Western Nevada College (WNC) has appointed Dr. Audrey Auer as the new director of Nursing and Allied Health. Dr. Auer, who brings 17 years of experience in higher education and 30 years in nursing, is expected to lead WNC’s esteemed program.
Dr. Dana Ryan, WNC Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs, remarked on Dr. Auer’s journey: “Dr. Auer’s nursing journey began with a community college associate degree, inspiring her to pursue a BSN, MSN and PhD.” Dr. Ryan emphasized her ability to connect with diverse students due to her background in designing culturally responsive education programs.
Before joining WNC, Dr. Auer was the Assistant Dean of Nursing at Arizona College of Nursing’s Las Vegas campus, managing an accelerated BSN program for over 500 students and 50 faculty members. She expressed enthusiasm about leading WNC’s program: “I started my career as a nurse educator at a college very similar to WNC in a rural community in the Midwest.”
WNC’s nursing program is known for its rigorous curriculum and high NCLEX-RN exam pass rates among graduates with an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Nursing. In 2020, it was ranked No. 1 in the West Region by Nursing Process.
Dr. Auer praised the faculty: “I am so impressed by the wealth of knowledge and experience among the nursing faculty,” she said, noting their expertise from working as nurses.
Her plans include developing sites at Fallon and Douglas to better serve rural communities and completing curriculums for Certified Nursing Assistant and RN-Bachelor of Science in Nursing programs by late 2025.
Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe, WNC President, welcomed Dr. Auer: “We are pleased to welcome Dr. Auer to the WNC team,” acknowledging her professional experience that will benefit students and the program.
Interim Director Deborah Ingraffia-Strong will return to her full-time role as Professor of Nursing after leading the department for three years.
For more information about WNC’s nursing program, visit wnc.edu/nursing-and-allied-health or call 775-445-4425.
