Dr. Laura Rizo Returns to WNC to Inspire Students with Message of Resilience and Self-Worth

Western Nevada College News

Motivational speaker to address CREST students and WNC community on Aug. 11

Western Nevada College's Disability Support Services will welcome nationally recognized motivational speaker and social-emotional learning expert Dr. Laura Rizo back to campus on Tuesday, Aug. 11, for an inspiring presentation designed to empower students to overcome adversity, build resilience and discover their own potential.

The free presentation is from 9 to 11 a.m. in Carson Nugget Hall on WNC's Carson City campus and is open to CREST (College Readiness Education for Students in Transition) participants, WNC students, faculty, staff and the college community.

Representing CoolSpeak, Dr. Rizo returns to WNC after delivering a memorable presentation in 2024 that challenged students to embrace their authentic selves and recognize the greatness within. Since that visit, she has earned her doctorate, further strengthening her work as an educator, counselor and nationally sought-after speaker specializing in social-emotional learning and student success.

This year's presentation will focus on social-emotional learning, mental wellness, overcoming adversity, developing self-worth and fostering meaningful student-teacher relationships.

"Dr. Rizo has an incredible ability to connect with students in a way that is authentic, engaging and inspiring," said Susan Trist, director of Disability Support Services at Western Nevada College. "Her message reminds students that challenges do not define them and that with the right mindset, support system and confidence, they can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. We're excited to welcome her back to WNC and know this year's presentation will once again leave a lasting impact on everyone who attends."

During her 2024 visit, Dr. Rizo captivated students and employees through an interactive presentation that encouraged participation, reflection and personal growth. Using music, storytelling and audience interaction, she challenged attendees to identify the "heroes" and "villains" in their lives while sharing her own journey of overcoming poverty, depression and personal hardship.

Her presentation centered on the acronym HERO:

• H: Heal my heart
• E: Encourage myself
• R: Raise my expectations
• O: Overcome my villains

Throughout the session, Dr. Rizo emphasized the importance of authenticity, resilience and believing in one's own abilities.

"You have the resources and strategies to be the best, authentic version of yourself no matter what," she told attendees during her previous visit. "The hero's journey is finding the greatness inside you. You're loved, you're valued and you can overcome."

WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe said presentations such as Dr. Rizo's complement the college's commitment to supporting students both academically and personally.

"At Western Nevada College, we believe student success extends far beyond the classroom," President Dalpe said. "Dr. Laura Rizo's message of resilience, self-worth and perseverance aligns perfectly with our mission of helping students grow as scholars, professionals and individuals. We are delighted to welcome her back to campus and provide our students with another opportunity to learn from someone whose passion for empowering others is truly inspiring."

The event is part of WNC's ongoing commitment to student wellness and the CREST program, which helps students with disabilities build the academic, personal and career skills needed to successfully transition to college and the workforce.

By combining practical strategies with heartfelt storytelling and interactive activities, Dr. Rizo encourages participants to build confidence, strengthen relationships and recognize that adversity can become a foundation for future success.

For more information about WNC's CREST program, contact Susan Trist at [email protected] or 775-445-4459.