Guadalupe “Lupe” De Santiago will graduate this week as a leader of Western Nevada College’s Nursing Class of 2026, after returning to the program following an earlier setback, according to a May 19 announcement.
De Santiago’s story highlights the challenges and support systems available for nursing students at Western Nevada College. She initially failed out of the program but decided to return, crediting her growth and leadership skills to that experience. “I was devastated, but most importantly, ashamed that I failed those around me,” she said. “Looking back, I truly believe it was a blessing in disguise. It gave me the chance to grow and also lead my Fallon classmates throughout our journey. I never wanted anyone else to feel the way I did, so I always tried to support and encourage my classmates however I could.”
Her inspiration for becoming a nurse began in childhood after being comforted by nurses during injuries. “The nurses always made those moments feel less scary and overwhelming… Those experiences inspired me to become the nurse who brings compassion, comfort, and support to patients in difficult moments,” De Santiago said.
During her second attempt at completing her Associate of Applied Science degree in nursing, instructor Lisa Dunkelberg encouraged her by saying students often come back stronger on their second try. Her classmates elected her as Fallon Chair—a role that motivated her further despite lingering self-doubt: “What my Fallon classmates probably did not know is that after failing out the first time, I carried the fear of failing again with me every semester… my classmates continued to believe in me.” The cohort attended classes via Zoom from Fallon’s campus while carpooling together for clinicals at Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno and labs on Carson City campus.
De Santiago credited scholarships such as Banner Churchill Community Hospital Auxiliary Scholarship for helping local students succeed: “Scholarships… helped support local students throughout the program and showed how much the community values and invests in future nurses.” She also cited other resources like ROADS and William N. Pennington scholarship as vital support during demanding times.
Family played an important role as well: “My parents played a huge role in helping me get here… My sister Tania also helped me more than she probably realizes.” In recognition of her efforts supporting others on campus, De Santiago received Western Nevada College’s Community Service Student Employee of the Year award (2024) and was nominated for Northern Nevada Nurses of Achievement Scholarship (2026).
WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe praised De Santiago’s example: “Lupe’s journey reflects the resilience, compassion and determination that define so many of our nursing graduates,” Dalpe said. “Her willingness to persevere through adversity, support her classmates and continue pursuing excellence speaks volumes about her character.”
After graduation ceremonies—including Monday’s Pinning Ceremony—De Santiago plans knee surgery before seeking employment as a nurse or continuing studies toward a bachelor’s degree at University of Nevada Reno.
Western Nevada College features modern classrooms, laboratories, libraries, student support centers across its campuses; it is part of the Nevada System of Higher Education; it focuses on affordable education with small classes; serves western Nevada with locations including Carson City and Fallon; collaborates with partners for bachelor’s degrees; holds accreditation from Northwest Commission on Colleges & Universities—all according to its official website.
