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summer 2017 the magazine of adams state university
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VOL. 57, NO. 2 • SUMMER 2017
Published by Adams State University Foundation adams state university • alamosa, co 81101 719-587-7011 • 800-824-6494 www.adams.edu • e-mail: alumni@adams.edu www.adams.edu/alumni/astater/ EDITOR & DESIGNER Julie Waechter
ASSOCIATE EDITORS Gaylene Horning ’94 • Linda Relyea ’96, ’10
EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Peggy Dunn • Gary Goodwin ’90 • Amy Kucera ’05 • Emily Thong ’15
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Renee Beeton • Mike Henderson ‘07 • Amy Kucera ’05 Daniel Parsons ’19 • Mike Skinner • ASU Sports
PRESIDENT OF THE UNIVERSITY Dr. Beverlee J. McClure
BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY Arnold Salazar ’76 Chair Kathleen Rogers Vice Chair Reeves Brown • Pam Bricker • Michele J. Lueck Wendell Lorenzo Pryor • Cleave Simpson John Singletary • Randy Wright ’84 Dr. Rob Benson Faculty Trustee John Owsley ’18 Student Trustee
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD Lori Lee Laske ’91, ’01 Executive Director of Alumni & Donor Relations Liz Tabeling-Garcia ’96, ’06 President Delzia Worley ’97 Vice President Holly Felmlee ’76, ’92 Secretary Toney Cantu ’70 • D. Mike Garcia ’73, ’77 • Phil Lopez ’04 Lynn Michalke ’77 • Karen Rubidoux Miller ’94 • Robert Oringdulph ’71 Sandy Ortega ’74 • Chris Page ’02, ’03 Kasey Russell ’03 • Rich Scanga ’75 • Jeremy Wilder ’96
ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION BOARD Ron Howard ’98 President Dr. John McDaniel Vice President Jeni Goodwin ’85 Secretary Donn Vigil Treasurer Tim Bachicha ’92 • Glenn Burnham • Duane Bussey ’82 Keith Cerny • Genevieve Cooper • Bill Fassett Valerie Finnegan • Dale Hettinger ’64 • Charles “Chuck” Houser ’62 Dorothy Lucero ’61 • Joe Martinez ’99, ’12 • Cathy Mullens ’82 Chuck Owsley ’68 • Michelle Roepke • Rich Scanga ’75 Helen Sigmond • Don Stegman ’61, ’64
FOUNDATION HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS Stephen Bokat ’68 • Marguerite Salazar ’75, ’76 • Michael Ware ’69 Harold Kelloff • John Marvel Jr. Izora Southway ’66 • J. Byron Uhrich • R. Paul Wagner
FOUNDATION EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Dr. Beverlee J. McClure ASU President Tammy Lopez ’91, ’00 Executive Director of the Foundation Kathleen Rogers Trustee Liaison
GRIZZLY CLUB BOARD OF DIRECTORS
president’s letter: adams state is everywhere They say good things come in small packages. That’s certainly true for Adams State University. Despite being a small university in a small, rural town, we have been associated with two exciting events that recently made national – even international – news. On the academic front, one of our professors was involved with a discovery that is rewriting our understanding of when humans reached the Western Hemisphere. Earth Sciences Professor Jared Dr. Beverlee J. McClure Beeton collaborated on a project undertaken by the San Diego Natural History Museum that found evidence of humans in North America 115,000 years earlier than what has commonly been accepted. He and ASU colleague Dr. Rob Benson conducted analyses for the study in our campus lab facilities. The news broke in April with an article in the prestigious science journal Nature and was followed by major news outlets around the world. (Cover story, page 12.) ASU Athletics has further enriched our campus’ impressive diversity. Football coach Timm Rosenbach recruited the team’s first female for the position of kicker. With that, Becca Longo became the first woman to win a football scholarship at an NCAA Division I or Division II school. Both Good Morning America and ESPNW have been on campus to interview her, and the achievement made sports news across the country. (See story page 39.) I hope to see you at a football game this fall to cheer on Becca and the Grizzlies. A good opportunity will be at the Homecoming game, October 21, against Colorado Mesa University. More locally, Adams State has embarked on two new partnerships that will support and strengthen agriculture in the San Luis Valley. Both of these measures were taken in response to needs expressed by our farmers and ranchers. In May, we signed a Memo of Understanding with Colorado State University to present a degree in general agriculture that draws on course work from both institutions. Local students no longer need to leave the valley, but can remain in their community as they further their education in agriculture. (See story page 7.) Another natural fit is the Adams State University Industrial Hemp Initiative. (See story page 6.) Working with the Colorado Department of Agriculture and an industry partner, we hope to improve the San Luis Valley economy by researching and supporting the cultivation of hemp and manufacture of products made with this versatile plant. As it develops, this project could have impacts far beyond the valley and Colorado. So, the next time someone asks you where Adams State University is, you can tell them, “Everywhere!”
Ron DeSautell ’76 President • Ted Morrison ’69 Vice President Hoyt Anderson ’97 • Heather Brooks • Keith Cerny Jeni Goodwin ’85 • Jesse Lee • Dennis Ortiz ’79 Jeff Owsley ’86 • Steve Valdez ’87 • Donna Wehe ’12
ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY MISSION STATEMENT
ASU’s mission is to educate, serve, and inspire our diverse populations in the pursuit of their lifelong dreams and ambitions. VISION STATEMENT 2020
To become the university community of choice for diverse, historically underserved groups, and all who value quality education and inclusivity.
Dr. Beverlee J. McClure President
contents
adams family gatherings
cover story
december
News heard ‘round the world
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Cover illustration by Amy Kucera ‘05
latest editions Keeping Current ASU Hemp Initiative takes root Nursing Program reaccredited for 10 years ASU partners with CSU on new agriculture program Academic Pursuits ASU keeps undergraduate tuition at 2016-17 rate Xcel Foundation grant expands veterans services Bea Martinez ’76 devoted career to students Extensive experience informed instruction
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great stories News heard ‘round the world The Class of 2017 is going places
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adams family legacies Gaston Scholarship supports music talent Dream car raffle builds Grizzly Club Dream Endowment Sanderson Leach Scholarship to aid future educators Donors support Luther Bean Museum and the Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center
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homecoming Homecoming 2017 Schedule Hon. Barbara Holmes ’82 named Outstanding Alumna Matthew Martinez ’13 focuses on service
staying in touch adams family album great grizz Grizzlies Spring Season Hall of Fame inducts its largest class Football recruit makes NCAA history
save the date october 16-21
Homecoming 2017 Full schedule - page 23
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Alumni Theatre Matinee
Watch your mail for details. www.facebook.com/ adamsalumni • adams.edu/alumni 800-824-6494, ext. 8
Adams State seeks public comment Adams State University is seeking comments from the public about the university in preparation for its periodic evaluation by its regional accrediting agency. Adams State will host a visit November 13 through November 15, 2017, with a team representing the Higher Learning Commission. Adams State has been accredited by HLC since 1950; it was placed on probation in March 2016. The team will review the institution’s ongoing ability to meet HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation to determine whether the institution has demonstrated that it is now in compliance with all Criteria for Accreditation and whether probation can be removed. The public is invited to submit comments regarding the university to the following address: Public Comment on Adams State Univ. Higher Learning Commission 230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500 Chicago, IL 60604-1411
Comments may also be submitted on HLC’s website at: www.hlcommission.org/comment. Comments must address substantive matters related to the quality of the institution or its academic programs. Comments must be in writing. Anonymous comments will not be accepted. All comments must be received by October 13, 2017.
keeping current keeping curr
art students took to the streets and trails
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this summer for Professor Gene Schilling’s drawing class. Morris Sowards (above) recreates a river scene, while Daniela Duran (right) explores the perspective from the top of her car.
wellness week included a booth devoted to alternative cooking, among several other events encouraging healthy living.
upward bound brings high school students to campus for five weeks each summer. As part of the program, Hanna McKee (left) shadows Kara Trujillo to learn about her work in the ASU Records Office.
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A LATE SPRING SNOW did nothing to deter these happy athletes during the Where’s Waldo Run sponsored by SACNAS (Society for Advancement of Hispanics/Chicanos and Native Americans in Science).
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student speaker Gloria Quintana (above left) choked back tears as she
colorado lieutenant governor and Chief Operating Officer Dr. Donna Lynne (above right) gave the spring 2017 commencement address. She stressed the importance of being true to one's own values and convictions. "My successes and failures can be described by a choice, and by two words. Choice is: If you are strong enough, always take the hardest path, and along the way, be resolute and be idealistic."
asu earth sponsors a clean-up of the campus and river area each year during Earth Week.
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began her message on behalf of the spring 2017 graduating class. "From this day forward, let us believe in ourselves so we can fulfill nuestros suenos – our dreams. Let us embrace diversity so we can be united in victory. We are – somos – Adams State.”
the great sand dunes National Park & Preserve was an apt
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setting for the Wind Ensemble’s performance of A World in this Grain of Sand, composed for the Music Department’s ETHOS project by alumna Chelsea Odon ‘13.
◗ cesar chavez week was highlighted by Latino Civil Rights attorney Maurice "Mo" Jourdane’s lecture, "Never Say Die: Ending the Use of El Cortito" (the short-handled hoe). The evening opened with a performance by Mariachi Corazon del Valley.
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ASU Hemp Initiative takes root With the goal of supporting economic development in the San Luis Valley (SLV), Adams State University launched its Industrial Hemp Initiative, July 25. The project aims to create an SLV Viable Hemp Seed Program and to develop a large-scale, hemp-based economy in the SLV. Adams State is partnering on the project with the Colorado Department of Agriculture and Denver-based International Hemp Solutions (IHS) and Bija Hemp.
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i believe the valley can position itself to be a leader in the hemp industry.” Adams State President Dr. Beverlee J. McClure said the initiative focuses on four E’s: Economy, Environment, Education, and Entrepreneurship. “The overarching goal is to improve the San Luis Valley’s economy. Because hemp requires very little water and is completely biodegradable, it is good for the environment and for farmers. Hemp can also be grown at high altitudes and in short growing seasons. The education component will be provided by Adams State, and new businesses can be developed to produce hemp products.” The U.S. Farm Bill of 2014 outlined an Agricultural Pilot Program that allows higher education institutions in states that permit it to cultivate hemp for research. Early in her tenure as Adams State’s president, McClure followed up on requests from the agricultural community to explore possibilities for hemp in the SLV. Adams State is one of only a handful of higher education institutions in the U.S. to conduct hemp research as part of the pilot program. Noting that Colorado Governor Hickenlooper encourages hemp industry development because of its potential for positive economic impact, McClure said, “This is rural development at its best. I believe the valley can position itself to be a
nursing program reaccredited for 10 years The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education recently awarded ten-year reaccreditation to Adams State’s Nursing Department. Dr. Melissa Milner was named department chair after serving as interim chair for the last academic year. "This is the maximum amount the CCNE allows for reaccreditation. I am so excited and believe the CCNE sees the same potential I see for the program and our students," Milner said. "I know nursing school is hard, but I think of it as my responsibility for the future of this profession. I want our graduates to be as passionate and well-rounded as a nurse can be." Over the last nine months, the department adopted more rigorous policies and procedures for ASU’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Included is a four-week course to prepare students for the national nursing exam. Milner’s goal is a 100 percent pass rate by 2019. 6
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leader in the hemp industry. We can have the complete supply chain, from seed production to hemp cultivation to manufacture of products made from hemp.” Adams State will conduct market research for the hemp industry and develop a hemp curriculum. Assistant Director of Plant Industries at the Colorado Department of Agriculture Duane Sinning said, “We support the economic development research Adams State is doing in the valley. We think this will not only benefit the valley, but also the state, the nation, and the hemp industry in general.” Randy Wright ‘84, director of the Alamosa Chamber of Commerce and Adams State trustee, agrees. “This is a great first step, as it makes it easier for farmers to get into a new industry. A big plus is that hemp requires very little water.”
about hemp Hemp is legally grown in 30 countries, and the U.S. imports about $500 million worth of hemp products annually. “Our research will explore which hemp products make sense for production in the valley and identify markets for those goods. The research component may also expand to study the hemp cultivation process,” McClure added. “Part of Adams State’s role will be to educate people about what hemp is and is not.” To qualify as hemp, used for food and fiber, cannabis must have a THC content of less than 0.3% – too little to cause any psychoactive effects. It is considered marijuana if it exceeds that level. THC levels in medical marijuana may range from 12 to 28 percent. In addition to providing oil and seeds for food and medical use, hemp can be used to manufacture a wide range of products: plastics, paper, clothing, and construction materials. Hemp fiber is extremely durable, fire resistant, and antimicrobial. Every part of the plant can be used. As stipulated in the Farm Bill, Adams State has partnered with the Colorado Department of Agriculture, which obtained the necessary permit from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to import and cultivate hemp seed. Adams State, in partnership with IHS and Bija Hemp, recently received 30 metric tons of industrial hemp seed from the Ukraine – enough to plant up to 3,000 acres. This shipment marks the largest intercontinental import of viable hemp seed in over 80 years. The seed is stored in a secured, climatecontrolled facility, in compliance with DEA regulations. International Hemp Solutions (IHS)/Bija Hemp is financing seed purchase and guaranteeing growers a market for their product. Growers would be paid approximately $1,000 an acre for their hemp crops. McClure said a number of area farmers have expressed interest in the project. Adams State hosted the first SLV Hemp Symposium last November. More than 300 people from Colorado and beyond attended to learn about the benefits and potential of hemp. The second annual symposium is planned for November 9. For details, contact 719-587-7341.
san luis valley-area students may now study agriculture without leaving their home community through a new degree program created in partnership with colorado state university. The partnership offers agriculture-related courses from CSU, a leading national research university. Beginning in the fall 2017 semester, this program will prepare students for careers on a farm or ranch or in an agriculturerelated business. "We are very excited about this program and for the opportunity to further serve the educational needs of the San Luis Valley. Our new program will give students a well-built foundation in agricultural sciences," said Adams State President Beverlee J. McClure. The program combines face-to-face courses on the Adams State campus with ASU President Beverlee J. McClure and CSU Presionline courses offered dent Tony Frank shake hands after signing the agreement to create a general agriculture degree through CSU Online. CSU program. coursework will transfer to Adams State toward a Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies: General Agriculture. Students may select from two concentrations, biology and business. "As the state's land-grant university, Colorado State has a strong commitment to agricultural research and education focused on feeding our planet," said Colorado State University President Tony Frank. "Adams State, with its rich regional university tradition, is located in one of the state's most important agricultural regions. We're enormously proud to bring these campuses together to leverage our strengths and provide the opportunity of agricultural education to a greater number of talented Colorado students." Courses offered by CSU include soil and crop science, horticulture, weed and pest management, irrigation, water conservation, and greenhouse management. Business and biology courses, as well as general education requirements, will be offered at Adams State. Requirements for the biology concentration include plant physiology, genetics, and evolution. The business concentration includes courses in agribusiness, natural resources/water law, and farm and ranch management. Students will be advised by Adams State faculty Dr. Zena Buser, professor of business administration, and Dr. Kristy Duran, associate professor of biology. Adams State Guaranteed Tuition (the same rate for four years) applies to ASU courses; tuition for CSU Online courses will be discounted for ASU students.
