One of Western Nevada Colleges most famous graduates to date will be competing in the Summer Olympics later this month in Tokyo.
Krysta Palmer, a 2014 graduate of WNC, will be competing in 3-meter springboard diving and synchronized diving.
We wish Krysta the very best on the biggest stage in sports! said WNC President Dr. Vincent Solis. We are very proud that she attended Western Nevada College, graduated and continued on to earn her bachelors degree. Her story is one of perseverance and the importance of higher education in shaping ones life.
Even though Palmer wont have any fans to cheer her on at the diving venue in Tokyo because of the ban on spectators at these Games, shell have plenty of support back home in Northern Nevada. Palmer also is a graduate of Douglas High School and the University of Nevada, Reno who grew up in Gardnerville and Carson City.
I could not have become a champion without all of you and the support of all of my family, friends and teammates, Palmer told the Nevada Appeal at her sendoff celebration earlier this month at Lawlor Events Center in Reno. My community has always been so supportive of me. The community that surrounds me and has given to this dream of mine its just unbelievable to me and I want to thank my community for that.
Palmer started at WNC in spring 2011 and graduated with an Associate of Arts degree in May 2014. She made the Deans List in fall 2012. After earning her degree, she transferred to UNR to continue her higher education goals.
Remarkably, Palmer didnt take up diving seriously until completing her education at WNC. She grew up competing in gymnastics and trampoline, but injuries on the trampoline led her into higher education and eventually into diving.
Follow her first appearance in the Summer Games when Palmer competes the day after opening ceremonies. First off, shell battle for gold in synchronized diving at 11 p.m. on July 24, followed by her quest for gold in individual springboard diving at 11 p.m. July 29-31.
Its just going to be exciting to be brought together. Im excited to have an Olympic Games, Palmer said to the Appeal. To know were going through an Olympic Games is just exciting. I hope its motivating for everybody and that we can come together stronger.
Go, Krysta!