Dear Community Members,
Opportunity 180’s impact has been shaped by deep dedication to students, meaningful partnerships, and strong community collaboration. In the spirit of that shared commitment and collective effort, we wanted to share an announcement about our continuous evolution.
After eight years of leading the organization, Jana Wilcox Lavin will transition from her role as CEO to serve as a Senior Advisor. Under Jana’s tenure as CEO, Opportunity 180 has grown from what was a vision on paper to a dynamic, sustainable organization making a measurable, significant difference for students, families, and schools across Nevada. We are profoundly grateful for her dedication and excited for her continued guidance in this new role.
Effective June 1, 2025, Tamara Shear, who has served as Chief Program Officer for the past four years, will step into the role of Chief Executive Officer. Tam (as many of you know her) has been a driving force behind Opportunity 180’s school support, leadership development, and partnership work. She brings a rich history of work in Clark County and across Nevada, along with a deep commitment to public education and to our mission of ensuring every kid has access to a great school in their neighborhood. With Tam leading the team, Opportunity 180 is poised to build on the strong foundation and amplify our impact on students, schools, and communities in service of our North Star.
Over the past eight years, Opportunity 180 has partnered with more than 30 public schools across Nevada, including district and charter schools that are supporting nearly 25,000 students, and have worked closely with more than 130 current and aspiring school leaders. We’ve cultivated a strong base of donors and supporters who are deeply committed to the work we are doing. We launched the School Scout Nevada (formerly Great Schools All Kids) data portal to continue providing families and community members more access to critical school information and continue to cultivate resources that empower student and family voices. And with that momentum, we’re ready to take our impact to the next level.
Our mission remains unwavering: working towards our North Star of every kid graduating from high school college and career-ready, prepared to live the life they dream, and our goal of 100,000 more students attending high-quality schools by 2030. As we move into the next phase of our strategic framework, we do so with the full support of our Board, our dedicated team, donors, partners, and other stakeholders.
The need for strong, evidence-based support for students, schools, and communities has never been greater. Together, we will continue to create opportunities that ensure every child has a pathway to success.
Thank you for being part of this journey. We look forward to what’s ahead and continuing this important work alongside you.
With gratitude,
Dr. Sebern Coleman
Chair, Opportunity 180 Board of Directors
Jana Wilcox Lavin
CEO
Tamara Shear
Chief Program Officer & Incoming CEO
