Stater
A for alumni & friends of adams state college
Trujillo ‘07 pushes her potential
serving hispanic students alumni awards
hall of fame
summer 2011
Stater
A
VOL. 51, NO. 2 • SUMMER 2011
Published by Adams State College adams state college • alamosa, co 81102 719.587.7011 • 800.824.6494 www.adams.edu • e-mail: ascalums@adams.edu online edition: www.adams.edu/alumni/astater/ EDITOR & DESIGNER Julie Waechter
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Linda Relyea ’96
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Nancy Blevins ’11 • Chris Day • Eric Flores Priscilla Gardea ‘06 • Gaylene Horning ’94 • Scott Kretzmann Con Marshall • James Trujillo ‘02 • Blake Wood
PRESIDENT OF THE COLLEGE Dr. David Svaldi
BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR ADAMS STATE COLLEGE Steve Valdez ’87 Chair Arnold Salazar ’75 Vice Chair Gigi Darricades • Mary Griffin Liane “Buffie” McFadyen ’91, ’93 • Ann Rice Charles Scoggin, M.D. • Tim Walters ’73 Dr. Carol Guerrero-Murphy Faculty Trustee Kenneth Scally Student Trustee
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD Lori Lee Laske ’91, ’01 Executive Secretary/Director of Alumni Relations Toney Cantu ’70 President Kasey Russell ’03 Vice President Karen Rubidoux Miller ’94 Secretary D. Mike Garcia ’73, ’77 • Holly Felmlee ’76 • Lynn Michalke ’77 Robert Oringdulph ’71 • Sandy Ortega ’74 • Chris Page ’02, ’03 Jeremy Ratliff ’96 • Brian Rossbert ’02 • Rich Scanga ’75 Liz Tabeling-Garcia ’96, ’06 • Delzia Worley ’97
ASC FOUNDATION BOARD Duane Bussey ’82 President Dr. John McDaniel Vice President John A. Marvel ’70 Secretary/Treasurer Russell Achatz ’85 • Keith Cerny • Genevieve Cooper Dale Hettinger ’64 • Charles “Chuck” Houser ’62 • Jeni Jack ’85 Cindy Palmer • Rich Scanga ’75 • Chris Sittler ’04 • Ray Skeff Izora Southway ’66 • Eldo Wall • Michael Ware ’69
FOUNDATION HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS Stephen Bokat ’68 • Marguerite Salazar ’75, ’76
president’s letter: HSI’s meet needs of all students Several years ago I received a phone call from a Hispanic gentleman living on the Front Range. He was concerned about the term “Hispanic Serving Institution” that appeared in a news release about Adams State’s award of a Title V Grant from the U.S. Department of Education. As he put it, ASC should serve all students, not just Hispanic students. Of course he was correct, but his concern demonstrates the on-going confusion that sometimes surrounds the term “Hispanic Serving.” David Svaldi The term, coined fairly recently in 1992, is a federal definition which identifies certain post-secondary institutions as being “Hispanic Serving” if 25 percent of their undergraduate students identify their ethnicity as Hispanic. The Title V grants ASC has received over the years have been successful because we have identified areas and services at ASC that additional federal funds could help to strengthen so all ASC students can be better served. (See page 12.) No federal (or state) funds can ever be used to give one group of students an advantage over another—rather, the thinking is that a rising tide raises all boats. If we can provide services we do not currently have or improve existing services to all students, we are not only serving Hispanic students, but all students in an improved way. Hispanic Serving Institutions like ASC tend to share traits which result from being under-resourced institutions. Adams State’s students are generally low income, and we have historically kept our tuition and fees low to allow for their access. In the past, we may have received a somewhat higher state reimbursement per student than other urban institutions, but this is increasingly not the case because of state budget reductions. Moreover, Hispanic Serving Institutions receive only 60¢ on the federal dollar, compared to large research institutions. This includes Pell Grant awards that accompany low income students who come to regional and rural Hispanic Serving Institutions. The irony is that students who need the most help often attend institutions with the least resources. To be a Hispanic Serving Institution is to provide a pathway for our Hispanic students and all of our students. When an institution can give all of its students an equal hope and chance that they can succeed, then it is truly serving its students.
FOUNDATION EMERITUS BOARD MEMBERS Sharon Carter • Richard Jacobs • Harold Kelloff Ralph Outcalt • John Reason J. Byron Uhrich • R. Paul Wagner
FOUNDATION EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Dr. David Svaldi ASC President Tammy Lopez ’91, ’00 Executive Director of the Foundation Steve Valdez ’87 Trustee Liaison
GRIZZLY CLUB BOARD OF DIRECTORS Keith Cerny Chair • Dave Barrows Vice Chair Dennis Ortiz ’79 • Ric Cline ’71 Ericha Loosbrock • Jeni Jack ’85 • Joe Martinez ’99 Jay Meyer • Dennis Shioshita ‘77 • Steve Valdez ’87
ADAMS STATE COLLEGE MISSION STATEMENT Adams State College dedicates its resources to provide opportunity and access for all students. The College is an innovative leader that recognizes the inherent educational value of diversity. It is a catalyst for the educational, cultural, and economic interests of rural Colorado, the surrounding region, and the global community.
the cover Nursing graduate Denise Trujillo ‘07 has made the most of her education. She will be honored at Homecoming 2011 as the Exceptional New Alumna (see story page 26). She exemplifies the success many Hispanic students achieve thanks to Adams State. The college’s mission as a Hispanic Serving Institution is detailed on page 12.
contents update Rites of Spring Can love rescue what hate threatens? New ASC tuition structure encourages earlier degree completion Rogers explores ethics for a small planet Sustainable energy projects get green light What’s so great about Adams State? Retirees ‘graduate’ to next phase
4 6 7 8 8 9 9
features Parks’ perseverance inspires others Coolbaugh helped develop online education The face of a Hispanic Serving Institution
10 11 12
giving Waterses establish scholarship fund Legacy Society recognizes the Hettingers Pollard ‘61 honored via his brainchild program Memorial scholarship honors first ASC master’s recipient
20 20 21 21
alumnews
22 22 23 24 26
Homecoming 2011 Schedule Stegman exhibits spirit of Billy Adams The Chemistry of Success Learning and Caring
alumnotes alumni scrapbook sports scenes
28 32
ASC Hall of Fame inducts Class of 2011 RMAC Hall of Fame inducts nine ASC X-C teams and one runner Spring Sports Recap
36 36 37 38
New Date north campus transformation g r a n d o p e n i ng
PAR
D A E H TY A
Thursday, Aug. 25 4 - 7 p.m. Tours • Luau Dinner • Entertainment Residences at Rex on the ASC Campus Green First St. & Stadium
7 p.m. Free Stadium Concert by Martini Shot
Rites the service alternative Seven students participated in the ASC Campus Ministry’s alternative spring break, during which they performed service for the Navajo Nation in Tuba City, Ariz., in cooperation with Amizade International. The week included home stays with local families, cultural experiences such as a sweat lodge, and service at the Boys & Girls Club.
asc’s 2011 presidential teacher awards were presented to (from left) Dr. Richard Goddard, associate professor of anthropology; Dr. Renee Beeton, assistant professor of chemistry; Armando Valdez, assistant professor of management and health care administration; and Dr. Carol Guerrero-Murphy, professor of English. A group of exceptional students identified professors that demonstrated outstanding undergraduate teaching, advising, and mentoring.
finding one’s fit An undergraduate (right) examines the puzzle piece from State Senator Gail Schwartz that symbolized her commencement address theme of finding one's fit in the bigger picture of life.
the college awarded 639 degrees May 14, the most in many years, including ASC’s first MBA degrees. Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture John Salazar ‘81 addressed the Master’s Degree Ceremony (right). Psychology graduate and AS&F President Lisa Chirieleison told her fellow graduates: “College is difficult; if it wasn’t, everyone would do it. We got through this thanks to the support from all those in this room. Now it is up to us to continue to learn as students of life.”
4|
update
s of Spring rural poverty in developing countries was the subject of this year’s Model United Nations Conference, held in Rome. ASC’s team was awarded partial scholarships from RomeMUN to offset their costs. Micah Keller and Alex Robinson received the Distinguished Delegation Award for their work representing Turkey. Above from left: Micah Keller, Laurel Heimstra, Alex Robinson, Joseph Chavez, advisor Dr. Mari Centeno, Melissa Kam, and Alfonso Casias.
songs from the heart ASC’s Concert and Chamber choirs (above) wrapped up the semester with a concert at the Sacred Heart Church in Alamosa, always a venue with great acoustics.
everything from salsa to soil analysis was addressed at April’s Student Scholar Days. Twenty-eight students from a diversity of departments presented their research. Kayla Lanoue and Vicente Rios (below), along with Pualani Jeffries, explored “Why Do You Dance? The Growth of a Salsa Family.”
more than 1,500 high school students and advisors were on campus for the 2011 Colorado State FFA Convention in June. ASC was the only college sponsor on the Camaro (below) the organization raffled off to earn over $54,000. President Svaldi and Dr. Zena Buser (from left below), director of ASC’s agribusiness program, are shown with state FFA officers. The group will return to ASC for their 2014 convention. FFA then ceded Plachy Hall to nearly 300 high school athletes and coaches for the Colorado High School Coaches Association All-State Games.
Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 5
can love rescue what hate threatens? That’s the central question in William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, said Theatre Professor John H. Taylor. Thus, the Theatre Department launched the “R&J Project: Seeking Common Ground” in conjunction with this spring’s production of the classic tragedy. “We presented a series of educational and public programs that examined the role of conflict, reconciliation, and forgiveness in our lives,” Taylor said. Many community members participated in such events as programs for school kids (upper left), an interfaith forum, and community religious services focused on conflict, forgiveness, and reconciliation. The play’s opening night performance was held as a benefit for the Center for Restorative Programs; more than 1,800 people attended through the play’s run. Taylor’s innovative production starred Jacob Sorling and Eleanor Smith, who both graduated in the spring, and featured live percussion composed and performed by music major Paul Kobe (left). The R&J Project also featured a one-night only performance of the new play The Laramie Project:10 Years Later (below). ASC’s original cast of the 2002 production of The Laramie Project returned to campus to present the epilogue, which explores the impact on Laramie of an anti-gay hate crime that ended in the torture death of Matthew Shepard.
R&J Project asks:
Wherefore art love? 6|
update
“W
E FULLY EXPECT TO BREAK ANOTHER RECORD FOR ENROLLMENT THIS FALL.” - Dr. Michael Mumper ‘76 Senior VP, Enrollment Management & Program Development
enrollment growth
degrees awarded may 2011
5.7 % Summer enrollment increase over 2010 639 16.7% Fall enrollment increase over last year, to date NEW americorps grant • Graduate student enrollment up 63% $275,000 Funds 250 volunteers over 3 years first-generation freshmen
community partnerships outreach
30%+
214 New clients served in 2010 by ASC Community
NEW automatic merit scholarship
$1,500 for continuing and transfer students with a GPA of 3.9 and above
$1,000 award for GPAs between 3.5 and 3.89 $500 award for GPAs between 3.25 and 3.49
Partnerships Business Support Program
29% increase over 2009 8 business development workshops 11 community organizing events 13 Community Art Gallery exhibits
New ASC tuition structure encourages earlier degree completion Continued state budget cuts have prompted a $15 per credit hour tuition increase for the coming academic year, but a new tuition structure will help students graduate within four years and reduce their debt. “We have done all we could to keep our tuition increase to a minimum,” said President David Svaldi. “Our student body is largely low-income, so we know affordability is essential.” The key feature of the new tuition structure is expansion of the full-time tuition “window,” meaning students will pay the same full-time rate for 12 to 20 credit hours per semester. Previously, the full-time rate covered 12-15 credits, with a surcharge for credits beyond 15. “Our recent record enrollments show that Adams State is successfully expanding access to higher education,” Svaldi added. “Now, we want to encourage students to reduce their degree completion time. This gives huge financial advantages. Students not only join the workforce and begin earning sooner, they also significantly reduce educational loan debt.” Students must average 15 credits a semester to complete bachelor’s degree requirements for 120 credits within four
years. Adams State students who graduate in four years versus five save $18,321 in total direct costs. The tuition structure was part of the college’s 2011-12 academic year budget, adopted by the ASC Board of Trustees May 13. The budget includes a reduction in state support of more than $2.3 million, 15 percent of the college’s General Fund allocation, according to Bill Mansheim, vice president for Finance and Governmental Relations. “This amounts to a reduction of roughly $1,700 per ASC student.” Total full-time tuition and fees for Colorado resident undergraduate students will be $2,813 per semester next year, an increase of $328. Non-resident undergraduates will pay $5,437 per semester, an increase of $472. Adams State housing rates will increase 0 to 4 percent, depending on room choice; while the Sodexo meal plan will increase only $30 a semester. “Undergraduate state resident students who live on campus will see a total cost increase of only 6.5 percent,” Mansheim said. “But the tuition window expansion means students who register for more than 17 credits a semester will actually see cost decreases.”
Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 7
earth week speaker
Rogers explores ethics for a small planet “we humans have been misbehaving as a species,” said Dr. Karel Rogers, keynote speaker during ASC’s Earth Week in April. “We are smart enough to know better and make better choices.” Rogers taught biology at Adams State for 18 years, including a term as department chair. She retired as an emeritus professor of biology at Grand Valley State University, Mich. She returned to campus to share perspectives from her recent book, Thinking Green: Ethics for a Small Planet. Rogers’ research has been funded by a series of grants from the Dr. Karel Rogers presents her analysis of global environmental issues and solutions.
National Geographic Society, as well as the National Science Foundation. “Humans evolved to manipulate the environment to make ourselves more comfortable,” Rogers said. “The key philosophical question is whether humans are separate and above the rest of the species on Earth.” She said global warming and biodiversity loss, budget deficits, war, and economic meltdown are the results of humans “ignoring nature and its rules and how it functions.” She described American consumerism, now emulated worldwide, as based on a paradigm of “I/Me/Now,” which relies on the cheapest, easiest solutions; cheap raw materials; and mass production. Effective solutions, she added, will be local, collaborative, and cooperative, rather than industrial. She also emphasized that we can achieve abundance, not merely sustainability, by creating “mutualism” between humans and other living things. “If we are to survive, we can’t continue to use the technological kit we are using, we need to change technology and systems to improve our planet’s carrying capacity. Every dollar we spend is a selective pressure. Every decision we make about our kids, meals, homes, and recreation has global impacts. We can vote with our purchases,” Rogers said. “Our children, civilization, and the Earth depend on how we choose.” Thinking Green: Ethics for a Small Planet is available through Amazon.com. You can watch Rogers’ talk at ASC at: http://youtu.be/O2chmuOC3uw
Sustainable energy projects get green light Soon, six percent of the electricity needed to power Adams State College will come from the sun. College trustees recently approved a solar power purchase agreement with Oak Leaf Energy Partners Ohio, LLC, as well as an energy performance contract with Trane U.S.A., a Qualified Energy Services Company. “These projects will reduce our energy costs, reduce green house emissions, and increase our use of sustainable energy,” said Bill Mansheim, vice president for Finance & Governmental Relations. Faculty Trustee Carol GuerreroMurphy said, “Students appreciate our efforts toward sustainability. It’s a concern for their future.” 8|
update
Oak Leaf Energy Partners obtained an Xcel Energy Solar Reward to construct a solar PV system on ASC’s campus. A 300 kW DC solar PV system will be located on the roof tops of Plachy Hall, the college athletics facility. The company will construct, own, and operate the system; Adams State will have options to purchase it. “This $1.4 million solar project will produce an estimated 500 kWh of clean energy annually, roughly six percent of ASC’s annual consumption,” Mansheim added. Actual production could exceed that estimate, due to the San Luis Valley’s ideal solar conditions. The energy performance contract entails phase II of energy conservation upgrades across campus. TRANE re-
cently completed Phase I of the project, valued at $1.2 million, which entailed installation of more efficient plumbing fixtures, as well as light fixtures and motion sensor switches. Phase II will install $1.5 million worth of energy efficient HVAC systems and controls. It will include fans, fan controls, and heat controls. The project is expected to reduce the college’s utility costs by $110,000 each year; the savings will be used to finance the project. He noted this is a "guaranteed energy savings" performance contract by which TRANE will pay the difference if at any time the savings fall short of the guarantee.
what’s so great about adams state? ninety years ago, Colorado Governor Billy Adams achieved his dream of founding a college for teachers in the San Luis Valley. The fall issue of the A-Stater will commemorate the college’s founding and 2011 Homecoming. We’re looking for 90 things to celebrate.
please tell us what you think makes Adams State so great. Send your ideas to ascalums@adams.edu, or mail to: Alumni Relations, Adams State College 208 Edgemont, Alamosa, CO 81102.
Retirees ‘graduate’ to next phase The annual Retirees Dinner, sponsored by the Adams State Office of Alumni Relations April 5, recognized eight faculty and staff members upon their retirement from the college over the last year. Faculty members Dr. Clarence Parks and Dr. Alberta Coolbaugh concluded their Adams State teaching careers at the end of the spring semester. (See stories pages 10 & 11.) Also honored were six staff members: student housing administrative assistant Eleanor Cruz; information technology professional Tom Fuller; administrative assistant Lynn Michalke ‘77; and Facilities staff members Mike Garcia ‘94, John Neal, and Dwight Smith. Eleanor Cruz was a "model employee, rock solid" who had a passion for people and her job, said Bruce Del Tondo, director of Auxiliary Services and Housing/Residence Life. He has worked with Cruz for most of her 17 years as administrative assistant. He said he asked several staff and students about their experiences with Cruz: "There was a common theme. They would stop and think a minute, then smile, and chuckle. You could see the impact she made." When Tom Fuller came to Adams State as a computer programmer in
sized in 2009, she transferred to the 1975, the personal computer did not exist, and "disc drives the size of pizzas" Records Office. Director of Alumni Relations Lori couldn't hold the data that today can Laske was inspired by Michalke's be stored on a two-inch "jump drive," said Mike Nicholson, chief information "wonderful attitude" after discovering her whistling while she was filing. officer. Michalke continues her relationship "The pace of change in technology has been exponential, and IT (informa- with the college by serving on the ASC tion technology) professionals like Tom Alumni Association Board of Directors. Mike Garcia ‘94 worked in general were forced to constantly learn and retrades and custodial services at Adams learn a profession that is challenging State since 1990. John Neal and and dynamic," he added. "For weeks Dwight Smith were carpenters in Facilafter his retirement last summer, Tom ities Services. Neal joined the staff in was gracious enough to take our pan1985, while Smith came on board in icked phone calls and even come into 1984. the office — all because of his willingness to help this college." Lynn Michalke ‘77 had gained accounting and business experience during her 27-year career with the City of Alamosa. In 2007 she joined Adams State's Institutional Advancement Office as an administrative asThose honored at the recent ASC Retirees Dinner include (from sistant. When left): Dr. Alberta Coolbaugh, Dr. Clarence Parks, Lynne Michalke that office down‘77, Tom Fuller, and Eleanor Cruz. Not present were retirees Mike Garcia ‘94, John Neal, and Dwight Smith. Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 9
Parks’ perseverance inspires others “i believe in my heart of hearts that those who study and understand sociology become more effective people,” says Dr. Clarence Parks, who joined the Adams State faculty in 1983. Parks has been visually impaired since childhood, but this never slowed him down or curtailed his interests. Although an elementary school principal expected him to leave school and learn a skill such as “broom making,” Parks’s mother argued, and his education continued in public school. In the last several years, Clarence’s vision has deteriorated, yet his love of learning and teaching continues. He said he knew Adams State would become his home when he noticed an old Pinto with a hole in the driver’s side window in the college parking lot – as opposed to the Mercedeses filling lots at Texas A&M, where he earned his Ph.D. Amy Hansen ’05, sociology major, took classes from Parks and was his workstudy assistant. “He is a highly inquisitive man who wants to know everything about everything. He is my ‘fountain of knowledge’ for random facts and information.” Parks is active with the National Federation of the Blind, the largest organization of blind people in America. “We actively encourage young blind people to enter the teaching profession,” Parks said. “I am compiling what I have learned in my 40 years as a blind teacher into documents which may
a glance at clarence parks • Born with 10% vision - now only able to tell the direction of bright sunlight • Completed his entire education without special services or treatment – elementary school teachers would hand him their notes to study; he held the papers right up to his nose • Survived rattlesnake bite on the hand • Spent a year after college at a hippy commune – but never took illegal drugs • Wrote The Man Who Knew the Blues, now ready for publication • Favorite time of day: when wife, Vicki, comes home • Donated a collection of antique clocks to the Luther Bean Museum, served on the first Luther Bean Museum board • Founded the Last Chance Band in the late ‘80s with faculty colleagues who gather at private homes and share food and music – a tradition continuing today • Impresses students, colleagues, and family with his thirst for information and knowledge • If granted another life, would be an Everglades fishing guide • As a child, made a homemade canon he would shoot off towards the coast • Believes Adams State students improve with every year
10 |
features
help young blind teachers quickly learn things about their situation that took me decades to master.” Having just celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary, his wife, Vicki said, “Clarence is my best friend. We love each other more now than ever; it is a great life.” She admires his sense of humor and love of learning. She believes Parks always strove to be a good teacher, person, father, and husband. “He amazes me every day in what he attempts to accomplish. He is not one who makes excuses, even with a vision handicap.” Parks’ brother, Barton, agrees. “Clarence has a great deal of courage and understanding. He is not afraid to be his own person and go his own way.” Parks made his way in a world for the sighted, and continues inspire others with vision impairment. “Clarence plans to teach other blind people how to play the guitar in his retirement.” His years of inspiring and motivating students were recognized by the 2010 Presidential Teaching Award. He taught a variety of courses in sociology and says his favorite, Sociology of the Blues, developed out of his love for all aspects of blues music. “Blues music is a contradiction. The songs are of heartache, poverty, and dislocation, but once the song finishes, you feel like smiling.” The Parkses have two children: Aaron ’00 and Elizabeth. They anticipate retirement giving them more time with their children and grandchildren. By Linda Relyea ‘96
from non-trad student to full prof
Coolbaugh helped develop online ed her asc great story is a page turner. Chapter after chapter, Dr. Alberta “Bert” Coolbaugh ‘98 accomplishes goals and strives for excellence. Taking on the academic world armed with three young children and the desire to become an accountant, Coolbaugh sought a job at a college where she could earn her degree. Thus, she moved from Salida to Alamosa to work for ASC Extended Studies. Working full time, she soon earned a B.S. in business administration with a 4.0 GPA and passed the Certified Public Accountant test on her first attempt. Her strong work ethic and goal orientation helped her advance quickly, and she was encouraged by Phil Gore, Director of Extended Studies. Coolbaugh helped develop the first totally online course at Adams State, Business Statistics. “I truly believe in distant education.” After being promoted to Assistant Director of Extended Studies, Coolbaugh completed a Master in Business Administration, graduating with honors, from Colorado State University. Now she saw the future of online degrees and Adams State’s role in providing those opportunities.
“Whenever Alberta assumes any task, you know it will be completed effectively and efficiently,” said Dr. Georgia Grantham, Adams State strategic educational consultant, who succeeded Coolbaugh as the Extended Studies Department Director. “We shared a common vision for Extended Studies. Alberta planted the seed for online learning at Adams State.” Deciding the next step would be to become a professor to learn that end of the spectrum, Coolbaugh accepted a faculty position with the School of Business in 2000. She had a summer to create and finalize her syllabi. That task was eased through the help of her husband, Carl, a tenured accounting professor. (Carl Coolbaugh is now ASC emeritus professor of business.) However, life then took a very unexpected and unfortunate turn: Carl became critically ill and was sent Flight for Life to Denver, where he remained the rest of the summer, first touch-andgo and then in recovery and rehabilitation. “I got back to Alamosa a week before school started.” There was not time to prepare in depth, but somehow Coolbaugh drew on her strength of character and ability to focus and made it through the first semester, which in-
cluded weekend trips to Denver to visit Carl. “I worked hard, it is part of my core,” Coolbaugh said. Over the last ten years, Alberta has taught everything from computer application courses to web design and desktop publishing in both traditional classrooms and online. “Every two years I have to totally redo my syllabus, because of software and technology upgrades,” which means first learning the new systems herself. “I love technology and I like learning,” she said. She earned her Ph.D. in Education with an emphasis in Instruction Design from Capella University while teaching a full load of classes. School of Business Chair Kurt Keiser said: "Everything Alberta touches is golden — managing student internships, serving in Faculty Senate, chairing search committees. She is a great colleague." Although Alberta is retiring from full-time teaching, she will continue to instruct students through online courses. She has three children: Matthew (Karla), Kimberly, and Misty. She and Carl enjoy golf and spending time with their grandchildren. By Linda Relyea ‘96
alberta coolbaugh on paper extended studies accomplishments • Developed, implemented, administered off-campus credit and non-credit programs in cooperation with the academic departments • Helped coordinate School of Education off-campus master’s programs • Directed independent study course development
awards • 2007 Adams State “I Am Billy” certificate of recognition • 1999 ASC Pioneer Award in Distance Education • Colorado Commission on Higher Education (CCHE) Award for Exceptional Service to Continuing Education.
Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 11
the
face
of a
hispanic serving institution
12 |
features
diversity:
one of this century’s buzz words. Most colleges talk about its importance . . . how it’s essential in a true learning community . . . how it prepares students to succeed in the global marketplace. At Adams State, valuing diversity is about seeing all students as individuals – regardless of their backgrounds – and helping them create their place in the world. Although Adams State was officially designated a Hispanic Serving Institution in 2000, its commitment to students from diverse backgrounds is nothing new. Hispanic students and other underserved groups have had a home at Adams State since it opened in 1924. By Julie Waechter
Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 13
“W
HAT MAKES ME REALLY HAPPY IS THAT HISPANIC STUDENTS ARE NOW RETAINING AT THE SAME RATE AS NON-HISPANIC STUDENTS. ASC IS EARNESTLY WORKING TO PROVIDE BETTER OPPORTUNITIES THAN IN THE PAST.” - LeRoy Salazar ASC Trustee
generations of hispanic educators got their start at Adams State, and fellow Hispanic graduates are likewise at the top of many other professions. ASC’s alumni “stars” include the Hon. Carlos Lucero ’61, the first Hispanic appointed to the Twelfth Circuit Court of Appeals; former congressman John Salazar ’81, who now serves as Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture; famed distance running coach Dr. Joe I. Vigil ’53, ’59; and Marguerite Salazar ’75, ’76, who is Regional Director of the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services for Region VIII. Exceptional New Alumni Award winners include Anthony Oliva, M.D., ‘99; attorney Phillip Lopez ‘04; and nursing director Denise Trujillo ’07, this year’s honoree (see page 26).
quality AND quantity Founded to serve the San Luis Valley and southern Colorado, ASC has always enrolled a high percentage of Hispanic students. Those numbers have grown in recent years – 32 percent of undergraduates last fall were Hispanic, with a total of 46 percent non-white. “We’re real excited about these positive trends,” said Eric Carpio, assistant vice president for Enrollment Management. “A few years ago we were determined to not only increase our number of new students, but also to steadily improve the academic quality of freshmen, and at the same time, to grow our Latino student enrollment. Our HSI status is very important to us. Some people would say you can’t do all three of these things together, because it hasn’t always worked at other institutions, so we were wary.” But the plan has been working; the college expects to break enrollment records for the third year in a row this fall. Front Range colleges trying to improve their diversity have discovered the SLV and begun courting its higherachieving students. Nevertheless, Adams State’s percentage of Hispanic students is the highest of any public four-year college in the state. A new merit scholarship program, now entering its second year, has helped bolster recruitment of high ability students. Incoming freshmen who were high school valedictorians are automatically awarded $1,000, while those with high CCHE
14 |
features
indexes (based on a combination of test scores and GPA) are awarded between $1,000 and $1,500. The Experience Colorado Scholarship awards $5,000 to high achieving out-ofstate residents. These awards are now renewable, based on GPA (see page 7). “We’ve become very deliberate in determining who and where we recruit, how we devote our resources. Our recruiting has become more targeted, and we’re making better decisions on how well a student will fit here. I think we’ve gotten better at what we have always done well,” Carpio said. The addition of Priscilla Gardea ’06 (see page 17) as the college’s Denver admissions counselor has been “tremendous,” Carpio said. “Also, the fact that we have a number of bilingual staff who can help students and Spanishspeaking parents really helps break through barriers.”
supporting student success The focus now is on becoming more truly “Hispanic Serving.” President David Svaldi said this means “providing the education and a pathway for our Hispanic students.” “We are truly serving our students when they all have an equal hope for success,” he added. The obstacles faced by Hispanic students are common among the entire ASC student body: low income, gaps in high school preparation, and geographic isolation. Thirty-seven percent of Adams State undergraduate students are first-generation; among Hispanic students, that rate is 47 percent. More than half of ASC students are considered low income, with family adjusted gross income averaging $17,818.
Therefore, all ASC students are benefiting from measures designed to mitigate these challenges. “We have many students who come from families that don’t understand the college environment,” said Dr. Michael Mumper ’76, senior vice president for Enrollment Management & Program Development. “We need to create an environment in which first-generation students feel comfortable and welcome, and gives them what they need to be successful. They need to be aware of our services and our expectations. “What it comes down to is whether or not a student feels valued. They need to see people like themselves they can identify with and get along with. They need to feel at home. Cultural events and social activities give students opportunities to get to know each other. We’re looking for ways to help them get settled, put down roots, and feel more stability,” he added. This is where grants for improving Hispanic Serving Institutions have been invaluable. More than $8.5 million has come in the form of U.S. Department of Education Title V grants. Adams State was the first college in the state to earn
Federal HSI designation, which requires a minimum of 25 percent Hispanic enrollment. “Title V grants have allowed us to raise awareness of diversity issues and needs on campus,” Svaldi said. Title V funding has helped ASC improve resources, facilities, and teaching, and provide new opportunities. The results benefit all students. Other government agencies and private foundations also dedicate support to Hispanic Serving Institutions. (See chart page 18.) The college’s first Title V grant, for $1.96 million awarded in 2000, created CELT – ASC’s Center for Equity in Learning in Teaching. This faculty development program raises diversity issues and awareness and trains faculty in active learning techniques. Participating faculty become more cognizant of students of different ethnic, cultural, class, and social backgrounds. To date, well over 100 ASC faculty and staff have participated in CELT intensive workshops (see page 17). A second, five-year cooperative Title V grant for $3.4 million was awarded in 2005 to Adams State College, Trinidad State and Otero junior colleges to expand educational access for Hispanic students. CELT continued as a cornerstone of that grant. Last fall, Adams State was awarded a $3.18 million grant from Title V that is further supporting student success. Grant director Lillian Gomez ‘81, ‘02 said continued faculty development through CELT “will focus on transitioning from pedagogy – education of children – to androgogy – education of adults. Our workshops and seminars will re-
ASC’s 2010 freshman class exhibited the diversity that characterizes Hispanic Serving Institutions.
Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 15
Fast Track weekdays were filled with developmental instruction in math, writing, and reading, as well as advising and tutoring sessions. Weekends included visiting museums in Santa Fe, rafting in Creede, Colo., and fun on the ASC Ropes Course. Two weekends were devoted to a threecredit workshop, Communicating Perspective on Equity - Reading, Writing, Speaking.
campus connections Hispanic culture is a vital part of the campus, thanks to such student organizations as El Parnaso (Spanish Club), Semillas de la Tierra Grupo Folklorico, and Mariachi Corazon del Valle. In 2009, Instructor Andy Zaugg taught developmental mathematics during this sumCultural Awareness and Student Achievement mer’s Title V Fast Track program for incoming freshmen. Clockwise from bot(CASA) was formed to further that cultural extom left are Dominique Mathews, Joseph Yusef, Zaugg, Elisabet Hernandez, pression and support the campus’ growing numand Clinton Johnson. ber of Hispanic students. Zaugg said the new iLearn program, “Class of 1,” helped each student focus The group’s goal this year is involve more stuon specific skills and tracked their progress, so Zaugg could intervene on dents. They conducted focus groups to investigate problem areas. Immediate, individualized feedback helps motivate students. the unique needs of Hispanic students. Title V Activity Director Eva Brown said, “If we really prepare students well in “We want to discover how we can help elimimath, the critical thinking deepened by mathematical concepts will transfer into every other content area.” nate barriers,” said CASA member Isabel MedinaKeiser, ASC’s diversity officer. “Hispanic students view best practices for teaching Hispanic, at-risk, and adult often have a difficult time leaving home and need to constudents.” tinue family responsibilities. Other issues surround language The grant is also funding acquisition of new instructional and racial identity. They prefer group advising, and can be and assistive technology, as well as construction of a Student reluctant to ask for individual help for fearing of looking stuSuccess Center on the first floor of the Nielson Library. This pid.” “one-stop” for various academic support programs should be Under CASA’s auspices, students Carmen Murillo and ready this fall and is expected to “help expand services for Carlos Martinez attended the Hispanic Association of Colstudents who may not have been successful in the past,” leges & Universities’ (HACU) national student leadership Gomez said. Continued on page 18. “As an under-resourced institution, there are a lot of things we need. Title V grants allow us to expand our capacity,” Mumper explained. “For example, the new grant alasc undergraduate lowed us to add a staff member in career planning and student ethnicity placement, as well as another academic advisor in the Grizzly percentage ethnic group Testing Center. Many of our student services operate in oneperson offices. These grants allow us to fill really important 33.8 Caucasian holes.” 32.04 Hispanic A third component of the grant – the five-week Fast Track 20.0 Not indicated program – launched this summer. Modeled on ASC’s suc6.6 Black/African American cessful Summer Scholars and STAY (Structured Transitional Academic Year) programs, it provided intense college prep 2.2 Other and advising to 20 freshmen, who were invited to participate 1.7 Native American/Alaskan based on test and ACT scores. 1.7 Multi Racial “We try to take students where they are, assess their skills, 1.6 Asian and work our hardest to get them moved into college mate0.36 Hawaiian rial. For so many students, that’s the barrier to success,” Mumper explained. Data: Fall 2010
16 |
features
center for equity in learning & teaching
CELT workshops foster understanding and support of diversity with the austere sangre de cristos as a backdrop, 21 faculty and staff from Adams State and Northern New Mexico College gathered in May to discuss issues surrounding equity at the 2011 CELT Leadership Institute – and I was fortunate enough to be among them. En route to the retreat, I wondered what the week would entail, how this would be different from other diversity trainings I’d done, how the group would interact, and how I was going to resist the urge to incessantly check my email. As I neared our retreat site, those thoughts quickly became displaced by thoughts of my gorgeous surroundings. The Trinchera Ranch in Ft. Garland, Colo., was the perfect setting for this week of intense dialogue and learning. We soon began the thoughtful work of transforming 21 individuals into trusted members of a group sharing a safe space. This gave way to learning exercises and forums to better understand oppression on many levels: individual, institutional, and systemic. We discussed classism, racism, sexism, and heterosexism, as well as examples of intersecting identities and marginalization and how these systems of oppression feed into each other. Finally, and most importantly, we discussed and took action on the applicability of everything we had learned.
the tyranny of “isms” Through diversity trainings like CELT, higher education professionals are able to better understand oppression as a whole. What became pivotal was understanding how these “isms” play out in the higher education setting. As a Latina alumna, I drew on my experiences as a woman of color on Adams State’s campus. Although I didn’t consciously build communities that aligned with my identity, in hindsight I see that I did just that. For example, I would find comfort in relationships with other Latino/as and spend time with a friend with whom I primarily spoke Spanish. I gravitated toward relationships with strong women and relished all the classes I took as part of my Women’s Studies minor. What doesn’t come instinctively is the ability to see the college experience from the perspective of people with different identities. How would it feel to be the only black student in a classroom? What are some of the challenges students with disabilities face? How does the academic calendar affect students who celebrate non-Christian holidays? What kinds of perspectives do students bring to college based on their socio-economic backgrounds? How does a student’s identity influence their communication style? One of the best illustrations of this from CELT was discussion of a disheartening article called “A Class Above the Rest,” which reviewed a study on how higher education can perpetuate classism. It showed that “differing curricular, pedagogical, and student evaluation techniques stress different cognitive and behavioral skills.” Some of the techniques con-
sidered were taking class attendance, lecture style vs. discussion style, and multiple choice exams vs. essays. These were then correlated with preparing students either for mid-level jobs with limited authority, or to become innovative, more autonomous work leaders. Thankfully, in the article discussion group, I found myself talking to two Adams State faculty members. What started out as a bleak discussion on the findings of this study quickly turned positive when they talked about the flexibility they have to incorporate teaching strategies to better engage their students.
allies in diversity These were all emotionally charged topics, but two factors gave me comfort. First: I was surrounded and supported by people who were working on becoming stronger allies and have similar values and goals about equity. Second: I work for a college that already shows strides in making a difference for the communities it serves. It is no secret that I love being an admissions counselor for Adams State. I get to talk about how wonderful our school is all day and help students After graduating from ASC with a degree in English and minors in history and women’s see how it can be studies, Priscilla Gardea ‘06 earned a masa great fit for ter’s degree in Student Affairs in Higher them. I didn’t Education from Colorado State University Ft. Collins in 2009. She now serves as ASC’s think it possible, but after my week admissions counselor in Denver. at CELT, I’m even more proud to be a Grizzly. As a staff member, I felt the encouragement and camaraderie of the CELT participants. It’s great to know the CELT family at Adams State supports such a diverse population of students. Our work through CELT harmonizes with the HSI mission of ASC to create a fertile environment for positive growth and change. Do we still have a long way to go? Yes. But, the fact that the CELT program is quickly becoming a cornerstone of ASC speaks volumes. By Priscilla Gardea ‘06 Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 17
conference in San Antonio last fall. Murillo, a Spanish and sociology major who immigrated from Mexico to the States with her family at age 10, found the conference inspiring and helpful. “It’s nice to have the guidance CASA provides, especially if you don’t have college role models. Some people are the first in their families to come to college, and CASA can help with paperwork and becoming aware of campus resources,” she said. “I think there’s more support for Hispanic students today. Our main concern was the small number of Hispanic professors on campus.” While 26 percent of ASC’s administration is of Hispanic descent, only 15 percent of faculty are. Svaldi acknowledges that recruiting and keeping minority faculty is a challenge across higher education; the number of Hispanics earning Ph.D.s has plateaued. “When I moved to administration from the faculty, 15 years ago, only 4 percent of our faculty were from minority groups. That’s good progress, but we’re not there yet,” Svaldi said.
