Celebrating a Legacy of Education: The Derfelt-Thomas Family and UNLV
From Pioneer to Principal: The Derfelt-Thomas Family’s Enduring Legacy at UNLV
The University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) isn’t just an institution; it’s a living testament to the transformative power of education, woven into the fabric of Las Vegas. One family, the Derfelt-Thomases, embodies this legacy, their story spanning generations of educators and Rebels, deeply intertwined with UNLV’s history and its profound impact on the community.
Herbert Derfelt: Laying the Foundation for UNLV
The story begins with Herbert Derfelt, a visionary educator who played a pivotal role in shaping UNLV’s destiny. As the sole professor at UNR’s southern branch campus (later becoming UNLV), Derfelt’s crucial vote in favor of a new radiology program in the 1950s set in motion the institution’s independence. He later became a foundational faculty member in UNLV’s College of Education, igniting a passion for learning that would resonate through his descendants.
A Family of Educators: The Derfelt-Thomas Legacy Unfolds
Derfelt’s legacy extended far beyond the classroom. His daughter, Lavetta Derfelt Starlin (’88 M.Ed.), carried the torch, followed by granddaughter Robin Starlin Thomas (’82 BS Education, ’86 M.Ed.) and grandson-in-law Patrick Thomas (’84 BS Education, ’88 M.Ed.). The family tree branched out, with each generation embracing education as a calling, earning UNLV degrees, and contributing to the Southern Nevada community as teachers and administrators. This commitment to education has impacted countless students over the decades, demonstrating UNLV’s profound influence on the region’s educational landscape.
Pate Thomas: From Reluctant Rebel to Principal and UNLV Advocate
Pate Thomas, Herbert Derfelt’s great-grandson, initially resisted the family tradition. Determined to forge his own path, he planned to attend UNR and pursue law. However, fate, combined with the wisdom of his educator parents, led him back to UNLV and into the family business. A transformative experience in his first education class ignited a passion he hadn’t anticipated. Thomas graduated from UNLV in 2012 with a BS in Secondary Education and embarked on a career dedicated to shaping young minds.
Leading the Next Generation: Pate Thomas at South Career and Technical Academy
Today, Pate Thomas serves as the principal of the new South Career and Technical Academy, a testament to his dedication to innovative education. This role allows him to not only impact students directly but also contribute to the growth of specialized educational programs in Southern Nevada. His journey from reluctant student to passionate principal exemplifies the cyclical nature of family legacy and the enduring power of education to transform lives.
The Importance of Cultivating Great Teachers: A Core Value at UNLV
The Derfelt-Thomas family understands that the foundation of a thriving community rests on the shoulders of its educators. Pate Thomas actively promotes UNLV to aspiring teachers, emphasizing the university’s unique ability to offer both a comprehensive college experience and the strong family support system so crucial for aspiring educators. This commitment to fostering the next generation of educators highlights UNLV’s enduring role in shaping the future of education in Southern Nevada and beyond. The family’s story reminds us that teachers aren’t just instructors; they are mentors, guides, and the architects of a brighter future.
Continuing the Tradition: Inspiring Future Generations of Rebels
Pate and his wife, Roxane (also a UNLV College of Education graduate), are instilling the value of education in their two young sons, ensuring that the Derfelt-Thomas legacy continues to thrive. By exposing their children to the UNLV campus and sharing stories of their family’s deep connection to the university, they are nurturing the next generation of potential Rebels, ready to contribute to the rich tapestry of UNLV’s future.
The UNLV Legacy: A Family Affair
The Derfelt-Thomas family’s journey underscores the enduring significance of UNLV as a cornerstone of education in Southern Nevada. More than just a university, UNLV is a catalyst for positive change, empowering individuals and families to pursue their dreams and contribute to the betterment of their communities. This powerful narrative of family legacy, educational commitment, and community impact serves as a compelling testament to UNLV’s profound influence on the lives it touches. It demonstrates how one university can inspire generations to dedicate themselves to education, ultimately shaping the future of a city and beyond.
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