The report highlights that a significant majority (80%) of University of Nevada's lobbyists transitioned from government roles, signaling a revolving door dynamic. This raises alarms about conflicts of interest and undue political influence that can undermine democratic accountability and transparency—core concerns in evaluations of public and political behavior.

University of Nevada Profile: Summary • OpenSecrets

The allegations of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation indicate serious shortcomings in labor relations and human rights practices at UNR. Such failures not only harm the affected faculty but also undermine the institution's commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and equitable work environment, which is crucial in resisting authoritarian practices.

UNR psychology faculty allege discrimination, harassment and retaliation in new lawsuit

The lawsuit alleges systemic discrimination based on gender and race, as well as retaliatory measures against those who spoke out, pointing to severe breaches in labor relations and human rights practices. Such discriminatory practices undermine protections for marginalized groups and perpetuate hostile work environments.

UNR professors file lawsuit alleging gender, race discrimination

The university’s repeated recognition for its comprehensive democratic engagement efforts bolsters civic participation and inclusivity. Its proactive approach in fostering political education and ensuring accessible voter registration represents a firm stand against authoritarian tendencies, promoting anti-fascist values on campus.

University of Nevada, Reno once again nationally recognized as a Voter Friendly Campus

The report of $130,000 in lobbying expenditures indicates that the university is actively engaging in political processes. From a progressive, anti-fascist perspective, such political spending can contribute to maintaining established power structures and may marginalize grassroots voices. While transparency through public disclosure is positive, the use of funds for lobbying can be seen as aligning with established political interests rather than championing progressive change.

University of Nevada Lobbying Reports • OpenSecrets

The university's spending on lobbying raises concerns about potential undue influence on public policy, reflecting a use of resources to sway political outcomes rather than focusing solely on its educational mission. Such political contributions can be interpreted as supporting established power structures, which may indirectly foster conditions conducive to authoritarian practices.

University of Nevada Lobbying Profile • OpenSecrets

By implementing an enhanced Title IX process with a dedicated dashboard, UNR is taking steps toward greater ethical responsibility and improved internal governance. This initiative aims to address longstanding criticisms and lawsuits regarding the handling of sexual harassment and discrimination, thereby fostering a fair and accountable environment.

UNR launches Title IX dashboard in response to allegations - This Is Reno

Multiple detailed allegations from faculty and staff describe a pervasive culture of harassment, gender bias, and discrimination under departmental leadership. This indicates significant failures in upholding equitable labor practices and human rights, reflecting a hostile work environment that undermines marginalized groups.

New court filings describe ‘toxic’ work environment, culture of ‘fear and mistrust’ at UNR

The university's repeated recognition as a Voter Friendly Campus demonstrates a strong commitment to civic engagement and electoral participation. By actively promoting voter registration and educational initiatives around voting, UNR is contributing to a healthy democracy and countering authoritarian tendencies.

University of Nevada, Reno named a Voter Friendly Campus for the fourth year in a row

The University's commitment to ethical research and the establishment of a Committee on the Status of Women demonstrates strong ethical practices and support for marginalized groups. This move contributes positively to fostering an inclusive and progressive environment.

Government and Community Engagement - University of Nevada, Reno

By developing a searchable database that aggregates data on police use of advanced surveillance technologies, the project bolsters independent media efforts and provides a counter-narrative to state-sanctioned surveillance. This promotes a more informed public discourse against repressive practices.

Atlas of Surveillance honored with award for advancing public’s right to know about police spying

The university's involvement in creating a publicly accessible database that tracks surveillance technology is a strong anti-authoritarian move. By collaborating with EFF and a journalism school, the University of Nevada, Reno enhances public awareness and accountability of law enforcement practices, thereby contributing to positive public and political behavior.

The Electronic Frontier Foundation Launches the Atlas of Surveillance

The initiative leverages technology to compile a comprehensive, searchable database on police surveillance practices. This technological tool supports public scrutiny of law enforcement’s use of repressive surveillance measures and bolsters community resistance against authoritarian overreach.

EFF and Reynolds School launch largest-ever collection of searchable data on police use of surveillance technologies

By engaging students and professional researchers in mapping and analyzing the use of advanced surveillance technologies—such as drones, body cameras, and facial recognition—the university contributes to a broader understanding of the implications of these tools. This proactive research fosters public oversight of surveillance technology deployments and encourages critical discourse on technology’s role in reinforcing authoritarian practices.

New report finds border communities inundated with surveillance technologies