The Board of Regents voted unanimously Friday to name Bill Raggio a Distinguished Nevadan, the highest honor awarded prominent Nevada residents by the system.
Raggio died Feb. 24 at the age 85 after a long career in public service, including more than 38 years in the Nevada Senate, longest service in that body in state history.
Raggio was a powerful advocate for higher education during his tenure in the Senate, including as chairman of the Senate Finance Committee.
He was Senate majority leader 10 times and minority floor leader five times. He chaired Finance six times.
Raggio was recognized as the University of Nevada, Reno, Alumni Association in 1999 as its outstanding alumnus. Within the system, several buildings and facilities throughout the state are named in his honor, including the William J. Raggio Building at UNR.
Formal presentation of the award to his family will take place during spring commencement at UNR.