A
Stater
the magazine of adams state university
summer 2012
Our Great Story just got better.
alumni award winners
2 halls of fame
new athletics projects
A
Stater
VOL. 52, NO. 2 • SUMMER 2012
Published by Adams State University adams state university • alamosa, co 81101 719.587.7011 • 800.824.6494 www.adams.edu • e-mail: alumni@adams.edu online edition: www.adams.edu/alumni/astater/ EDITOR & DESIGNER Julie Waechter
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Linda Relyea ’96
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Chris Day • Gaylene Horning ’94 Scott Kretzmann • Kellicia Morse ’14 Mariah Pepe ’15 • James Trujillo ’02 • Kyle Zarn
PRESIDENT OF THE UNIVERSITY Dr. David Svaldi
BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY Steve Valdez ’87 Chair Mary Griffin, Vice Chair Liane “Buffie” McFadyen ’91, ’93 • Ann Rice Arnold Salazar ’75 • Charles Scoggin, M.D. Val Vigil ’71 • 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 Kasey Russell ’03 President Liz Tabeling-Garcia ’96, ’06 Vice President Holly Felmlee ’76 Secretary Toney Cantu ’70 • D. Mike Garcia ’73, ’77 • Phil Lopez ’04 Lynn Michalke ’77 • Karen Rubidoux Miller ’94 Robert Oringdulph ’71 • Sandy Ortega ’74 Chris Page ’02, ’03 • Brian Rossbert ’02 • Rich Scanga ’75 Jeremy Wilder ’96 • Delzia Worley ’97
ADAMS STATE FOUNDATION BOARD Duane Bussey ’82 President Dr. John McDaniel Vice President John A. Marvel ’70 Secretary/Treasurer Russell Achatz ’85 • Tim Bachicha ’92 • Greg Bervig ’81 Keith Cerny • Genevieve Cooper Dale Hettinger ’64 • Charles “Chuck” Houser ’62 Jeni Jack Goodwin ’85 • Randy Jackson ’98 Chuck Owsley ’68 • Cindy Palmer • Rich Scanga ’75 Ray Skeff • Izora Southway ’66 • Michael Ware ’69
president’s letter: understanding university It’s going to take practice, but I like the sound of “Adams State University.” Over the nine decades since its founding, Adams State has evolved from a “Normal School” offering only teacher education through four name changes, as the range and quality of our academic offerings expanded. Although the college – oops – the university – has been considering this change for a few years, the reality is still sinking in. Some people are unclear what this change to David Svaldi “university” means for Adams State. • It does NOT mean excessive tuition increases. • It does NOT mean more government funding. • It does NOT mean a significantly larger on-campus student body. What this change does mean is that Adams State’s academic breadth and quality are now reflected in its name. The academic standards that “university” conveys will make our graduates more competitive in the job market. As a university, Adams State will be even more attractive to students, whether at the undergraduate or graduate level, learning on campus or at a distance. Webster’s College Dictionary defines university as “an institution of learning of the highest level, comprising a college of liberal arts, a program of graduate studies . . . authorized to confer both undergraduate and graduate degrees.” While there are no “official” requirements or standards governing an institution’s name, we clearly fit that definition, since more than one-quarter of our students are enrolled in one of nine graduate programs. With our latest name change, we deliberately kept “Adams State” consistent. Likewise, we simply modified the university logo, rather than undergoing a complete redesign. This demonstrates our enduring commitment to providing a high quality college education to rural Coloradans, particularly in the San Luis Valley and Southern Colorado. Adams State will continue its mission as a moderately selective institution where access and student success are paramount. At Adams State University, the great story just keeps getting better.
FOUNDATION HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS Stephen Bokat ’68 • Marguerite Salazar ’75, ’76
FOUNDATION EMERITUS BOARD MEMBERS Sharon Carter • Richard Jacobs • Harold Kelloff Ralph Outcalt • J. Byron Uhrich • R. Paul Wagner • Eldo Wall
FOUNDATION EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Dr. David Svaldi ASU President Tammy Lopez ’91, ’00 Executive Director of the Foundation Tim Walters ’73 Trustee Liaison
GRIZZLY CLUB BOARD OF DIRECTORS Dave Barrows President • Jeff Owsley ’86 Vice President Keith Cerny • Jeni Jack Goodwin ’85 Ericha Loosbrock • Joe Martinez ’99 • Jay Meyer Dennis Ortiz ’79 • Dennis Shioshita ’77 • Steve Valdez ’87
ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY MISSION STATEMENT Adams State University dedicates its resources to provide opportunity and access for all students. The University 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.
