Geosciences Professor Dr. Winnie Kortemeier at Western Nevada College has used her extensive rock collection to benefit students through a unique fundraiser. The Rock, Mineral, and Fossil sale, initiated in 2016, recently achieved a significant milestone by creating an endowed scholarship for future Geoscience students.
Dr. Kortemeier expressed gratitude for the community's support: “This is what the college community and the greater community have created,” she said. “I’m just so thankful!”
Over nearly ten years, these sales have taken place annually in late November or early December, with proceeds going towards the scholarship fund. The most recent sale raised over $1,800, allowing the Geology Club to meet its $10,000 goal for an endowment via the WNC Foundation.
WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe praised those involved: "We appreciate all that Dr. Kortemeier, the Geology Club, the college community and the Carson City community have done to make this endowment possible. You are all rock stars!"
Participants purchased rocks collected by Dr. Kortemeier and her students from various locations across the West. Reflecting on past sales, Dr. Kortemeier noted: “At the first sale back in 2016, we made something like $400... And now this year’s $1,800? I was just so surprised and grateful.”
With 35 years of teaching experience at WNC, Dr. Kortemeier aims to inspire more students to pursue careers in Geosciences: “I’m hoping the scholarship encourages more students to take an interest in the Geosciences,” she stated.
The fundraiser will continue as Dr. Kortemeier hopes to further support students' educational aspirations: “We can keep adding to the scholarship... If we had enough money, we could provide two scholarships,” she added.
For donations or information about the WNC Foundation, contact 775-445-3240 or email foundation@wnc.edu.