academic pursuits adams state’s model un team brought home Outstanding Delegate awards from the Barcelona Model UN conference. Advised by dr. mari centeno, the student team included sean erice,
patrick cleary, gloria quintana, and jeremiah medina. ASU’s suggestion was chosen for the plenary session topic, and the team represented China on four committees. Erice was recognized for submitting the debate topic, “The refugee crisis in Africa, the case of South Sudan.”
documentary film production students jessika vandivier ’16 and ren westerman produced the documentary A Meal Out of Reach, a 22minute film that looks at food insecurity in the San Luis Valley, where about one-quarter of residents must rely, at times, on the Food Bank Network. The project was produced through a $5,000 grant from the colorado office of film, tv and media, with a $5,000 match from the ASU Foundation.
secondary education/english seniors lauren murphy ‘17 and vanessa moore ‘17 organized the Red Flag Campaign in October. Over 150 people attended the event to make a pledge against domestic violence. The pair previously visited ASU classes with an interactive presentation to educate students about healthy relationships. This student service project was part of coursework in Methods of Teaching Secondary English. Their presentation placed third at Student Scholar Days.
natalie rogers, asst. professor of business, and nine business students attended the pbl state conference in Grand Junction, where seven students qualified for nationals. The competitions included objective tests, live presentations, and site exams. ASU students placed in Accounting Analysis & Decision Making, Accounting for Professionals, Client Services, Computer Applications, Computer Concepts, Entrepreneurship Concepts, and Justice. Four students in dr. zena buser’s Agriculture Policy & Farm Bill Course took second place in a national video competition supported by the daniels ethics initiative fund (DFEI). Entitled “Gas Up? Improper use of company assets,” the video can be viewed on You Tube. It was produced by braydon
wakasugi, cade kunugi, paitton heltenberg, and kreg vollmer and was filmed on the Kunugi family farm. The video was unique, Wakasugi said, in that it had an agriculture theme. In February, jordyn neely took first place in the Colorado Farm Bureau (CFB) discussion meet contest and finished in the Sweet 16 at nationals.
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academic pursuits the asu percussion ensemble, directed by dr. james doyle, presented six all-school assemblies at elementary schools in Durango for over 1,000 students. As part of the music in the mountains goes to school program, the Adams State students performed and taught Ghanaian dancing, drumming, and singing.
the counselor education department, in partnership with local agencies, presented the TEAMS symposium to educate counselors, teachers, and community members on emergency preparedness, crisis response, and the aftermath of trauma. dr. joel givens, asst. professor of counselor education, was a keynote speaker, discussing his experience with crisis response after the Aurora theater shooting. Additional ASU faculty presented on such topics as suicide risk, community crisis response, and animal assisted therapy for crisis response. dr. brian zuleger and graduate students in the M.S. Applied Sport Psychology program attended the
association for applied sport psychology (aasp) southwest regional conference at University of Denver. zachary holloway and riley robbins presented on their research, “Utilization of self-talk with collegiate cross country runners.”
dustin oranchuk ‘16 had his master’s thesis accepted for publication in the journal of strength & conditioning research, one of the most esteemed journals in the field of exercise science. He is the first author on “Comparison of the Hang High-Pull and Loaded Jump Squat for the Development of Vertical Jump and Isometric Force-Time Characteristics.”
psychology major issac derrano was selected for a paid internship at Duke University’s wilbourn infant lab with Dr. Makeba Wilbourn. The lab’s summer research program is for underrepresented students in psychology. He was one of three students selected from a pool of 110 international students. dr. james doyle, associate professor of music, was an artist-in-residence at Northwest Missouri State University and the University of Central Missouri. He performed, served as an adjudicator, and presented a masterclass for the Mid-Missouri Percussive Arts Trophy Competition.
dr. blaine reilly, asst. professor of counselor education, published an article in the journal of humanistic counseling titled “The Phenomenological Experience of Student-Advocates Trained as Defenders to Stop School Bullying.” Thirteen undergraduate and graduate Human Performance & Physical Education students attended the 2017 rocky mountain american college of sports medicine (RMACSM) conference.
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asu keeps undergraduate tuition at 2016-17 rate Undergraduate students at Adams State University will not see a tuition increase this year, according to the budget for fiscal year 2017-18 approved by the university’s Board of Trustees, June 22. Most fees were also held at last year’s rates, with the exception of the capital fee to support campus improvements. Housing rates remain unchanged, with board rates increasing 2 percent. The total cost of tuition, fees, room and board per semester for undergraduate Colorado residents will be $8,935, an increase of only $183, or 2 percent, over last year. The semester total for out-of-state undergraduates will also increase by 2 percent, to $14,446. New students would normally see a tuition increase over the previous year, but the board’s action keeps tuition at 2016-17 rates. Adams State’s Guaranteed Tuition program locks in those rates through students’ fourth consecutive academic year. “It was very important for us to minimize cost increases for our students,
many of whom have low income backgrounds. That’s also why we initiated our Guaranteed Tuition program for on-campus students. It is designed to reduce student debt and encourage degree completion in four years,” said Adams State President Beverlee J. McClure. Adams State’s full-time tuition window, which charges a flat rate for 12 to 20 credits a semester, also saves students money and gives incentive to complete at least 15 credits a semester, which is necessary to graduate within four years. Adams State has the highest proportion of low-income students – 51 percent – among Colorado’s four-year institutions. Its student body is also the most diverse, with 45 percent identifying as minorities. Hispanic enrollment is 35 percent. In addition, one-third of all undergraduates and half of Hispanic undergraduates are the first generation in their families to attend college. Onethird of students hail from the San Luis Valley, with a total of 68 percent Colorado residents.
xcel foundation grant expands veterans services Adams State University’s Veterans Center recently received a $10,000 grant from the Xcel Energy Foundation to expand the center’s services to support veteran student success and career exploration. On-campus veterans and their dependents, as well as veterans in the surrounding communities, will benefit. “This grant will help us take veterans to the next phase of their lives as they transition to the workforce,” explained Veterans/Military Affairs Coordinator Matthew Martinez ‘13. The funding will bolster existing programs such as tutoring, resource/career fairs, and job training. It will also support student attendance at conferences and seminars to build skills and provide access to careers. The program will give particular attention to veterans entering the fields of business and STEM (science, mathematics, engineering and technology). The program will take into account veterans’ military experience and help prepare them for careers beyond their military work. Martinez noted recent veteran graduates have gone on to attend law school, police academies, and culinary school. “This grant will also help us assess the career needs of veterans throughout the San Luis Valley, identify the challenges they face, and connect them with community resources,” Martinez said. Adams State has approximately 100 known student veterans and veteran dependents on campus who receive GI benefits for their college education.
Adams State University’s Upward Bound program was recently awarded a five-year grant of $2,388,246 to continue its service to San Luis Valley high school students, according to Upward Bound Director Angelica Valdez ‘98, ‘08. As one of the federal TRiO programs, it serves 114 students at seven area schools: Alamosa, Antonito, Centauri, Centennial, Center, Del Norte, and Monte Vista. Upward Bound’s goal is to prepare students for success in college. Valdez noted Adams State’s program is one of the oldest in the nation, having operated continuously since 1972. To be eligible for participation, students must be low income and/or the first generation in their families to attend college. Those who are not proficient in reading, English, or math, or who have a grade point average below 2.5 may also qualify.
“We take students who are willing to work hard and want to be challenged. They commit to four years in our program. We expose them to as many careers and college majors as possible,” Valdez said. “Our program consistently meets or exceeds our objectives, which contributes to the grant renewal.” Those objectives include: • 85 percent of students will graduate high school with a 2.5 GPA or above. • 90 percent of students will remain in high school until graduation. • 85 percent of students will enroll in post-secondary institutions. • 92 percent of students will demonstrate academic rigor according to high school transcripts. • 34 percent of students will graduate from college within 6 years.
exemplary faculty award presented to dr. tracey robinson Dr. Tracey Robinson, professor of human performance and physical education, received the 2016-17 Exemplary Faculty Award. To qualify for selection, faculty must earn an exemplary evaluation in teaching effectiveness and at least one other exemplary evaluation in either scholarly/creative activity or service. Originally from Canada, Robinson began her Adams State tenure in 2001. "Tracey bleeds Grizzly Green for our department and Adams State,” said Dr. Beez Schell, HPPE Department chair. “What I find to be most admirable is Tracey's ability to engage all students in high impact practices such as collaborative assignments and research. Her sole focus has always been, and will continue to be, on student learning and success at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.” Working with graduate students, Robinson operates the Human Performance Lab, with fitness testing and other services available to the community. Robinson has conducted research in a variety of areas, including bone mineral density in female athletes; the female athlete triad, nutrition and exercise performance; training methods to enhance performance; and health benefits of regular exercise across the lifespan.
academic pursuits During the 2017 alternative spring break sponsored by Campus Ministry, nine students made a road trip of 2,000+ miles through the U.S. desert southwest and Sonoran region of northern Mexico. They experienced the rich cultural landscape of the border region through strategic stops along the way, with a particular focus on migration and immigration. They also served in various outreach programs in Guaymas, Mexico. Students in the Phi Eta chapter of the beta beta beta biological national honor society (TriBeta) and ASU faculty participated in the 2017 Western Region District 1 Convention. alex mullins,
ryan miller, and the team of russell geminden & garrett visser presented original research and placed first, second, and third, respectively, in undergraduate oral presentation. The Department of Sociology hosted students and faculty from Fort Lewis College and Western State Colorado University for the 11th annual undergraduate sociology conference, held on campus in April. A number of psychology students attended the
rocky mountain psychological association convention. annmarie bennet, cole maze, keren bakke, and shannon rhodes received Psi Chi (international honor society) travel grants to attend. Recent graduates jocelyne cabrera ‘16 and danielle walters ‘15 also attended. ASU students and faculty gave poster presentations on their research, as did Psychology Department alumnus doug colman ‘10, ‘13, a doctoral student at Idaho State University.
dr. leslie alvarez, professor of psychology, received the rocky mountain psychology association (RMPA) Distinguished Service Award. She served three years on the group’s executive committee, including a stint as president of RMPA. The award recognized Alvarez’s research, as well as her work as a presenter on teaching, as moderator of numerous sessions, as sponsor of invited speakers, and as mentor of student involvement. She is also the incoming vice president for the Psi Chi Regional Chapter and has served on its steering committee. She founded Adams State’s Psi Chi Chapter, which has won the Model Chapter award. dr. david macwilliams, professor and chair of English, Theatre, and Communications, published a textbook, The Basics of English Grammar: An Introduction, last August (Linus, 2016). His flash fiction story “Bouquet” appeared in foliate oak literary magazine in December. His personal essay on teaching in Saudi Arabia, “Khalid,” was published in creative nonfiction, Issue 63.
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Bea Martinez ’76 devoted career to students after 40 years serving students, bea martinez ’76 retired as asu’s director of student business services. if there is one word to describe her decades of service, it would be “change.” moving from hand-written columns of figures to complex computer programs, she witnessed the advent of the technology era.
Bea ‘76 and Faustin Martinez at their San Luis Valley farm.
Martinez’s first job at Adams State was as a work-study in the Financial Aid Office. A business education and psychology major, her goal was to become a high school counselor. However, her supervisor at ASU recognized her talents and offered her a full-time position. She spent three more years in Financial Aid, then became Director of the NDSL (National Defense/Direct Student Loan) program, now known as the Perkins Loan Program. For about a year she worked as Controller of Sponsored Programs, then was named assistant business manager, which entailed oversight of billing, tuition and fees programs, cashiering, and collections. In the mid-1980s, technology became more prevalent. “As a student employee in financial aid, I used the ten-key to add, or even added columns in my head and I was accurate.” She remembers the first computer terminals (POISE), no connectivity, the blue terminals, and the huge IT room with air conditioning for the computers. “I had a reputation as being resistant to technology,” Martinez said. “I don’t believe in change for the sake of change. But change comes so fast and furious you don’t have a choice but to keep up.” While technology can streamline processes, she pointed out gathering data from numerous sources and running processes still requires time. For example, Adams State once had a half-dozen tuition rates; now there are multiple tuition rates and a variety of fees structured in different ways. “Departments across campus work very closely to ensure systems work. We build and test, build and test; one
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small change can throw everything out of whack.” Credit card processing, online billing, Colorado’s College Opportunity Fund (COF) and TABOR added to the process. “Adams State was one of the lead schools in Colorado when we implemented COF. Many institutions looked to us to test, find the bugs, and help develop solutions.” Martinez’s work put her in touch with many Adams State students. “I appreciated how nervous freshman could be when they would come into my office.” They didn’t always know how to talk about money, especially when they may not have had it. Martinez wanted them to feel comfortable as they explored their options. “I believe dealing with the business aspect of their education was part of their education. It is okay to be scared and nervous. My staff and I did our best to encourage them as they gained confidence.” Martinez was never one to simply come to work, do her job, and leave. She appreciates all Adams State offers. “The students make this community what it is. I can’t imagine the San Luis Valley without ASU. The college adds so much, including theatre, music, and athletic events. We have so many talented students here. I hope people can look at students and see what they bring to us.” Her support of athletics has not gone unnoticed. She and Faustin, her husband of 43 years, received the Grizzly Club Individual Sponsor of the Year Award in 2015. “I have always loved athletics. I followed the teams as a student, and it was natural to continue as an employee.” The Martinezes hosted volleyball players at home dinners and provided goodies or presents during holidays or special events. “We got to know students, where they were from, their goals, and were often impressed on how well they performed on the field and in the classroom.” Her fellow employees made the work atmosphere supportive and often fun. “I had many supervisors and co-workers who showed confidence in my ability and were positive mentors.” After 40 years, Martinez is soaking up retirement. “I am loving life right now.” She helps run the family farm, north of Alamosa. “I am now learning how the farm and ranch markets work and other factors that govern operation. I love being outdoors, especially after years in the office.” By Linda Relyea ’96, ‘10
Extensive experience informed instruction dr. ed lyell, emeritus professor of business, said his life has been full of adventures of heart, mind, sports, and travel.
advocating education reform Many of Lyell’s opinions may not mesh with popular opinion. He worked with W. Edward Deming, creator of Total Quality Management, on a short paper that was never published for “being too radical.” Lyell agrees with Deming’s principles of management, one of which holds that a positive environment cannot be created within con-
flict. “We both wanted to take away grading by teachers. Grades create conflict, and students need to work with teachers to meet state standards, not be judged by teachers,” Lyell said. He has more ideas to improve the K12 educational system. “We need to see learning through the children’s eyes and do what is best for the kids.” As technology continues to advance, he believes the days of classroom instruction will give way to 24/7 online learning that incorporates fun. “If kids came out of elementary school knowing how to read, write, do math, and communicate well, we have done it right the first time. Unfortunately, many students are passed to the next level without knowing what they should know.” He said this results in under-preparedness for college and puts an unfair financial burden on students and colleges. “Currently in Colorado, 30 million dollars are spent on remedial education for students before they can begin the core curriculum in college.” This can result in a student who drops out but must repay student loans without the credentials for a higher paying job. Lyell advises new college students to explore outcomes and learn which degrees are in demand in the job market. “Business still pays relatively well. Most good paying jobs are now in the STEM careers. Students should consider the best return on their investment of time and money.” With a bachelor's degree and Master of Business Administration from San Francisco State, Lyell earned his doctorate at University of Colorado in business and economics and “fell in love with the mountains and rivers.” He went on to teach at the University of Colorado, Metro State, and Colorado College, spending summers as a white water river guide throughout the west.
