If you had wandered into Joe Dini Library at Western Nevada College on Aug. 12, you might have thought you were time traveling to the 1920s.

Women were dressed in flapper dresses, wearing long strings of pearls and feathers adorned their heads. Men wore vests, bow ties, suspenders and tweed and fedora hats.

It wasn’t a Great Gatsby party, but it could have been.

Instead, it was the sixth annual Reach for the Stars Gala, with attendees enthusiastically celebrating the 20th anniversary of WNC’s Jack C. Davis Observatory by embracing a Roaring '20s theme. WNC Foundation’s chief fundraiser of the year raised a record $185,350 and netted $131,902 through the generosity of 321 attendees, event sponsors and donors.

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

“It was an incredible night for our college to have so many community members on campus in support of WNC and our students,” said WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe. “We are grateful to the WNC Foundation Board of Directors, Foundation staff and college staff for their work on this important fundraiser.”

“We enjoyed the enthusiasm and spirit that our guests brought to the event. We are particularly grateful for their generosity. Their kindness will make a significant difference in our students’ lives and provide them with the support necessary to make contributions to our communities in the future," said Niki Gladys, Executive Director of the WNC Foundation.

Gladys said that the memorable night wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of presenting sponsor Wells Fargo, as well as Southwest Gas, JOIN Inc., Metcalf Builders, Quick Space, Briggs Electric, Gilbane, Greater Nevada Credit Union, America First Credit Union, Visiting Angels Living Assistance Services, CF Classic Finishes, Chase, United Federal Credit Union, Carson Tahoe Health, A Catered Affair, Rice St. Events and Baker Auction.

Attendees enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a catered dinner by Chef John Hurzel, gifts, psychic readings, tarot cards, live and silent auctions, dancing and stargazing.

To view a photo gallery from the event, visit https://wnc.edu/foundation/reach-for-the-stars.php.

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