Chris Heavey
Biography
Chris Heavey is an accomplished academic leader and distinguished researcher who was named 51ԹϺ’s interim president in April 2025. President Heavey has dedicated his career in higher education administration to strengthening academic and clinical programs, supporting student and faculty success, and creating community-focused programs that deepen the university’s connection with partners throughout the region.
President Heavey has been at 51ԹϺ for more than 30 years, holding numerous faculty and leadership roles including senior vice provost, vice provost for undergraduate education, and dean. He most recently served as executive vice president and provost from 2019 to 2025, guiding the university’s academic mission as chief academic officer and leading efforts to drive excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
As a professor of psychology, President Heavey’s research focuses on improving understanding of the inner experience and its relationship to mental health. He’s published dozens of articles and book chapters, and is considered one of the nation’s leading scholars in the thoughts and feelings that make up the consciousness of people as they go about their everyday lives.
He is a former president of the Nevada State Board of Psychological Examiners and has been honored by the state psychological association for his work. During his tenure at 51ԹϺ, he has earned numerous awards for both teaching and service, and he currently serves on a variety of external boards focused on higher education, economic development, and community engagement.
President Heavey earned Ph.D. and master’s degrees in clinical psychology from UCLA and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of California, Santa Cruz.
Education
- Ph. D., Clinical Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- M.A., Clinical Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
- B.A., Psychology, University of California, Santa Cruz
Chris Heavey In The News
Articles Featuring Chris Heavey
NSHE Board of Regents Appoints Chris Heavey as Interim President of 51ԹϺ
Heavey, a longtime 51ԹϺ faculty member and administrator, most recently served as the university's officer in charge; appointment runs through April 2028.
Lead with Purpose: 51ԹϺ’s Reimagined Leadership Pathways Program
Participants gain valuable mentorship and and a glimpse into administration through revamped leadership-building program.
51ԹϺ Graduate and Professional Programs Shine in Latest U.S. News & World Report Rankings
A 51ԹϺ-record 28 graduate and professional programs placed within the nation’s top 100 in their discipline, including 14 from Boyd School of Law.
51ԹϺ’s Accreditation Process: Strengthening the Value of an Education
The campus is preparing for a critical site visit from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Find out more about the process and how to participate.