Western Nevada College is proud to announce that Alyssa Ayers has been named a recipient of the prestigious Sam Lieberman Regents’ Scholar Award, recognizing her academic excellence, leadership and commitment to service.

The announcement came on Thursday, March 5, in the Academic, Research and Student Affairs Committee meeting prior to the two-day Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents quarterly meeting in Las Vegas.

A high school senior and Jump Start student, Ayers is concurrently earning her Associate of Science degree at WNC — a milestone that reflects not only academic achievement, but remarkable perseverance.

Ayers’ life has been shaped by resilience, responsibility and a deep desire to serve others. As the eldest of five siblings, she often stepped into roles many people her age never face — serving as caregiver, organizer and steady source of support to help keep her family moving forward.

While those experiences brought challenges, they also fostered independence, empathy and determination — qualities that continue to guide her academic and professional goals.

At WNC, Ayers balances rigorous college coursework with leadership and extracurricular involvement. She serves as a senator for the Associated Students of Western Nevada and as historian for her National Honor Society chapter. She also has served as Oasis Academy’s class president through student council and captain of the lacrosse team, strengthening her leadership skills while giving back to her school community.

WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe praised Ayers for her determination and heart for service.

“Alyssa Ayers represents the very best of Western Nevada College,” Dr. Dalpe said. “Her resilience, leadership and commitment to serving others embody the spirit of the Regents’ Scholar Award. She has overcome challenges with grace and determination, and we are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and excited for the impact she will make in our communities.”

Ayers plans to pursue a career in healthcare, with a particular interest in emergency medicine and rural patient care. Inspired by medical professionals in her life and the needs she has witnessed firsthand in her community, she is working toward becoming a physician assistant who serves underserved and rural populations.

Her preparation already reflects that commitment. She has completed Certified Nursing Assistant training, shadowed physician assistants and pursued coursework in anatomy and chemistry to strengthen her foundation for a future in medicine.

At 18 years old, Ayers’ story is already defined by ambition, compassion and strength. Each challenge she has faced has shaped her into someone who works hard, cares deeply and strives to make a positive difference.

Western Nevada College congratulates her on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to seeing the many ways she will continue to serve and inspire others.