improving retention “We’ve done a much better job on campus of providing appropriate services, centralizing those services, and making better use of resources,” Carpio said. “For example, student advising and the testing center are now in close proximity, which allows us to identify students with a need for tutoring or advising.”
grant
He also feels supplemental instruction programs, like Title V, STAY, and EPIC (Engage, Persist, Innovate, and Celebrate) are succeeding in strengthening students’ skills. These efforts are bearing fruit. ASC is one of only three institutions in the state that retain Hispanic students at rates at least equal to majority students. Over the last two years, Adams State College improved retention of first-year students by 10 percent and all but eliminated the retention gap between white and Hispanic students, according to Mumper. “The challenge now is to translate improved retention into increased graduation rates,” he noted. “We should begin to see the impact on our graduation rates in the next several years.” According to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, Adams State’s graduation rates are better than the students’ income levels would predict. Between 1993 and 2003, the Hispanic student graduation rate (within six years) increased by 19 percent; while the rate for white students went up 6.5 percent A study by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) using data from 2002-05 found ASC had the third highest Hispanic graduation rate of all 435 AASCU member institutions. The organization credited that success to ASC’s diverse campus and commitment to students. On the heals of a new report by the American Enterprise Institute, "Rising to the Challenge: Raising Hispanic Gradu-
award years
funder
project
$ 1,960,000
2000-2005
Dept. of Education Title V
Support curricular innovation & technology
3,444,368
2005-2010
Dept. of Education Title V
Expand education access for Hispanic students
Cooperative grant with 3 community colleges
3,237,209
2010-2015
599,935
280,928
Dept. of Education Title V
Department of Housing and Urban ASC Community Partnerships Development - Hispanic Serving Institutions Assisting Communities 2009-2011
Department of Education FIPSIE Graduate Programs at Institutions of Higher Education Serving Hispanic Americans
108,400
2010-2012
113,361
$ 6,644,201
18 |
features
Student Engagement & Success
Develop master’s degree in Higher Education Administration & Leadership (HEAL)
Institute of Higher Education/ Wal-Mart Foundation
EPIC: Engage, Persist, Innovate, & Celebrate – support for first-generation students
Army Research
Mathematics equipment
total grants earned as hispanic serving institution
ation Rates as a National Priority," President Barack Obama created a President’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics. Obama articulated a goal of increasing American graduation rates over all to the highest in the world by 2020. The rapid growth of the country’s Hispanic population means their academic success is crucial to meeting that objective. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 37 percent of the 44 million Hispanic U.S. residents are under the age of 20, and by 2020, Hispanics will make up 22 percent of the nation's college-age population. It’s predicted America’s Hispanic population will double by 2050. Latino youth are the fastest growing demographic group in Colorado, yet it is estimated that only 44 of every 100 Hispanic children in Colorado will complete high school; 24 will enter college, but only 6 will graduate college; and only 2 will pursue post-graduate education.
strengthening hsi’s Adams State is becoming a leader in HSI advocacy, regionally and nationally. A college delegation regularly attends and presents at conferences of HACU. At the group’s national convention held in Denver three years ago, ASC staff helped to form the Colorado Coalition for Education Advancement of Latinos (CoCEAL). The group includes ten Colorado colleges and universities working to expand higher education success for Hispanic students. Adams State’s President Svaldi was recently chosen to chair the Southern Colorado Education Consortium, a collaboration among ten southern Colorado colleges formed to increase the number of southern Colorado residents who attend college. Only nine percent of 2009 high school graduates in southern Colorado went on to pursue a higher education. The consortium’s goal is to increase that number by two percent by 2014. Southern Colorado’s lower educational attainment in reflected in lower income levels. The group is working on ways to improve access and college completion for first generation, under-represented, and low income students. This effort will include ways to eliminate barriers perceived by many students and parents. The consortium’s work is fueled by a $750,000 Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Plans include expansion of concurrent college courses for high school students, and summer activities programs on college campuses for school children. Another FIPSIE grant supports Adams State’s creation of the state’s only master of arts degree in Higher Education Administration & Leadership (HEAL), which focuses on staff development at HSIs. ASC received one of 30 grants from FIPSE’s Special Focus Competition for Graduate Pro-
Students get into the rhythm at ASC’s Cinco de Mayo celebration, presented by CASA. CASA expands its events and services each year.
grams at Institutions of Higher Education Serving Hispanic Americans. “I believe HEAL was funded because it is innovative and speaks to important needs. Simply put, it’s about access,” said program director Dr. Melissa L. Freeman. “We can no longer afford to ignore the fastest growing demographic in the nation. There will be long-term, negative economic consequences, if we do not adequately educate this population. It is important to have affirmative role models and mentors for those students matriculating into higher education.” With its second cohort starting this fall, the online program offers working professionals a convenient and affordable means to earn the credentials to assume leadership positions in their organizations. Freeman said more than three-quarters of current students are Latino/a and/or work at HSIs. The first cohort includes a number of ASC employees, including Carpio, who is enrolled in the program’s 18-credit post-master’s certificate component. “ASC is only one of two four-year HSIs in Colorado, so this program has broadened my awareness of other institutions around the region and allowed me to share ideas and adopt best practices,” he said. Describing a Hispanic Serving Institution can be complex, but for Svaldi, it’s simple: “The heart of it is that we’re a family. We care for each other and for our students.”
Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 19
Waters establish scholarship fund “ASC was the catalyst for the successful careers we had, so we desire to give the students of today the same opportunity we were given with educational scholarships and grants,” said Bill Waters ’59, ASC’s Outstanding Alumnus for 2006. He and his wife, Beth, recently established a scholarship endowment for Adams State students who are graduates of Cañon City High School or Sal-
ida High School. The Waters live in Cañon City. “The scholarship is a product of both my wife's and my interest in furthering education,” Bill added. His wife attended ASC for one year, but lack of funds delayed her education. Beth is a graduate of Salida High School and a 1991 alumna of the University of Maryland University College and a retiree from the Federal Government. Besides completing her degree while fully employed, she completed the Office of Personnel Management Women's Executive Leadership Program for mid-level managers. The Training Program Office provided the grant for her final two years at UMUC. The Waters realize today’s economy makes it challenging to pay for a college education. Bill attended college on an athletic scholarship; during his senior year the Bill ‘59 and Beth Waters recently endowed a scholarscholarship changed to an ship for students from Cañon City and Salida, Colo.
ASC Presidential Scholarship. He credits his Adams State education as the beginning of a successful career as a Marine officer, helicopter pilot, and pilot for Marine One. After retiring from the USMC, he served as a consultant to the Naval Air Systems Command. Bill joined the Marines after graduation. He received his Wings of Gold as a naval aviator in 1961. In 1966, he completed his second tour of Vietnam, then returned to the United States to attend the Amphibious Warfare School and was selected for the presidential helicopter mission. He flew 1,080 missions during three tours in Vietnam and retired in 1983 with numerous medals, including the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, Single Mission Air Medal, 54 Strike Flight Awards, and the Navy Commendation Medal. In 1968 he was designated a Marine presidential helicopter pilot, and he has fond memories of flying Presidents Lyndon Johnson and Richard Nixon. By Linda Relyea ‘96
Legacy Society recognizes the Hettingers Dale Hettinger '64 and his wife, Beverly, recently established a legacy for future generations of Adams State College students, faculty, staff, and community members. They were recently inducted into the Adams State Foundation’s Legacy Society, which recognizes those who include Adams State in their estate planning. Hettinger received the 2007 Outstanding Alumnus Award in recognition of his achievements and support of Adams State. The Hettingers recognize the significant impact Adams State has on the San Luis Valley's economy and the important role the college plays in providing accessible and affordable higher education for the region’s residents. He and Beverly are avid patrons of the Adams State College Theatre and
20 |
giving
pared as much as possible to withstand have contributed to scholarships for reduced state funding.” theatre students. “We believe the department has a By Linda Relyea ‘96 quality program worth supporting. Additional scholarship funds will help attract talented students and grow overall enrollment,” Dale said. Part of their support for the Theatre Program comes from the sale of Hettinger’s handmade wooden toys. As members of the community, the Hettingers are confident in Adams State’s leadership and future. Dale said, “With complete confidence in the college administration and Board of Trustees, we believe Dale ‘64 and Bev Hettinger are new members of the ASC Foundation’s Legacy Society. that Adams State has pre-
great stories on walls in halls
Pollard ‘61 honored via his brainchild program The alumnus who conceived of “Great Stories on Walls in Halls” was recently recognized through the program himself. The Great Story of Dr. Robert Pollard ‘61 was dedicated July 1. His framed photograph and plaque joins three other tributes created to date: John Spencer ‘62, Rick Spier ’88, ’91, and Johnny L. and Electra (Watson) Wilson. A lifelong educator who earned a doctorate from Stanford University, Pollard was the first in his family to enter college, having begun his schooling in a two-room schoolhouse in rural Arkansas. He was an all-conference football player at ASC and wrote sports for the South Coloradan. Following retirement at age 55, Pollard started the last leg of his educational journey by teaching developmental reading to inner-city minority students in the Dallas Public Schools. “I discovered that except for former ASC presidents and those students who were highly successful athletes, there were no avenues for the Great Stories of a vast majority of alums, faculty, and friends to be told and read by others who might be inspired by these stories,” Pollard explained. With encouragement from Director of Alumni Relations Lori Laske ’91, ‘01, Connie Spencer ’63, ‘66, and his family, Pollard presented his idea for raising unrestricted funds for the ASC Foundation, which approved it unanimously. The project is a unique way to honor loved ones or alumni, faculty, staff, and friends of the college. The Foundation accepts a minimum donation of $5,000 to dedicate a Great Story with a framed photograph and plaque, to be hung in the Student Union Building. “As I near age 76, I suspect that I will have fewer and fewer opportunities for involvement at ASC. My daughter
Memorial scholarship honors first ASC master’s recipient The Adams State archives note the first student to receive a master’s degree from the college was Francis “Billie” (Chisholm) Stong. She earned her graduate degree in 1945 and taught third grade in Alamosa for more than 25 years. Five of her ten children are also ASC alumni. Her family recently established a scholarship in her memory for San Luis Valley graduates majoring in education. The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded beginning with the 2012-2013 academic year. Dave Stong ’80, said his mother’s compassion for all people and her caring attitude followed her in her career and home life. “I miss my mom every day.” Successive generations of the Stong family carry on Billie’s commitment to education. Billie’s daughters, Patricia Relyea ’71, ’72, and Peggy Stong ‘77, ’79; and grandchildren Sarah Ramirez ’04 and Matthew Relyea ’04, ’06 are all teachers in the San Luis Valley.
would have funded a plaque after my death, but this way she and I and my friends and colleagues can experience it together. “ASC has come a long way, and it’s going to go even further, and I want to be with it,” Pollard said. He supports Adams State for the “same reasons one supports his family, church, and country: love, respect, empathy, adulation, undiluted admiration, innate need to protect, to nurture, and to bond.” For more information on how to dedicate a Great Story on Walls in Halls, please contact Lori Laske, 719-587-7867, or Tammy Lopez, 719-587-7122.
The Great Story of Dr. Robert Pollard ‘61 was unveiled at a reception in the Luther Bean Museum. With Pollard are his daughter, Dr. Lisa Pollard (right) and Director of Alumni Relations Lori Laske ‘91, ‘01.
2011 phonathon $$ giving report $ 2 9 , 2 4 5 pledged by 529 alumni
$
up 14% over last year Average gift pledged: $55 New donors: 137 Student callers: 13 Completed calls: 3,292 Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 21
choomm e e m o h g n mmie c o m i n gm i n g o c e m o h g oo m e c o m o n c i h e m m g o o n c i h e g m m ienc o m i n g hi n g h o m e g hi nog h o m ehcoom e c o m n i m o c e me c o m i n g m m m o m o g c o o h n e c h i e g m g n m m o i n o o h i c h m e g oe h oi nmg h o mhe coom e c o meicno m i n g hionm mheocm o mhe coomme c o meicnogm i n g m h g omme c o m i nogm i n g g i n g h o mg h o m e c om e c o m i n gm i n g h o m c e m o h g m o o n ehco m e c o m ic o m i n g hion g h o m ehco m e c o me mei nc ogmhi n gmhionm ogmhe coommeicnoom me c o m i n g i n g h o m g ehcoom no m i n g h n g h o m e coom e c o m i nogmhi nogm ehionm me c o m i n g o c e g m o i c h h e m m h oi nmg h o mhe coom e c o meicnogm i n g h o m ogmhe coom e c ommeicnogm i n go m no m i n g h on g h o m e co m e c o m i nogm i n g h o m i c hi nogmhe coomme coommeicnogmhi n g h o m e For more info: call 800-824-6494, ext. 8 coming h www.adams.edu/alumni friday, september 30 email — ascalums@adams.edu
2011 10 a.m.
