Joseph M. Neal STEAM Academy is named after Senator Joseph M. Neal, who spent his lifetime working to improve education. He served in the Nevada Senate from 1972 to 2004. He was the first African-American State Senator in Nevada and the longest serving state senator in the history of this state. He was an active participant at our school, attending the annual Back to School Celebration. Senator Neal was always willing to share words of encouragement and inspiration with our students. Our hearts go out to his dear family and friends. He will be missed around the school.