Bobsledder Jacobo to share journey at WNC gala

From a turbulent upbringing in Los Angeles to a life-altering spinal cord injury while snowboarding, Steven Jacobo faced significant challenges. Despite these setbacks, Jacobo found a new sense of purpose and direction, driven by his desire to provide a better future for his sons. He discovered that higher education could transform his mechanical skills into a fulfilling career. With support from Western Nevada College Foundation, Jacobo is now pursuing an associate degree at WNC, with plans to obtain a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering. His journey exemplifies resilience and the transformative power of education.

“I always knew about WNC being an option since living in Northern Nevada, but I had no idea how instrumental they would be in making my dreams reality,” he said. “The support I've received has been invaluable. I anticipated I could probably get some financial assistance for classes and guidance toward my Associate of Science degree, but what I have found is a robust and knowledgeable support system.”

Jacobo will share his story as the student speaker at WNC Foundation’s seventh annual Reach for the Stars Gala on Saturday, Aug. 10, in Joe Dini Library on the Carson City campus.

“Steven exemplifies the transformative power of higher education. We are thrilled that his dedication at Western Nevada College has laid the groundwork for a promising future,” said WNC President J. Kyle Dalpe.

Jacobo’s motivation returned when he watched YouTube videos of paraplegic athletes and began creating his own videos to help the disabled.

“Losing my ability to walk changed my perspective on life in ways that I didn’t know were possible,” Jacobo said. “I was so unmotivated; I didn’t even want to eat. I was deeply depressed. I went through the motions of physical therapy and rehabilitation.”

Eventually, he became involved in adaptive sports, including bobsledding. That interest has taken him around the world for competition and allowed him to represent his country in world championships. Those experiences instilled confidence and made him realize that anything is possible.

“My story is one of overcoming adversity and striving for a better future, no matter the obstacles along the way,” Jacobo said

A limited number of tickets remain for the gala. Tickets are priced at $200 per person, $380 per couple or $1,500 per table of eight; every contribution serves the workforce of the future. Tickets are available at wnc.edu/reach.

For information, contact WNC Foundation at 775-445-3240 or foundation@wnc.edu.

Fall semester to start Aug. 26

Fall semester at WNC starts on Aug. 26.

If you are a new student, go to wnc.edu/starthere. For information, phone Admissions & Records at 775-445-3277.

Returning students can register for classes through their myWNC accounts. In addition to traditional full-semester courses in person and online, WNC offers open entry, late start and accelerated classes. Check out what is available at wnc.edu/class-schedule.

For assistance with courses and career planning, phone Academic Advising & Access at 775-445-3267.

Ticket purchases to Aug. 8 Aces game support nursing club

Attend a Reno Aces' baseball game on Thursday, Aug. 8, and support WNC's Second-Year Nursing Club.

Fifty percent of ticket sales from the Reno-Tacoma game goes to the club. The game is set for 6:35 p.m. at Greater Nevada Field.

To purchase tickets, go to wnc.edu/news/nursing-club-aces-fundraiser and scan the QR code.

Learn more about the universe at star parties

Looking for something different to do on a Saturday night? Enjoy stargazing at Jack C. Davis Observatory on the north end of WNC's Carson City campus. The free weekly Saturday night star parties are open to the public and start at 7 p.m.

Get up close and personal with the Moon, stars and planets with a variety of telescopes and learn more about our universe.

JCDO is located just above the campus at 2269 Vanpatten Ave. Learn more about what the observatory has to offer at wnc.edu/observatory.

Games and Gambling Art Exhibit Open to the public through Sept. 12

In case you haven't had time to visit WNC lately, there is a "Big Deal" happening in the Bristlecone Art Gallery.

Capital City Arts Initiative is presenting Joan Arrizabalaga's exhibit immersed in games and gambling through Sept. 12. The gallery is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.