The Western Nevada College Foundation’s seventh annual Reach for the Stars Gala: Giving Back to the Future raised $120,000 to support student success and enhancing campus programs and facilities. The "Back to the Future" theme brought a fun, futuristic atmosphere to the event, with more than 300 attendees coming together in support of the college’s mission.

With a plutonium-powered DeLorean time machine parked outside the Joe Dini Library, the evening celebrated the power of community, as attendees embraced the opportunity to “give back to the future” of education at WNC.  

WNC Foundation works closely with the business community to invest in education, raising critical funds to meet the ever-changing needs of students and improve campus facilities and programs.

“The Western Nevada College Foundation extends its deepest appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of the seventh annual Reach for the Stars Gala: Giving Back to the Future,” said WNC Foundation Executive Director Niki Gladys. “This unforgettable evening was made possible through the collective efforts of the event’s generous sponsors, dedicated attendees and a supportive community. You’ve helped WNC set the course for a future filled with promise!”

WNC Foundation is thankful for visionary sponsors such as Wells Fargo, Briggs Electric, Inc. Nevada, Metcalf Builders, Carson Tahoe Health, Southwest Gas Corporation, Quick Space, Greater Nevada Credit Union, Comstock, Downtown Vision, America First Credit Union, United Federal Credit Union, Fastenal Company, Classic Finishes, Gabelli, Turnpoint Advisors and Western Environments.

“As WNC's biggest fundraiser of the year, planning and preparation for this event goes on all year,” said WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe. “I'm very appreciative of all the work done by the Foundation and its Board of Directors, and WNC staff, to make this event happen. It was out of this world again! And a big thanks to donors for their support of WNC and our students.”

Each contribution, whether through sponsorship, participation in live and silent auctions, or simply attending, plays a vital role in supporting the mission of Western Nevada College: to foster academic success and prepare the workforce of the future.

The energy at this event was electric — a true flux capacitor moment — and a testament to the strength and unity of the communities that WNC serves. Student speaker Steven Jacobo delivered an inspirational speech about his challenging journey to pursue his higher education dreams that WNC made possible.

Photos from the event can be viewed at wnc.edu/reach.

To learn more about opportunities to support WNC and WNC students, phone 775-445-3240 or visit wnc.edu/foundation.