Western Nevada College hosted its 2025 Fall Kickoff and Benefits and Wellness Fair on Aug. 13 to celebrate the approaching semester.  

President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe recognized employees for their dedication and hard work over the past year during campus updates and expectations for the coming school year.  

Award winners included Nigel Harrison, Faculty Employee of the Year; Kennadie Frias, Classified Employee of the Year; JW Lazzari, Administrative Faculty Employee of the Year; and IT Services, President's Team Award!  

Harrison, a Construction Project Management professor, kept his students busy in the community, providing a series of philanthropic projects. Headlining their volunteer projects was fulfilling 30 “honey-do’s” at the Solista Carson senior living facility and building a 17-foot wall complete with French doors and window for the Town of Genoa to separate office spaces. His students also constructed a shed to sell for funding for student scholarships 

 

Faculty Employee of the Year Nigel Harrison

“It’s humbling to be recognized for this accomplishment, especially knowing all of the other faculty who have preceded me,” Harrison said. “Recognition is amazing, but helping out the college and community is why I do what I do.” 

For Frias, an administrative assistant IV for Academic Advising & Access, WNC has become what she calls her second family. 

“I'm truly honored to receive this award. It means a lot to be recognized by a community I care so much about,” she said. “What I love most about working at WNC is the people and how rewarding it can be. The support, collaboration and shared purpose make it a place I'm proud to be. I'm grateful to contribute to our shared mission and to continue growing alongside such a dedicated team. Thank you to those who nominated me!” 

The past year has demonstrated how unselfish and committed Lazzari is to WNC. In addition to his regular duties as executive director of Student Services and Financial Assistance, Lazzari stepped in as interim director of Liberal Arts and Sciences for nine months. 

 

Classified Employee of the Year Kennadie Frias

“It is such an honor to be recognized by my amazing WNC colleagues, and I am truly grateful for all of the guidance, support and collaboration during the 2024-25 academic year,” he said. “I am honored to work with such a dedicated group of individuals, who strive to meet student needs and focus on helping students succeed. The WNC team really makes this a special place to work.” 

Professors Kathryn Cocking, Dr. John Duerk, Gregory Sly, Jaspreet Gill and Dr. Christian Copley Salem were also presented with tenure awards for appointments that were approved last March by the Nevada System of Higher Education’s Board of Regents.