Lyell has served as a senior administrator at the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, a higher education budget analyst for the Colorado legislature, was elected to the Colorado State Board of Education, and served on the state board for all community colleges in Colorado. He worked on school reform through the Denver-based Education Commission of the States. “I have always studied the education industry through the discipline of business and economics,” Lyell added. He said he has raised millions of dollars for school districts in the San Luis Valley and directed 21st Century summer and after school programs. Consulting has taken him around the USA and to more than a dozen countries, including Japan and New Zealand. In his retirement, Lyell plans to organize his “piles of photographs” and continue work on the three different books he has outlined. “My grandson encourages me to set up a You Tube channel or blog. He said people don’t read anymore.” By Linda Relyea ’96, ‘10
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He was the first in his family to finish elementary school and, while doing his own homework, taught his parents to read, write, and do math. They instilled in him a lifelong curiosity and a willingness to work hard to learn. “I still enjoy learning every day. My students help me to learn.” Lyell retired after nearly 20 years at Adams State University this spring. A father at an early age, he knows the challenges of juggling college, personal life, and work. “I worked full-time and went to school full-time supporting a college-student wife and baby. I can relate to students who struggle and work hard to get through college.” His passion for teaching began in 1970 at San Francisco State, where he was asked to teach the graduate course he was enrolled in when the instructor quit. “I have loved teaching since that MBA marketing management course.” Lyell first became familiar with Adams State in the early ’70s while working with the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, then with the Legislative Joint Budget Committee (JBC). “I was enamored with Adams State and the area.” In 1999, Lyell came to the San Luis Valley to help run a multi-million-dollar grant that funded summer school for underserved students. Offered a faculty position in ASU’s School of Business, he went on to teach marketing, economics, and management science.
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News heard ’round the world ASU prof contributes to ground-breaking research Today, San Diego County in California is home to 3.3 million people. But 130,000 years ago, it was inhabited by such ice age megafauna as mastodons, sabertooth tigers, giant cave bears, and North American camels. Humans wouldn’t be on the scene for another 115,000 years – or so it was believed. Results of a groundbreaking new study strongly suggest some species of human was also present at what is now known as the Cerutti Mastodon Site (CMS). The news made headlines around the world. The research team behind that study included Adams State Professor of Physical Geography Dr. Jared Beeton.
Dr. Jared Beeton at the San Diego Natural History Museum exhibit during the April press conference where the study results were announced.
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The story of this find starts in 1992. Richard Cerutti, a paleontologist from the San Diego Natural History Museum, was conducting routine survey work of a highway construction project when he uncovered an unusual arrangement of large bones and stones. The bones were quickly identified as those of a mastodon. The stones, however, ul-
timately led to the area being classified as an archaeology site, meaning it showed evidence of human occupation. Ensuing research over the next 25 years culminated in a paper published in the April 27 issue of the prestigious science journal Nature. Beeton is one of eleven authors on the paper.
clues from bones & stones
scientific standards The earliest dispersal of humans into North America is a contentious subject, and archaeologists generally agree that proposed early sites should meet the following criteria for acceptance: • Archaeological evidence is in a clearly-defined and undisturbed geologic context. • Age is determined by reliable radiometric dating. • Multiple lines of evidence from interdisciplinary studies provide consistent results. • Unquestionable artifacts are in primary context. At the Cerutti Mastodon Site, all of these criteria were met.
glossary of terms Archaeology: the study of past human life though material remains Cobble: a clast of rock having a particle size of 64– 256 millimeters (2.5–10.1 in) Fluvial: associated with rivers and streams and the deposits and landforms created by them Geoarchaeology: a multi-disciplinary approach which uses the techniques and subject matter of geography, geology and other Earth sciences Geomorphology: the scientific study of the origin and evolution of topographic and bathymetric features created by physical, chemical or biological processes operating at or near the Earth's surface. Mastodon & mammoth: 2 species of extinct mammals distantly related to elephants Paleontology: the study of past geological periods through fossils Pleistocene Epoch (Ice Age): the world's most recent period of repeated glaciations, which lasted from about 2,588,000 to 11,700 years ago Learn more about the Cerutti Mastodon Discovery: www.sdnhm.org www.nature.com/nature/journal/v544/n765 Click on“Research”
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Early on, scientists considered the Cerutti Mastodon Site (CMS) unusual. First, the bones were not distributed across the site, but instead were concentrated in two key areas. Many of the bones exhibited a pattern of spiral fractures that indicated they were broken when fresh, or “green.” Other characteristics, such as impact notches, indicated the breakage was caused by percussion, or striking of the bones. Early humans would have used stone tools to break the bones and extract the rich marrow or use fragments to make bone tools. Breaking bone with stone hammers and anvils has been a technology used for millions of years and is still used today. Skeletons of other Ice Age mammals of the same age that were found nearby were relatively intact and not broken in this way. Those bones showed evidence of gnawing by carnivores. In contrast, the mastodon was much more incomplete, and the remaining bones were disarticulated and broken. No Pleistocene carnivore was capable of breaking a fresh mastodon femur at mid-shaft or producing the observed wide impact notch. Dr. Steve Holen, Director of the Center for American Paleolithic Research and lead author on the paper, has been able to replicate the spiral fracture pattern by breaking fresh elephant bones with stone tools. He said, “The bones and several teeth show clear signs of having been deliberately broken by humans with manual dexterity and experiential knowledge. This breakage pattern has also been observed at mammoth fossil sites in Kansas and Nebraska, where alternative explanations such as geological forces or gnawing by carnivores have been ruled out.” Another anomalous characteristic of the site was the purposeful placement of some objects – mastodon femoral heads (the shafts were missing) were placed together side by side, and one tusk was driven vertically into lower sedimentary layers (photo 4, page 15). Then there were the stones. Several large stones unlike others at the site were scattered about. Determining the nature of those stones was crucial to knowing whether humans were involved. With no detail on their origin, to assure a blind study, the stones were sent to Dr. Richard Fullagar at the Centre for Archaeological Science at the University of Wollongong, Australia. A specialist in lithic (stone) use wear, he can determine whether humans were using the stones or if they were worn through jostling in a river, for example. He found the CMS stones exhibited microscopic and macroscopic wear marks and striations consistent with impact, confirming they were used as tools. “He got the stones and conducted a quantification analysis and found that these were definitely human-used hammerstones,” Beeton said.
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context matters A key question was how the stones came to be deposited at the site. That’s where Beeton comes in. He became involved in the study in 2014 at the invitation of Holen, who was previously with the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. He and Beeton have worked together over the last seven years on Columbian mammoth (Mammuthus columbi) and American Mastodon (Mammut americanum) sites. Beeton has a master’s degree in geology and a Ph.D. in physical geography with an emphasis in geoarchaeology and has published several papers on geoarchaeology. Physical geography, he explained, brings together geology, climatology, biology, and hydrology and looks at the relationships among them. “Geoarchaeology fits really well with physical geography, because it is multidisciplinary. It is becoming more prevalent to have a geoscientist specializing in soils on an archaeology dig.” Beeton’s expertise in geoarchaeology and geomorphology was called upon to analyze the geologic environment at the time the artifacts were deposited at the CMS. “If the bones were deposited in a flood, or a landslide, or some other highenergy system, then they would have been moved around and broken by these geological processes. In a flood deposit, you find cobbles, lots of smaller pebbles, smaller cobbles – stuff that’s bigger than sand, silt, and clay – as the matrix of the deposit. And here there was just sand, silt, and clay,” he said. “The CMS in San Diego is so unique and it’s so interesting because you just don’t get big bones and large stones like that in a fine grained, low energy river deposit. The river can’t carry them in, so something had to carry those large stones in to break those bones.” Because the museum researchers quickly sensed the uniqueness of the CMS, they removed soil layers in sequence and preserved them in a plaster cast, which allowed further study. The deposit was found at a depth of 12 meters. Beeton conducted field work at the CMS in early
2015, then analyzed and described the soils and sediments at the San Diego Natural History Museum. He conducted further analysis in Adams State University’s Earth Sciences Soils Laboratory. Beeton said his work was two-fold. The first task was to understand the regional geomorphology. “I worked with other geologists on the research team to put together the overall story of landscape evolution. We tried to understand the fluvial (river) terraces and how they related to marine terraces, which tells us where sea level was at a certain time.” Next came microstratigraphy. “Geologists on the study for many years knew the deposit was fine grained, but my job was to confirm it quantitatively, run soil and sediment analyses, and describe the soils to confirm it was fluvial,” Beeton said. “This is probably the biggest piece from my research that puts it all together.” Beeton’s analysis looked at the soil and sediment color, structure, and the percentage of gravel present. He also examined the samples’ consistence (how well it holds together or breaks apart), and the texture and size of the sediment. Dr. Rob Benson, Adams State professor of geology and earth sciences, assisted Beeton by running X-Ray diffraction on soil samples in the university’s Interdisciplinary STEM Laboratory. Samples were also sent to National Petrographic Services, Inc., for preparation of thin sections, which Benson and Beeton then analyzed under a microscope at ASU. Analysis of clay film and calcium carbonate deposition found the specimens’ relative age. In order to confirm his findings and assure objectivity, Beeton then sent samples to the Kansas Geological Survey’s Geoarchaeology & Paleoenvironment Laboratory for pipette analysis. The lab was given no information on the samples’ origin, to assure a blind study. “The pipette analysis came back showing an upward-fining sequence, slightly larger sediments at the bottom that get smaller as you go up through the profile. This shows it was a classic low energy fluvial system. That is huge. It tells us about the context of the site. This proves the big stones and bones did not come in a flood
1 - Dr. Jared Beeton with a mammoth tooth at the Scott Miller Site on the Monte Vista National Wildlife Refuge. 2 -San Diego Natural History Museum Paleontologist Steve Walsh holding a mastodon molar fragment found under a rock anvil discovered at the Cerutti Mastodon Site.* 3 - Unbroken mastodon ribs and vertebrae, including one vertebra with a large, well-preserved neural spine.*
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4 - A concentration of fossil bone and rock. The positions of the femur heads (top, center), one up and one down, broken in the same manner next to each other is unusual. Mastodon molars are located in the lower right hand corner next to a large rock comprised of andesite which is in contact with a broken vertebra. Upper left is a rib angled upwards resting on a granitic pegmatite rock fragment.* *Photos courtesy of the San Diego Natural History Museum.
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time will tell What took so long to fully interpret the site? In 2014, advances in uranium series dating helped accurately date the site. Dr. James Paces, research geologist with the U.S. Geological Survey-Denver, conducted state-of-the-art radiometric dating, which uses the rate of decay of radioactive isotopes, to determine the CMS materials’ age. He found they were approximately 130,000 years old (±9,400 years). Beeton said the project was highly interdisciplinary, involving paleontologists, archaeologists, geologists, and geographers. “The cool thing for all of us is that once we put together all this data, it came out looking like an archaeological site. As scientists, we are inherently skeptical – and still are to some extent. We tried to rule out other explanations. But one site doesn’t change everything, it just gives us a good indication something is going on. More research is needed.” Noting the study’s purpose was to document the CMS, Beeton emphasized, “We don’t know who (which species) these humans were. This is speculation, and we were careful to write it in the paper. We are not trying to say who they were, we just know that people were there. That brings up more questions than answers.” Further study will aim to answer those questions. Dr. Tom Deméré, curator of paleontology and director of Paleo Serv-
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ices at the San Diego Natural History Museum, will reopen the site this December. Beeton will be part of a new team to explore the site and surrounding area in more detail. “The next step is to describe the geomorphology of the whole system by mapping and describing Pleistocene sediments and landforms in the region. It’s also possible we will find more sites.” Beeton will bring his experience from this study into his Adams State classroom, as well. “Because it is so interdisciplinary, we can discuss aspects of the research in soils class, gemorphology, and climatology. It is a compelling story to tell in our general education courses too, like Introduction to Physical Geography, to get students excited about science. When humans arrived in North America has always been controversial, and it’s interesting to find that they were here 115,000 years earlier than we thought. Hopefully this gets other people excited and spurs further research.” By Julie Waechter
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event or come down with a landslide. They did not get there naturally.”
