Western Nevada College celebrated the achievements of 11 Class of 2025 graduates of the Higher Education in Prison Program (HEPP) at Northern Nevada Correctional Center (NNCC) on June 10. 

“The promise of a bright future was dimmed by the lack of resources. But this all changed with the higher education program,” said Robert Schnueringer during his commencement speech to his fellow graduates. “What I've come to realize from this program, and something my grandma taught me a long time ago, is that knowledge is power and that can never be taken away from you, no matter where you're at, whether you're in here or whether you're on the streets.” 

Eleven graduates earned 13 college degrees this year. Awards included six Associate of General Studies degrees, one Associate of Applied Science in Welding, two Certificates of Achievement in Welding, and four Certificates of Achievement in Automotive Mechanics. 

One graduate, who earned his Certificate of Achievement in Automotive Mechanics, did not walk in the ceremony because he returned home prior to commencement. He soon gained employment in the automotive industry, due in part to his ability to earn the Certificate of Achievement while still incarcerated. 

“Employment opportunities made available by Fair Chance employers are one of the keys to the success of the students when they return home,” said Deb Conrad, program director for WNC’s HEPP. “Our students at the prison represent a pool of talented people who can flourish when given the chance to earn a good wage doing meaningful work and become valued members of our communities.” WNC President J. Kyle Dalpe presided over the ceremony, joined in the celebration by representatives from the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents, the WNC Foundation, WNC’s executive leadership team, and faculty members who teach inside the facility. The Nevada Department of Corrections (NDOC) was represented by NNCC Warden John Henley and Deputy Director William Quenga. 

“This moment is something to be proud of — for you, your families, and for all of us at Western Nevada College,” President Dr. Dalpe said. “It represents years of hard work, perseverance and the belief that education can change lives.”

Students currently working toward their degrees also attended the ceremony, joining family members and friends to celebrate the accomplishments of the graduates. 

The college-in-prison program at NNCC is offered by WNC in partnership with NDOC and NNCC. Supported in part by state funding for prison education, the program aims to provide meaningful educational opportunities for incarcerated students. WNC has recently been approved by the U.S. Department of Education to offer Pell Grants to eligible students, enabling more efficient progress toward degrees. Eligibility for Pell Grants is not restricted by sentence length, conviction type or age. 

 

WNC Professor Bob Ash speaks to the Class of 2025 at the Northern Nevada Correctional Center on June 10.