The Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) Board of Regents has confirmed the appointment of Dr. Amber Donnelli, Ph.D. as interim president of Great Basin College (GBC), effective July 1, 2024. This decision follows a meticulous selection process in accordance with NSHE policies and guidelines.
The succession planning began with the announcement of GBC President Helens’ retirement, effective June 30, 2024. Interim Chancellor Patricia Charlton and Board Chair Byron Brooks engaged extensively with the GBC community and stakeholders to receive feedback on the appointment of the College’s next president.
Reflecting the inclusivity and thoroughness of the process, representatives from various GBC constituencies, including faculty, classified staff, campus leaders, site directors, foundation members, community leaders, and students, participated in forums and discussions. The consensus strongly supported Dr. Donnelli’s appointment, emphasizing her profound connections within the GBC community and her deep understanding of a rural college’s mission.
Joyce Helens, President of Great Basin College, had the following to say about Dr. Donnelli:
Dr. Amber Donnelli is a valued member of the Great Basin College executive team whose striving for programmatic excellence has kept GBC Health Sciences programs, among others, as top performers in the State. Dr. Donnelli’s reputation for her focus on continuous improvement and data driven decision making, as well as her care for students, make her a great fit for the Great Basin College presidency. Students will also see a great role model in Dr. Donnelli as she will be the first GBC alumna to assume the presidency. Both vice president Jake Rivera and I fully support Dr. Donnelli and will work to assist her to assume this role on July 1.
Dr. Donnelli, who will become the first GBC alumna to hold the position of Interim President, expressed her gratitude and dedication to advancing GBC’s mission of academic excellence and community engagement. Her tenure as Interim President promises to further elevate GBC’s standing and enrich the student experience.
Details regarding Dr. Donnelli’s employment contract and terms will be presented to the Board of Regents prior to the commencement of her interim presidency.