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vanessa moore is going to keep volunteering for vets.
vanessa moore has changed directions a few times since high school, but is excited about the path she is on now. After one year in college, she joined the Iowa National Guard and trained for six months as a medic. To her surprise, she was then deployed to Afghanistan in 2010 as part of an otherwise all-male infantry unit on the front line. In addition to treating soldiers, she helped run an aid station that provided health care to the community – her patients were mostly women and children. “It was a good experience to see a Third World country, to see the amount of poverty. I was an entitled 18-year-old. I quickly realized I had been given a lot in life that I was ungrateful for.” Following her service, Moore enrolled in a nursing program, but felt detached from the younger students and studies that didn’t take her field experience into account. But that changed once she came to Adams State. “I felt like I didn’t fit in, like I was behind in life. It was so good to find the Veterans Center and to meet Matt (Martinez; see story page 26) and other vets who were older, as well as other female vets.” Through her involvement with the Veterans at Adams State Club, she found a passion for helping her fellow veterans. “Adams State was really receptive to providing services, which made me even more motivated.”
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She then began working for the Veterans Center as an Americorps volunteer. She is taking that service to another level with a new Americorps position with Second Mission, which helps veterans returning to school. She is based in Denver and oversees VISTA volunteers on campuses across Colorado and in parts of Wyoming. Simultaneously, she will study for a master’s degree in English. She hopes to teach English and work with underserved kids. “I want to help them become invested in their own education, and in the world.” scholarships: Vice President’s and Chair’s Merit
The Class of 2017 is going places.
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jc maheu is going to perform.
theatre major jc maheu looked back on his college experience and did the math: 24 roles, 30+ improv shows, 28 productions, 40+ publicity designs, 12 lighting designs, 16 music events, 5 different jobs. He also directed productions, was theatre publicity director, served as a stage manager, and operated the sound and light board. Add to that singing in the Chamber Choir and modeling for the art department. Maheu’s campus involvement wasn’t limited to performance, however. He also served as a New Student Orientation Leader and a mentor to freshman theatre majors. Participating in the opera workshop as an actor and assistant director “really opened my eyes and showed me I can do whatever I want to do,” he said. What he wants to do, ultimately, is to operate his own theatre company. Like his experience at ASU, that would bring together scene design, costuming, and publicity, on top of acting and directing. For the immediate future, he will be in his hometown of Denver, where he said the film industry is growing and there are opportunities to do set design for live theatre. Of course, he will be also be auditioning for acting roles. “Thank you, Adams, for letting me achieve such great opportunities,” he said in a Facebook post. “You've been a true blessing. I can't wait to take the next step forward.” scholarships: Acting & Talent, Promising Scholar, Theatre Foundation, Friends of Music, Richard Talley Music/Theater, Chair’s Merit
abbey rasmussen was recruited to play soccer at Adams State, but quickly became enamored with chemistry, as well. Dr. Christy Miller ’92, professor of chemistry, passed on to her a passion for biochemistry. “It really comes through when she teaches. She is an example of a very strong woman succeeding in a male dominated field,” Rasmussen said. “But everyone I’ve come into contact with here has impacted me in a positive way. I attribute my success to their teaching.” She also appreciates head soccer coach Doris Sullivan, who she said was a positive influence on the entire team. At least some of her success has come from Rasmussen’s commitment. “I like to be busy,” she said. In addition to working at a local pharmacy, she has been a chemistry lab assistant and STEM Tutor. She was also active in Tri Beta and Adams Atoms, the biology and chemistry clubs, respectively. For the coming year, Rasmussen will be working as a chemist in her hometown of Salt Lake City while she applies to pharmacy schools. scholarships: Porter Scholar, Kay Watkins, Wayne & Ellen Evans, Chair’s and Vice President’s Merit, Promising Scholar Merit, soccer
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abbey rasmussen is going to work, then pharmacy school.
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kayleen peretto-ortega is going to work - and to the altar.
kayleen peretto-ortega set a fast pace in college, with music performances, internships, work, and, oh yeah – classes. She’s continuing in that manner, having landed two jobs and set a wedding date for this September. Peretto-Ortega relocated to Denver, where she works part-time at Bonneville Denver, which owns 26 radio stations in four states, including four in the Denver area. She has a good background in radio, having worked as office manager/membership director/PSA director at KRZA in Alamosa. An internship with Howlin’ Dog Records gave her hands-on experience with other facets of the music business, as well. “The best part of the internship is all the connections you make,” she said. Her second, full-time position is as a substitute teacher at The Joshua School, a year-round school for students with autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities. “This is my dream job. I have seen such talented children and adults, and I would love to work with them, especially with music,” she said. She took a special education course with such a career in mind and would like to earn a master’s degree in music therapy. A flutist and vocalist, she majored in music performance. A first generation college student who received numerous Adams State scholarships, Peretto-Ortega said college helped her grow both as a person and as a musician. “I was not a good person in high school. I needed to make a change,” she reflected. “I was voted most musical in high school, but I got here and realized I was not the best flute player. I had to learn a lot of new things, but now I see how far I’ve come.” scholarships: Ruth, Ray & Jimmy McGee, Charles & Cleo Ritz, Woodard Memorial, Ed Ortega, Richard Talley Music, music and band activity grants, Student Support Services, Chair’s and Vice President’s Merit, Promising Scholar Merit at adams state, brian glassey not only found a place to run, he found belonging. Having attended brian glassey is other institutions before transferring to ASU, he said, “This is the first place going to grad school. where I’ve really felt at home.” He is so satisfied with his degree in sports management that he is continuing into the Master of Science program in applied sport psychology. “I really like the program here. I took as many classes as I could with Dr. Brian Zuleger, who has been a great resource for the track team,” he said. A long distance runner, Glassey was initially a walk-on to the cross country and track & field teams, then earned a scholarship. “I really enjoy the sport and have wanted to coach since high school,” he said. He gained some coaching experience in his home state of California and would like to coach collegiate track and field, preferably in Colorado. “I would like to do something with athletes and mental health.” At Adams State’s annual Student Scholar Days, he presented his research, “Understanding Disordered Eating in Elite Male Athletes.” This can be an issue in wrestling, swimming and diving, and endurance sports, he said. “There has been misunderstanding on this subject. Although the problem is acknowledged, there’s a vacuum of research on men. But now there is more of an investment in mental health for college athletes. We need to educate coaches and athletes.” scholarships: Chair’s and Vice President’s Merit, Track & Field, Grizzly Club 18
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braydon wakasugi is going to keep growing.
third-generation farmer braydon wakasugi said he “did school the hard way,” by which he meant, attending college full time on top of working full time at his family’s Three S Ranch in Blanca, Colo., where they raise potatoes, Coors barley, and alfalfa. This summer, he completed an internship on a certified potato seed farm, as well. It was only natural he pursued a degree in business administration with an emphasis in agricultural business. “I knew the hands-on side of farming, but this gave me a lot of business perspective,” he said. His practical experience includes all aspects of the operation, including general labor and mechanics. He has been active in the ASU Agribusiness Club and Collegiate Farm Bureau Chapter, as well as in community agricultural organizations. Dr. Zena Buser, professor of business, said Wakasugi is “focused on growing his abilities as well as those of his family operation and the industry at large here in the Valley. He has fantastic family and industry opportunities.” scholarships: Promising Scholar
it might be an understatement when patrick cleary says, “I’ve done a good job of maximizing my opportunities.” Having always wanted to go into law, the summa cum laude political science graduate landed a full tuition and fees scholarpatrick cleary is ship to the Ohio State University Moritz College of Law in Columbus. Those “opportunities” included two terms as president of AS&F Student Govgoing to law school. ernment, which led to him serving on a variety of campus committees. He competed at two international Model U.N. conferences, and at the most recent, in Barcelona, Spain, he was named Best Delegate for the U.N. Office of Drugs & Crime Committee. He was also named to two honor societies: Pi Gamma Mu (social sciences) and Pi Sigma Alpha (political science), serving two terms as its president. Cleary earned campus leadership awards for his work with AS&F, New Student Orientation, and the Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC). He also played lacrosse for two years, until a shoulder injury took him out of action; in that time he was the only player in the Western Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association Conference to earn a 4.0 GPA. Self-described as “very goal oriented,” Cleary also took advantage of opportunities to attend scholarly conferences. With instructor Jess Gagliardi, he presented “Creating a legacy through the troubles: John Adams, John Marshall and legitimizing of the Supreme Court” at the Western Political Science Association conference. He said he has had “great advising” in the Department of History, Anthropology, Political Science, Philosophy and Spanish. “Dr. Mari Centeno was instrumental in the law school application process.” scholarships: Gary Gallagher/McDaniel; Buchanan/McDaniel; Stuart Hilwig Memorial; George, John, Janet, and Marjorie Woodard Memorial, President’s Merit, Academic Achievement
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Gaston Scholarship supports music talent Four music students were recently awarded scholarships through the new Gary and Judith Gaston Memorial Music Scholarship Endowment, established by the estate of Gary Gaston. Recipients for 2017-18 include Delaney Armstrong, Skye Montoya, Emily Johnson, and Cheyenne Hopkins. Gary Gaston ’62, ’65 earned both his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Adams State. He also met his wife, Judy, while attending college. He spent 30 years as the band director with the Monte Vista School District (Colo.) During his tenure, his marching bands won many awards, including taking first place in CU Band Day, the Colorado Bandmasters Regional Marching Band competition. It was one of the only small bands ever to be asked to march at a Denver Broncos game. Under his direction, the concert and jazz bands also received many accolades. The scholarships will be awarded by the ASU Music Department faculty on the basis of talent. Following the 2017-2018 award year, students will audition in front of a panel of music faculty and complete an application with a writing component stating why they feel they should be considered. Gaston Scholarship recipient Delaney Armstrong plays the timpani at the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.
Dream car raffle builds Grizzly Club Dream Endowment Ted Morrison ’69 has a dream: to provide a full-ride scholarship for every Grizzly athletic team. To make that dream a reality, he initiated the Dream Endowment and invites others to contribute, as well. One way Morrison is raising funds for the endowment is through the raffle of a 1982 Corvette. Several supporters contributed funds to purchase the vehicle, which will be raffled off at halftime of the Homecoming football game, Oct. 21. Raffle tickets will be sold at all upcoming Grizzly home football games and can be ordered directly from Morri-
son. There are several other ways to donate to the Dream Endowment, such as one-time, monthly, or annual gifts, life insurance policies, or transfer of stocks or IRAs. To explore any of these methods, please contact Tammy Lopez ’91,’00, executive director of the ASU Foundation: 719-587-7122 or email: tllopez@adams.edu. Donors who supported purchase of the car include Russell Achatz '85; John '63 & Margaret '61 Faron; Manuel '49 & Merlinda Marquez; Damon Martin ‘87; Joe
1982 corvette – glass t-top 59,000 miles 350 engine Automatic Transmission • Excellent Tires Value: $10,500 Raffle tickets: $20 each/six for $100 Need not be present to win.
To order, make checks made payable to the Grizzly Club and mail to: Grizzly Club Auto Raffle, PO Box 505, La Jara, CO, 81140. For more information, contact Ted Morrison at 719-588-0560. 20
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Martinez '99, ‘12; Rosalie '86 & LeRoy Martinez; Ted '69 & Janet '69 Morrison, Wade '76 & Lindy '80 Mortensen; Larry '88, ‘93 & Carolyn '89 Mortensen; Melvin Yates '68; Colorado Sports; Comfort Inn & Suites; Jamie & Jeremy Cox; Ed Crowther & Lori Tanner; Del Norte Bank; Dr. Beverlee McClure; Duane & Tiffany Oakes; Dennis Shioshito ‘77; Tim's Transmission & Auto Repair; and Carissa Tripi.
Sanderson Leach Scholarship to aid future educators
adams state campus through university the mcdaniel receivesinternships. valuable assistance across Students chosen for these coveted positions gain experience in the workplace that prepares them for future careers. This spring, the 2017 recipients met with Dr. John McDaniel, emeritus professor of history, to share stories and thank him for the opportunities. Students and their internship placements include (from left) Jordan McMaster-Neely, Office of Alumni Relations/ Foundation; Brandi Watts, Colorado Challenge; Dr. John McDaniel; Adam de Szendeffy, School of Business supplemental instructor; Gabrielle Griego, Office of Alumni Relations/Foundation; Isaiah Pierce, Student Support Services; Gloria Quintana, Gingerbread Early Learning Center; and McKenz Leekya, Nielsen Library/History, Anthropology, Philosophy, and Political Science. Not pictured: Jose Navarro, Student Support Services.
the chapter v, p.e.o. of Monte Vista, Colo., awarded three $3,000, renewable scholarships. Established in 2002, the scholarship is for female freshmen who are San Luis Valley high school graduates with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better. From left, back row: Dianna Paulson ‘00, Carla Clutter, Evelyn Farish, Donna Templeton ‘67, ‘83; middle row: Margot Alexander, Devi Jardon, Janet Noland; front row: scholarship recipient Kiara Villalobos, Marilyn Davey ‘72, and Kathy Metz. Not pictured are recipients Kathleen White and Deanna Floriani.
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Kendra Sanderson ‘15 and Joni Hemmerling ‘10 recently established the Jeannie Sanderson Leach ‘75, ‘80 Memorial Scholarship in honor of their mother. “Our mom was a proud alumna of ASU and always reflected fondly on many memories of living on campus, her professors, and the education she received,” Sanderson said. The two sisters created the scholarship to honor their mother’s legacy of educating all students, especially those pursuing a degree in education. “Our Mom touched many lives in a positive way,” Hemmerling added. “This scholarship will Kendra Sanderson (left) and Joni Hemhelp her love of merling (right) with their mother. education live on.” Sanderson agreed: “She would always do anything for anybody, especially her family and her students. She would be so pleased to be able to continue helping kids pursue their dreams and a quality education. I feel that she valued higher education as a means to be a successful and independent member of society.” Both daughters received master’s degrees from Adams State. They credit their mom, who taught at Sargent High School in Monte Vista, Colo., for 34 years, with inspiring them and many of her students to go into the educational field. “Our Mom taught us that your education was the one thing that can never be taken away from you,” Hemmerling said. She and Sanderson also teach at Sargent, following in their mother’s footsteps. Sanderson said their mother had a passion for educating students and ensuring that their self-esteem was a top priority. “I feel that she had a special knack for caring for students for whom school did not always come easily.” Leach’s daughters believe their mom was an outstanding teacher and loyal to the San Luis Valley. “Our Mom made learning fun and enjoyable for her students,” Hemmerling said. “Once you were in her class, you were one of her kids, and she treated you like her own.” The Jeannie Sanderson Leach Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to an incoming freshman, with first preference given to teacher education majors and graduates from Sargent High School or Center High School. “Our hope is to recruit valley locals to go into education and become teachers, and hopefully continue to serve valley schools in the way our mom did,” Hemmerling added. “Our mom also educated and mentored many student teachers from Adams and taught the art of teaching to others. One of her joys in life was watching her students grow and learn and share in their successes in life.”
