Background
Tya Mathis-Coleman graduated from Cimmaron-Memorial High School. Mathis-Coleman earned a bachelor's degree from the University of Nevada, Reno in 2004, a graduate degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 2007, and a Ph.D. from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 2022. Mathis-Coleman's career experience includes working as a government administrator.
[1]
- Ph.D:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 2022
- Graduate:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 2007
- Bachelor's:
- University of Nevada, Reno, 2004
- High school:
- Cimmaron-Memorial High School
In their own words
Who are you? Tell us about yourself.
I’m running for Nevada State Treasurer because I believe financial opportunity should be within reach for every Nevada family. As a lifelong Southern Nevada resident and proud product of the Clark County School District and the Nevada System of Higher Education, I have dedicated my career to expanding access to education and strengthening programs that help families plan for their future.
I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno, and later received both my Master of Public Administration and Doctor of Public Policy from UNLV. My commitment to service has always been rooted in the belief that education and financial stability can change lives.
Before serving in the Treasurer’s Office, I worked with the Clark County School District, helping lead recruitment efforts to bring qualified teachers into Nevada classrooms. That experience deepened my commitment to investing in students and the systems that support their success.
Today, I serve as Nevada’s Deputy Treasurer of College Savings and Executive Director of the Millennium Scholarship, where I help oversee programs that have supported more than 177,000 Nevada students pursuing higher education.
As a proud daughter of North Las Vegas, a wife, and a mother, I understand that behind every financial decision is a Nevada family working to build opportunity. That perspective guides my leadership and my commitment to serving Nevada with integrity, transparency, and care.
Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?
Expanding Access to Education and Financial Opportunity
Education is one of the strongest pathways to economic mobility. I will continue strengthening Nevada’s college savings programs and scholarship opportunities while expanding outreach so more families know what resources are available. I also want to support stronger financial literacy initiatives so students and families can make informed financial decisions.Protecting Taxpayer Dollars Through Responsible Stewardship
The State Treasurer serves as a guardian of Nevada’s financial resources. I am committed to maintaining strong fiscal discipline, protecting taxpayer investments, and ensuring the office continues to operate with transparency and accountability. Nevadans deserve confidence that their public funds are managed carefully and responsibly.Modernizing the Treasurer’s Office to Serve Nevadans Better
As Nevada grows, the Treasurer’s Office must continue to modernize how it communicates and delivers services. I want to expand public awareness of existing programs, improve accessibility, and ensure the office remains responsive to the needs of a changing state. That means focusing on innovation while maintaining the strong financial practices that protect Nevada’s future.
What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?
Affordable Higher Education
Financial Literacy
Consumer Protection
Government Transparency and Modernization
What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?
Representative Dina Titus
North Las Vegas Mayor Pamela Goynes-Brown
Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley
Southern Nevada Building Trades Union
Teamsters Local 631
NOW
Former Lt. Governor Kate Marshall
Treasurer Zach Conine
State Senators Angie Taylor & Shelly Cruz-Crawford
On the 2026 ballot
Links
Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026.
Source(opens in new tab)