Western Nevada College News
WNC Foundation Partners with the Southwest Gas Foundation to Fuel Opportunity for Students at Ninth Annual Reach for the Stars Gala
Jul 22, 2026

Southwest Gas is a major sponsor for WNC Foundation's top fundraiser, the Reach for the Stars Gala, on Aug. 8.
Relationships matter and strong communities are built by supporting and uplifting its neighbors. The Southwest Gas Foundation continues to reflect that commitment through its support of Western Nevada College (WNC) students.
As a major sponsor of the Western Nevada College Foundation’s ninth annual Reach for the Stars Gala: Moonlight Masquerade on Saturday night, Aug. 8, the Southwest Gas Foundation is helping create opportunities that extend beyond a single evening of celebration.
WNC Foundation’s support reflects a shared commitment to developing Nevada’s future workforce and opening doors for students pursuing meaningful careers.
That relationship already has a visible impact. WNC graduates have gone on to build careers with Southwest Gas after completing programs such as construction management and welding, demonstrating how educational pathways and industry partnerships can create lasting outcomes for students and employers alike.
“Southwest Gas is committed to building meaningful relationships and making a positive impact in the communities we serve,” said Chris Anderson, Vice President of Southwest Gas’ Northern Nevada Division. “Partnering with WNC and its Foundation gives us the chance to support students who will one day drive growth and innovation in our industry and beyond.”
Funds raised through Reach for the Stars Gala help support scholarships, student programming and educational experiences that prepare learners to contribute to Nevada’s economy and communities.
"Strong partnerships between education and industry are essential to building a thriving workforce and a stronger future for Nevada," said WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe. "Southwest Gas understands the value of investing in students and the communities where we live and work. Their support helps Western Nevada College provide students with the education, skills and opportunities they need to succeed while creating a pipeline of talented graduates who are ready to contribute to our region. We are grateful for Southwest Gas Foundation's partnership and its continued commitment to helping our students and communities thrive."
For the WNC Foundation, partnerships like this represent more than sponsorship; they create connections between education and workforce opportunity.
“We value partners who recognize the long-term impact of investing in students,” said Niki Gladys, Chief Advancement Officer at WNC and Executive Director of the WNC Foundation. “Southwest Gas continues to demonstrate a commitment not only to education, but to helping students build futures that strengthen our communities and workforce.”
As guests gather for an evening of elegance and philanthropy at Moonlight Masquerade, the event will once again highlight what is possible when education, industry, and community work together to create opportunity.
To purchase tickets or explore sponsorship opportunities for Reach for the Stars Gala, visit wnc.edu/reach or call 775-445-3240.
Learn more about the Southwest Gas Foundation and its commitment to community, visit www.swgas.com/community.
About The Southwest Gas Foundation
The Southwest Gas Foundation has spent six decades partnering with 501(c)(3) organizations to open doors of opportunities, provide support in times of need, and create a legacy of impact that benefits generations to come. Funded by shareholders, the Foundation is committed to enriching lives and strengthening communities. For more information, please visit www.swgas.com/community.