Thought-Provoking Speaker Urges Redefining Goal of Education

Western Nevada College News

Western Nevada College was honored to welcome Dr. Kevin J. Fleming to campus on Jan. 14 as part of our Welcome Back meeting to launch Spring Semester 2026.

A nationally recognized author, speaker and thought leader, Dr. Fleming spoke to faculty and staff in Carson Nugget Hall on "Redefining the Goal of Education" - challenging us to rethink how success is defined in higher education.

Rooted in his own journey through the community college system, Dr. Fleming emphasized that the future of education is relevancy - preparing students with real-world skills, helping them identify their unique strengths and connecting learning directly to meaningful careers.

His message was clear: Education should be organized around learners and purpose, not just courses and completion.

Beyond the main presentation, Dr. Fleming spent time meeting with academic groups and sharing lunch with student government leaders, offering practical advice - including a proven strategy for landing a first job in their field of study.

Best known for his book "Redefining the Goal: The True Path to Career Readiness in the 21st Century" - which he signed for the college community afterward - Dr. Fleming reminded us that success isn't just about degrees or grades, but fulfillment, impact and solving real problems.

His visit reinforced WNC's commitment to providing a purpose-driven, relevant educational experience that empowers students to thrive - in the classroom, the workforce and beyond.

Prior to Dr. Fleming's presentation, WNC President Dr. J. Kyle Dalpe talked about some of his goals for the college, including a new building, growth in adult enrollment and the addition of two bachelor's programs.