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Donors support Luther Bean Museum and the Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center The Luther Bean Museum and Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center hosted a fundraiser on July 15, attended by 63 people. The event included a welcome by ASU President Beverlee J. McClure and comments by Secretary Ken Salazar, who urged participants to support the university and museum. Master Santero Geronimo Olivas ’92 gave a presentation on the creation of retablos and santos.
The Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center was established by a generous donation from the Emma and Henry Salazar family in 2016. The gift provides scholarships, funds for museum improvement through the virtual Salazar Center, and a student museum internship. The fundraiser will become an annual event to aid further development of both the museum and the Salazar Center. The evening included opportunities for patrons to “adopt” an artifact, bid on silent auction items, and purchase museum memberships. Silent auction items included a San Isidro Labrador Santo made and donated by Geronimo Olivas; a watercolor painted and donated by Stephen Quiller; a ceramic pot created and donated by Cloyde Snook; and two ceramic vessels cre-
“This internship has been a blessed experience for me.” - Lucie Olivas ‘18, Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center Intern Major: Bachelor of Fine Arts in photography The center’s first intern, Lucie Olivas accomplished the following over the last year: • Pottery research: San Juan Pueblo (including pottery revival potters Tomasita Montoya and Reycita A. Trujillo), Santa Clara Pueblos, micaceous pots • Designed three display cases focusing on the San Juan/Ohkay Owingeh pottery, the 1930 pottery revival signature pots, and the Zia Pueblo • Researched Retablos, Apache headdresses • Photographed Native American pottery • Completed inventory sheets on vessels for displays • Created and maintains Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center website (blogs.adams.edu/salazar-center) • Assisted with cataloguing objects into the collection • Visited museums to meet with curators and learn new techniques and museum processes: Center of Southwest Studies at Fort Lewis College, Durango; Southern Ute Museum, Ignacio; Museum of Indian Arts & Laboratory of Anthropology, Santa Fe; Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, Albuquerque • Consulted with Native American pottery experts: Patrick Cruz, a graduate student in archaeology at the University of Colorado; and Matthew Barbour, regional manager of Historic Sites New Mexico
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ated by Sister Mary Lavey and donated by Suzy Husmann. According to Tammy Lopez, executive director of the Adams State Foundation, the fundraiser generated $1,000 in “Adopt an Artifact” pledges and $2,695 from the silent auction and garnered four new Luther Bean Museum memberships. Housed in the Luther Bean Museum, the Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center is dedicated to the preservation of the natural and cultural resources of the upper Rio Grande region. The Luther Bean Museum collection reflects the rich history and archaeology of the area. This ranges from the ancient history of Native Americans in the Rio Grande gorge to Spanish exploration from Santa Fe into the San Luis Valley that began in the 1700s, and the first settlements in Colorado, begun immediately after the Mexican-American War in 1848. For more information, visit: adams.edu/lutherbean. Photos, clockwise from bottom right: Alumnus Geronimo Olivas ‘92 with one of his retablos; Intern Lucie Olivas ‘18 (Geronimo’s spouse) being recognized at the fundraiser for her work; former Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar reflects on the importance of the center.
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aStater homecoming
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the verdict is in . . .
Hon. Barbara Holmes ‘82 named Outstanding Alumna after beginning her great story at adams state, the honorable barbara jenniges holmes ‘82 inspired many to create their own great stories, including her daughter, erica holmes trujillo ‘11, ‘14, who nominated her for the outstanding alumna award, saying, “it is her commitment to her community, which my mother learned at adams state, that makes her the best candidate for this award.” Holmes will accept the Adams State University 2017 Outstanding Alumna Award at the Alumni Banquet and Awards Ceremony during Homecoming on October 20. (See schedule page 23.) “I am so very humbled and honored to be invited to join the group of recognized distinguished Adams State alumni,” Holmes said. On August 1, 2015, Holmes was appointed a United States Magistrate Judge for the Middle District of Tennessee. “U.S. Magistrate Judges are appointed through a merit
selection process for renewable eightyear terms. In this capacity, I have a wide range of judicial responsibilities in both civil and criminal cases.” Adams State helped launch her law career. She grew up in Northern Colorado, part of a “really big family,” and the affordability of Adams State attracted her. She was also familiar with the campus from participating in a Top of the Nation Honor Band. “I liked the campus, the surrounding area, and knew the college had a really strong prelaw program.” Holmes’ professors left a lasting impression as she pursued a degree in history/government. “All of my professors
Barbara Holmes with her grandson Jack (left) and with fellow judges at her 2015 investiture ceremony (below, Holmes is first row, far right).
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at Adams State were very encouraging of my intention to become a lawyer, and that encouragement and support was very inspiring. All of these professors expected a lot, but they offered so much in return,” she said. The women, she said, “demonstrated success without sacrificing what makes you unique and creative.” Those role models include Dr. Norma Peterson, emeritus professor of history; Dr. Shirley Fredericks; and Dr. Jodine Ryan, emeritus professor of English. Holmes’ male mentors impressed upon her the value of being prepared, of thoroughly learning the material. “These men had very different personalities, and I appreciated learning from them how to later navigate the world of earning the respect of male colleagues.” Those professors include Dr. Dwight Crowder, former professor of history; Dr. John McDaniel, emeritus professor of history; and the Honorable Carlos Lucero ‘61, former adjunct professor of government, now a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. One of her fondest Adams State memories was of the time Judge Lucero and his wife, Dorothy ’61, took the class to their mountain cabin. "Letting us into their personal life provided the example of how to be a well-rounded person, by balancing work and family," Holmes said. Throughout her life, Holmes had models who were active in their community, starting with her parents, Bud and Donna Jenniges. “Their volunteer work inspired me to pursue a career to help others. I also had two strong role models in law school, Professors Andy
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Holmes appreciates the energy, enthusiasm and collective social consciousness of the younger generation. “I am also inspired by the new citizens I meet during naturalization ceremonies, by their determination, and especially by their appreciation for things that we too often take for granted, like the privileges of citizenship.” Holmes’ friend since 1988, fellow attorney Tom Forrester said she is a person of undeniable integrity. “Barbara regularly lectures and teaches, making those in our profession better lawyers and citizens. Throughout her career in private practice, she was a tireless advo-
she was a tireless advocate for those whose voices have been silenced because of poverty, inadequate education, inadequate housing, inadequate healthcare or station in life.”
spent their lives in the foster care system, but refused to let that define them and instead were driven by that experience to help other people, to advocate for social justice. Their courage, grace and outlook on life inspire me every day.” One of those fortunate clients was Jacinta (last name withheld for privacy), who had lived in 23 foster homes and 2 Tennessee group homes by the age of 18. Holmes represented her pro bono against the Department of Children Services. Her commitment continued outside the courtroom. “With the support of Mrs. Barbara, I was the first person in my biological family to make it past sophomore year and graduate from high school,” she said. Jacinta then received a scholarship to attend New York’s Wagner College, but had no means of getting there. “I just had a dream,” Jacinta said. “Mrs. Barbara believed in my dream. She helped me register for classes. She paid for the trip and accompanied me to New York and stayed with me for five days.”
cate for those whose voices have been silenced because of poverty, inadequate education, inadequate housing, inadequate healthcare or station in life. She shows leadership and drive in so many positive ways. She is a shining example of what is good and right and honorable about our profession.” Although Holmes doesn’t remember an “ah-ha” moment of deciding to study and practice law, she believes that chapter began indirectly. While in middle school, she participated in a program for future law careers. The program took place in Greeley, Colo., a 20minute drive from her hometown of Milliken. “My mother drove me to every meeting, which was a big commitment on her part. I’m not sure I fully realized it at the time, but I think part of my inspiration was wanting to follow through and show her that meant something to me.” Holmes encourages students and those entering their careers to be prepared; to work hard, but take time to recharge; to accept help when offered; to give credit where credit is due; and to
“have at least one co-worker who genuinely makes you laugh.” For the next five to ten years, Holmes will continue as a federal judge and begin thinking of retirement, when she hopes to spend more time with children and grandchildren. “There is nothing that inspires – and gives you a new perspective – like the laughter and amazement of children.” By Linda Relyea ‘96, ‘10
getting to know barbara holmes ‘82 family • Husband: John ’83 – they met at Adams State • Children: Mitch and Erica ‘11, ‘14 • Grandchildren: Jack, Everett, Santiago
asu family connections • The late Dr. John Holmes, former professor of counselor education & the late Nora Holmes ‘86 (father & mother-in-law) • Jeni Holmes Goodwin ’85 & Greg Goodwin ‘96 (sister & brother-in-law) • James "Fuzzy" Holmes ‘97 (brother-in-law) • Erica Holmes Trujillo ‘11, ‘14 & Diego Trujillo ’11 (daughter & son-in-law)
perfect happiness • Reading a good book at the end of a day spent with family
inspirational landscapes • Ocean • Mountains • South Dakota red rock canyons • Her screened-in porch at dusk
appreciates • Fellow judges at her office • Making a difference • Presiding over Naturalization Ceremonies
education • Vanderbilt University School of Law, Nashville, Tennessee, 1986 • Bachelor of Arts in History/Government, Adams State University, 1982
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Shookhoff and Mary Walker, who are also great friends. I worked with both of them in the Vanderbilt legal clinic, representing indigent clients.” Trujillo said her mother truly cares for others. “Over the last 30 years, she has made it her mission to change the lives of those around her. During her law practice, I cannot remember a time that my mother was not involved with a pro bono case, most of which were for single mothers and/or children involved in family court.” “I am inspired by people who overcome adversity,” Holmes said. “Two young women who were clients of mine
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exceptional new alumnus
Matthew Martinez ’13 focuses on service matthew martinez’s guiding principle has always been to “give back.” that’s what spurred his enlistment in the marine corps, his current work on behalf of veterans, and service as a city councilor in monte vista, colorado. The 2013 political science graduate feels fortunate to witness the fruits of his efforts both on campus and in his community. He will be recognized for that work as Adams State’s 2017 Exceptional New Alumnus and will receive the award at the Alumni Banquet and Awards Ceremony during Homecoming, October 20. (See schedule page 23.) Martinez enrolled at Adams State in 2009 after completing his second deployment with 2nd Battalion 1st Marines, which was in Iraq during Operation Defeat Al Queda in the North II. "I was part of the last major operations in Iraq, supporting the Army by Mosul and helping the Iraqi citizens. It was fulfilling when we turned over control of the area to them," he said. After just a year at Adams State, Martinez helped revitalize the campus veterans club, now known as Veterans at Adams State. That led to creation of a Veterans Center initially operated by students. After graduation in 2013, Martinez was named Coordinator of Veterans/Military Affairs. The center now has two staff members and two Americorps volunteers. The center helps vets access their benefits through the Veterans Administration and connects them to additional resources in the community.
“We give them a safe space to vent and deal with challenges so they can relax and focus on their studies. You can see them grow in this environment,” Martinez said. The center recently received a $10,000 grant to expand its services. (See story page 8.) “I do this because I enjoy seeing changes in vets’ lives as they make connections to the civilian world. It makes me happy every time a vet graduates. This is now such a successful program. We went from having no veterans services to providing a place where vets can come together and have a chance to address problems and struggles. We’ve helped vets who otherwise may not have graduated.” The peer-to-peer mentorship offered is invaluable, he said, because “In the military, there’s always someone with more experience to turn to.” Recently, Martinez was also named interim director of ASU’s Correspondence Education program. It serves incarcerated students, among others, including 200 incarcerated veterans. Two-thousand-thirteen was a big year for Martinez. Following graduation, he married Chelsea McNerney-Martinez ‘12, started his new job at the Veterans Center, and successfully ran for a seat on the Monte Vista City Council. “I’m able to find ways to improve the town and help the place where I grew up. I enjoy it deeply,” he said. In that position, he has managerial duties (the council supervises the city manager) and a role in establishing ordinances. Although progress doesn’t happen overnight, Martinez is proud of several advances his town has made. When the local movie theater was forced to close, the owner donated it to the city, which reopened the theater, upgraded equipment, and now operates it with volunteers. As a result of the Great Recession, Monte Vista suffered from business closures. Martinez said the town developed an incentive package that has successfully encouraged new businesses and has replaced almost all the businesses that left downtown. The town has also begun to upgrade its water and sewer infrastructure. Martinez credits his grandfather with setting an example of community service and demonstrating the value of higher education. “Coming to Adams State is one of the best decisions I’ve made ever. Doing all these things has come from being at ASU.” By Julie Waechter Matt Martinez (far left) is proud to follow in the Adams State footsteps of his aunt and Godmother, Melinda P. (Martinez) Vallejos ‘77, and his grandfather, Ben F. Martinez ‘78, who attended Adams State together in the 1970s (inset).
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staying in touch Ray Wheeler ’58 (Colorado Springs, CO) retired in 1988. He has 5 children and 12 grandchildren. He lost his wife in September of 2014. He likes to go camping in the summer near Colorado Springs. Jake Martinez ’59, ’69 (Swink, CO) has been retired from East Otero School District in La Junta, Colo., for 8 years. He has been a member of the American Legion Post 8 in Rocky Ford, Colo., for 20 years and is the Post Historian. His hobbies include die-cast toy collecting and photography. In January 2017, he took photos of his granddaughter’s wedding in La Junta, Colo.
◗1960s Carlos Abeyta ’61 (Colorado Springs, CO) was teaching at Primero, the same school he had attended, when he received his degree from Adams State. He continued teaching in the Primero school district in the elementary, jr. high, and high schools for 12 years, in addition to coaching all sports. He married Lydia Roybal in August of 1954. They had 5 children, 3 boys and 2 girls. In 1968, he received a fellowship from Northern Illinois University to get his doctoral degree. He returned to Colorado in 1970 to work for District #11 in Colorado Springs. He retired in 1987. He enjoys playing golf, fishing, and spending time with family and friends. He has 9 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. He’s enjoying life. Frank VanBockern ’61 (Lakewood, CO) is “working-retired.” He and his wife, Edie, enjoy their 4 married daughters and 10 grandchildren.
