Nancy Houssels

Born in Piedmont, California, Nancy began dancing at age three. She graduated from U.C.L.A. with a B.A. degree in Theatre Arts. As a professional dancer she performed worldwide in theater and television as partner of the famed dance team “Francois Szony and Nancy Claire.” Nancy retired in 1969 in Las Vegas to marry J. Kell Houssels, President of the Tropicana, Chairman of the Showboat and Vice President of the Union Plaza. They have four children – Jake, Josh, Kelly, and Eric. For nearly forty years Nancy has been active in the community, especially involved in the arts and children. In 1972, she co-founded Nevada Ballet Theatre and remains a driving force as Co-Chairman. Nancy has received recognition for her work with the Governor’s Distinguished Service to Women in Southern Nevada, Nevada Community Foundation’s Jameson Philanthropic Achievement Award, Chamber of Commerce Women of Achievement Award and the Chris Schallert Award from WE CAN for the Abused, Abandoned, and Neglected Children. Nancy has served or is presently serving on numerous community boards including UNLV Foundation, The Meadows School, Nevada International Women’s Forum, Friends of Channel 10, Nevada Arts Council, Children’s Service Guild and the Las Vegas Performing Arts Center Foundation.