Big things are happening at Western Nevada College’s Douglas campus. WNC celebrated the official start of a $4.4 million expansion of its nursing program on Tuesday at the college’s Minden campus.

Funded by a $4.4 million federal grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration through WNC Foundation, the project will transform existing campus space into a modern nursing education facility. The expanded space will feature advanced simulation laboratories designed to replicate acute and long-term health care environments, clinical training areas, dedicated testing space, technology upgrades and new instructional equipment.

WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe and college leadership joined community leaders, health care partners and supporters to celebrate the milestone and its potential impact on the region. With a continuing need for health care professionals in Douglas County and throughout Nevada, the expansion will provide more opportunities for students to pursue nursing careers closer to home.

The project is about more than a new learning space; it’s an investment in students, rural health care and the future of the communities WNC serves.

The project is scheduled for completion in September 2027, with the nursing training facility officially opening for classes in spring 2028.