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Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 5:29 PM

LEAD On Awards Scholarships

LEAD On Awards Scholarships
Melanie Moran was selected for the LEAD Forward Scholarship

LEAD On, a local nonprofit organization committed to preparing Churchill County students for life after high school, awards two scholarships to graduating seniors.

“Our team wants Churchill County youth to know and believe they can do and become anything,” said Board Member and Scholarship Chair Paolo Narag. “We are thrilled to offer two scholarships to students with experience and values of leadership, service, and education.”

Vera Vaz was selected for the LEAD On Scholarship. She served as Student Body Vice President of Churchill County High School, President of CCHS National Honor Society, and Northern Region Vice President for Nevada HOSA Future Health Professionals. Vera was the first Health Occupations Students of America state officer from CCHS. She also participated in track and field, soccer, and academic team.

With the goal of becoming a family practice physician, Vera plans to major in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Nevada Reno (UNR) where she will also be a part of the BS-MD program, which guarantees her a medical school seat upon completing her bachelor’s degree.

“My dad was a family practice physician and I remember going to his work where everyone would say he was just like a superhero,” said Vera. “Since seeing the positive impact my dad has created, I have been inspired to help others. I want to continue volunteering throughout all my schooling and one day travel to underserved communities to provide quality health care to those who cannot afford it.”

Melanie Moran was selected for the LEAD Forward Scholarship. She attends Oasis Academy and plans on graduating with both her associate's degree and a high school diploma. Melanie enjoys painting and spending time with her peers.

With the goal of becoming a hospital social worker, Melanie plans to complete Western Nevada College’s (WNC) 3 in 1 Social Work program where she will complete three years at WNC and her final year at UNR.

“I would like to thank my parents,” said Melanie. “They pushed me to keep going in whatever path made me happiest.”

LEAD On congratulates all graduating seniors and wishes them the best of luck in their future endeavors.

“Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to LEAD On’s programs this year” said LEAD On President Monica Davis. “Together, we are empowering Churchill County youth to achieve their dreams.”

LEAD On created short videos about our 2021 scholarship winners. To view them, visit their website: www.leadonnevada.org

 


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Comment author: BonnieComment text: Good Luck to all of you. I mean this sincerely. My family fought the Navy for years. My parents owned Horse Creek (Pat and Linda Dempsey). They strung them along for years until they had no financial choice but to accept and get out. My Dad even hauled water for the Snow ranch trying to stay afloat. May God bless you all. I truly pray it works out for you.Comment publication date: 3/28/26, 9:22 PMComment source: Local Rancher Says Navy Land Expansion is Devastating His Family RanchComment author: Lynn JohnsonComment text: I remember your mother well; she was a lovely and kind woman. I loved hanging out at your home on Sheckler Road where she was always warm and welcoming.Comment publication date: 3/27/26, 7:12 PMComment source: June Irene Manhire (Pendarvis), née DriggsComment author: EvaComment text: Grandpa, I find myself wondering about you every so often. I see glimpses of your face in the years worn onto my dad. It makes me feel more connected to you in some way. I remember the familiar kindness from you that I know in my dad. I would’ve really liked to have a good conversation. I only have a handful of memories with you, but you were loving, and you were kind. I wish I was able to say more. If I am someone to you, I hope I make you proud. Thank you Aunt for this sweet post.Comment publication date: 3/27/26, 12:11 AMComment source: Obituary -- Randolph Floris Banovich C Comment author: RBCComment text: The Navy should reimburse the market cost of replacing the grazing land they are taking. Period.Comment publication date: 3/26/26, 10:38 AMComment source: Local Rancher Says Navy Land Expansion is Devastating His Family Ranch
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