
Dr. Tya R. Mathis-Coleman
Dr. Tya R. Mathis-Coleman, a native of Las Vegas, exemplifies a lifelong commitment to education, leadership, and community service. A proud alumna of the Clark County School District and the Nevada System of Higher Education, Dr. Mathis-Coleman earned her bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Nevada, Reno, followed by a Master of Public Administration and a Doctor of Public Policy from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Inspired by her parents, both educators, she has dedicated her career to creating opportunities and empowering others
As Deputy Treasurer, overseeing the College Savings Division for the Nevada State Treasurer's Office, Dr. Mathis-Coleman supports Nevadans in planning, saving, and paying for post-secondary education. Her belief in the transformative power of education drives her passion for helping young people achieve their dreams. She extends this mission through her involvement with numerous organizations and boards, serving as an active leader and mentor. Dr. Mathis-Coleman has an extraordinary decade-long history with the Junior League of Las Vegas (JLLV), which is marked by her exceptional leadership and impact. From her first year as an active member, she stepped into leadership roles, chairing initiatives such as the JLLV Scholarship Committee, the Night at the Museum fundraiser, and the Education Grants Committee, where she facilitated the awarding of over $50,000 to educators. Her leadership journey includes roles as Community Council Vice President, President-Elect-Elect, Executive Vice President, President-Elect, and now President of JLLV. Under her presidency, she spearheaded the league's membership in POLLS and hosted their inaugural women's leadership development training, EmpowHER. Dr. Mathis-Coleman has centered her leadership on member training and development, ensuring a strong pipeline of empowered women leaders.
Her achievements extend beyond JLLV. Dr. Mathis-Coleman serves as Vice President of the UNLV Alumni Board and as an adjunct professor at UNLV, where she inspires the next generation of changemakers. She has been honored with prestigious awards, including Vegas Inc.'s "40 Under 40" (2017), the Farwest Soror of the Year by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (2019), the Education Award from the NBA Summer League (2023), and the University Service Award from the University of Nevada, Reno (2022). Above all, Dr. Mathis-Coleman cherishes her role as mother to six-year-old Hunter Grace, her greatest joy and inspiration. Dr. Mathis-Coleman's dedication to fostering community, advancing education, and developing leaders reflects her unwavering belief in the power of service to transform lives.