Kris Williams’ journey to becoming a Rebel did not start in a classroom, but in front of a TV screen, when he was captivated by the roaring cheers of the 1990 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship game. UNLV triumphed over Duke and the excitement of that iconic season resonated with the young Portland, Oregon native, sparking a lifelong bond with the university.
He found his way here after a 24-year military career in Special Operations. Williams earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology from UNLV in 2020. He credits UNLV for shaping his journey, both personally and professionally.
In 2023, Williams joined Facilities Management as a project manager. He oversees large projects that require coordination with various campus stakeholders. From renovating buildings to improving roads and infrastructure, he ensures campuswide projects run smoothly and efficiently.
But none have been bigger than leading efforts at Frank and Estella Beam Hall (BEH) as part of Rebel Recovery. This work was not merely a professional duty for Williams, but also a heartfelt endeavor.
Williams views the newly restored building as a symbol of renewal and unity. His dedication to creating a welcoming environment was driven by the support he received as a student. His work, he says, is more than just a job; it’s a testament to his loyalty and passion for the university.
Thinking about the recovery efforts, what are your overall reflections?
There’s no place I would rather be at than right here. I have given back to communities and people throughout the world; but this means even more to me because for the first time I’m giving back to my community and a place that I am personally attached to.
What message do you hope to leave with students, faculty, staff, and visitors through the restoration of the BEH building?
I want them to take away a new sense of community. To restore BEH, we came together as a community, as departments, and as individuals to work on something greater than ourselves.
Can you describe a memorable moment or milestone during the restoration process?
We recently provided a tour to senior leadership to show them the work we’ve done to prepare the building for reopening. It was the moment that we saw everybody's hard work and dedication come together to do something impactful for the university and the community.
How has this project changed the way your team collaborates with other units?
This experience brought all of Business Affairs together, showcasing our capabilities to work collaboratively. It has improved current standards and set new guidelines that we will use on future projects.
For example, we worked closely with Risk Management & Safety to enhance the university’s safety standards. I collaborated with their teams to get the fire safety systems back online, install card access for elevators, and set up an elevator storefront.
Are there other projects on campus you’re proud to be a part of?
We reconditioned the Paul McDermott Physical Education Building’s (MPE) north and south gym facilities for the NBA Summer League. We also painted and resprayed different areas to keep them up to par and bring a little more prestige to the university.
I used to watch NBA Summer League when I was deployed overseas. It was surreal to go from watching these events on TV from the other side of the world to being a part of them.
What advice would you give to current students who aspire to make a positive impact in their communities?
Think globally, act locally. Think how what we’re doing here impacts the greater community outside of UNLV – globally. And then act locally to inspire that change.
You have a newborn as well as 10-year-old son. What’s the best thing so far about being a parent?
Being in the military, I was deployed during much of my son’s childhood. Now, I get to be with my daughter every day and watch her grow up. I’m grateful I get to spend time with both of them in person. There are no more deployments, and my kids no longer have to see me leave on a plane.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work and family?
School. It challenges you in different ways and helps you to improve your knowledge base. It provides a safe productive environment to speak about issues, get a better understanding of those issues, and see how they affect different parts of the world and your local community.
I wasn't a big proponent of school growing up — I can say that — but now, I like to learn and be challenged. One of places you can do that, almost risk-free, is in the [campus] environment.
Best tip or advice for someone new to UNLV?
Enjoy the experience and come in with an open mindset. Always keep an eye on the future, but understand that things change and what you think you might want to be today might not be the same tomorrow. Always work toward your Plan A, but also have a Plan B, C, or D.
What’s your favorite secret place on campus?
The 3D Printing Lab in Lied Library. In that little wing, you can develop a product, capture a video, or record a podcast. It’s a nice entrepreneurial space for people using social media or experimenting with different forms of entertainment.
How much UNLV apparel do you own?
I do have a lot of UNLV apparel because the colors also represent my favorite basketball team, the Portland Trail Blazers. It’s a crossover in color waves, so I do have a considerable amount of UNLV apparel and swag.
