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Sunday, July 12, 2026 at 9:00 PM
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WNC celebrates Class of 2026 that includes record 242 Jump Start students

WNC celebrates Class of 2026 that  includes record 242 Jump Start  students

For the first time, Western Nevada College celebrated more than 200 Jump Start graduates during commencement ceremonies this week in Carson City and Fallon.

A record 242 Jump Start students are graduating. They represent nine high schools, three academies and homeschoolers.

Since 2013, WNC has provided high school students in Nevada with the opportunity to earn up to an associate degree before earning their high school diploma.

On May 18 and 20, Western Nevada College’s Class of 2026 was recognized in separate commencement ceremonies in Carson City and Fallon. Collectively, the two ceremonies honored a record 686 graduates who are approved to receive 851 degrees and Certificates of Achievement.

Western Nevada College President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe delivered opening remarks at each ceremony and personally congratulated graduates as they crossed the stage, marking a significant milestone in their academic journeys.

“Commencement is a powerful celebration of perseverance, growth and achievement,” Dalpe said. “Our graduates have demonstrated remarkable dedication in reaching this milestone, and we are proud to honor their accomplishments. We look forward to celebrating with their families and the community as these students take the next steps toward their futures and continue making meaningful contributions to Nevada and beyond.”

WNC also welcomed Stephen Jon Thompson, author and tech executive, as the keynote speaker for the Carson City and Fallon ceremonies.

 

 

 

2026 JUMP START GRADUATES

Fernley High School 

Ashlynne Rae Cumming, Abigail Rose Herrington, Logan Lee Kallas, Levi Rasia Lanka, McKenzie Marsh, Ariana 

Christopher Marshall, Alexander Elizabeth Mergell, Oscar Ladd Morales, Jiovani Alexis Paredes Rosas, Anakin 

Pochop, Bailee Michael Pulley, Mya C. Richardson, Rachel Ann Rosas, Alyssa Jr Sandate, Olivia Ann Stetson, Haley 

Michelle Stevenson, Holly M. Vanden Brink, Brett Vanderkelen, Alina Williams, Robert Marie Woolsey 

 


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Comment author: Sheena Nash Comment text: After the trivia night is over, I would love for you to print the questions. I grew up in Fernley and would be interested to see how many answers I know. The coin is beautiful. Congrats on 25 years as a city! Comment publication date: 6/22/26, 1:38 PM Comment source: City of Fernley planning 25th anniversary celebration with three days of community events C Comment author: Carl C. Hagen Comment text: Maybe there is more to this story than what is reported, but it seems to me that the businesses that are causing this problem ought to be paying for this, or at least a major portion of it. Why does the County have to pay the whole bill? Just my opinion. Comment publication date: 5/7/26, 10:26 AM Comment source: Storey County, Tesla partner to extend I-80 Patrick on-ramp Comment author: Alan Reeder Comment text: Great guy, laughed easily, had fun with his students, enjoyed our time together at FHS! Comment publication date: 4/23/26, 10:23 PM Comment source: Howard David Jackson Comment author: Jack & Nancy Cook Comment text: Wonderful man. Created a precious family with Linda. Will always respect and admire his contribution to teaching at FHS. Comment publication date: 4/18/26, 10:27 AM Comment source: Howard David Jackson Comment author: JeffDickerson Comment text: Very well reported, even though our motion was denied. Comment publication date: 4/15/26, 11:05 AM Comment source: Judge allows Fernley City Council to proceed with corrective agenda item in Lau expulsion case Comment author: Todd fossum Comment text: Hi my name is todd fossum i'm clarence's stepson, I was wondering if he had any siblings. I think he said he had a sister that just survived cancer. If she can get ahold of me or any buddy, my number is 916. 3 4 3 1 1 7 7.Thank you have a blessed day Comment publication date: 1/16/26, 4:33 PM Comment source: Clarence L Shields
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