be required for transitioning SNU students to complete their degrees at the University of Nevada, Reno.

As was noted by the Executive Committee of the NWCCU, this transaction ”will allow for continued long-term growth and financial stability by implementing strategies to promote enrollment growth of existing programs through efficiencies, greater geographic reach, symbiotic programming, and the alignment of programs to serve the people of Nevada.”

I wish to thank the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents, Chancellor Melody Rose, the University of Nevada, Reno Foundation, SNU Board of Trustees, SNU Trustee Chairman Atam Lalchandani, and the many individuals across both of our campuses for their hard work and support in this effort.

Go Pack!

Sincere regards,

Brian Sandoval
President