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Friday, October 2, 2026 at 5:34 PM

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: PFB Comment text: Why can't you guys find competent contractors.. For a large municipal facility like the indoor-outdoor Fernley Swimming Pool located at 300 Cottonwood Lane, a complete ground-up commercial build or major structural renovation typically spans 6 to 12 months or longer when factoring in large-scale engineering, public municipal permitting, specialized commercial HVAC/roofing, and health department inspections. The current renovation has been- The Fernley Swimming Pool has been closed for approximately six to seven months since late February 2026 for a major roof replacement and facility renovation. Now you sat October. Soooo 8 months for a new roof. The picture shows no other renovations. Comment publication date: 9/17/26, 7:14 PM Comment source: Electrical problem delays Fernley pool opening Comment author: P Comment text: Relative of the Mayor is to over see this site. Anyone who knows Fernley KNOWS this is more of the who you are related to and know business in this town. VOTE THEM ALL OUT AND THE CALIFORNIA TRANSPLANTS. Comment publication date: 9/16/26, 10:31 PM Comment source: Lift Station Failure Released Untreated Sewage Comment author: Christopher Walsh Comment text: Could you look into the strong recurring smell around Fernley? It smells like sewage and it can be bad enough that people don’t want to be outside or open their windows. It would be helpful to get an investigative journalist help the Fernley residents get a clear answer from the City, NDEP, and any involved facilities. I was really disappointed that the smell was not disclosed by my realtor when I moved here. I enjoy Fernley and am seeing the improvements that are being made. With Appreciation Comment publication date: 9/12/26, 2:49 PM Comment source: Sewage spill near City of Fernley Municipal Well 9 Comment author: Alicia Euresti Comment text: We are all so blessed to have Pastor Matt and Mrs. Regina in this town. They have become a major part of pur family and our children adore them. Thank you both for all you do for qll of us. We love you!!!! Comment publication date: 9/6/26, 9:24 PM Comment source: Fascinating Fernley: Meet Your Neighbors at Living Faith Food Pantry Comment author: R Conley Comment text: Is the deputy receiving any additional training or reinforcing prior training? Comment publication date: 9/5/26, 10:08 AM Comment source: Inmate escapes from Fernley substation Comment author: Kayla Allen Comment text: Suzie was a wonderful woman. I was pleased to call her my "godmother" as she helped me to become a better version of myself. I think about her a lot. Comment publication date: 7/10/26, 8:31 PM Comment source: Susanne Lynn Foster