great stories celebration aug. 23 & 24 • WWW.ADAMS.EDU/UNIVERSITY-CELEBRATION/
the cover Celebrating Adams State’s move to “university” are (L-R): Monique Valdez, senior majoring in business administration, management and small business; Ken Scally, senior nursing major; Governor John Hickenlooper; Boomer the Grizzly; Lindsay Pfannenstiel, senior majoring in business administration, accounting; and Yeshi Dorjee, a senior nursing major. Read about the historic day when Adams State became a university, page 10.
contents order your
cover story History is made Governor signs Adams State University into law
adams state university diploma
update Presidential Teachers make the grade More campus improvements planned First HEAL cohort graduates ASU partners with Denver Scholarship Fund Art prof Doell named American Council on Education Fellow Grants support teacher development, student experience
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features From beakers to bicycles - Chemistry Professor Marty Jones retires The Heart of Art - Judy Jones retires after 29 years
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giving Ron Loser joins Legacy Society roster “Great Story” commemorates career of John Turano Step up to the plate & support baseball First Motz Scholarship awarded Scholarship supports student teachers
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For a limited time, alumni may order a new ASU diploma for half price. Orders must be received by January 6, 2013. Delivery is estimated by early March. Please also indicate an Associate’s, Bachelor’s or Master's diploma. Go to: www.adams.edu/ students/sub/bookstore click on: graduation, books, clothing & merchandise collections
alumni event calendar
alumnews Outstanding Alumnus develops life-saving medical technology 18 Music educator Elizabeth Ford named 2012 Exceptional New Alumna 20 Oringdulph gives back to alma mater & community 22
alumnotes
SEPTEMBER 22 30
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Homecoming 2012 Schedule
alumni scrapbook sports scenes
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2012 Athletic Hall of Fame includes 1st men’s X-C nat’l champs Grizzlies finish 6th in Directors’ Cup Grizzly spring Wrap-up Pat Porter ‘82 killed in plane crash
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OCTOBER 12-13 Homecoming See page 29.
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Colorado Springs Denver
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Hundreds of alumni, faculty and staff, students, and community members joined to celebrate the bill signing that created Adams State University.
Pueblo Mineral Water Bowl Reunion, Cape Cod MA
Theatre Matinee, Alamosa Retiree’s Christmas Dinner Watch your mail for details. www.facebook.com/ adamsalumni • adams.edu/alumni 800-824-6494, ext. 8
Stay up to date on events and news from Adams State University: www.adams.edu/news
Presidential Teachers make three faculty from diverse disciplines with a shared purpose of fostering the love of learning received the 2012 Presidential Teacher Award. The awards for outstanding undergraduate teaching, advising, and mentoring were presented to Dr. Rob Benson, professor of earth science; Dr. Mari Centeno, associate professor of political science; and Dr. Beth Robison, assistant professor of music. Each receives $1,500 in professional development funds and the opportunity to create a special Presidential Teacher course. All had similar reactions upon hearing they were selected. Benson was "shocked and honored;" Centeno felt inspired to "further live up to the honor;" and Robison was "surprised, humbled, and grateful” to her students.
