Event industry pioneer Kathy Nelson died of a heart attack this past weekend while visiting family in Ohio. She was 61. At the time of her death, Nelson was a co-owner at Consult DK and an assistant professor at the University of Nevada Las Vegas.
Nelson started her education at U.N.L.V. as a student, earning her bachelor's degree and eventually going on to earn a master's and doctorate as well. She was hired to the faculty because of her extensive experience in the event industry and shaped the careers of many industry-bound students in that capacity. She developed the event portion of the meetings and events major in the Hotel College. Nelson was also a longtime ISES chairperson, driving the group's certification for several years and even rewriting the certification test.
"I am stunned and am at a loss for words," said U.N.L.V. colleague Patti Shock. "We will all miss her very much. She was so instrumental in developing the events program at U.N.L.V."
Nelson is survived by her husband, Dan, and daughter, Chloe. Her wishes were to be buried in Ohio, and a memorial service will follow in Las Vegas. In lieu of flowers, donations to fund Chloe's burgeoning professional golf career can be made to U.S. Bank at 1220 Columbus Avenue, Wash C.H., Ohio, 43160.
