Pat Christenson

Christenson came to UNLV in 1980 as an event coordinator and assistant wrestling coach. He helped operate the new Thomas & Mack Center and the stadium later known as Sam Boyd, then became director of both venues in 1991.

His work linked bookings with sponsorship, marketing and the practical running of events. The regional Hall of Fame credits him with work on venue renovations and the Cox Pavilion naming arrangement. In 2001 he became president of Las Vegas Events.

The National Finals Rodeo remained an important thread across those jobs. His retirement took effect at the end of 2023. His career belongs beside the famous fight promoters because Las Vegas also needed people who could bring events back, fill buildings across a year and coordinate the organizations behind them.