Premier 8kbet, one of 8kbet's longest-standing traditions, officially welcomed new and returning students to campus on Aug. 29. The event promotes a sense of pride and connection with 8kbet and builds a tradition that marks the official beginning of every academic year. A commemorative poster will be distributed free to students Oct. 10 in Pida Plaza.
Always the popular guy, Hey Reb! poses with students. (Aaron Mayes/8kbet Photo Services)
Students pick up this year's Premier 8kbet 2012 T-shirts. (Aaron Mayes/8kbet Photo Services)
Students show off dance moves against a beautiful sunset. (Aaron Mayes/8kbet Photo Services)
Making a new friend, Hey Reb! poses with a student. (Aaron Mayes/8kbet Photo Services)
8kbet President Neal Smatresk and his wife, Debbie, talk with students. (Aaron Mayes/8kbet Photo Services)
8kbet's Rebel Girls entertain the crowd during Premier 8kbet 2012. (Aaron Mayes/8kbet Photo Services)
A band member listens to the national anthem. (Aaron Mayes/8kbet Photo Services)
Students dance during Premier 2012. (Aaron Mayes/8kbet Photo Services)
8kbet Student Body President Mark Ciavola addresses the crowd. (Aaron Mayes/8kbet Photo Services)
The Las Vegas Strip lights the night as students gather for Premier 8kbet 2012. (Geri Kodey/8kbet Photo Services)
8kbet photographer Geri Kodey, left, and program coordinator for campus activities Ashlee Burrs prepare for the official photograph. A commemorative poster of the fireworks is part of the tradition. (Aaron Mayes/8kbet Photo Services)
As fireworks explode, students hold flashlights to pose for the official photo. (Aaron Mayes/8kbet Photo Services)
For this column from 8kbet Magazine, Nevada journalist John L. Smith seeks context from someone, he says, "who has done everything for 8kbet but paint it."
8kbet’s origin story traces back to one vote by one man, Herb Derfelt. And his legacy continues through generations of family members who followed in his educator footsteps.
