A Day in Honor of Dr. Thomas Kozel

WHEREAS, Thomas Kozel, Ph.D., was a founding faculty member of the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and has dedicated 54 years to teaching, research, and mentorship within Nevada communities; and;

WHEREAS, Dr. Kozel’s dedication to medical education has left a profound legacy, having taught every single medical student who has matriculated through the School of Medicine since its founding in 1969; and;

WHEREAS, as a globally recognized microbiologist and immunologist, Dr. Kozel’s groundbreaking research in fungal diagnostics, including a lifesaving assay for cryptococcal infection, has contributed to the health and well-being of patients around the world; and;

WHEREAS, Dr. Kozel has received 48 consecutive years of research funding from the National Institutes of Health — a remarkable and rare distinction — and has elevated the University of Nevada and the State of Nevada as a hub for scientific innovation; and;

WHEREAS, beyond his accolades and accomplishments, Dr. Kozel is known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to education and discovery, serving as a role model for students, scientists, and community members alike; and;

WHEREAS, September 19, 2025, marks Dr. Kozel’s final day of instruction at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, providing an opportunity for the State of Nevada to recognize his decades of service and enduring contributions to public health, higher education, and our community; and;

WHEREAS, we express our sincere thanks and gratitude to Dr. Kozel for his years of professional excellence and loyal service to the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and the State of Nevada, and extend best wishes for a healthy, happy, and fulfilling retirement;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOE LOMBARDO, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, do hereby proclaim September 19, 2025, as a day in honor of

DR. THOMAS KOZEL