We are saddened by the loss of Lois Tarkanian. She was a vibrant force in Las Vegas for decades. She took a special interest, and was integral to the success of the UNLV basketball players, coached by her husband. She served as an ambassador for all those years as the Runnin’ Rebels put Las Vegas on the map as an athletic powerhouse, winning the National Championship in 1990.
She held a Bachelor of Arts in Education, a Master of Arts in Speech and Hearing, and a Doctorate in Leadership and Human Behavior. Dr. Tarkanian was also the co-founder and served on the board of the Public Education Foundation. She was involved in many charitable causes.
Dr. Tarkanian was an educator, a classroom teacher, a speech pathologist, and an administrator. She taught classes at the College of Southern Nevada, and at California State universities.
She served in various capacities, including twelve years on the Clark County School District Board of Education, (including President). She served fourteen years on the Las Vegas City Council, (including Mayor Pro Tempore). She most recently served on the Nevada State Board of Regents. She and her husband had a middle school named after them.
She had a tremendous impact on our city that will continue to be felt. She will be sorely missed.
The Mayor Pro Tempore, Dr. Lois Tarkanian, pictured with Dr. Roth when he presided over the “How Technology is Advancing Medicine, Las Vegas Medical District Town Hall”, held at Las Vegas City Hall chambers, (when he was President of the Clark County Medical Society). February 27, 2019
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