Educator discusses importance of Minden college - Scott Neuffer, Record Courier

Long-time Washoe Tribe Education Director Sherry Smokey believes closure of the Western Nevada College campus in Minden would hurt not only Native American students, but everybody who has had a hand in building the school, including the Washoe Tribe. “The biggest stumbling block is the high price of gas, that added burden,” Smokey said. “That's added on top of an already expensive education. When all these things come into play, it can be discouraging and defeatist after a while.”Smokey said it's a real possibility some students will not seek higher education if the Minden campus closes. She also agrees with other leaders in the community that closure of the school would impede efforts to revitalize the local economy.