The great Todd Felts has tragically, abruptly passed away during the Thanksgiving break.
This is a photo of him after he was named the Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Sierra Chapter.
He was beloved by his colleagues and students at the Reynolds School of Journalism, his wonderful husband Tony Avila, his mother Betty, who had just turned 80, and so many in our community including in local non profit circles.
Among many endeavors, he was a key fundraiser for Northern Nevada HOPES, specifically in spearheading the "Give OUT" campaign, which supports access to healthcare for members of the LGBTQ+ community.
In all his interactions, Todd always brought a powerful light, grace and boundless positive energy to every moment, every class, every meeting, every encounter.
UNR President Brian Sandoval today wrote: "From the moment Todd joined our faculty in 2008, our University knew it had added a faculty member who brought something more than two decades of experience as an award-winning public relations and communications professional. Todd’s infectious joy for the work that he did was immediately apparent. His love, care and compassion for everyone he knew was felt throughout our campus and in our community. He was, simply, a bundle of energy who could also be an incredibly thoughtful and steadying force for anyone he ever knew."
Rest in Peace Todd. May we honor your legacy by being positive and full of compassion and generosity in our own interactions going forward.
You are so missed.
Our Town Reno, November 2024
