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The University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe Expands as a Hub for Science, Art, Journalism and Environmental Leadership 

June 11, 2025 | Mary Danahey

Sneak Peak of Summer LIVE.WORK.PLAY. Magazine feature, written by Mary Danahey – Timely Article

A little more than two years after its acquisition, the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe continues the legacy of Sierra Nevada University – a stunning campus offering educational and community partnerships. 

“We’re using this beautiful campus in ways that benefit not just students, but the local community and the global environment,” said Jeff Thompson, the University’s executive vice president and provost.

Here are a few of the new, engaging projects and programs on the campus this summer. 

A Voice for the Region

This spring, KUNR, Northern Nevada’s NPR affiliate station and partner of the Reynolds School of Journalism, opened a broadcast studio on campus. “Incline can be seen as a news desert,” said Dr. Gi Yun, dean of the Reynolds School. “We want to help fill that void.” 

KUNR will provide more consistent coverage of the North Shore. It will also support student journalism opportunities. 

“KUNR is committed to covering the Northern Nevada and Eastern Sierra region,” said Brian Duggan, general manager of KUNR. “Incline Village and the broader Lake Tahoe community is a critical part of that coverage area.” 

Monster Fish Comes to Tahoe

Giant catfish and sawfish, and a Payara with saber-like fangs—these are a few of the freshwater creatures featured in Monster Fish: In Search of the Last River Giants, a new exhibition on the ground floor of the Tahoe Environmental Research Center.

With four massive fish models—including a 14-foot Amazonian arapaima, the exhibition engages visitors of all ages and is a launchpad for science and community engagement.

“This is a perfect complement to the University’s growing presence and impact at Lake Tahoe,” said Dr. Doug Boyle, interim vice provost and dean at the University of Nevada, Reno at Lake Tahoe. “Through Monster Fish, we are creating a vibrant hub that connects the public with our research and educational mission, from local waters to global conservation.”

Co-created by National Geographic and biology professor Dr. Zeb Hogan, the exhibition is part of the University’s freshwater science and outreach efforts. 

Admission to Monster Fish is free; all are welcome. 

A New Showcase of Tahoe’s History

Another exciting development is the new galleries by Foundation Professor of Art Peter Goin. Slated to open fully in the Prim Library building this fall, Goin’s immersive multimedia experience will include large prints from his recent book, Stopping Time:A Rephotographic Survey of Lake Tahoe.

Visitors are invited to explore and reflect on the Tahoe Basin’s history and how our perceptions of the landscape have changed over time. 

Strengthening Community Connections

This summer, more than 60 organizations will host events, retreats and conferences on the Lake Tahoe campus, including the annual Lake Tahoe Summit luncheon, a key gathering for local and federal leaders focused on sustainability.

“Lake Tahoe is one of the world’s most precious places,” Provost Thompson said. “We are strongly committed to protecting its environmental, cultural and community assets—and delivering on our promise to be a good neighbor.”

Visit unr.edu/lake-tahoe for more information on upcoming events, programming, and other campus news.

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Environmentalism, Sustainability and Public Schools

June 3, 2025 | Mary Danahey

Originally Published in IVCBA Magazine: LIVE.WORK.PLAY, Written by Mary Danahey

A Community Effort to Protect Tahoe’s Future

Environmentalism is not just a topic taught in classrooms here in Incline—it is hands-on projects and cross-curricular programs that prepare students to take on the responsibility of protecting the unique ecosystem of the Tahoe Basin. By fostering critical thinking, creativity, communication and collaboration, the schools are shaping a generation that values sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Incline Elementary School: Deeper Learning through Cross-Curricular Programs 

At Incline Elementary School (IES), environmental education begins early. IES integrates environmental themes into innovative cross-curricular programs, connecting grade-level classes, art, and makerspace activities to real-world applications. Last fall, students studied natural disasters like wildfires, earthquakes and tsunamis, applying their knowledge through creative projects that demonstrated their learning about the interconnectedness of the environment and human activities.

The “Bear to Read” program is a new initiative that combines environmental themes with literacy. By reading books about the natural world (bear habitats), students improve their reading skills while developing a deeper appreciation for nature.

