Western Nevada observatory celebrates 20th anniversary

Western Nevada College will hold a 20th anniversary celebration of Jack C. Davis Observatory on Saturday, May 20.

The community is invited at no charge to learn about the history of JCDO and view the night sky through the observatory’s extensive collection of telescopes. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Light refreshments and a raffle prize drawing are planned. Eye-catching galaxy notecards and a commemorative 20th anniversary silver coin will be available for purchase.

Since opening on May 15, 2003, JCDO has provided WNC students with astronomy and astrophysics courses and a five-star research facility. In addition to classes inside the observatory, the facility is used for special events, school visits, presentations, and the weekly Star Parties hosted by the Western Nevada Astronomical Society. The Saturday night Star Parties are open to the community, providing people with the opportunity to learn more about the universe above them and develop an interest that could serve them for the rest of their lives.

“The observatory provides a pretty unique environment for astronomy and astrophysics education. The opportunity to actually point a telescope at something is often lacking in astronomy classrooms,” said JCDO Director and Professor of Physics Thomas Herring. “Just being surrounded by the workings of an observatory really aids in teaching and learning about the universe. Some of the equipment is starting to show its age after 20 years but dealing with outdated equipment and infrastructure is actually quite common in astronomy research. It's all a part of providing a genuine experience in the practice of astronomy in addition to learning theory.”

Last year, AAA recognized JCDO among its nine best Western destinations for stargazing and astronomy.

JCDO is located at 2269 Vanpatten Ave. For information, go to https://wnc.edu/observatory.

Simulation promotes emergency, medical personnel teamwork

Recently, the Nursing and Allied Health program sponsored a collaboration simulation with emergency medical services, nursing and certified nursing assistant students. The ER simulation emphasized the importance of teamwork among emergency and medical personnel and was an opportunity for students to demonstrate their skills in the nursing process.

The exercise is the first of many modern training exercises designed to level-up WNC’s students while offering a risk-free experience.

The ER simulation included real-life worst-case scenarios. Numerous volunteers acting as patients visited the ER simulation exhibiting symptoms such as asthma, diabetic shock, and some were in need of critical care including limb loss. Some volunteering patients were tasked to test the interpersonal and communication skills of the students, attempting to provoke a negative response — which none of the students exhibited.

The three-hour exercise gave students an opportunity to reflect on their role during emergencies and experience life-saving situations.

WNC’S Nursing and Allied Health program recently sponsored a collaboration simulation with Emergency Medical Services, nursing and Certified Nursing Assistant students. 

Fall registration underway

Registration is underway for fall classes.

Students can register and see a list of classes via their personal WNC accounts. Individuals planning to attend WNC for the first time can apply for admission at wnc.edu/starthere/.

To see all courses available, go to https://wnc.edu/class-schedule/fall-classes.php.

Fall semester starts Aug. 28.

For information about becoming a student, phone 775-445-3277.