WNC Fallon welcomes new director

During a welcome luncheon Jan. 25, Western Nevada College President J. Kyle Dalpe welcomed Lisa Gallo Swan as the director of the Fallon campus.

Gallo Swann replaces Jessica Rowe, a tenured English professor who has been director since August 2021.

“Lisa brings a great skill set to this job to help build programs and support enrollment in Fallon,” Dalpe said.

Swan holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She comes to WNC after spending the last eight years at Oasis Academy in Fallon as an academic adviser and assistant athletic director.

“I was drawn to the (director) position because of the unique combination it offers — blending my passion for student success, community outreach and collaboration,” she said.

Dalpe said enrollment at WNC is the highest it has been in 12 years. The dual-enrollment Jump Start program represents 41 percent of that total. With Jump Start going strong, Gallo Swan said she will turn her attention to community outreach for those outside the 18-24 year old age range. This includes incoming military families who aren't necessarily aware the Fallon campus exists.

“I believe my most important role is to foster a thriving learning and working environment,” she said. “This encompasses not only effective campus operations and academic support but also building strong connections within the campus community and maintaining a cohesive link between the Fallon and Carson campuses.”

Fallon Mayor Ken Tedford, who also attended the luncheon, said the city has worked well with Rowe and will continue to partner with Gallo Swan in support of higher education.

“We believe in this campus,” Tedford said. “Not just for young people in high school who are also getting an associate degree, but also for anyone in the community who wants to take a class. It’s important to have the resources available.”

Gallo Swan may be reached at 775-445-3379 or lisa.galloswan@wnc.edu.