Incline Middle School: Exploratory Classes and Sustainability Projects

Incline Middle School (IMS) fosters environmental awareness through weekly exploratory classes, where students explore sustainability, tackle issues, and engage in problem-solving activities that benefit the local community. A notable example is the “Trash to Treasure” initiative, which challenges students to turn waste into functional art or practical items. This project teaches the value of recycling and reusing materials while fostering creativity. This year, the Bear Box Beautification project continues this theme by improving the community’s bear-proof containers, giving students hands-on experience in design projects, teamwork and problem-solving; skills that are valuable in any field.

The middle school’s Leadership, Music and Broadcast Journalism classes also collaborated on the Trash to Treasure project. Students were empowered to advocate for caring for Tahoe by producing a rap song and creating “anti-litter” messaging (for stickers) encouraging everyone -locals and visitors alike – to Love our Lake and to not “Mess with Tessie”.

Incline High School: Engineering Solutions for Snow Loads

Incline High School (IHS) incorporates environmentalism in both the AP Environmental Science program and the Engineering class. IHS Engineering students received a coveted Lemelson-MIT InvenTeam grant for designing an innovative system to monitor snow loads on roofs—an issue critical in the Tahoe Basin, where heavy snowfall can create hazardous conditions. Using sensors and data analysis, students developed a solution to detect snow accumulation in real-time, demonstrating the practical application of engineering principles to local environmental challenges.

The Future of Environmentalism at Incline Village Schools

As part of the recently awarded K12 STEM School Designation, Incline schools strive to connect educational initiatives from kindergarten to high school. These diverse programs are equipping students with the knowledge and creativity to tackle environmental challenges in the Tahoe Basin. Through these efforts, Incline schools are shaping a generation of environmentally conscious individuals who will play a key role in preserving Lake Tahoe’s pristine beauty. The work done in classrooms today will inspire future generations to lead the charge for a sustainable future in the region.

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Incline Village High School News

April 28, 2025 | Mary Danahey

Written by Tierney Cahill, Submitted by Mary Danahey, 04/27/2025

Christina Zhakov Takes 1st Place at Nevada History Day!
 Please join us in congratulating Christina Zhakov on her 1st place victory in the Senior Paper category at Nevada History Day! Her powerful and deeply researched paper, “Treaty of Ruby Valley: A Precedent for the U.S. Abuse of Power Against the Western Shoshone,” earned her the top honor in the state.

Christina is now eligible to represent Nevada at National History Day, held at the University of Maryland, College Park, from June 8–12, 2025. 

Congratulations to Jesus “Beto”  Aguirre Gomez – 2025 Bank of America Student Leader!

Incline High School’s own Jesus Aguirre Gomez has been selected as a 2025 Bank of America Student Leader—one of just 315 students chosen nationwide from over 12,000 applicants!

This prestigious honor recognizes students who are passionate about improving their communities and demonstrating leadership. As a Student Leader, Jesus will complete an 8-week paid internship with a local nonprofit this summer and attend the Bank of America Student Leaders Summit in Washington, D.C., July 21–26.

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Curtains Up! Get Your Tickets Now for the 2025 Incline Star Follies

April 18, 2025 | Mary Danahey

The stage is set, the lights are warming up, and the excitement is building as the Incline Star Follies prepares to dazzle audiences once again! Mark your calendars for May 2 and 3, 2025, and grab your tickets now for this heartwarming community cabaret at the Duffield Theater at Incline High School.

Celebrating its 22nd year, the Incline Star Follies is more than just a show — it’s a vibrant showcase of local talent, featuring students, teachers, and community members in an unforgettable blend of music, dance, and comedy. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time attendee, this beloved tradition offers a night (or afternoon!) of laughter, entertainment, and genuine hometown spirit.

Show Dates & Times:

  • Friday, May 2: 6:00 PM & 8:30 PM
  • Saturday, May 3: 1:00 PM (Matinee), 6:00 PM & 8:30 PM

All performances will be held at the Duffield Theater at Incline High School. Tickets are available online now at Incline Star Follies Tickets.

This annual event does more than entertain — it unites the community while supporting local education. All proceeds go directly to Incline Elementary, Incline Middle, and Incline High School through the Incline Education Fund. And thanks to the generosity of the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation, every dollar donated will be matched up to $26,500, doubling the impact of your support.

Don’t wait — shows often sell out quickly, and this year’s performances are sure to be the most memorable yet. Get your tickets, bring your friends and family, and be part of a tradition that celebrates creativity, community, and giving back.

Tickets and donations available now at: Incline Star Follies

Let the lights shine and the stars rise — we’ll see you at the Follies!

