Western Nevada College News & Notes: College welcomes familiar face as foundation director

Western Nevada College’s new Foundation Director shouldn’t require an introduction. Many in Carson City and surrounding communities already know Niki Gladys as an active community leader. Gladys was publisher of the Nevada Appeal and The Record-Courier, followed by four years as the advertising sales director for RGJ Media in Reno.

Now, she will lead the WNC Foundation after serving on its board for seven years, most recently as president.

“I am delighted to have someone with Niki’s background and experience overseeing the WNC Foundation,” said WNC President Chester Burton. “With her many years of service on the WNC Foundation board, coupled with her business and corporate experience, I am confident that she can come in and hit the ground running.”

Foundation Board Secretary/Treasurer Sean Davison said he is pleased Gladys has stepped into the director position.

“Niki has been involved with the Foundation Board for approximately seven years, so has been invested in the college’s mission for some time. She is exceptionally qualified for this critical leadership role; we expect great things from her in tandem with the Foundation Board, and WNC Leadership and Faculty.”

Gladys said she is excited to generate funding for a variety of WNC’s educational programs and scholarships.

“It’s an area I’m passionate about, supporting our community’s young people and especially students who may not have the opportunity to attend college without financial support,” Gladys said. “The Foundation represents a very important cause and I’m thrilled to be taking on this challenge.”

As publisher of the Nevada Appeal, Gladys launched the Literacy for Life initiative that included a fundraising golf tournament where proceeds were donated to local literacy groups. She also worked with Carson City to offer advertising on city passenger buses.

“It was an innovative partnership that allowed local businesses to advertise their services while providing important funding to the city and the Appeal,” she said.

Gladys has also worked as the Senior Director of Local Sales for the Dallas Morning News and as the Director of Corporate Support for KNPB Channel 5 in Reno.

“I’ve been involved in sales and marketing for the past 25 years. I’m looking forward to leveraging that experience in my new role with the college.

Gladys and her husband, John, have two children: Amelia and Jack. She enjoys family activities, reading, golfing and art.

Meet New WNC Foundation Director & Support Students

The Western Nevada College Foundation invites the community to meet Gladys in a get-together at the Alatte Café in the Carson Nugget from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, March 10.

Alatte will offer discounted beverages, and those who wish can be part of the ‘Big Give’ fundraiser, a one-day statewide initiative to assist non-profit organizations.

For information on the ‘Big Give: https://nvbiggive.razoo.com/us/story/Western-Nevada-College-Foundation