Remembering Elder Ralph Burns Elder Ralph Burns was an extraordinary human being whose life and influence on our entire state will be remembered for generations to come.

May 01, 2025
Morrill Hall sits on the south end of the University of Nevada, Reno quad, a large lawn area surrounded by trees and a walking path.

Remembering Elder Ralph Burns

Elder Ralph Burns was an extraordinary human being whose life and influence on our entire state will be remembered for generations to come.

May 1, 2025

Dear Wolf Pack Family,

Elder Ralph Burns was an extraordinary human being whose life and influence on our entire state will be remembered for generations to come. His passing on April 25 is a tremendous loss for all Nevadans. Ralph was an advocate for all aspects of Native American language, culture and traditions. Through his tireless and compassionate efforts, Ralph was able to remind us how a true culture keeper can have such a profound impact on the people around him. Ralph’s example as a leader for his people was woven tightly into who he was as a person — a person who valued education, collaboration and empowerment.

Language forms the basis of all culture. When the language disappears so does the folklore, myths and traditions. You begin to lose a sense of place, purpose and identity when your language no longer exists.

Elder Ralph Burns

Headshot of Elder Ralph Burns wearing a hat

Our University, in particular, owes Ralph a tremendous amount of gratitude for the many contributions he made in furthering our institutional mission. He gave many Indigenous blessings at major events at the University and was, quite simply, a cornerstone of the University experience. In addition, Ralph touched future generations as a highly respected Paiute Language teacher for our University. Through his work teaching Paiute I and II language courses, Ralph has had a significant impact on revitalizing the Paiute Language, which the University will carry forward in his honor. It is no exaggeration to say that it was Ralph’s vision and energy that helped bring the Paiute language courses we offer to life. During our upcoming Spring Commencement Exercises, we will proudly honor Ralph’s life and work with the conferral of an honorary doctorate of humane letters.

Ralph Burns touched the lives of many, many people and advanced and preserved the culture of his people. On behalf of the entire University, Lauralyn and I wish to offer our sincere condolences to the Burns family and his many friends throughout our community and state.

Sincere regards,

Brian Sandoval
President

May 01, 2025