Indigenous Peoples’ Day We have an opportunity on this day and throughout the year to take time to pause, reflect and seek education regarding the deep historical and cultural roots of our Indigenous People.

Oct. 12, 2026
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.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day

We have an opportunity on this day and throughout the year to take time to pause, reflect and seek education regarding the deep historical and cultural roots of our Indigenous People.

October 12, 2026

Dear Wolf Pack Family,

Our academic year is moving along quickly now that we are into October. I hope that you are all energetically pursuing the work, the studies, and the wonderful discoveries that help make our University such a special place. 

Oct. 12 is Indigenous Peoples’ Day, where we honor the people, cultures, traditions and history of our Indigenous communities throughout Nevada and our nation. We have an opportunity on this day and throughout the year to take time to pause, reflect and seek education regarding the deep historical and cultural roots of our Indigenous People. The Great Basin Tribes of the Numu (Northern Paiute), Newe (Western Shoshone), Nuwu (Southern Paiute) and the Wašiw (Washoe), comprise 27 separate reservations, bands, colonies and community councils, and have a Tribal land base of more than 1.6 million acres. 

The University is proud of the contributions and accomplishments of our Indigenous students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners. Their leadership, scholarship, and service enrich our campus and strengthen our University. Their experiences remind us of the importance of building a community grounded in respect, understanding, and a commitment to learning from one another.

Through our Indigenous initiatives, the University continues to foster meaningful partnerships with Tribal Nations, expand educational opportunities, and create supportive and culturally welcoming environments for Indigenous students and communities. These efforts include outreach and college-access programs that inspire future generations of Native students, as well as the Tribal Academy, which provides academic, personal, and career development resources that support student success. Together with Tribal communities, we are working to identify priorities and create opportunities that will benefit current and future generations.

University events to commemorate Indigenous Peoples’ Day include:

Let’s celebrate the accomplishments of our Indigenous students, staff, and communities. The University continues to establish opportunities for Indigenous education, awareness and advancement.

Go Pack!

Sincere regards,

Brian Sandoval
President

October 12, 2026