05/18/2026 | Press release | Archived content
WNC 2026 grad Calvin Worley before commencement on May 18.
As keynote speaker Stephen Jon Thompson reiterated in his message to graduates at Western Nevada College's commencement ceremony on May 18, every graduate follows a different path and overcomes obstacles to achieve their milestone.
For Calvin Worley, his path to an Associate of Science degree with pre-engineering emphasis was more difficult than others. He is battling back from a brain injury suffered in a near fatal car crash in 2017.
"This is just the first step in a new career journey," he said.
WNC Disability Support Services Program Director Susan Trist said that Calvin has overcome multiple challenges in his recovery.
"Despite experiencing a traumatic brain injury and facing the challenges of physical, occupational, and speech therapy, Calvin demonstrated remarkable determination in rebuilding independence and pursuing his educational goals," Trist said. "Through persistence, hard work, and resilience, he continued moving forward one step at a time. I am thrilled to celebrate the achievement of earning his Associate of Science degree and the dedication that made it possible."
Worley plans to continue his journey in education by focusing on a civil engineering degree at the University of Nevada, Reno.
"There's more to come," he said. "God is good and he put me here for a reason."
Congratulations to Calvin for completing his associate degree and creating his own path in higher education!