Golf Outing Cost $25 per 18 holes, includes cart
Cattails Golf Course
3:30 p.m.
Alumni Receptions and Special Reunion Group Get-togethers
Student Union Building, 3rd floor
5:30 p.m.
Alumni Awards Banquet and Annual Meeting $25 per person (incl. reception) Semi-formal dress
Student Union Building, Room 131
8 p.m.
Jazz Concert
Richardson Hall Auditorium
$5/person
8 p.m.
Streetcar Named Desire
ASC Theatre
$10/person 719-587-TIXX
$10 entry fee
Advance tickets preferred
saturday, october 1 8 a.m.
5K Run
Cole Park
10 a.m.
Parade
Main Street
11 a.m.
Tailgate Party
Campus Green
$7/person
1 p.m.
Football Game Reserved seating for reunion groups
ASC vs. Nebraska-Kearney
$7/person
4 p.m.
Post-game Reception
Inn of the Rio Grande
ions c l a s s re u n 5 year • class of 2006 10 year • class of 2001 15 year • class of 1996
22 |
alumnews
20 year • class of 1991 25 year • class of 1986 30 year • class of 1981 35 year • class of 1976
40 year • class of 1971 45 year • class of 1966 50 year • class of 1961
Stegman exhibits spirit of Billy Adams from his home, decorated with momentos of his family’s farming heritage, Don Stegman ’61, ‘64 has expansive views of both the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo mountains. This vista has been a constant in his life, just as has Adams State College. The retired
“M
ing me to ASC. He and Joyce worked very hard to help me and my family connect with Alamosa and the ASC community. He was the unanimous choice among Executive Team members for this recognition. His is a special Adams State Great Story.”
Y DAD PUNCHED COWS FOR BILLY ADAMS.”
English professor has shown constant loyalty to his alma mater, earning him the 2011 Billy Adams Award, to be presented at Homecoming, Sept. 30. “Don represents the ideals of Billy Adams by championing the value of a college in rural southern Colorado,” said Director of Alumni Relations Lori Laske ’91, ’01. “Adams State is part of me,” Stegman said. “I’m still involved with sports, the theatre, music, and cultural events.” He’s active with the ASC Alumni Association, not only attending local reunions, but also serving as an ambassador for the Alumni Office at out-oftown gatherings. At the recent ASC Athletics Hall of Fame dinner, Stegman had the honor of presenting the medal to inductee Jim Colbert ’61, ‘65, a former classmate. “I hadn’t seen Jim since 1965, but we still feel close. That pride and good feelings have stayed with us.” Stegman has been a consistent financial supporter of the Grizzly Club and the alumni scholarships, and created a scholarship in memory of his late wife, Joyce Stegman ’77, who died in 2005. “Don’s relationship with Adams State goes back more than 50 years,” noted Adams State President David Svaldi. “He was instrumental in bring-
- Don Stegman ‘61, ‘64 2011 Billy Adams Award recipient ASC has a special place in the life of Don
That story started the day Stegman, Stegman ‘61, ‘64. a “farm boy” and recent graduate of most enjoyed teaching expository writMonte Vista High School, declared, ing, as well as working with theatre “I’ve got to go to a bigger town.” But productions. “I am so proud of ASC’s his boss at Kelloff ’s Market, Ralph theatre program. It’s right up there with Mann, handed him a fifty-dollar bill Creede Repertory Theatre. I can’t beand said: “Try college.” In 1957, that lieve how wonderful the new theatre $50 covered one quarter’s tuition at building is—it was a long time comAdams State. So Stegman enrolled and ing,” he said. was “hooked.” He would become the Laske noted, “Don has assisted first in his family to earn a college dethousands of students as a professor, gree. and helped many of our alumni to go Stegman recalls when the Student on to successful careers. He still keeps Union Veterans Memorial was opened in contact with many of those students. in 1957. “Those were exciting times. He went above and beyond for ASC We had big bands in the ballroom, and and still does in retirement.” a bowling alley.” By Julie Waechter Stegman’s mentors as a student and eventual faculty colleague were don stegman on paper Don Brooks and 1957 • Enrolls at ASC Budge Threlkeld. 1961 • Earns B.A. in English/Speech/Theatre at ASC “They took me • Begins teaching public school in Kansas under their wings. 1964 • Completes M.A. in speech/theatre, They helped me English/education at ASC to be a good class• Joins English Dept. faculty room teacher, and 1967 • Doctoral work in linguistics & writing I emulated them. 1981 • Publishes Clarity in English Grammar They had great Instruction text book enthusiasm and 1993 • Begins transitional retirement from ASC knowledge of the 1996 • Publishes Mostly Marvelous - An Overview subject matter.” and Oral History of Adams State College As a professor, 1966-1981 Stegman said he
Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 23
The Chemistry of Success Jones’ career in nuclear science was ignited at ASC
Born in a log cabin
in Hooper, Colo., Tom Jones ‘52 devoted his career to assuring his country’s security. He retired in 1991 after 31 years with the Atomic Energy Commission, having served for a time as Director of U.S. Nuclear Weapons Production. In recognition of his professional accomplishments, he will be honored as the 2011 Outstanding Alumnus at the Homecoming Banquet on Sept. 30. (See schedule page 22.) Jones exhibited a thirst for knowledge and love of science early on. He tells his story below: “I was impressed with my two older brothers, who knew how to do everything and were willing to show me the tricks of their trade. But my brothers wouldn’t take me to school; reportedly I once said ‘You won’t let me go to school till I’m ready to go to high school.’ “Finally, in 1936, they let me go to school, and I met Bud Carson, who became a lifelong best friend. In the 7th or 8th
“M
“In 1952, I graduated with a degree in chemistry and biology and took my first job with the DOW Chemical Company at the Rocky Flats Plant outside Denver. I underwent training at Oak Ridge, Tenn., and had no sooner returned to Denver when Uncle Sam decided more troops were needed in Korea. I was sent back to the south for Army basic training at Camp Rucker, Ala. The remainder of my service was spent at Ft. Benning, Ga., as a medic working with doctors who were no great shakes in art or history either. “After returning to the Rocky Flats Plant, as a chemist, I asked out Joanne Robinson, the secretary to the plant’s chief accounting officer, when she handed me a paycheck. We married on October 27, 1956, and went on to have three children, Robin (Scott) Stubenhofer, Valerie, Scott, and three grandchildren: Beth, Alex, and Sam Stubenhofer. “I received a master’s degree at Colorado University and was hired by the Atomic Energy Commission in Albuquerque, N.M., in 1960. From this headquarters I visited plants and laboratories to learn all about weapon production processes in detail, in order to render a critical evaluation of material accounting programs. With this experience I chose a career field of great interest – in the design and production programs for delivery of nuclear weapons to meet the needs of the United States military. Beginning in 1963, I held the positions of nuclear program engineer responsible for plutonium, development engineer for anti-ballistic missile nuclear warheads, assistant manager for operations at the Rocky Flats Plant, manager at the Pantex Plant in Amarillo, Texas; and in
Y PROFESSION IS ABOUT AS POSITIVE AS YOU CAN GET – THE RUSSIANS WERE NOT KIDDING.” grade, I had a teacher who was very good at teaching science – made it fun. In high school the superintendent taught chemistry, and I thought that was even more fun than science. “After competing on the school sports teams and completing the required course of study, I graduated from high school and entered Adams State in 1948. My next oldest brother spoke highly of the Chemistry Department and Dr. Thompson, professor of chemistry. I wanted to be a medical doctor like my grandfather, and also took biology with Dr. James H. Craft, emeritus professor of biology. He was a magnificent teacher, just like the rest. My junior year I took the medical school entrance exam but was not accepted, because ‘you don’t know enough about art and history, even though you scored very near the top in the scientific disciplines.’ I never understood what ‘art and history’ added to a physician’s capabilities.
24 |
alumnews
Tom Jones declassified Interview by Linda Relyea ‘96 Q: What is a little known fact most people don’t know about you? TJ: My entire working career! Q: Which accomplishments are you most proud of? TJ: There were a number, but I can’t talk about them, because of security. On one of the last jobs I had clearance just under the United States President. Throughout my career, my friends, family, and neighbors were interviewed by the FBI to ensure I kept silent about my work. Q: Who do you admire ? TJ: Herman Roser, manager of the Albuquerque Atomic Energy Commission, and Harold Agnew, Director of the Los Alamos Laboratory, who flew in the plane that dropped the first atomic weapon.
Though his work is still top secret, the 2011 Outstanding Alumnus Tom Jones ‘52 is proud to have been a nuclear scientist for the U.S.
1974 – during the ten-year peak of the Cold War – was appointed director of U.S. Nuclear Weapons Production. “Later, I became assistant manager in areas of safety (workers, facilities, and nuclear) and security. When President Reagan established the highpriority Strategic Defense Initiative, I was assigned to manage these programs for the Albuquerque Office and develop a strategic plan for the weapon system. An additional high priority effort assignment was to improve the emergency response capabilities in the plants and laboratories, to include nuclear weapon accident response. This resulted in a Washington appointment to identify and assemble an emergency management team of National Laboratory and Department of Energy professionals at Cape Canaveral for the launch of the Ulysses and Galileo space probes, which contained radio isotopic generators, on the space shuttle. “In 1990, the time seemed right to retire. Joanne and I visited our children and toured Europe, the first of many trips all over the world.” Tom & Joanne Jones live in Albuquerque, N.M., and regularly attend local alumni events.
Q: Do you wish you had chosen a more positive career? TJ: No, my profession is about as positive as you can get – the Russians were not kidding. Q: Are you pro-nuclear power? TJ: Nuclear power is a good idea; it isn’t any more dangerous than other energy sources. Look how many are killed in coal mining. The benefits so outweigh the potential problems, it’s not worth worrying about. Q: What was your first car? TJ: My brothers and I shared a ‘37 Ford Coupe. Q: What is your favorite pair of shoes? TJ: The loafers I am wearing (black); they are excellent quality. I bought them 20 years ago. Q: What goals remain for you? TJ: Researching the Jones and Meyer family genealogy; I am the president of the Albuquerque Genealogy Society. Q: What concerns you in the world today? TJ: I always have concerns, but am not sure of answers. I am not a liberal by any stretch. Q: What is your last ASC memory? TJ: I believe I was one of the last people to visit Dr. Craft when he was in the hospital. Years after my graduation he told me, “I always knew you’d turn out well.” Q: What would you say to your college self, now, if you could? TJ: Work harder; don’t go to so many movies. Q: Have you ever dyed your hair or been tattooed? TJ: NO.
Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 25
L earni ng and Cari ng Trujillo continues her journey Denise Trujillo ’07 is not one to rest on her laurels. In fact, the magnitude of her recent career and education achievements did not really register until she received a call from Alumni Relations Director Lori Laske ’91, ’01, telling her she’d been selected as ASC’s 2011 Exceptional New Alumna. She will accept the award at the Homecoming Banquet, Sept. 30. (See schedule page 22.) “I literally had to pull over – I was so overwhelmed; I was crying,” Trujillo recalled. “It’s been such a good year. I honestly never, ever thought I’d be where I am today. I feel so honored to receive this award.” A nurse for many years, Trujillo wasted no time in enrolling in Adams State’s RN-BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) degree completion program when it began in 2005. BSN in hand, she then launched into Regis University’s online Master of Science in Nursing Leadership, which she completed in May. She’s just begun Regis’ nurse practitioner program. In January she was named Director of Nursing at Valley-Wide Health Systems in Alamosa. Trujillo advanced herself – and finished her MSN with a 4.0 GPA – while con-
26 |
alumnews
Completing her BSN gave Denise Trujillo ‘07 (left) the qualifications to assume the position of Director of Nursing at Valley-Wide Health Systems. She oversees 40 nurses in the organization’s nine clinics.
