Western Nevada College recognized 36 certified nursing assistant (CNA) students on May 13 in Carson Nugget Hall for completing the college’s CNA training course, preparing them to take the certification exam from the Nevada State Board of Nursing.
The recognition marks a significant achievement for these students as they begin their careers in healthcare. The event highlighted both individual and group accomplishments among the graduates, who are now eligible to pursue CNA certification.
“Completing the CNA program is an important milestone and the beginning of a meaningful journey in healthcare,” said Western Nevada College President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe. “These students have demonstrated compassion, dedication and a commitment to serving others through their hard work and training. We are proud of their accomplishments and grateful to our outstanding faculty and staff who continue preparing skilled healthcare professionals for our communities.”
Special recognition awards were presented during the ceremony. Tristan Ernst Karkheck received the Associated Students of Western Nevada CNA of the Year Award, while Gretchen Pachak, Lily Kersey, and Paige Frey were honored with Clinical Excellence Awards. Amber Price, lead instructor for nursing assistants at WNC, said: “I am very proud of our nursing assistants for completing their program and choosing a career dedicated to serving and caring for others. I hope they continue to grow in their careers, always remaining compassionate, kind, and committed to lifelong learning.”
The support team included Amber Price as lead instructor; Kali Fallow as instructor; Helena Dougherty as lab instructor; Kat Williams as lab instructor; LaNae Noel as clinical instructor; and Kathryn Cocking as CNA program coordinator.
Western Nevada College features modern classrooms, laboratories, libraries, student support centers at its campuses in Carson City, Fallon, and Minden; it focuses on student success through affordable education with small classes and personalized instruction while collaborating with partners to provide bachelor’s degrees according to its official website. The college is part of the Nevada System of Higher Education and holds accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