refining the art of teaching "Because many of our students will become teachers, it is important to provide them with the practical tools they will need,” said Robison. "I believe in teaching music through performance and putting theoretical concepts into practice." These may take the form of theory, history, vocal pedagogy, or artistic interpretation. “Dr. Robison is one of the most kind and patient human beings one will ever meet. She approaches all her classes with a serious yet fun aspect. She is also extremely gifted in her choral directing skills. Dr. Robison graces us with her wisdom and uniquely adorable laugh,” wrote sophomore music performance major Victoria Ricci in her letter nominating Robison for the award. Course level isn’t as important to Robison as is the student’s degree of commitment. She works to find ways to in-
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spire those who may not quite be there yet. "My students fuel me in all that I do." Centeno, a great admirer of Paulo Freire's Pedagogy of the Oppressed model, wants students to engage the material and understand how it is important and relevant to their lives. "Students must take charge of their education, not have it fed to them." She accomplishes this through discussion and debate. One of her nominators, junior social studies education major Laura Cox, said: “She goes out of her way to make lectures interesting so that every student gets involved in the discussion. She has tons of stories and extra information to add, which also make her classes more fun.” When Centeno raises her standards and challenges students, they rise to the occasion. "I am there to help them rise," she said. She can relate to the issues facing firstgeneration college students, having overcome those challenges herself. Having taught for 15 years at Adams State, Benson assumes every student comes to learn. "Regardless of their background, they bring a perspective that is significant, and
ke the grade
inspiring, interesting, indispensable: From left: Beth Robison conducts during the annual Winterfest; Rob Benson assures geology is a very hands-on discipline; Mari Centeno stimulates thoughtful class discussion. we can learn from each other," he said. He "loves teaching" all students, from first-year freshman to graduating seniors. "I enjoy watching the students develop and then kicking them out of the nest and watching them fly." Centeno agrees: "I love being a part of the discovery period, seeing the light bulbs go on." Upper division courses have their appeal, as well. "The students in these courses are more prepared for challenging projects. They also challenge me." One of Benson’s nominators was senior geology major Jan Gautreaux, who said: “Having taken numerous courses from Dr. Benson, then leaving for another college for two years, and returning here, makes it incredibly obvious to me what a great teacher he is. We are actually forced to think and develop our own analytical techniques. There is no pat answer, no memorization of lists; he evaluates us on our ability to develop and analyze the processes needed to be successful in geology.” Another senior geology major, Kerry Sheader, said: “As a professor he is, without a doubt, the most effective teacher I have encountered. He is an equally valuable friend, example of a scholar, example of a scientist, and example of a person.”
devoted to advising and mentoring All three faculty devote time to mentoring, advising, and directing outside the classroom. Robison directs the Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, and 68 West, the vocal jazz group. She is the adviser for the student chapter of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA), and the president of the ASU Pi Kappa Lambda Chapter, a nationally recognized music honor society.
Centeno said advising the Model United Nations Club is one of the most satisfying parts of her job. In recent years she has organized the group’s participation in Model UN competitions in The Hague; Thessaloniki, Greece; Rome; and Geneva. They have won against students from top-tier schools all over the world. "I am very proud of the students who have gone on to find success, and if I had a part in that, it would make me happy." Benson believes in hands-on learning, enriching earth science study by taking his classes around the San Luis Valley and groups to Utah and Arizona. He is also the director of the Edward M. Ryan Geological Museum and was instrumental in arranging Adams State’s receipt of the collection. The facility is open to the public and school children, who visit the museum with their teachers. "We have had well over 6,000 visitors since opening the doors in 2005," Benson pointed out.
great students identify great professors A group of outstanding students is selected each year to identify Presidential Teacher Award recipients. This year’s committee included Matias Tofoya, Clayton Street, Victoria Miranda, Benjamin Pluta, and Chelsea Oden. They received 126 nominations this year putting forward more than 40 different professors. After five finalists were selected in January, the committee conducted a review process that included classroom visits and interviews. by Linda Relyea ‘96
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includes baseball complex & high altitude events center
More campus improvements underway another $12.7 million worth of campus additions and renovations are in the works, including a new baseball complex and high altitude events center. Included is $6.9 million to renovate three wings in the Coronado and Girault residence halls, as well as $3 million to construct a high altitude events center. An additional total of $2.77 million will support development of a baseball complex and the first phase renovation of the East Campus (formerly Evans School) to house the Human Performance & Physical Education Department. Work on the baseball complex, practice field, and East Campus began this summer, to be completed by late October. The high altitude events center construction will start in April 2013, to be completed that September.
high altitude training center The 85,000 square-foot high altitude event center will be located immediately west of the Plachy parking lot on Sunset. The facility will be a bubble” – an air-supported dome structure made of vinyl coated polyester fabric – which costs less than half the estimate for constructing a traditional building, according to Erik van de Boogaard, associate VP for Facilities
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Planning, Design & Construction. The center will feature a 200-meter, 8-lane track with a synthetic rubber surface that provides high quality shock absorption, skid resistance, force reduction, and overall comfort for athletes. The center will also have ample space for jumps, vaults, and throwing events, as well as spectator seating and public restrooms. A state-of-the-art auto timing device and timing scoreboard will be installed. The high altitude event center will allow Adams State to host RMAC and NCAA regional and national meets, as well as SLV high school indoor track meets and other conference activities and special events. In recent years, Adams State has hosted major meets in Albuquerque facilities.