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Incline Village School Updates from Incline Education Fund

March 25, 2025 | Mary Danahey

Submitted by Mary Danahey of Incline Education Fund

Incline Elementary School

IES hosted the SWEP Science Festival last week. (SWEP=Sierra Watershed Education Partnership)  Students rotated through hands-on activity stations designed to deepen their understanding of STEM concepts.  Later that evening, Family Science Night extended the excitement, allowing students to share their discoveries with their families through interactive exhibits and experiments led by SWEP staff and volunteers. 

Incline Middle School –  Congratulations are in order for the winners of the annual IMS Spelling Bee! 6th Grade: Luca Groza (1st), Hector Toc (2nd), Ellie Johnson (3rd) 7th Grade: Harper Rudd (1st), Isabela Buscanan-Fernandez (2nd), Caleb Carsmen (3rd) 8th Grade: Sophia Groza (1st), Nicholas Pannone (2nd), Francisco Jones (3rd)

Incline High School – Athletic Highlights (from last week): The Track & Field team had a record-breaking weekend. The Highlanders split between two major meets and absolutely crushed it – setting a total of 30 personal bests.  Freshman phenom Shelby Erickson added 2 more school records to her collection, in the 800m and 1600m.
The Boys Golf Team came out swinging with a tournament win at Eagle Valley! Senior Sam Lager and junior Lucas McDonald both shot a stellar 81, with solid performances from Anthony Donohue (85)Neils Day (88)Trent Racich (92), and Dylan Zuvic (111). Great teamwork and focus! The Swim team dove into competition on Friday, putting up a strong fight against South Lake Tahoe in an exciting meet filled with standout performances from Sady KellyJayden MedozaAva Hane,Ashley SiminovSarah MayrOlivia Kranz, and William Arrison.

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Incline High School News & Sports

March 17, 2025 | Mary Danahey

From Incline High School Principal Cahill: 3/17/2025

🥇 Ski Team Success! This past week, we celebrated our Boys and Girls Ski teams at their banquet, and we’re still in awe—our Boys team brought home THREE State titles, while our Girls team earned the runner-up spot! 🎿🏆 Congratulations, Highlanders!

🦀 A Huge Thank You to Our Boosters! The Crab Feed was a smashing success, and for the first time, Incline Bowl was transformed into an incredible event space! With the overwhelming generosity of our community, we hit the $125,000 matching donation goal from the Dave and Cheryl Duffield Foundation! Their continued support elevates our school in ways beyond words, and we couldn’t be more grateful. 💙

🤸‍♀️ History in the Making! Our inaugural Incline Gymnastics Team recently competed at the Grand Sierra Resort for a state title! Their strength, skill, and determination are nothing short of inspiring, and we are so proud of their first season!

⚾🥎 Spring Team Athletics Update:

  • Baseball & Softball teams notched key victories this week—way to go!
  • Boys Golf hit the course for their first tournament of the season, placing 3rd overall! Sam Lager shot an 80 and Lucas MacDonald an 82—a great start as the team gets into full swing! ⛳
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School Updates – Incline High School News

March 12, 2025 | Mary Danahey

Written and submitted by Mary Danahey, Incline Education Fund

There are three upcoming events, two in the Duffield Theater:

The Concert Band is performing tonight,  3/12 from 6:30-8pm

It’s Freshman Parent Night tomorrow, 3/13 from 5-7pm

And, of course, the Crab Feed is this Saturday, 3/15 at Incline Bowl.

Tickets are sold out, but you can still participate by making a donation or bidding in the online auction, which will be open until 3/17/25.  For more information, contact: tara.cannon347@gmail.com.

The IHS Crab Feed has a generous $125K match from the Dave & Cheryl Duffield Foundation. 

Donations, Silent Auction bids (online), and Live and FAN proxies are available on the website link below. 

You can bid on Flights over Lake Tahoe, amazing buy-in parties and an incredible Napa trip – a private flight for up to 8 people and two exclusive wineries and chef catered lunch.

https://inclineboosters.ejoinme.org/crabfeed2025

Follies practice has begun!

We will let you know when the tickets go on sale, but mark your calendar now for the performances!

May 2nd and 3rd, 2025

Duffield Theater

Ad and Sponsorship packages are available now!  Reach out to maryd@inclineeducationfund.org for more information.

