Nursing students from Western Nevada College recently expanded their professional knowledge and built meaningful connections while attending the National Student Nurses’ Association Annual Convention in Houston, Texas.

Accompanied by nursing instructors Amber Price and Debi Ingraffia-Strong, advisors for the college’s National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA) chapter, 10 WNC students participated in the four-day convention on April 8-11. Student attendees included Luz Saldana-Alamillo, Emily Jaeger, Britt St. Gildark, Jocelyn Olvera Cabral, Shannon Gillham, Guadalupe DeSantiago, Avarie Ramsey-Kruse, Aubrey Rosky, Jade Woffinden and Melanie Weston.

The convention provided students with opportunities to grow professionally, enhance their nursing knowledge and prepare for their transition into the workforce following graduation. Throughout the event, students attended NCLEX review sessions and specialty-focused courses covering topics such as wound care and pediatric nursing.

“This experience reflects the strength of Western Nevada College’s commitment to student success and workforce development,” said WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe. “Providing our nursing students with opportunities to engage at the national level helps them build the skills, confidence and professional connections needed to thrive in today’s healthcare environment and serve our communities across Nevada.”

Participants also connected with nursing schools from across the country to explore advanced education pathways, while engaging with hospitals, healthcare systems and organizations recruiting new graduate nurses, including Mayo Clinic. Students further explored professional organizations such as the American Nurses Association and learned from industry leaders, including the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, gaining valuable insight into licensure, professional expectations and career opportunities within the nursing field.

“Participating in the NSNA Convention allows our students to connect classroom learning with real-world practice while gaining valuable insight into the evolving field of nursing,” said WNC Nursing and Allied Health Director Dr. Audrey Auer. “We are incredibly proud of how our students represented WNC, and experiences like this play a critical role in preparing them to deliver high-quality, compassionate care as they enter the profession.”

Faculty members also benefited from the experience, attending sessions focused on NCLEX preparation, student success strategies and the integration of artificial intelligence into nursing education and simulation. These insights will help enhance classroom instruction and support student success at WNC.

Outside of the convention, students participated in team-building experiences while exploring Houston. Activities included the Spring Fling 5K, visits to the Space Center Houston, Houston Zoo and Houston Museum of Natural Science, where the Terracotta Warriors exhibit was on display. Students also attended a professional basketball game and enjoyed time together at the Boardwalk, building connections and lasting memories during a pivotal time in their academic journey.

A highlight of the trip was the achievement of St. Gildark and Gillham, who won a national UWorld knowledge-based competition against peers from other nursing programs. Their prize included complimentary access to UWorld, a leading NCLEX preparation resource.

“This trip was a wonderful learning experience and a meaningful opportunity for students to gain knowledge, make professional connections and build confidence as they prepare to enter the nursing profession,” Price said. “This opportunity was made possible through the dedication of our students’ fundraising efforts and the generous contributions and donations from our community. We sincerely thank everyone who supported this trip and for investing in the future of our student nurses.”

Western Nevada College continues to provide students with opportunities that enhance learning beyond the classroom and prepare them for successful careers in healthcare.

For more information about WNC’s Nursing program, phone 775-445-4425 or visit wnc.edu/nursing.