Nevada Secretary of State Francisco Aguilar visited Great Basin College’s Pahrump Valley Center on March 19, bringing a high-level focus on civic engagement and career preparedness to the local campus. Secretary Aguilar engaged with students, faculty, and staff, ensuring that GBC students' voices are included in the state's business and democratic systems.
The discussion focused on the Secretary of State’s business services and the office’s ongoing modernization efforts. As Nevada transitions its business portal away from the Silver Flume system toward the more advanced Project Orion, Secretary Aguilar detailed how these changes will streamline the process and support the next generation of Nevada entrepreneurs.
Civic participation was also at the forefront of the conversation. Secretary Aguilar shared insights into the office’s role in voter registration and emphasized the importance of student voices in Nevada’s elections. This focus is part of a broader statewide initiative, including the recently launched Youth Vote Nevada hub and the Youth Advisory Task Force, which seek to capitalize on Nevada’s position as a national leader in youth voter turnout. His visit served as a reminder that GBC students are key stakeholders in the state’s democratic process.
Following the Q&A, Secretary Aguilar took a tour of the campus, where he noted the college's technology and specialized classrooms designed for student success. His visit to the Pahrump Valley Center highlights GBC’s role as a vital resource for rural Nevada, bridging the gap between local education and state-level policy.
"When we have a visitor like Secretary Aguilar visit our campus, it means more opportunities for our students to make a difference in their own lives and in the lives of others," said Pahrump Center Director Dr. Christopher Salute. "The Secretary was so informative, friendly, and generous with his time. It reminds our students that our representatives at all levels are their partners and advocates — an important distinction as they enter the workforce."