Steve Amella ’63 (Colorado Springs, CO) married Maria in 1965. He found her in Los Angeles, where he was teaching. Since then, they have had 4 children, 4 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. He is a part-time sub for Colorado Springs School District #11. He enjoys his family. He is a 20-year cancer survivor and a miracle liver transplant survivor. Sue Yoshitake King ’66, ’90 (Pukalani, HI), at 73, is still substitute teaching! She writes, “Thanks for my education at Adams State! Aloha!” Lew Davis ’68 (Colorado Springs, CO) is married to Monica Fisher, and they have 2 children and 6 grandchildren. He was the founder and principal of the DaVinci Academy, from which he retired. He was also a principal in 2 other schools in Colorado Springs District #20. He was awarded the Kennedy Center Award for Outstanding Performing and ArtsOriented School. Sam Porter ’68 (Duncan, OK) retired June 30, 2016, from Red River Technology Center in Duncan, Okla. Over the past 44 years, he has taught/coached in grades 6-12, served as principal in 6-12, and served as business training and development coordinator. He was selected to serve on the Oklahoma State Department of Career and Technical Education State STEM Leadership Team. During that time, they implemented an opportunity for high school and adult students to earn college credit and career credentials. Donald Apodaca ’69, ’71 (Huntington Beach, CA) is the lead optometrist at Kaiser-Permanente Medical Office in Tustin, Calif. He also coaches wrestling at Tustin High School, where they are developing a girl’s wrestling program.
Joe Pyle ’69 (Colorado Springs, CO) writes, “I am still working but hoping to ‘really’ retire very soon. Our son is working with me in our company business, and we are working on making that happen. Sheryl and I love traveling and hope to be able to do more in the future. We have 2 special granddaughters. Brenna Franklin is graduating this May from CSS in Colorado Springs and heading to NYU to attend its Clive Davis School of Music. She will also attend her 3rd year at Acapella Academy in California, sponsored by Avi Kaplan of Pentatonix. We are so very proud of her and all of her accomplishments. Our other granddaughter just celebrated her 3rd birthday on April 9. She has been fighting hard since she was diagnosed with lymphoma last July. She has now entered her 20 months maintenance program, so we are delighted to be at this stage. Life is definitely a challenge some days, but we are grateful for our family and friends who have been so supportive.” Bobi Trani ’69 (Juneau, AK) writes, “What a treat to see Gaylene and Lori in Juneau. It was surprising to learn that Dan ’01 Pardee’s wife teaches next door to my daughter, Semra Trani Deaner ’94. I am still enjoying the A-Stater and hope to get to Alamosa soon!”
◗1970s Charles “Mel” Knapp ’70 (Eagle River, AK) worked for the Alaska Department of Fish & Game for the summer after he graduated from Adams, then returned south to graduate school at the University of California, Davis. There he met his wife, Becci, whom he married in 1973. They both worked as environmental consultants for 25 years, then switched to the litigation support services, where they helped lawyers deal with paper and electronic evidence. He worked and managed 3 different firms, finally retiring in 2016. They moved to Alaska in 2012 to be near their daughter and her family. They live in a very comfortable log home near the Eagle River Nature Center, where they enjoy hiking and working on their home. Liz Watts ’70 (Littleton, CO) participated in her first art show of watercolor painting in April.
aStater staying in touch
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◗1950s
Judy Ord Laing ’62 (Watkins, CO) taught school in Greeley for 1 ½ years after graduation. Then she became a Pan Am stewardess and married her husband in 1965. They have 5 children and 15 grandchildren. They have been in the motorcycle business (Aurora Honda) for 51 years and have 2 sons who work there with them.
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◗1970s Rosemary Vaught ’71 (Pueblo, CO) is finally retired after working in the medical field for 40 years. Her husband is still working as an equipment operator for the State of Colorado. She has found great joy working with the adult literacy program, teaching and encouraging all ages of people to read. Her grown children, Stacie and Todd, live in Colorado Springs, Colo. She has 3 granddaughters and twin grandsons. She has always loved Adams State! Candy Hurst ’73 (Woodland Park, CO) worked in Colorado Springs city government for over 2 decades. She got tired of summer snows, so she moved to Albuquerque. She worked in child protective services for nearly 3 decades. Health issues necessitated her return to Colorado Springs. She is enjoying retirement and is so glad the Alumni Relations Office found her this past year! Dannie Makris ’73 (Woodland Park, CO) has worked in the Woodland Park RE-2 school district for 43 years. He’s coached
great stories Tim Dellett ‘02 recently completed his fourteenth Habitat 500, a bike ride fundraiser organized in Minnesota on behalf of Habitat for Humanity affiliates across the globe. Dellett has been using his pedal power to support the San Luis Valley affiliate since moving to Alamosa in 1997. Since then he has raised over $100,000 to support Habitat’s mission to bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope. “I like the sense of undertaking an adventure to raise funds for an organization I care about. I’ve met wonderful people over the years,” he said. Dellett recently relocated to Kansas with his wife, Gena, and son, Ira.
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football, basketball, track and cross country. He taught industrial arts and drafting. He was inducted into the ASU Hall of Fame as part of the 1971 cross country team and into the 2014 Hall of Fame for Salida White Water Club. He retired from teaching in 2000 but is still coaching track.
Emma Rae Martinez ’77, ’78 (Antonito, CO) is the new Superintendent of Schools in South Conejos School District. Originally from Conejos County, she has spent a number of years as principal at Twain High School in San Diego, Calif. She said it was time to return home.
Louis Santisteven ’74 (Modesto, CA) and his wife, Betty Mills Santisteven, have 3 children and 6 grandchildren. Betty is a retired teacher, and Louis is still working as a financial advisor with Wells Fargo. His hobbies are golf, art, and travel. He writes that he had great times at Adams State and Alamosa High.
Sherry Bevsek Montoya ’77 (Walsenburg, CO) is a retired elementary teacher. She taught kindergarten for 15 years in Aguilar, Colo., and first grade for 15 years in Walsenburg. Now she is enjoying her grandchildren and tutoring children at risk.
Paul Victor ’74, ’75 retired after 29 years of state service with the Department of Corrections, Division of Prisons. Prior to that, he worked with juvenile offenders in the private sector. He says his career was the most illuminating and purposeful he could have ever hoped for. This meaningful, incremental contribution was found through helping to create the opportunity for people to become better human beings. Susan Sponholtz Pieper ’75, ’76 (Rocky Ford, CO) after leaving teaching, returned full-time to journalism and worked for the La Junta Tribune-Democrat before assuming the editorship at the Rocky Ford Daily Gazette. Now “retired,” she spends her time freelancing for the Rocky Ford Daily Gazette, the La Junta Tribune-Democrat, and KOAA-TV. Her favorite activity is babysitting her 2 granddaughters. Michael Cawthra ’76 (Lakewood, CO) is a retired elementary teacher from Jefferson County School District. He volunteers all over Metro Denver, helping recruit high school seniors to Adams State. Doug Randolph ’76 (Woodland Park, CO) taught science and biology in the Peace Corps in West Africa. He then went to grad school at University of Pittsburgh and attained a master’s in education. He worked in adult education, developing and managing programs in Pennsylvania and California before returning to grad school again to attain a master’s in counseling psychology from Naropa University. He is now in private practice as a psychotherapist in Colorado. He is married with 2 teenage girls. He says, “Greetings to everyone I knew!”
◗1980s Cherith Marchase ’81 (Colorado Springs, CO) works at St. Mary’s High School with brilliant students who earned $12.4 million in 2016. She works in the Development Office and assists with alumni events, working with the alumni and students. Wes Montoya ’82 (Colorado Springs, CO) is the principal of the Gilliam School in Denver Public Schools. This is his 4th year in DPS. Wes earned his Ph.D. in 2011 at University of Denver. He worked at the Colorado Department of Education for 2 years and then began working in DPS in 2013. Wes is married to Mary Jaqua, and they will celebrate their 35th anniversary this year. Randy Holmen ’85 (Lamar, CO) was inducted into the 2017 Colorado High School Baseball Umpires Association Hall of Fame. He has been a teacher/coach/athletic director/ superintendent since 1979 and is now the superintendent at Genoa-Hugo School District. In 1976, Randy became registered by CHSAA to umpire in the Pueblo Association. He has umpired on all levels, including youth (including Babe Ruth and Legion), high school, junior college (baseball and women's softball), and college softball (fast and slow pitch).
Patricia Lara ’89 (La Jara, CO) was a defense attorney before becoming the director of Tu Casa in Alamosa. She received her law degree from the University of Wyoming in 2007.
Photo courtesy of Valley Courier
◗1990s Denise Alarid Ogden ’90 (Allentown, PA), professor of marketing at Pennsylvania State University-Lehigh Valley Campus, was recently awarded the prestigious 2017 George W. Atherton Award for Excellence in Teaching.
Brenda Trujillo ’90 (Pueblo, CO) is a very proud grandma! Her granddaughter, Noelle, was born April 3, 2016. Tad Banker ’94, ’97 (Anchorage, AK) just finished his 6th year as a teacher in the Anchorage School District. He is finally enjoying more day hikes and using his camera. Brenda Registe ’94 (Wasilla, AK) taught elementary school in Alaska for 10 years before deciding to explore the world. Her travels have taken her to Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, India, Latin America, and Mexico. Even though she
has traveled quite a bit, Colorado and Adams State will always have a special place in her heart. Shaun ’99 and Eudora Ellison ’99 O’Brien (Wasilla, AK) moved to Alaska in 2009. Shaun was a child & family therapist until 2016, then became a supervisor of residential treatment for North Star at the Palmer Residential Treatment Center for adolescent males. Eudora works for the Matanushka Susitra school district as the CTE Curriculum Coordinator.
◗2000s
Cheri Simpson Jones ’94, of Alamosa School District, took top honors as Educator of the Year at the San Luis Valley Board of Cooperative Educational Services 32nd Outstanding Educator Recognition Banquet. Nine additional alumnae were recognized as top educators at their respective schools: Lucy Mondragon ’03, ’08 (Centennial) Ashley Lane ’10 (Center) Peggy Haslar ’89, ’99 (Monte Vista) Jody Abeyta ’07 (Mountain Valley)
Dan Pardee ’01 (Juneau, AK) works for Taku Fisheries year-round in accounting, finance, and seafood sales. He is a commercial fisherman during the summer months and likes to ski and snowmobile during the winter. He and his wife, Marta, have 3 children and one on the way. Ben Kern ’02 (Lafayette, LA) received his Ph.D. in kinesiology from the University of Illinois, Champaign. In the summer of 2016, he accepted a professorship at the University of Louisiana, Lafayette. He lives there with his wife, Joni Kehler Kern ’97, and their daughters Ainsley, 14, and Maddie, 12. Kavik Peacock ’03 (Anchorage, AK) writes, “Hello Adams Staters! So glad ASU Alumni could make it to my beautiful state! Anyone that ever makes their way up here, please let me know and you will have a free guide.” David Welanko ’04 (Anchorage, AK) has lived in Alaska since graduation, with the exception of his time serving in the US Peace Corps in Guyana. He is soon to be the father of twins.
Janice Price ’65 (North Conejos Alternative Program) Mandy Mortensen ’98, ’09 (Sanford) Kendra Sanderson ’15 (Sargent) Christy Lucero ’01 (Sierra Grande) Jessica Valdez ’01, ’05 (South Conejos) Bill Becker ’05 (Lamar, CO) and wife, Sherri, have had an empty home for a few years. Their children, Vanessa and Andrew, are both happily married. Shortly after getting his MA in education, Bill passed his principal test. This year they are hosting an exchange student from Italy, a senior named Sophie. He considers teaching 6th grade at Alta Vista Charter School to be a true blessing. He writes, “Thanks, ASU, for equipping me to expand the opportunities in my family’s life and others’ lives.” Jennifer Holt ’05 (Colorado Springs, CO) recently obtained a certification in special educationteacher of the visually impaired. She works at the Colorado School for the Deaf and the Blind. She enjoys singing/acting in the Sunrise Players community theatre productions. Sandie Cockrell Hubbard ’05 (Parker, CO) lives with her 2 dogs and 2 cats. She received her Master of Applied Science degree in environmental policy and management in 2012 from the University of Denver. She’s worked at American Sentinel University in Aurora, Colo., for 4 years. Last May, she was promoted to Registrar and oversees the Office of the Registrar.
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Joe Southern ’87 (Rosenberg, Texas) is the editor of The Fort Bend Star, a weekly newspaper in southwest Houston. The position has afforded him the opportunity to fulfill a lifelong dream of being a professional sports photographer. Last season he was a credentialed photographer with the Houston Texans, Houston Astros, and the Sugar Land Skeeters (an independent league baseball team that also won its league championship in 2016). He was also credentialed and covered “week of” activities for Super Bowl LI. At one of the Texans games, he got to shake hands with former President George H.W. Bush.
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Photo courtesy of Valley Courier
great stories
area of pre-modern Japanese studies at a Japanese university.
◗2000s Seth Vance ’06 (Palmer, AK) works at Anchorage Neighborhood Health Center in the finance department and serves on the Advocacy Committee. He says Alaska is great—he enjoys the midnight sun and great fishing. Jesus Solis ’07 (Greenwood Village, CO) recently returned to the U.S. after studying as a researcher and graduate student in Tokyo for four years. He writes, “I presented my research on the development of black markets after World War II in both English and Japanese. In March 2017 I earned an M.A. in economic history from the University of Tokyo. I was accepted to the Ph.D. program in history at Harvard University and will begin my graduate studies this summer.” Johnathan Clyde McGlory ’03 (Shrewsbury, MA) writes, “I worked as a choir director at United Presbyterian Church in Albany, Oregon. In 2009 I began teaching myself Japanese and in 2011 moved to Nagano, Japan, where I lived for four years. I met my wife (another American) there and returned to her hometown. After working for a year as a special education assistant, I received a full-ride TA-type scholarship to the Japanese MA program at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. I am currently at the end of my first year of the two-year program. My thesis topic is a translation and analysis of an 1820's Edo Period illustrated textbook (called Ōrai-mono) by the popular author Jippensha Ikku (author of Shank's Mare). My future plans involve returning to Japan to continue my higher education. I hope to work as an academic in the
great stories Wendi Seger ’95, ’12 owns and operates Locavores, a new fast-casual restaurant in Alamosa that features food sourced from within a 200-mile radius of the San Luis Valley. “I wanted to bring wellness and goodness to people’s lives. I also wanted to support and provide a platform for our local farming community – we have all this food here. I wanted fresh, healthy food. I wanted to prove a restaurant could be done this way, and the community has welcomed us with open arms,” she said. About half of her employees are ASU students. For more information, visit: Eatlocavores.com. 30
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Sandy Southern ’08 (Rosenberg, Texas) graduated May 14 with her master’s degree in health administration from Texas Women’s University and is an administrative coordinator at UTHEALTH. Tasha Spencer ’09 (Lamar, CO) has been very busy at work assisting with furthering cultural competency education for the staff at Prowers Medical Center to provide more equitable care. She finished her 100th hour of medical interpreting training (English/Spanish). She is chair of the Cultural Competency Advisory Committee, which plays a large role in ACA compliance and in creating a Patient Family Advisory Council.