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Incline Village School News Update

February 26, 2025 | Mary Danahey

Submitted by Mary Danahey of Incline Education Fund, 02/25/2025

Incline Elementary School

IES hosted a very successful H’art & Harmony event right before the break.  It was a celebration of the art and music programs at IES.  Students held music performances, showcased their recent art projects, and made Valentine’s crafts.  

Incline Middle School

The third quarter has brought a couple of new offerings to the Incline Middle Exploratory.  Avalanche Safety and Drone Piloting are getting kids outside and teaching them tech skills.

Incline High School

Exciting news that most of you may have already heard… both the boys ski team and the varsity basketball team are Nevada State Champions!


The Incline High boys varsity basketball defeated the Needles Mustangs 55-50 to become the 2025 AA Nevada State Champions.  Playing in Las Vegas at UNLV, the boys beat a Needles team that defeated them in last years state title game.  Led by 8 phenomenal seniors, the boys finished as regional champs and state champs with a record of 23 wins and 6 losses.  Senior Tommy Williams was named State Player of the Year while Junior Halen Hanson and Senior Colin Combs were named 1st Team All State.  Seniors Jaden Abbate and Colton Barraza were named Honorable Mention All State along with Junior Lucas MacDonald.  Head Coach Tim Kelly was named Nevada Coach of the Year.

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Incline Village School Updates

January 29, 2025 | Mary Danahey

Written by Sharon Schrage of Incline Education Fund, 1/29/25

The Incline Schools have some exciting classes and events on tap for winter quarter:

INCLINE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: 

Mark your calendars for the Celebration of Art & Music at Incline Elementary School for the H’Art & Harmony Music Performances & Art Showcase Featuring IES Students Tuesday, February 11, 2025 5:00 – 6:30 pm. Activities Include:     

  • Shrinky Dink Necklace Craft                               
  • Valentine’s Day Card Making                             
  • Raffle                               
  • Snacks for Purchase & More                              
  • Students, Family & Friends of IES are Invited

INCLINE MIDDLE SCHOOL: 

IMS Students start a new Exploratory Quarter with several new options–one of which is the new Avalanche Safety Course.  Led by a  Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician (W-EMT)/ American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) 1 Instructor, IMS students will have a mix of class and on-snow field instruction.  At the end of the quarter, IMS  students will have an early understanding of how to: 

  • Manage winter backcountry risk using a systematic process.
  • Actively contribute to a team.
  • Identify hazards in a winter backcountry environment.
  • Choose terrain that is appropriate for the group and hazard.
  • Develop a plan for continued learning and practice.
  • The Goals for the students at the end of the quarter are to: 
  • Understand avalanche basics (types, terrain, weather factors).
    ○ Assess avalanche risks and make informed decisions as a team
    member.
    ○ Be familiar with proper use of avalanche safety gear.
    ○ Work as a team in simulated avalanche scenarios.

INCLINE HIGH SCHOOL: 

Reminder–Have you marked your calendar for the IHS Boosters Crab Feed?   Saturday, March 15, 2025 5:00 pm at the Incline Bowl.  Buy your tickets before it sells out:  Click here to buy your tickets: https://tinyurl.com/ihs-crabfeed2025

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Incline Village School News

January 21, 2025 | Mary Danahey

Submitted by Incline Education Fund, Mary Danahey

Introducing our 10 Punch Pass to the Club for only $100! 

Are you a family that only needs occasional drop-ins like the winter’s 2-hour delays or special programming?  The Duffield Youth Program at the Boys & Girls Club of North Lake Tahoe is now offering a punch pass: 

🔹 10 visits for just $100!🔹 Great for occasional drop-ins(BGCNLT Annual Membership is required with a one-time fee of $40.) Rules and restrictions:

  • Cost: Punch Card $100
  • BGCNLT Annual membership ($40) required. (one-time annual fee)
  • A 3.35% Technology & Processing fee will be applied to all transactions (cash, check or credit card)
  • This BGCNLT punch card is non-transferable
  • Valid at Duffield Youth Program – Incline Village
  • Valid For: 2024-25 WCSD-Incline School Year. Expires: June 13, 2025

Share this with a friend who could benefit from this new service.

For More information contact: Melissa Flaming
BGCNLT Marketing & Development Coordinator | mflaming@bgcnlt.org | 530-582-3760 | www.bgcnlt.org
Admin Office: 8125 Steelhead | PO Box 1617 | Kings Beach, CA 96143

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