WNC News & Notes: Nursing student earns scholarship

Western Nevada College nursing student Josh Pierce is seeing his efforts pay off. The second-year nursing student has been named a recipient of the 2010 Regents' Scholarship, a highly prestigious $5,000 award.

The Board of Regents for the Nevada System of Higher Education annually recognizes a top student from each school for academic achievements, leadership ability and service contributions.

After a rocky childhood, Pierce's journey at WNC has been a testament to his hard work and determination to succeed. He maintains a 3.66 grade point average, is a Carson City Rotary Club scholar and an All-USA Community College Academic Award recipient.

Pierce graduates from Western this spring ready to become a registered nurse and plans to continue his education at the University of Nevada, Reno.

WNC Dean of Instruction Carol Lange nominated Josh for the competitive award.

"During my encounters with Josh, I have come to admire and respect him as a student, a caring individual, a very hard worker and a dedicated family person," she said.

Pierce expressed gratitude to WNC faculty and staff as contributors to his success.

"They have gone above and beyond in all aspects to help me achieve my goals," he said. "The student services staff were helpful and encouraging during the enrollment, financial aid and career selection process, and instructors have been available and patient throughout. Things done here are life changing in ways that other institutions can't match."

Ninth-grade girls

to visit campus, learn about careers

What does the heart really look like? How do meteorologists gather precipitation data? How can the sun power a car?

Young women from local high schools will explore these and many other questions when they visit WNC on Friday to participate in Women in Non-traditional Careers Day.

Leaders from the community will speak about excelling as women in the work force. Instructors will offer hands-on experiments and demonstrations to excite the students about potential programs of study and careers.

"We are creating an environment that encourages students to expand their horizons, discover their interests, and ultimately pave their education and career paths," said Student Outreach Coordinator Katie Leao. "This event benefits these young women by creating a realistic connection between their goals and dreams, and the steps it takes to achieve them."

Gallery hosts reception and book signing for artists

The public is invited to meet the artists of three new exhibits at the WNC galleries during a free reception and book signing from

4:30-6 p.m. Wednesday.

"36 Views of Lake Tahoe" by Norma J. Carder depicts the vibrancy of Lake Tahoe through watercolor. She will sign copies of her book, a compilation of her art, at the reception. "The Other Nevada: Through Lens and Language" captures student impressions of the treasures of Nevada using photography and essays; and the Carson Valley Quilt Guild presents a perspective of history with their exhibit, "Quilts Along the Pony Express."

The galleries, located in the Bristlecone Building on the Carson City campus, are open 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays.

Workshops to help students apply for financial assistance

Financial aid and scholarships make it possible for many students to attend college and achieve their dreams. It is important for students to apply early to maximize funding options that may be available.

To ensure that students submit their applications before the April 1 deadline for 2010-2011 students, WNC is hosting workshops offering hands-on assistance and help with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Noon-1 p.m. and 5:30-7 p.m. in the Cedar 331A. Douglas campus: Noon-1 p.m. Wednesday, Bently 108.

For more information, call 445-3264.