National Park College (NPC) highlighted a series of holiday support initiatives at the December Board of Trustees meeting Wednesday, underscoring the College’s commitment to meeting students’ basic needs and supporting families throughout the region. The spotlight featured nursing student Juan Walton, whose story of resilience and campus support emphasized the impact of NPC’s donors, faculty, and staff.
Walton recently shared his experience during the NPC Foundation’s Annual Celebration of Giving on November 6. In the middle of exams and clinical rotations, he found himself unexpectedly without housing — a moment he described as overwhelming and destabilizing.
“Life hit me hard, and for a moment, I wasn’t sure how I would keep going,” Walton explained. “I felt hopeless and had the urge to quit and try to regain some stability.”
Walton said NPC faculty and staff immediately stepped in. Members of the nursing faculty, the Dean of Students, and Residence Life collaborated to provide emergency support and housing arrangements, made possible in part through Foundation donor contributions.
“They didn’t just see a student in crisis — they saw someone worth helping,” he said. “Thanks to their compassion, and to the financial support made possible by generous donors, I was able to stay in school, regain stability, and keep moving forward.”
Now continuing toward his goal of becoming a travel nurse, Walton said the support he received reflects the heart of NPC’s mission.
“Your generosity doesn’t just fund education; it changes lives,” Walton shared. “It gives students like me the chance to overcome challenges and to believe that no matter what life throws our way, we can still succeed.”
Walton’s experience reflects just one example of how generosity and compassion shape student success at NPC. Throughout the holiday season, the College expands its support efforts to meet the needs of students and local families, ensuring no Nighthawk feels overlooked during what can be a challenging time for many.
Ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday, the Helping Hawks Food Pantry’s holiday meal assistance program provided 20 Walmart gift cards valued at $40 each. The cards, available first-come, first-served, were designated for turkey, ham and fresh produce — helping students prepare meaningful holiday meals even when budgets are tight.
NPC also hosted its third annual Thanksgiving potluck for residential students, many of whom could not travel home during the break. Student Life and Residence Life worked alongside NPC Dining Services chefs Nathan Poor and Julia Marshall, who prepared turkey, pies and festive decor for the event. Faculty and staff contributed sides, desserts and decorations, transforming the Commons into a warm, welcoming holiday gathering for students spending Thanksgiving on campus.
The College also continued its long-standing tradition of supporting student families through Christmas 4 Kids and the Angel Tree program. This year, 43 students applied for assistance; 37 were approved for the Digital Angel Tree and three for the Christmas Closet. Together, the programs will provide gifts for a total of 81 children — 71 listed on the Angel Tree and 10 receiving items through the Closet.
Campus and community members adopted all but 26 of the Angel Tree children, and the Christmas 4 Kids committee shopped for the remaining names over Thanksgiving break to ensure every child receives gifts. The program was supported by the annual Christmas 4 Kids auction, which featured 69 items donated by local businesses and raised $2,142.50, with all proceeds directly funding holiday gifts for student families.
“Stories like Juan’s remind us that education isn’t just about coursework — it’s about stability, support and the belief that students deserve a chance to succeed," said NPC President Dr. Wade Derden. "These holiday programs reflect who we are as an institution. The care shown by our faculty, staff and donors is what turns a difficult season into one of possibility. At NPC, our students are never expected to face challenges alone — and we take great pride in that commitment.”
NPC emphasized that these efforts are part of its year-round commitment to supporting student well-being. Walton’s experience, paired with the College’s holiday programs, illustrates how donor generosity and staff collaboration make a lasting impact.
“Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for believing in students like me,” Walton said. “Your support gives us the opportunity to keep moving forward.”
Photo: NPC Nursing student Juan Walton addresses attendees at the NPC Foundation Annual Celebration of Giving on November 6, 2025.