“I
HONESTLY NEVER, EVER THOUGHT I’D BE WHERE I AM TODAY.”
tinuing to work fulltime and raise her son, now 15. “It was really hard to do, but I was determined. I needed to know I was smart enough,” she said. “I would freak out if I got a 98 – and I never used to be that way about grades.” Trujillo was recently inducted into the Alpha Kappa Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, the nursing honor society.
asc’s bsn program a catalyst Waiting in line to receive her MSN diploma in Denver, she had a moment to reflect on her accomplishments. “I was thinking about my son, staying up until 5 in the morning studying, being here with these younger kids who have so much opportunity. . . “I am so grateful that ASC began the BSN program – it kicked me off. In a rural area there are not a lot of opportunities to grow. I wouldn’t have been able to do any of this without the BSN,” said Trujillo, She was nominated for the alumni award by ASC Director of Nursing Amanda Jojola and the entire nursing faculty. “What truly makes Denise deserving of this award is her caring and giving heart,” Jojola said. “Denise is a San Luis Valley native and seeks every opportunity to give back to her community. She has donated so much of her time and energy to help our nursing department succeed.” Trujillo and other ASC nursing alumni also made a positive impression with the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education’s evaluation team
Denise Trujillo ‘07 2011 Exceptional New Alumna
when it conducted an accreditation thrive if you can make positive changes. visit of the program in January. We have a great team. “They were very impressed that so “My expectation is that you respect many of us had gone on with our edueveryone you encounter, treat everyone cation. That is because a certain person with dignity and fairness. If you can’t set that tone for us: Amanda Jojola,” do that, I say, maybe you’re in the Trujillo said. “I want to walk in her wrong profession.” footsteps. She set the example to say Among the changes she’s imple‘You can advance in your education.’ mented already at Valley-Wide is a Her standard is high. I really appreciate quarterly Competency Skills Fair and that. It shows in the nursing faculty.” other training to advance the skills of In turn, Trujillo is finding she’s also nurses and medical assistants. She also becoming a role model by conveying hopes to restructure staffing so that the importance of education to her each clinic has a lead clinical nurse, a staff. Recently a clinic nurse in Dumeasure she believes will improve comrango told her: “I feel so inspired by munication and patient flow. your story.” “I have so much ahead of me,” “That made my day,” Trujillo said. Trujillo said. “I have really done a lot of The value of advanced education is good things in my life, but I’m not clear to Trujillo. “I learned so much. I done yet.” can walk the talk of health care ecoBy Julie Waechter nomics. My master’s gave me more understanding of how things really process, why things are, and how denise trujillo on paper they should be. I can offer professional memberships input, instead of just agree• Alpha Kappa Chapter at Large Sigma Theta Tau ing.”
leading for change She also appreciates the support of Dr. Richard Velasquez, Valley-Wide’s medical director. “He gave me the opportunity to grow with the organization as it changes. This organization has been really supportive of changes in staff roles, unit structuring, and continuing education. Your staff will
• ASC Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society of Nursing • National Association of Hispanic Nurses • Emergency Nurses Association • Society of Pediatric Nursing • Regional Trauma Advisory Council
volunteer service • Valley Wide Health Services’ Migrant Outreach Program • Colorado State Patrol’s Don’t Drink and Drive School Awareness • Habitat for Humanity • Tu Casa sexual assault awareness outreach
Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 27
alumnotes 1940s Vera Carolyn Sprouse Snyder `47, `71 (Littleton, CO) has taught elementary school in impoverished schools throughout her career. She was named a Denver Public School Teacher of the Year in 1975. After they retired, Vera and her husband, Gene, founded a preschool, The Children’s Learning Center. They were named Englewood, Colorado, Citizens of the Year in 2002. She has recently published Surviving the Simple Life.
1950s Lee Albright `51 (Victoria, TX) married Jacqueline Mauney of Trinidad in his junior year at Adams. He taught school as a teaching principal in the Mt. Pleasant School before graduating. He was employed in the Technical Division of the DuPont Company in 1951 and retired as laboratory supervisor on April 30, 1985. He and his wife have 3 children: Michael, who was killed in 1979 at the age of 26; Robin, who retired after 30 years as a teacher; and LeAnn, who is a licensed hair stylist. Lee was very active in the community, including a service record of 47 years with the American Red Cross. He is very appreciative of the rounded educational training he received at Adams State College, which became his background for a full life.
1960s Lavoy McCorkle `60, `62 (Lamar, CO) is retired from teaching and still resides in Lamar with his wife, Bessy. They spend much of their time visiting their children and grandchildren in Colorado Springs and beyond. Lavoy spends most of his time on the golf course, but is active in the local community college, as well as a proud booster of Adams State. Fred Sims `61 (Hayward, CA) worked for Sylvania Electronics from 1965-67, then went to Chabot College, where he worked for 35 years. He retired in 2003. He has been married for 48 years. Roger Gunlikson `62 (Ft. Collins, CO) retired in 2006 from banking and now volunteers in Rocky Mountain National Park and at the Denver International Airport. Ruth Ann (Patterson Hagar) Glover `64 (Deming, NM) taught in North Dakota and New Mexico before retiring after 28 years
28 |
alumnotes
from Seattle Public Schools. She now volunteers with the Home Delivered Meals program when not traveling the world. She would love to hear from former classmates at cuwalkn@msn.com. James Deutsch `65 (Parker, CO) retired from education after 32 years. He now works parttime in his small photography business and travels with his wife, Beverly. Joyce Crisp `67 (Denver, CO) taught school for several years in the Arkansas Valley and then helped her husband with his business. She then became a librarian with the city and county of Denver for 26 years. She retired last year and is now trying to catch up on projects. Antonio Esquibel `67 (Denver, CO) has taken an active part in 31 years of Metro State history. Arriving at Metro State in 1980, Esquibel was vice president for student affairs for 11 years. He then taught Spanish and Chicano studies courses for 9 more years, retiring in 2000. In 2007, Gov. Bill Ritter appointed him to Metro’s Board of Trustees. His plans include writing his memoirs and spending time with his family. In addition to his service to Metro State, Esquibel has been director of the Learning Centers of the Latin American Research and Service Agency (LARASA) and of Rocky Mountain SER’s Head Start program. He also has contributed his time on numerous boards, including La Escuela Tlateloco (as chair), Denver Public Schools Hispanic Educational Advisory Council, and the Colorado Minority Engineering Association. Among the many awards Esquibel has received is the Cesar Chavez Award for Outstanding Leadership, for a lifetime of contributions to the Latino community in Colorado.
1970s Frank DeLeon `70 (Littleton, CO) says he travels, travels, golfs, golfs, and swims. His body parts have been repaired and replaced. Bruce Meller `71 (San Antonio, TX) writes, “During my 26 years of coaching and teaching, we won 1 state title in baseball as head coach and went to state quarter-finals in basketball as head coach 3
times. I received my MA from Webster University in 1991 in the field of HRD. In 1990 I married my beautiful wife, who is the best thing that ever happened to me.” Karen Bowman `72 (Anderson, MO) is happy on 4 quiet, country acres in a home built for her. She enjoys working on her home, arts and crafts, etc. She says she donated all her theatre books to the county high school because they had none. Chuck `73 and Margie `73 Eaton (Wichita, KS) have 2 girls who both went to college and 5 grandkids (3 boys and 2 girls). Margie is a member of the Kansas Association of School Librarians and loves to teach and help students learn. James “Jimmy” Martinez `73 (Colorado Springs, CO) recently retired after 32 years of dedicated service with the State of Colorado, Division of Behavioral Health and the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division. As the treatment field manager, he traveled extensively throughout Colorado, accrediting both substance abuse and mental health facilities. He and his wife, Sharon, RNC, who will continue her nursing career with the El Paso County Department of Health and Environment, plan to travel and do volunteer work. Jerry Sellars `73 (Guernsey, WY), the vocal music instructor at Guernsey-Sunrise for the past 14 years, will complete a career that spans 38 years in five communities in Wyoming and several surrounding states. He took his first teaching job in Truth or Consequences, NM, where he taught for three years. He moved on to Alamosa for the next two years and then spent 16 years in Rawlins, WY. After three years at Pinedale, Jerry moved his family to Guernsey, where he has been a substantial motivator for a number of students who have continued their vocal music careers beyond high school. Jerry and his wife, Sarah, have 5 daughters: Heather Gillardo, Tara Sellars, Jackie Craig, Rebecca Toll, and Molly Sellars. Jerry says his wife and daughters are the greatest blessings in his life.
Peggy Bland `76, `81 (Holly, CO) retired in 2010 after teaching elementary students for 34 years. She retired after ten years with the Lamar School District. Mary Campe `76 (Lakewood, CO) has had one of her recipes published in the Taste of Home 2011 Comfort Food Diet Cookbook. In March 2011 she volunteered at the “Beautiful Junk” sale to support the Jeffco Action Center (food and clothing bank) in Lakewood. In May, she helped out at the Kidney Walk in Denver, as she only has one kidney. John VanTassel `76, `85 (Colorado Springs, CO) taught and coached for 33 years in Delta, CO, and was the assistant basketball coach at Mesa College. He taught in Rifle, CO, and for the last 24 years at Air Academy High School in Colorado Springs. He is now retired and selling insurance for United Insurance Group in southern Colorado. James Abernathy `77 (Lamar, CO) taught in Lamar for 30 years, retiring in 2002. He then worked for Safeway until 2009. He has been married to wife, Cheryl, for 42 years. They have 3 married children and 8 grandkids. He does volunteer work and travels occasionally. Thomas Roman `77 (Winnemucca, NV) is a senior geologist II for Newmont Mining Corporation. His wife, Shirley (Beck) Roman `77, teaches elementary P.E. at the Winnemucca Grammar School. Both of their children are grown and out of the house. Son, Gregory, earned a Ph.D. in analytical chemistry and works for a medical instrument company in Massachusetts. Daughter, Audrey, is in her 3rd year of a Ph.D. program in nuclear chemistry at UNLV. Tom very fondly remembers their days at ASC. “Shirley Sue
worked at the Hamburger Inn, which was right across the street from the old science building. I would go over there after labs, at the end of her shift just before it closed. They would pay Shirley out of the till and with her pockets full of quarters from the tips she had earned, we would walk directly down to the Purple Pig Pub and spend it. Those were indeed the best days of our lives!” They celebrated 33 years of marriage July. They say, “All is well and we miss the land of cool sunshine!” Mary Butero `78 (Aguilar, CO) retired in 2002 from Boyd Elementary in Alamosa. She has 2 children, 4 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren.
1980s Donna Hoover `84 (Rush, CO) retired and is still subbing at K-12 for the 18th year. She and her husband celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in April.
great stories
Karen (Ehmke) Greening `88 (Thornton, CO) has two wonderful boys. Brad followed in her footsteps and is a theater major at Adams State. Connor will be starting college at UNC next year. She writes, “I have been teaching special education and drama for 15 years. I’m always busy, but I love it. I miss everyone from the ‘80s at ASC and would love to catch up. Please email me at Karen.Greening@adams.12.org.” Becky `89 and Pat `90 Steenburg live in Waverly, CO, with daughters Kyle Ann, 15, Erika, 13, and son Raymond, 6. Becky is active at Alamosa Christian Reformed Church in a praise band and works as a substitute teacher. Pat is the City of Alamosa supervisor of engineering.
1990s Pam Fagerlund `90 (Flagler, CO) has been inducted into the CHSCA Hall of Fame. She is the first coach inducted from Flagler and Kit Carson County. She has coached at Flagler for 29 years as a high school volleyball and junior high volleyball and track coach. She has
Shirley Atencio `78, `91 (Center, CO) was named San Luis Valley Teacher of the Year. She is a language and literacy teacher who has taught in the Center School District for 33 years. She also received a Congressional Award from Congressman Scott Tipton, who recognized Atencio on the House floor April 5. He said her leadership within the community was an important part of the area’s success. Other alumnae nominated for SLV Teacher of the Year, who won the award at their respective schools, include: Marie Renner ‘84 (Manassa, CO), 2nd grade teacher at Manassa Elementary, has taught in the North Conejos School District for 26 years. Jenene Holcomb ‘89, ‘94 (Alamosa, CO) has been the director and instructor of the preschool in the Sangre de Cristo School District for the last five years. She also directs the district’s music program, which was due to be cut, but Holcomb volunteered her services so it could continue. Deb Skadberg ‘90 (Saguache, CO) teaches social studies and reading,
grades K-8, and coordinates the gifted and talented program at Mountain Valley School District. Myra Manzanares ‘93, ‘01 (Alamosa, CO) has taught first grade at Polston Elementary for the last six years. Julie Faucett ‘03 (Alamosa, CO) teaches early childhood special education from birth to age 3 for SLV BOCES. Annette Bernal ‘07, ‘09 (Alamosa, CO) has taught junior high science and math at Centennial School for the last five years.
Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 29
alumnotes 1990s been married to her husband, Randy, for 34 years and has 2 children: Sheryl, 26, and Daniel, 23. Cleta Hiner-Felzien `90 (Limon, CO) is proud to say her son, William, graduated from Limon High School this spring. Deborah Hofsetz `93 (Morrison, CO) works at an elementary school in Edgewater, CO. David `95 and Joanie (Thacker) `96 Chapman live in Colorado Springs with their 2 boys. They are both teachers in Falcon School District. Both boys play baseball, so when they are not in school, they are at a baseball game. Nathan Lucero `95 (Thornton, CO) is wrapping up his tenure as president of the Adams/Broomfield Bar Association and still works for the Adams County Attorney’s Office. He was chosen as a Bar Fellow this year as well. His wife, Carol Nelson-Lucero `97, was recently promoted to master police officer with the Broomfield Police Department and became one of 237 individuals nationwide to earn Certified Jail Operator designation through the American Jail Association. Andy `96 and Tonya `98 Fisher live and teach in Cañon City, CO. Andy is the high school drama teacher, and Tonya teaches Title I math. They have 2 beautiful and active daughters: Atalia, 6, and Taiya, 2. Paul Gabaldon ‘97 (Prescott, AZ,) received the 2011 Project LEARN Administrator of the Year Award for Arizona. Project LEARN (Literacy Education and Resource Network) was established by the Arizona Supreme Court in 1987 to address one of the sociological roots of crime and delinquency – the inability to read and write. Paul is now detention manager with Yavapai County Juvenile Court Center, where he has worked since graduating with a degree in sociology/criminology, social welfare. He also served as a detention officer, probation officer, and intensive probation officer. Kay Henry Bartlett `98 (Paonia, CO) was appointed to a 4-year term on the Domestic Violence Offender Management Board in January and will also serve on the Application Review
30 |
alumnotes
Committee. She says, “This says a lot for ASC's master's program in counseling!” Scott Riley `98 (Englewood, CO) is working at Rampart High School in Colorado Springs. His wife, Lindsay `98, is a senior financial analyst at Xcel Energy. Tom Bruscino `99 (Lansing, KS) is excited about the success of his book, A Nation Forged in War, and was recently promoted to associate professor at the School of Advanced Military Studies in Ft. Leavenworth. He and his wife, Terrie `99, are truly enjoying life with their 3 children: Dominic, 7; Anthony, 5; and Mari, 3.
2000s James Lander ’02 (Pueblo, CO) is a counselor and supervisor with the Colorado Department of Corrections in Cañon City, CO. He has been employed with the DOC for 10 years. He is married with 2 kids, ages 15 and 19. Dakota Edwards-Hoffmann `03 (Colorado Springs, CO) is a stay-at-home mom after serving in the United States Army. Her husband, Rick, is a 15-year veteran of the Colorado State Patrol. They have a 4-year-old son, Brady. Alia Willson `03 is an Arizona native, born and raised in Flagstaff. After staying up late producing the 9 p.m. news for the FOX station in Rapid City, S.D. for the past two years, she is now shifting her schedule and working as a morning producer at FOX21. She is very excited about being back in the state of Colorado, and when she has spare time she loves to surround herself with family, friends, and pets. She enjoys spending time in the kitchen cooking, dance and theater, and of course enjoying all the outdoor activities that the state has to offer. Christopher Cross `04 (Ft. Lupton, CO) and his wife, Jessica, are the proud parents of Christopher David Cross, 5 months. Chris is a career firefighter with Fort Lupton Fire Department and is active as a city council member. Michael Chrisman `04 (Pueblo, CO) was ordained to the priesthood on June 10 at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Pueblo. He entered St. Meinrad Seminary in southern Indiana in the fall of 2005, going on to earn a Master of Arts in Catholic Thought and Life and later a Master of Divinity. He was given
pastoral assignments within the diocese at Christ the King Parish in Pueblo and in the San Juan Catholic Community in the San Luis Valley and then ordained a deacon for the Diocese of Pueblo in June of 2010. Justin `05 and Tashina `03 Garrett (Denver, CO) were blessed with Ozias Joseph Garrett last July. Justin is a regulatory specialist with Noble Energy, and Tashina is a foster care case manager with Savio House. Dustin Richardson `05 (Tucson, AZ) in 2010, was promoted to solutions development/ quality data analyst at Ascension Health Information Services/Carondelet Health Network. He has been with CHN since June 2007. He plans to complete his Masters of Public Administration and Policy Analysis in August 2011 and then pursue a Ph.D. in Public Health/Epidemiology. Erick Finnestead `06 (Erie, CO) will be the new principal of Silver Creek High School in the St. Vrain Valley School District. He previously served as an assistant principal at Summit High School in Breckenridge. Amy Larson `06 (Sanford, CO) and her husband, Lucas, welcomed their 3rd child at the end of May. They enjoy living in the San Luis Valley. Lucas owns his own mechanic shop in Sanford. Amy is enjoying being a stay-at-home mom and wife. She hopes one day to open a community/family theatre. Kyle Hurley `08 (Pleasant Hill, CA) earned an MBA in finance at Gonzaga University and is now a credit union examiner for the federal government. She writes, “I am blessed to have found such a great job in this everchanging economy.” Sarah Sandstrom `10 (Pueblo, CO) has been a music teacher for 10 years at James Madison, grades K-6. She is counseling in addition to teaching. She is married with a 5-year-old son.
alumni notices asc cares day
Show you care ASC Cares Day invites alumni to join students in a day of community service, Saturday, Sept. 24. A special BLM project will bring alumni and students together to benefit the environment. Volunteers will depart from the new North Campus Green at a designated start time and return to campus to join others for food and festivities. Alumni unable to attend the local event are encouraged to embrace the spirit of ASC Cares by finding a way to volunteer within their local community on that day, and then share those experiences on the ASC facebook page. For more information and to sign up, please go to: asccares.adams.edu.
1st generation students need mentors If you were the first in your family to finish college, you can probably relate to the challenges that face incoming first-generation students. Some are poorly prepared academically, others have financial issues, and others don’t fully understand college expectations. More than 30 percent of new freshmen at ASC are first-generation. ASC’s new EPIC program – Engage, Persist, Innovate, and Celebrate – is addressing the issues of first-generation students though a $100,000, two-year grant from the Institute of Higher Education Policy and the Wal-Mart Foundation’s Minority Success Initiative. An important component of this faculty-led initiative is mentoring by faculty and first-generation alumni. Mentors can help first-generation students overcome the isolation and confusion of the freshman experience and recognize that they indeed belong at Adams State. Having successfully navigated the college path, mentors can serve as role models. The EPIC program seeks compassionate, firstgeneration alumni in the San Luis Valley region to help the next cohort of firstgeneration students. For more information, contact Lori Laske at: lllaske@adams.edu, or at 719-587-7867.
in memory Doris Hall Dragich ’42 (Longview, WA) passed away March 13 at the age of 90. Frances “Billie” Stong ’44, ’45 (Alamosa, CO) passed away May 8 at the age of 87. She was one of the first to earn a master’s degree from ASC. Among her survivors is her husband, Paul Stong ’47; son, David Stong ’80; daughters Patricia Relyea ’71, ’72, Paula Parsons ’84, Margaret Stong ’77, ’89; granddaughter Sarah Ramirez ’04, and grandson Matthew Relyea ’04, ’06.
Kahler ’11. The McGees founded the Jimmy McGee Memorial Scholarship at ASC for music majors in 1990. The fund was recently renamed the Ray, Ruth, and Jimmy McGee Scholarship. James Ballotti ’51 (Bonita Springs, FL) passed away May 9 at the age of 86. Among his survivors is his brother, Ernest Ballotti '50, '62. Don Zeigler ’52, ’68 (Ft. Collins, CO) passed away April 30 at the age of 81.
Robert Morris ’46 (Lewiston, ID) passed away April 20 at the age of 89. Among his survivors is his wife, Genevieve Morris ’45.
William Wright ’56 (San Diego, CA) passed away March 5 at the age of 79.
Ralph Berryman ’47 (Grand Junction, CO) passed away March 20 at the age of 89. Among his survivors is his wife, Eleanor Berryman ’48.
Yvonne Wick ’58, ’60 (Colorado Springs, CO) passed away March 17 at the age of 87. Among her survivors are her son, Roland Wick, Jr. ’69, ’70, ’84, and daughter-in-law, Maryann Wick ’70.
Robert Copeland ’49 (Colorado Springs, CO) passed away April 2 at the age of 85. Among his survivors is his wife, Peggy Copeland ’50. He was an emeritus board member for the Adams State College Foundation. Joseph Roman ’49 (St. Paul, MN) passed away Oct. 27, 2010, at the age of 82. Ray McGee ’50 (Denver, CO) passed away Jan. 9 at the age of 87. Among his survivors are his wife Ruth McGee ’50, daughter Raylene Kahler ’77, and granddaughter Leslie
Barbara Olsen ’60 (Cortez, CO) passed away Dec. 8, 2010, at the age of 73. James Seese ’65 (Tucson, AZ) passed away April 1 at the age of 68. Among his survivors are his wife, Patricia Seese ’63, ’87; daughter, Jamie Zene ’95; and son-in-law, Matt Zene ’91, ’94. Herbert Toogood ’66 (Alamosa, CO) passed away May 25 at the age of 69.
Kenneth Huser ’67 (Salina, KS) passed away Dec. 25, 2010, at the age of 66. Donna Edwards ’69 (Seattle, WA) passed away Feb. 14 at the age of 64. Among her survivors is her sister, Verla Edwards Trani ’73. Michael Putnam ’69, ’72 (Durango, CO) passed away May 11 at the age of 65. Among his survivors is his wife, Gay Putnam ’71. Fabiola Sanford ’73 (Evans, CO) passed away Dec. 14, 2010, at the age of 76. Robert Colwell ’83 (Missouri Valley, IA) passed away Oct. 26, 2010, at the age of 58. Deborah Getz Heersink ’89 (Del Norte, CO) passed away March 27 at the age of 45. Kari Kincannon ’89 (Golden, CO) passed away March 1 at the age of 43.
friends Keats Raymond McKinney (Denver, CO), former Dean of ASC from 1953-64, passed away Dec. 16, 2010, at the age of 99. Alice Shipp (Cañon City, CO), employee of ASC from 1961-87, passed away Jan. 1 at the age of 83. Among her survivors are her daughter AJ Grande ’71, son-in-law Walt “Skip” Grande ’68, grandson Joe Grande ’98, and granddaughter-in-law Steffani Grande ’98. Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 31
Front L-R: Jenna Neilsen, Michael Patritch and Karol Ann Krakauer, Karen Greening, Becky and Kyle Ann Steenburg, Denim and Svea Baxman. Back L-R: Mark and Dessa Baxman, Paul Newman, Jim Willis, Don Stegman, Karen Bowman, and John Taylor.
asc theatre reunion • may 6-7
granada breakfast • april 9 L-R: Lori Laske, Jim and Cheryl Abernathy, Stan and Mona Brinkley, Susie Mitchell, Lavoy and Bessy McCorkle, Kathy and Ken Anderson, and Peggy Bland.
albuquerque breakfast • march 12 L-R: Jasper and Janet Mangum, Dale Kerby, Sheryl and Wayne Farley, Bonita and Dean Tooley, Lori Laske, Deborah and Geoff Bokan, Tom and Joanne Jones, and Otto Stangl.
32 |
scrapbook
colorado springs - sky sox • april 23 Top L-R: Miles “Mick” Reiher, Dennis and Jeannine Zaiger, Sheryl and Joe Pyle. Bottom L-R: Jane Clodfelter, Stan Brinkley, Tom and Connie Goodwin
la junta luncheon • april 9
Front L-R: Darlene Derbigny, Lori Laske, and Janet Lowther. Back L-R: Arthur Derbigny, Jake Martinez, Bill and Phyllis Sinclair, and Willis Lowther.