◗2010s Jessica Castillo Gallegos ’10 (Alamosa, CO) is pursuing doctoral studies at University of Colorado-Colorado Springs. Jacque Archuleta ‘11 and Alex Espinoza ’11 (Englewood, CO) welcomed baby girl and future ASU student, Selena Kathleen Espinoza, into the world in June 2016. Alex is a case manager for the Colorado Coalition. Jacque is a property manager for Alliance Residential. Jacque is also the treasurer for the ASU Denver Alumni Chapter. Find her on Facebook for more information on how to get involved! Erin Baldwin Egaña ’11 and Aric Egaña ’10, ’14 (Littleton, CO) recently moved back to Colorado after spending 4 years in Wisconsin. They got married in July in Evergreen, Colo. Erin is a phlebotomist, and Aric is an accountant. Eric Stevens ’11 (Alamosa, CO) is now the Executive Director of the San Luis Valley Area Health Education Center. With two decades of management experience (primarily in nonprofit and government realms of healthcare, housing, advocacy, and education), Stevens has dedicated his career to making his community a better place. A third-generation Alamosan, he returned to the San Luis Valley after more than 30 years away. Stevens lives with his wife, Carmen, and his 1 ½-year old daughter.
Andrea BentonMaestas ’12 (Alamosa, CO ) is the Title V PPOHA activities director at Adams State. She was recently named a Colorado Governors Fellow and says, “When I received notification that I had been selected, I was both humbled and enthusiastic. Now is the perfect time in my life to engage with public service.” Justin Crowther ’12 (Palmer, AK) is the energy data manager for the Alaska Energy Authority. In his free time, he is a roller derby coach and ref and goes by the name “JUSTINSANE.” While living in Alaska, he has learned to sleep with the sun out and try to stay awake during the darkness. Dorothy Fien Fredrick ’12 (Colorado Springs, CO) reunited with her high school sweetheart a few years ago and they were married in December 2015. She received a scholarship for the Buell Early Childhood Leadership Program, which she completed in 2016. This year she will complete her MA in administrative leadership and policy studies. She is in her 20th year with Community Partnership for Child Development, currently in the role of curriculum, instruction, and training coordinator. Elia Trujillo ’12 (Lamar, CO) is a language coordinator/ medical interpreter at Prowers Medical Center. In addition, she is the CEO of Elia’s Translation Services and working on growing the business. She writes, “I credit my success to Adams State University educational staff. Thank you so much!” Miranda Mattson ’16 (Bailey, CO) is operating her own arts and crafts business and recently opened her Etsy shop. You can check her out at www.etsy.com/shop/Littledoodadcrafts.
“Final Chapters” lists only survivors who are Adams State graduates or are affiliated with ASU.
Elizabeth Magee Byars `36 (Arvada, CO) passed away Apr. 9 at the age of 103.
vivors are son Marty Harrison `84 and daughter Laurice Butler `89.
Nancy Chapman Collier `82 (Oklahoma City, OK) passed away Feb. 10 at the age of 88.
Rev. William "Leslie" Pugh `48 (Midland, TX) passed away Jan. 27 at the age of 92.
Bettie Livingston `71 (Midland, TX) passed away Apr. 1 at the age of 84.
Jerry Reed `88 (Alamosa, CO) passed away Apr. 17 at the age of 69.
Lee "Leonardo" Payne `50 (Truth or Consequences, NM) passed away Jan. 26 at the age of 90.
Hazel Ruth Nidey `71 (Springfield, CO) passed away July 7 at the age of 90. Among her survivors is son David Nidey '71.
Lora Anderson Christensen `90 (Del Norte, CO) passed away Mar. 22 at the age of 99.
Richard Samlin `51 (Joliet, IL) passed away May 5 at the age of 88.
Edward Flynn `72 (Fort Myers, FL) passed away Feb. 28 at the age of 68.
Norm "Crash" Nash `57 (Issaquah, WA) passed away Mar. 28 at the age of 81. Among his survivors are brother Denny Nash `62 and sister Donna Nash `83.
Bertha Trujillo `72, `80 (Alamosa, CO) passed away Mar. 17 at the age of 80. Among her survivors are son James Trujillo `02 and daughter Tanya Trujillo `95.
Carrol Joe Carter `60, `61 (Pueblo West, CO) passed away Apr. 6 at the age of 85. Among his survivors are daughters Margaret Carter Harmon `81 and Norma Carter `86; and son Michael Carter `87.
Dave Cowan `73, `74 (La Jara, CO) passed away Mar. 16 at the age of 68. Among his survivors is son Brian Cowan `97.
Roderick Laird `60 (Saratoga, WY) passed away Jan. 31 at the age of 80. Pantaleon "Pat" Vigil `60 (Walnut Creek, CA) passed away June 3 at the age of 81. Dean Rankin `61 (Roswell, NM) passed away Mar. 17 at the age of 90. Myron Heersink `64, `71 (Broomfield, CO) passed away May 18 at the age of 76. Ray Kogovsek `64 (Pueblo, CO) passed away Apr. 30 at the age of 75. Among his survivors is sister Mary Joy Kogovsek `86. Frankie Malles Hitson `65 (Albuquerque, NM) passed away Feb. 24 at the age of 81. Among her survivors is sister-in-law Leslie Malles `71, `80. Gerald Lester `65 (Aurora, CO) passed away Mar. 12 at the age of 74. Among his survivors are sister Pat '68 & Tom '67, '68 Gilmore and brother Ron Lester '77. Marilyn Swift Palovich `66 (Colorado Springs, CO) passed away May 5 at the age of 74. Nell Paisley `67 (Durango, CO) passed away Apr. 24 at the age of 104. Patty Lowe Woodward Dykstra `68, `91 (Grand Junction, CO) passed away May 9 at the age of 70. Among her survivors are brother Mike Lowe `68 and sister Nancy Lowe `86. Cynthia Hough Addison `69 (Great Falls, MT) passed away June 8 at the age of 69. Doris Spannagel `69, `75, `77 (Pueblo, CO) passed away Mar. 30 at the age of 88. Berniece Harrison `71 (Del Norte, CO) passed away Feb. 24 at the age of 82. Among her sur-
Tom Nugent `73 (Alamosa, CO) passed away Mar. 8 at the age of 66. Elwyn "Al" Wehe `73 (San Diego, CA) passed away Apr. 17 at the age of 86. Among his survivors are son Alan `75 & Sandie `83, `89 Wehe and daughter-in-law Donna Wehe `12. Carl Cascio `74 (Pueblo, CO) passed away Apr. 25 at the age of 79. Among his survivors is wife Bernadine Cascio `81. Michael Montoya `75 (Las Animas, CO) passed away July 3 at the age of 64. Emmett Richmond `75 (Joliet, IL) passed away Apr. 19 at the age of 86. Guadalupe Rodriguez `78 (Pueblo, CO) passed away June 21 at the age of 69. Among his survivors is wife Mary Rodriguez `77. Wanda Maday Kalana `81, `83 (Craig, CO) passed away Mar. 24 at the age of 85.
Diana Montanez `91, `96 (Ordway, CO) passed away June 11 at the age of 57. Joseph Bernal `93 (Fountain, CO) passed away Feb. 23 at the age of 48. Melissa Bouren Crawford `00, `02 (Aztec, NM) passed away May 12 at the age of 40. Gerald Tommy Archuleta `07 (Center, CO) passed away Apr. 10 at the age of 33. Among his survivors is wife Stephanie Burch Archuleta `07.
friends Dr. Lee Cary, Emeritus Faculty, (Pueblo West, CO) passed away Mar. 23 at the age of 89. Among his survivors are son Kurt `71, `78 & Joan `90 Cary; daughter Denice `75, `78 & Rodney `75, `78 Sandefur; grandson Joe `11 & Hannah `09 Cary; granddaughters Melissa Cary `04, Ryan Sandefur Snyder `04, and Talia Jo Cary Guerrero `14; and granddaughter-in-law Janette Cary `10. Dr. Armando Gingras, former Dean of the School of Business, (Boulder, CO) passed away Feb. 28 at the age of 76. Dr. Carolyn Harper, Emeritus Faculty, (Barra de Navidad, Mexico) passed away Mar. 26 at the age of 68. Louise Milligan, former faculty, (Englewood, CO) passed away Apr. 20 at the age of 91.
new chapters . . . is there a future grizzly in your family? If so, we’ll help introduce him or her to the rest of the Adams Family. You can share a favorite photo of your special baby, grandbaby, or great-grandbaby. Email photos with a little information about you and your future Grizzly to: Gaylene Horning - ghorning@adams.edu Pictured is Olivia Trani, daughter of Semra Trani Deaner ‘94 and granddaughter of George ‘66, ‘69 & Bobi ‘69 Trani.
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adams family album anchorage ◗ Front Table L-R: Becci & Mel Knapp, Brenda Registe, Dave Welanko, Kavik Peacock Back Tables L-R: Lori Laske, Melissa Reynolds & Tad Banker, Shaun, Nate & Eudora O’Brien, Seth Vance, Justin Crowther
◗ Center Schools Teacher Appreciation Lunch – May 2017
center schools colorado springs
◗ L-R: Dannie Makris, Susan Koval, Dorothy Fredricks, Stephanie Enoch, Jennifer Holt, Leslie Holt, Lori Laske, Ken Delahoy, Paul Bonner, Charles Kurchinski, Lew Davis, Mike Edgar, Spencer Harris, Mick Reiher, Joe Pyle, Carol Reiher, Sheryl Pyle
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L-R: Megan Gallagher, Wes & Mary Montoya, Ray Wheeler, Cherith & Babes Marchase, Phil Haram, Herman Abeyta, Carlos Abeyta, Steve & Maria Amella, Sharon & Dannie Makris
L-R: Gaylene Horning, Bobi Trani, Dan Pardee, and Lori Laske
◗ juneau L-R: The Magnificent Seven includes 7 teachers who came to ASC during the summers to get their master’s degrees. Six of the seven reunited at our alumni event. From L-R: Linda Dalton, Glennie Ritchey, Jolleen Myers, Donna Burr, Sherri Knight, and Janice Moore. Nice t-shirts, Ladies!
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durango
Back L-R: Darrell Trembly, Jr. Gallegos, Margaret Sutton, Florann Gallegos, Vickie Sutton-Gallegos & David Gallegos, Dutch & Marilyn Malberg, Lois & Ed Small Front L-R: Diane Trembly, Janice Moore, Donna Burr, Jolleen & Louis Myers, Glennie Ritchey, Sherrie Knight, Linda Dalton
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L-R: Edie & Frank VanBockern, Neil McGowan, Michael Cawthra, Liz Watts, Lori Laske, Ken & Jane Barber, Sally Schulz, Sally Simmons & Wayne Melanson, Ian Jakalow, Judy & Wayne Laing
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denver L-R: Frank & Leanna Maes, Lori Laske, Alex Espinoza & Baby Selena & Jacque Archuleta, Ellwood Ervin, Bryan Fudge, Miranda Mattson, Ron Gallegos, Jan Heimbecher & Jerry Schloffman, Mary & Cal Beaver
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walsenburg Back L-R: Carla & Loyola Litz, Cleo Bella, Maryann Vigil, Nina & Kenny Schneider, Lori Laske Front L-R: Albert Galvan & Anna Lozano, Ione & George Glumac, Sherry Montoya, John Carlson, Cathy Mullens, Virginia Archuleta & Bertha Ragsdale
lamar
◗ L-R: Lavoy “Corky” McCorkle, Tasha Spencer, Katheryn Reyher, Jim & Cheryl Abernathy, Lori Laske, George Demas, Bill Becker, Elia Trujillo
New nursing grads clown for the camera.
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Cheers to the Class of 2017.
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new graduates champagne brunch
◗ New ASU graduates gather to celebrate their induction into the Alumni Association at a champagne brunch.
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2017 retirees
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Tresa Rupright, Cecil Fell, and Ed Lyell celebrate their retirements this spring from ASU.
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rocky ford Back L-R: Lori Laske, Carol Grubbs, Phyllis Sinclair, Arthur Derbigny, Will & Janet Lowther, Jake Martinez & Gerrie Valerio, Ross & Diane Hurt, Ray & Susan Pieper, Kathy Soden Front L-R: John & Virginia Elder, M.J. Reed, Darlene Derbigny.
