51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ is saddened to announce the passing of supporter Kitty Rodman who died today after a lengthy battle with Parkinson's disease. She was 88.
Rodman was known for being among the first women in the construction industry in Las Vegas and was a partner in Sierra Construction Corporation, which built projects for the Atomic Energy Commission, Nellis Air Force Base, Clark County School District, 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ, and numerous hotels and casinos.
Rodman was a founding member of the 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Jean Nidetch Women's Center and her contribution helped establish the physical therapy program. She was a member of the 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Foundation Board of Trustees since the 1980s.
"Kitty was a remarkable friend to 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ," said 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ President Donald Snyder, who served concurrently with Rodman on the 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Foundation Board from 1988-2011 and as chairman from 1996-2001. "She will be deeply missed by all of us who knew and admired her. She was a stalwart businesswoman with a heart of gold. Her passion for education was inexhaustible, and she leaves a lasting legacy at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ."
For 40 years she was involved with Opportunity Village, a nonprofit organization that provides jobs for intellectually disabled people. A member of Executive Women International since 1955, Rodman has also shared her time and wisdom with young women embarking on their professional careers, encouraging not only self-improvement, but also a willingness for community service.
She was named a Distinguished Nevadan in 1991 for her support of the 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ residential life. In 1995, 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ conferred upon Rodman an honorary doctorate degree for her distinguished service to the university. In 1998, she received the President's Medal in recognition of her longstanding commitment to 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ and higher education. Rodman received the 2005 Silver State Award, the highest honor given to non-alumni by the 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Alumni Association. In 2007 she was inducted into the Nevada Business Hall of Fame.