Front L-R: Tashina and Ozias Garrett, Ruth McGee, Mary Campe, Joyce Crisp, Angelica Lopez, and Lori Laske.
denver social • april 22
Back L-R: Justin Garrett, Jo Kissinger, Frank DeLeon, Raylene Kahler, Arlina Duran, Barbara Roberts, Obed Jiron, Robert Eagan and Judy Bruno, Ron Gallegos, and Alfonso Lopez. Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 33
ncaa track & field championship social albuquerque • march 11
walsenburg dinner • april Front L-R: Virginia Archuleta, Bertha Ragsdale, and Jewel Geiger Back L-R: Shirley and Rich Compton, Ione and George Glumac, Loyola Litz, Lori Laske, Dianne Hanisch, Mary Butero, and Georgann Gomez
Top, L-R: Damon Martin, Tim Terrill, and Pablo Vigil Center, L-R: Ron Shepherd, Jim Woodke, Julie & Larry Zaragoza, and Gayl Woodke Bottom L-R: Carla and Mike Garcia, Steve Lucero, and Dayana George
34 |
scrapbook
l9
san francisco breakfast • march 13
L-R: Lori Laske, Carol and Russ Cagle, Noel Hurd, Evan and Caroline Sanchez, Fred and Sheila Sims, Shari and Clyde Steiner, Bernice Martinez, and Sterling Bell
ft. collins candlelight dinner theatre • april 21 L-R: Jerry and Dixie Longman, Connie and Kim Marvel
pueblo dinner • april 8 Front L-R: Ethel Vivoda, Bev Pressey, Bernice Trujillo, Cathie Graeser, Carol Wheeler-Helwig, and Bill Waters. 2nd Row L-R: Jerry & Kathleen Fisher, Mark Vivoda, Maria Clark, S.W. Pressey, Milton Trujillo, Ken Rotolo, Henry Trujillo, Ricardo Martinez, Alison Dominguez, Brenda Trujillo, Ellie Crain, Jane & Bill Pearcy, Shirley and Joe Carter, Lori Laske, Julia Fluke, Sarah and Anthony Sandstrom, and Beth Waters. 3rd Row L-R: Mary Ann Rotolo, Beth Arellano, Kristie Dorwart, Tim Martinez, Dawn and Charles Johnson, Galen Feeback, Gloria Santistevan-Feeback, Karen Steflik, and John VanTassel. Back L-R: Curt and Karen Straub, Ed Vallejo, and Bill Crain. Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 35
now 81 strong
ASC Hall of Fame inducts Cla a total of 35 all-america accolades and 10 individual national titles were earned by the 8 athletes and and coaches inducted into the Adams State Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2011, June 4. This year’s class included Amy Tjaarda, ASC’s first softball player to be inducted; national champion wrestlers Timm McDaniel ‘90 and Rick Willits ‘85, ‘92; multi-time national champion runners Kimberly Bosen ‘02 and Martin Johns ‘92; football player and coach Wayne McGinn ‘82, ‘89; football and baseball standout Jim Colbert ’61, ‘65; and basketball star Frank Duru ‘98. TJAARDA’S 1.1556 slugging percentage from 1993 still stands as the NCAA Div. II record, and her .533 batting average is still the best in RMAC history. Tjaarda played under Hall of Fame coach Suzie Phillips after transferring to Adams from Mesa Community ColASC Hall of Fame Class of 2011: (front, L-R) Kimberly Bosen ‘02, Jim Colbert ’61, ‘65, Timm Mclege in 1991. She earned Daniel ‘90, Rick Willits ‘85, ‘92; (back) Martin Johns ‘92, Amy Tjaarda, Frank Duru ‘98, and NAIA All-America honors Wayne McGinn ‘82, ‘89. in her first season in the WILLITS holds the ASC career record with 82 reversals. Green & White, then put together one of the greatest seaHe earned all-America wrestling accolades at 142 pounds in sons in ASC and RMAC history as a senior in 1993. She hit 1983 and was crowned the NAIA champ at 150 pounds in 16 homers and tallied 72 RBIs to garner RMAC Player of 1985. Willits racked up three RMAC individual titles in the Year honors. Tjaarda is also a member of the City of 1982, ’83 and ’85. He was the team MVP and Most InspiraMesa Sports Hall of Fame, and was named to the RMAC tional Award winner in 1985 after coming back from injury All-Century Team in 2009. to set the ASC record for team points in a season: 146. MCDANIEL piled up 83 wins on the wrestling mat in three years at ASC. He garnered his first all-America honors with a Willits was named to the Hall of Fame of his alma mater, Pueblo East High School, where he now teaches, as well as to third-place national finish in 1989, before claiming the the Greater Pueblo Sports Hall of Fame, and was named the NAIA title at 167 pounds in 1990. His individual title also Pueblo Chieftain’s Best Wrestler in Pueblo History in 2009. helped ASC to claim the NAIA team title in 1990 under In 1999, BOSEN set the still-standing RMAC ChampiHall of Fame coach Roger Jehlicka, the last of Adams State’s onships record for the outdoor 5K (17 minutes, 3.9 sec8 team crowns. McDaniel also helped ASC win RMAC onds). During her stellar career as an ASC distance runner, Championships in 1989 and 1990, three Colorado Colleshe earned 12 all-America accolades, took home three indigiate Titles from 1988-90, and put up a 28-6 dual match vidual national titles, and helped the women’s cross country record that included a victory over Notre Dame in 1988. squad to capture back-to-back team titles in 1998 and ’99.
sports scene
36 |
ass of 2011
RMAC Hall of Fame inducts nine ASC X-C teams and one runner
In 1999, Bosen claimed the indoor 5K national crown, and then doubled with wins in both the 5K and 10K at the outdoor national championships. Bosen’s list of honors also includes 10 RMAC individual championships, being one of the few 2-time RMAC cross country individual champions, RMAC Honor Student-Athlete honors in 1999, and league Athlete of the Year recognition for the 2000 indoor track & field season. Before representing his native New Zealand at the 1996 Olympic Games in the 1,500 meter run, JOHNS starred for Adams State as a 15-time NAIA All-American from 198892. Still in possession of the ASC 800 and 1,000-meter school records, he laid claim to five individual indoor national titles during his career and helped lead the men to indoor NAIA titles in 1990 and 1992. In 2009, Johns was named to the RMAC All-Century Track & Field Team. One of the top football players and coaches in ASC history, MCGINN recorded one of just two 1,000-yard rushing seasons in school history (1,001 yards) in 1980 to finish his career as ASC’s all-time leading rusher, with 3,825 yards. Twenty years later, he came back to coach his alma mater. McGinn was a 2-time NAIA All-American running back who set school records for carries in a season (226 in 1979) and a career (835). McGinn served as a student assistant for one year while finishing his degree at Adams State, before heading off to Texas Christian University as a graduate assistant and eventually becoming a long-time assistant and interim head coach at Western State. He returned to the sidelines as head coach for ASC in 2000, winning 35 games in eight seasons, the third most in school history. COLBERT starred in both football and baseball at ASC, then embarked on a four-decade coaching career at Fresno State. On the football field, Colbert was a 1959 and ’60 AllRMAC tight end and wide receiver, and in 1961 was named to the NAIA Little All-American Team. On the baseball diamond, he was a 1961 All-RMAC honoree. DURU excelled in both the classroom and on the court — an offensive and defensive force for the ASC men’s basketball team. On the court, Duru set the NCAA Division II-era school record for career points, bucketing 1,448 from 199498. He also holds school DII-era records for field goals and rebounds, and holds all-time ASC marks for career steals, blocked shots, and free throws made and attempted. In the 1996-97 season, Duru led the RMAC in both rebounding (9.8 per game) and double-doubles (13), and was named to the First Team All-RMAC West. Duru received the RMAC/ Phillips 66 Academic Award as both a junior and senior.
Adams State is now represented by 20 teams and 9 individual athletes and coaches in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Hall of Fame. This year’s induction banquet, held June 24 in Colorado Springs, honored the 1983-89 Adams State men’s cross country teams and ASC running great Sarah (Parkey) Meyer ’00, a 6-time NCAA Division II National Champion and 13-time all-American. ASC Athletics Hall of Famer Dr. Joe Vigil ’53, ’59 coached all men’s teams honored, except for the 1988 team, which was led on an interim basis by current head coach and fellow ASC Hall of Famer Damon Martin’ 87.
men’s x-country – 1983-89 7 RMAC and NAIA team championships 6 RMAC individual champions 5 NAIA individual champions 37 NAIA All-Americans Peter Graham ‘83, ‘86 (RMAC Champ ‘83) Robert Ferguson ‘86, ‘88 (2x, RMAC Champ ‘85) Robbie Hipwood ‘87 (3x, RMAC Champ ‘84; NAIA Champ ‘85) James Seefeldt ‘89 (2x, RMAC Champ ‘86) Rick Robirds ‘90 (3x, RMAC Champ ‘89, NAIA Champ ‘86, ‘87, ‘89) Craig Dickson ‘90 (2x, RMAC Champ ‘87 & ‘88, NAIA Champ ‘89) Dave Cuadrado ‘85(2x) Jerry Arguijo ‘87 Dan Hugill Rick Roybal ‘87 (2x) Dan Jaquez Jack Sperber ‘88 John Thomas Chuck Bartlett Don Fitzgerald ‘89 Patrick Melgares ‘89 (2x) Art Vigil (2x) Marco Ochoa ‘90, ‘92 Dan Maas ‘92 (2x) Chuck Schwartz ‘91, ‘94 Jason Mohr ‘93 Peter Kilbarda Andrew Medina ‘90 In 2006, Sarah (Parkey) Meyer ’00 became the only ASC athlete to be inducted into the NCAA Division II Track & Field Hall of Fame. She led women’s cross country to three NCAA Division II Cross Country team titles from 1997-99.
By Scott Kretzmann • 2000 - National Cross Country Athlete of the Year • 2001 - Colorado NCAA Woman of the Year - Asst. ASC Coach • 2009 - RMAC All-Time Women’s Track & Field team Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 37
Katelyn Lovato
Indira Spence Rebecca Lindquist
grizzly softball had a strong overall 2011 season, with sophomore centerfielder Katelyn Lovato earning first team all-America honors from three different organizations and being named as the RMAC Player of the Year. Freshman Kristen Payne followed in Lovato’s footsteps, nabbing RMAC Freshman of the Year honors, while Lovato’s older sister Jaycee and junior Rebecca Lindquist also earned First Team All-RMAC accolades. Lindquist also picked up Honorable Mention Daktronics All-America plaudits, while her senior sister Sarah broke school pitching records, helping the Grizzlies to a 31-26 overall record and their second RMAC Tournament Championship game appearance in the last four years.
Cassie Mitchell Amanda Hisel
the grizzly men’s lacrosse team had six AllWestern Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association selections in their inaugural season. True freshman Anthony Willner led the team with 83 groundballs and was a First Team All-WILA pick as defensive midfielder/faceoff specialist. Sophomore Kevin Bertrand led the team offensively, Kevin Bertrand scoring 18 goals and 27 total points. He was a Second Team All-WILA pick.
the first-year women’s lacrosse team was led in nearly every statistical category by freshman Amanda Hisel, who tallied 13 goals and 27 groundballs en-route to Second Team All-WILA honors. Freshman attack Robyn Bushman and sophomore co-captain Mackenzie Campbell also picked up second team honors.
38 |
sports scene
ASC Outdoor Track & Field at nationals
get latest results & stats www.ascgrizzlies.com The ASC Grizzlies completed the 2010-11 academic year by placing second in the RMAC Wells/Fargo AllSports Competition Cup standings and fifth in the Learfield Sports Directors Cup. Adams State was the only RMAC school to finish in Learfield’s top ten.
Jonathan Atencio
grizzly men’s golf capped the 2010-11 season by hostLuke Cragg
ing a single-round dual against RMAC rival Mesa State. That competition came on the heels of the Grizzlies’ RMAC Championship effort, where they finished with a season-best 54hole team score of 923. Jonathan Atencio claimed his second career medalist honor, while senior Mic Davis capped his collegiate career with a career-low round of 74.
the grizzly women’s golf team made school
Drew Graham
history by qualifying as a team for NCAA post-season play. The 2010-11 edition of the Grizzlies also smashed the school-record for scoring average and had four of the five best individual seasonlong scoring marks in team history. Senior Kendall Martin led the way, averaging 85.2 strokes per round while setting a new career scoring record (86.5). True freshman Kyra Garrison set the program’s new freshman record of 85.9.
Women’s Golf & Coach Jay Meyer
outdoor track & field Senior Cassie Mitchell won the NCAA Division II National Championship in the 3,000-meter steeplechase, while junior Indira Spence turned in three top 3 performances at the national meet, helping the Grizzly women to a strong third place finish in the team standings. The Grizzlies had earlier won an eighth straight RMAC team title, as Mitchell, Spence — named as the RMAC’s Co-Track Athlete of the Year — and fellow Jamaican KayMarie Jones were all double-winners. Jones also holds the RMAC Championship and schoolrecords in the 400-meter hurdles. Spence successfully defended her own Jamaican Senior National title and is on track to possibly earn a berth to represent her nation in this fall’s IAAF World Championships. Englishmen Luke Cragg and Drew Graham each won individual national titles as they led the Grizzly men to a runner-up finish at the NCAA Division II National Outdoor Track & Field Championships. Cragg won the 5,000 meter title, while Graham claimed victory in the 1,500 meters, just fractions of a second ahead of teammate Ryan McNiff. The Grizzlies claimed the RMAC team title as senior James Douglas earned “Fastest Man in the RMAC” and Athlete of the Meet honors after winning both the 100-meter dash and long jump events, while placing amongst the top 4 in three others events.
Summer 2011 | A-Stater | 39
non-profit u.s. postage
paid
ADAMS STATE COLLEGE C
O
L
O
R
A
D
O
SM
Great Stories Begin Here
A-Stater Adams State College Alamosa, CO 81102
Renovation and expansion of the Music Building is well underway, as is the renovation of McDaniel Hall (ES building).
permit no. 80 alamosa, co