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◗ L-R: Allison Dominguez, Brenda Trujillo, Debbie Martinez, Gaylene Horning
L-R: Annaliesa Connor-Meissner, Cathie Graeser, Iris Clark, Michelle Parks
L-R: Mary Ann & Ken Rotolo, Margaret & Milt Trujillo, Rosemary & Gerald Vaught, Liz Crawford, Lori Laske, Lynda & John Shue, John Singletary, Ricardo Martinez, Ed Vallejo, Steven Barnes & Emmet O’Leary, Charles Percival
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L-R: Robert Baca, Rosa & Ken DeLeon and Rev. Ben Bacino
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grizzlies spring season school record in the process with a time of 11.40. Wahi won the RMAC 100m title as the Grizzlies claimed the conference team title with a point total of 147. The Grizzlies ultimately placed second in their respective USTFCCCA Program of the Year standings.
baseball
Dianna Johnson
women’s track & field The ASU Women placed third overall at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track & Field Championships with 43 points. That success tied them for the national lead in All-American honors with 15. The ASU Women amassed 12 First Team nods highlighted by Sunayna Wahi (100m, 200m, 4x100m relay), Dianna Johnson (100m, 200m, 4x100m relay), and Jessica Scherrer (4x100m relay and 400m hurdles). Johnson became the first ASU female student-athlete to win an outdoor 100m individual crown and set a new
Connor Johnson
The trio of Evan Weidner, Josh Keaton, and Marco Garmendia earned post-season RMAC awards, but the team ultimately fell short of reaching the RMAC Tournament for the third consecutive season. The Grizzlies posted a 13-33 overall record and a 7-25 mark in conference play to finish 9th in the RMAC. Weidner and Keaton were named to the Second Team All-RMAC, while Garmendia was voted to the RMAC Gold Glove Team. Keaton finished the season with a 4-6 record with a team-best 84 strikeouts, as Weidner posted a team-leading .380 batting average. Garmendia finished his season with a .967 fielding percentage with 78 assists and 39 putouts.
softball The Grizzlies posted a 10-0 win vs. Metro State at the RMAC Tournament but saw their season end a game later via a 15-1 setback against Chadron State. The Grizzlies concluded their 2017 campaign with a 20-31 overall record and an 18-20 RMAC record. Sophomore third baseman Tyler Hays
paced the team with a ridiculous .504 batting average featuring 66 hits, 29 RBI, and two home runs. Those achievements earned Hays honors as RMAC Co-Offensive Player of the Year and First Team All-RMAC. Senior Marissa Harmon was named to the First Team All-RMAC squad at the catcher position and hit .398 with a team-best 10 home runs and 41 RBI. Senior pitcher Lauren Murphy was named All-RMAC Honorable Mention, having compiled a 13-12 record.
men’s lacrosse For the second consecutive year, the Grizzlies reached the RMAC Tournament while finishing the season with a 5-8 overall record and a 4-6 mark in RMAC play. Under first-year head coach Keith Lindgren, ASU notched notable wins against the University of Alabama-Huntsville (W, 10-9) and Westminster College (W, 11-10) while posting a season sweep over Maryville University. At the end of the season, Connor Johnson was declared RMAC Co-Goalie of the Year and earned First Team All-RMAC honors. Emmitt MacFarlane, Garrett Chitwood, Joe Quatrochi, Kage Janes, and Kale Wilson all made RMAC Honorable Mention. Wilson – a freshman – led ASU with 18 goals on the season.
Josh Keaton Tyler Hays
Brooke Lucero
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more details at grizzly athletics: www.asugrizzlies.com
women’s lacrosse
women’s golf Adams State’s spring season ended with a 12th place finish at the RMAC Championships on April 25. The Grizzlies posted a two-round total score of 725 (+149). Brooke Lucero paced ASU with a two-round score of 172 (+28) for 34th place, as Jessica Guajardo tied for 35th with a score of 173 (+29). Taylor Hackett took 51st with a score of 185 (+41), and Kylie Torres placed 58th with a score of 195 (+51). ASU’s best team score of the spring season came at the Pack Spring Invite in late March, when the Grizzlies finished with a final team score of 644 (+140).
men’s track & field The Grizzlies wrapped up their outdoor season with 7 All-American honors, as the program placed 16th at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Bradenton, Florida. Sophomore Sydney Gidabuday paced All-American awards with a pair of First Team nods in the 5000m and 10,000m. Gidabuday was also recognized as the Track Athlete of the Year for the RMAC and South Central Region. Others to receive All-American recognition were Sam Reid (shot put), Kale Adams (300m steeplechase), Tom Gifford (800m), Micah Ballantyne (100m), and Austin Anaya (1500m). Despite the outdoor championship finish, the ASU Men were awarded their ninth consecutive USTFCCCA Program of the Year honor. The annual award is given to the most outstanding cross country/track & field programs in each of the NCAA's three divisions and for each gender. Due to Adams State’s frequent top billing in the standings, the award is officially named the NCAA DII Damon Martin Men’s Program of the Year.
Women’s Lacrosse
Adams State concluded the 2016-17 athletic calendar in 10th place among 268 schools in the NCAA Division II Learfield Directors' Cup standings. The Grizzlies placed highest of any Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) institution. Since the award's inception in 1995-96, Adams State has finished in the top 10 a total of 12 times and has been the top RMAC institution 13 times. Adams State won the Directors' Cup following the 1998-99 athletic calendar; it is the only RMAC school to have done so.
grizzly greats Bobby Saiz ‘91 was nominated for induction into the National Football Foundation (NFF) & College Football Hall of Fame next year. The Class of 2018 will be announced January 8, 2018. Saiz is one of 98 ‘Divisional’ (meaning not Football Bowl Subdivision) players and 31 coaches appearing on the ballot. The former Adams State quarterback has been inducted twice into ASU’s Hall of Fame (as an individual in 2001 and with the 1988 team in 2016) and named to the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference’s All-Time Team in 2009. During his four-year career at Adams State, Saiz passed for 10,169 yards and 87 touchdowns while averaging 251 yards of total offense per game. Adams State went 28-15-1 overall during Saiz’s four seasons, including a 17-4-1 RMAC record. He was twice named an NAIA All- American. In 1988, Saiz led the team to a 10-3-1 record and a berth in the Champion Bowl. That year, Saiz set single-season school-bests in completions (231), yards (3,916), TDs (33) and total offense (4,142). In 1989, Saiz led the squad to a 7-0 RMAC record and #1 national ranking before hopes for a Champion Bowl return faded in the semifinals. Lauren Martin ’14, ‘16 was the top female in the 2017 Bolder Boulder’s citizens division, finishing in 34 minutes, 55.03 seconds. Also, she and Kyle Masterson ’17 were married June 10.
Sydney Gidabuday #29
Josh Keaton was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the tenth round of the MLB Draft. The 6-foot-1, 190-pound right-handed starting pitcher for the Grizzlies was 4-6 with a 5.52 ERA over 75 innings during the 2017 season. He allowed 97 hits, but just three home runs. Keaton struck out 84 in 75 innings over 12 starts.
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Under first-year head coach Angelica Gero, ASU posted back-to-back home wins for the first time in program history. The Grizzlies defeated Johnson & Wales (W, 21-7) and UCCS (W 8-6) to achieve the feat. ASU’s 21 goals vs. Johnson & Wales set a single-game program record, as did their 14-point margin of victory. The Grizzlies had to overcome an early deficit against UCCS, which avenged an early season road loss to the Mountain Lions. Cera Cyester led the team with 19 goals, as Jessica Hammer added a team-leading seven assists. Cyester and Hammer tied for the team lead with 22 points each.
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Hall of Fame inducts its largest class the largest class in the history of adams state’s athletic hall of fame will be inducted september 29 at 6 p.m. in the asu student union building. the group includes eight individuals and three national championship teams. banquet tickets are $35 each or $300 for a table of ten. to reserve, please call 719-587-7401 or email diannelee@adams.edu. jim bevan ’84, ’86 • track & field Jim Bevan was the 1983 RMAC triple jump champion with a distance of 47 feet, 8.5 inches. He began his coaching career with Adams State’s cross country and track & field programs, then went on to coach (head coach since 2005-06) at Rice University in Houston. He played a role in 7 cross country conference titles, 6 indoor conference titles, and 8 outdoor conference titles. He has coached several All-Americans and earned numerous Coach of the Year awards. dan caulfield ’95, ’99 • track
& field and cross country As a member of the 1993 and 1994 National Championship Cross Country teams, Dan Caulfield placed in the top five during both championship races. • 10x All-American; first All-American for the men’s cross country program • 4x National Champion • 4x All-RMAC selection • Set the 800m indoor school record of 1:48.94 in 1995 • 2009 RMAC All-Time Men’s Cross Country team • 800m national indoor record holder for his home country of Ireland • 2x European Cup Champion (800m and 1500m)
After college, Caulfield helped coach the Grizzlies to four NCAA Women’s Cross Country National Championships and two men’s titles. Now the head track & field/cross country coach for California University of Pennsylvania, he has mentored numerous AllAmericans and Academic All-Americans 38
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and was inducted into its Athletic Hall of Fame in 2015. heather ebert ’09 • softball Very few have had a softball season quite like Heather Ebert did in 2008. The shortstop posted a season batting average of .505 through 58 games. In just two seasons, she tallied 290 total bases, 157 hits, 119 RBI, 98 runs, and 33 home runs. She finished with a .937 fielding percentage at shortstop while starting all 107 games of her Adams State career. • 2008 NCAA DII National Player of the Year, RMAC Player of the Year, RMAC All-Tournament and AllSouth Central Teams, RMAC Academic Player of the Year • 2008 single-season RMAC record for 178 total bases • 2009 RMAC Softball All-Time Team
mary jaqua • cross country Mary Jaqua became Adams State’s first female individual cross country national champion at the 1981 NAIA Championships. Her winning time of 18:34 led the Adams State women’s program to its first national title. • 6x All-American in cross country, indoor & outdoor track & field • 2009 RMAC All-Time Women’s Cross Country Team • 3000m and 5000m titles at 1982 NAIA Outdoor Track & Field Championships; named Herbert B. Marett Outstanding Performer
stacey mills ’94, ’97 • track & field and cross country Stacey Mills set an NCAA record with her 1997 time in the 800m of 2:07.78. She was also a member of the 1992 Women’s Cross Country National Championship team during the first
season Adams State competed in NCAA Division II. • 9x RMAC individual champ • 4x All-American
bill stone ’86 • football Bill Stone holds Adams State’s singleseason rushing record of 1,157 yards, set in 1984. His 129 rushing yards per game also led the RMAC that season. In 1984, Adams State finished with a 63 overall record and a 6-2 mark in RMAC play. Stone’s efforts resulted in All-American honors from the NAIA and AFCA. After his collegiate career, he was a rookie free-agent, signing with the Los Angeles Rams in 1985. He was also a member of the Arena Football League’s (AFL) Chicago Bruisers from 1987-89. In 1987 he was named the AFL’s firstever Ironman of the Year along with First Team All-Arena. With the Bruisers, Stone recorded 280 rushing yards, nine touchdowns, nine tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble. In 1988, Stone and the Bruisers finished with a 10-1 record, resulting in an appearance in Arena Bowl II. denise summers ’99 • track
& field and cross country Denise Summers and her teammates amassed several team awards, including the Sportswomen of Colorado Superior Achievement Award (1995, 1996, & 1997), Colorado Sports Hall of Fame Citation (1996), and The Honda Award Program Outstanding Achievement in Women’s Collegiate Athletics (1996). In 2015, Summers was inducted into the RMAC Hall of Fame as a member of the 1991-99 Adams State women’s cross country teams, all of which won national championships. • 9x All-RMAC • 1996 NCAA Division II Cross Country individual champion, the first female student-athlete to win a cross country individual title at the NCAA DII level • 1996 All-Academic Team
Jim Vuono’s 1968 football season ended with NAIA First Team All-American and First Team All-RMAC honors, as Adams State produced its second consecutive RMAC title with an 8-1 overall record. During the 1968 season, Vuono finished with a team-best four fumble recoveries. As a sophomore he was a member of Adams State’s 1966 Mineral Water Bowl team that defeated Southwest Missouri State, 14-8. The defensive lineman led the team in tackles during the 1967 and 1968 seasons and was described by coaches as “perhaps the best defensive lineman we have ever had.” Vuono was drafted in the 16th round (396 overall) of the 1969 NFL Draft by the Boston Patriots. • 3x All-RMAC selection • 1968 team MVP • District 7 First Team All-American • Denver Post’s All-Time Rocky Mountain Southwest Football Team
darrell yohn • wrestling (special citation) Darren Yohn ended his Adams State career with the second-most wins in program history at 78. His final overall record was 78-25 (.757). In 1979 and 1981, Adams State finished second overall at the NAIA National Championship. In 1982, Yohn led Adams State with a season-high four tournament championships. • 1982 NAIA National Champion, 190 weight class • 1982 Most Inspirational Wrestler • 3x RMAC champion • 2x All-American
1977 men’s cross country team The 1977 team was the first national championship team for Hall of Fame Head Coach Dr. Joe I. Vigil ‘53, ‘59, who won his first NAIA Cross Country Coach of the Year award. The program carried a No. 1 national ranking through the season and claimed an RMAC title.
The team was inducted into the RMAC Hall of Fame in 2008, with Vigil earning an individual induction into the RMAC Hall of Fame in 2003.
1980 wrestling team The 1980 wrestling team produced a 10-4 dual meet record, an RMAC Championship, and the program’s seventh NAIA National Championship. Adams State placed four wrestlers in the NAIA Championship finals. Scott Ritzen (126) was the lone individual champ, with Head Coach Dr. Richard Ulrich named NAIA Coach of the Year. In total, eight Adams State wrestlers notched 15 or more match wins, paced by a 28-2 record from Herb Stanley, who was named the team’s MVP. Adams State also defeated several NCAA DI opponents in dual meets and/or tournaments. The 1980 Adams State team was inducted into the RMAC Hall of Fame in 2010. Ulrich
was inducted into the RMAC Hall of Fame in 2013 and the Adams State Hall of Fame in 2001. Ritzen and Stanley were also inducted into the Adams State Hall of Fame.
1981 women’s cross country team The 1981 women’s cross country team captured the first national championship for a female program in school and RMAC history. It was also the second NAIA championship title awarded in women’s cross country history. The title run was led by Mary Jaqua, who was the individual champ with a time of 18:34.ll. The strong championship performance resulted in Head Coach Rock Light ‘80 being named NAIA Coach of the Year. In 1981, Adams State was the lone RMAC institution to sponsor women’s cross country. The team was inducted into the RMAC Hall of Fame in 2008.
Football recruit makes NCAA history Becca Longo didn’t set out to make NCAA history — before she even began college — but the 18-year-old from Chandler, Arizona, did just that when she signed on as a kicker with the Grizzly football team. That made her the first woman to receive a college football scholarship from a D-II or D-I school. And the media went wild. Her feat has been covered by ABC’s Good Morning America, Sports Illustrated, CNN, and ESPN, to name only a few. Longo honed her kicking skills in soccer, then went out for high school football, inspired by a girl who played with her older brother. In her senior year, Longo scored 36 points and connected on 35 of 38 extra-point attempts. It’s not uncommon for her to make 45-yard field goals in practice. Her ultimate goal is to play in the NFL. Following her Good Morning America interview, conducted in ASU’s Rex Field Stadium, she said, “I really love it here. People have really opened their arms to me. The whole community is so welcoming, it feels like home.” She also earned a scholarship to play women’s basketball. Head Football Coach Timm Rosenbach says good kickers are hard to find. “To me, there is no doubt she can be competitive. She has a strong leg, and she can be very accurate," he said. When the football season begins this fall, Longo will have the chance to prove he’s succeeded in his quest. Longo told Rocky Mountain PBS, “I am just so grateful that someone believed in me and that I could actually do it. I’m going to go in and be ready to compete. I’m not one to back down to anybody.”
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jim vuono ’69 • football
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The skies of summer