Western Nevada College is pleased to welcome Dr. Cecilia Gregg as its new Director of Liberal Arts and Sciences, bringing more than two decades of higher education leadership experience to the campus community. 

“I am pleased to welcome Dr Gregg to WNC,” said WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe. “At WNC, we strive to create an environment where students thrive, grow and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Dr. Gregg’s leadership and commitment aligns perfectly with that mission, and we’re excited to see the impact she will have on our Liberal Arts and Sciences programs.” 

Dr. Gregg’s appointment represents a dynamic step forward for WNC as it continues to expand student success initiatives, strengthen academic programs and meet the evolving needs of today’s learners. With a career spanning across the U.S. and overseas, Dr. Gregg is known for her expertise in curriculum development, faculty mentorship and supporting diverse student populations. 

“We are excited to have Dr. Gregg on campus and look forward to the vision and leadership she will bring to the Liberal Arts and Sciences division,” said WNC Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Dr. Dana Ryan. 

WNC’s new Liberal Arts and Sciences director is excited to expand her educational role in the community and provide more support for local higher education efforts. 

“I am a lifelong educator, and I look forward to sharing my experience and perspectives as we continue to improve our department and college,” Dr. Gregg said. 

In her previous role, Dr. Gregg worked as the senior faculty lead at Sonoran Desert Institute (SDI) in Tempe, Ariz. At SDI, she was responsible for faculty development, mentorship and accreditation duties. Dr. Gregg formerly worked as dean of instructional design at Hallmark University in San Antonio, Texas, and associate global educator at Arizona State University in Tempe. 

Uniquely, Dr. Gregg has also served in higher education capacities overseas. She has been employed as an English language fellow in Palestine and as an assistant professor with the U.S. Peace Corps in China. 

“These experiences, along with her work with unique student populations (first generation, high school, military, non-traditional, etc.) inform her commitment to serving diverse student populations,” Dr. Ryan said. 

More than anything, those experiences taught Dr. Gregg the significance and importance of higher education no matter where you are. 

“Higher education is a doorway to success, helping students form a world view, connect with others, make lasting societal change and increase career opportunities,” she said. “Higher education also provides an avenue for personal growth and lifelong learning. All the benefits of higher education help us understand the world around us and help us connect more effectively in a global arena.” 

Dr. Gregg’s diverse career has focused on elevating student outcomes, particularly for underserved populations including first-generation, military, non-traditional, and high school students. Her approach emphasizes innovation, cross-cultural understanding and adaptability — qualities that will shape her work at WNC. 

“By creating opportunities for innovative thinking and growth, we will ensure the relevancy of higher education and the success of our students,” Dr. Gregg said. “It’s about staying current with trends and promoting lifelong learning for everyone involved.” 

Dr. Gregg is already engaged with the WNC community and is available at 775-445-4401 or via email at cecilia.gregg@wnc.edu.