PBS Reno is proud to announce it has selected Brian Sandoval as the 2023 Extraordinary Philanthropist. This award recognizes a person with ties to the northern Nevada community and its neighboring regions, and who has made a tangible difference in the lives of others through philanthropic means, community service, and a history of love for the region.

Sandoval is the President of the University of Nevada, Reno and is the first alumnus to serve as president in the University’s history. Sandoval served two terms as the 29th Governor of the State of Nevada (2011 – 2019). Prior to becoming governor, Sandoval was appointed United States District Judge for the District of Nevada, becoming the state’s first Hispanic federal judge. He also was elected Nevada’s Attorney General; was a member of and at one point was the youngest chairman in the history of the Nevada Gaming Commission; and served two terms (1994-1998) as an assemblyman in the Nevada State Legislature.

“I am extremely humbled and honored to be PBS Reno’s Extraordinary Philanthropist for 2023,” said Sandoval. “I have always believed that all Nevadans throughout our history have truly been extraordinary in our ability to look out for our neighbors, to be involved in our communities, and to play an important role in the future of our state. We are a people who have always dug deeper within ourselves for the good of everyone. There is a deep and abiding responsibility to being a Nevadan, and every day we honor each other whenever we give back. Throughout my life, I’ve tried my best to be like all other Nevadans. So, this is a truly wonderful honor, one that I will cherish forever.”

PBS Reno will honor Sandoval during the Spotlight Awards and Auction on Friday, September 8, 2023, at the Grande Exposition Hall at the Silver Legacy Resort Casino in downtown Reno. PBS Reno will also celebrate numerous individuals, teachers, local businesses, and non-profits who elevate the community in various ways during the event, which is the station’s biggest fundraiser of the year.

“PBS Reno will be celebrating its 40th anniversary this year and we can't think of a better time to do that than at the Spotlight Awards and Auction,” said Emma Glenn, PBS Reno Vice President of Development. “We are also looking forward to “spotlighting” Brian Sandoval as our Extraordinary Philanthropist this year and the incredible people and organizations who make our region such a special place.”

“We are honored to celebrate PBS Reno’s 40 years of service to our region by honoring Brian Sandoval and others at our signature event,” said Kurt Mische, PBS Reno President and CEO.

Past recipients of the Extraordinary Philanthropist award include Sandy Rafaelli and the Carano family.