sharing the rare air The center will also host the new High Altitude Training Program. Begun in June and geared to college athletes, the program introduces participants to training at altitude, mountain training, and the physiological benefits it provides. Instruction is by Damon Martin ‘87, head coach for men’s and women’s cross country and track; and Emeritus Professor of HPPE, Dr. Joe I. Vigil ‘53, ‘59, considered by many as one of the western hemisphere’s best clinicians of physiology and track and field. “While there are numerous high altitude training centers in the US and around the world, they have
only been open to the elite distance runner,” said Center Coordinator Virginia Coindreau ‘05, ‘10, an All American and national champion runner.
new athletics programs boost enrollment A new baseball complex featuring synthetic turf is being developed on Stadium Dr. along the river, just north of the new softball and soccer/lacrosse fields. Baseball is the latest sport to be added by the Grizzly Athletic Department. The team is expected to add 40 students over the next two years, with most beginning this fall. This translates to $485,000 a year in new tuition, fee, and room and board revenue. “Roughly one-third of our undergraduate students – about 600 – participate in at least one sports program,” noted President David Svaldi. “Our expanded athletic offerings have been key to achieving record-breaking enrollments in the last three years.” National and Adams State statistics show student-athletes graduate at a higher rate than non-athletes. Over the last three years, Adams State added men’s golf, men’s soccer, men’s and women’s swimming and diving, and men’s and women’s lacrosse. These teams, along with new J.V. and club sports programs, have brought about 260 new student-athletes to Adams State who wouldn’t have otherwise attended.
master’s in higher education administration & leadership
First HEAL cohort graduates “many issues transcend race and ethnicity. ‘Minority’ doesn’t just refer to race,” said Jonathan Macias ’12, one of the first eleven students to complete Adams State’s Master’s in Higher Education Administration & Leadership (HEAL). me to accommodate my family and HEAL was created three years ago through a $280,928 job,” she said. “I learned a lot about grant from the U.S. Department of Education to prepare collegiality and the role of IR campus leaders of Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs). This focus wide. I am also incorporating what I’ve makes HEAL unique among graduate programs and helps learned into other areas, like CASA create an advancement path for Hispanic professionals. Conducted primarily online, the 36-credit program is tar- (Cultural Awareness Student Achievegeted to entry and mid-level professionals at HSIs, according ment), and student retention, as well as teaching Latino leadership.” to Dr. Melissa L. Freeman, program director. An 18-credit Another of the four Adams State certificate program is available to those who already hold staffers who completed HEAL is master’s degrees. Donna Griego ‘00, ‘03, ‘12, a 25-year Hispanics comprise about 20 percent of America’s college employee who is now program assistant students, with 54 percent attending Hispanic Serving Instiin the office of Enrollment Managetutions – a federal designation for colleges and universities Jonathan Macias ment. with student enrollment that is least 25 percent Hispanic. “The HEAL program had two main components: the opAdams State was the first four-year institution in Colorado portunity to learn and gain experience as a leader at Adams to be designated an HSI, with undergraduate Hispanic enState, and a stream of altruism,” Griego said. “There is a rollment at 32 percent. sense of caring for and developing others – a concern for the Recently promoted to grant administrator at the Univerwelfare of students for the sake of assisting them obtain their sity of Texas, El Paso, Macias was selected for the 2012 E. education and getting them on the right track on their own Kika De La Garza Fellowship Program of the Hispanicjourney that leads to success.” Serving Institutions National Program. As a fellow, he spent two weeks in June becoming oriented to all 63 sub-branches By Julie Waechter of the USDA. “I’m looking forward to leveraging my degree, and gaining a different set of cultural perspectives outside of Texas,” Macias said. “I’ve had a lot of positive experiences with HEAL. We’ve developed a rapport that has turned into friendships. We can complain about our challenges and celebrate our accomplishments together.” “When HEAL began, I knew it was something I had to do,” said Victor Salazar ‘91, ‘12, who has worked at Trinidad State Junior College – Valley Campus for 17 years. He now serves as a job placement counselor in student services. “It fit with my goals, and validated where I’ve been, the work I’m doing now, and where I’m going, perhaps in a different administrative role.” The program’s flexibility was a draw for both Macias and Andrea Benton-Maestas, who is a senior analyst with Institutional Research and AssessDr. Melissa Freeman stands proudly with the first graduates of Adams State’s ment at Adams State. Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration and Leadership. From left “I’ve worked at Adams State for 16 years, and I are Freeman, Andrea Benton-Maestas, Donna Griego, Heather DeLange, didn’t want to leave to get my master’s degree. The Jonathan Macias, Nicola Donoven, Stacy Righini, Aaron Miltenberger, Victor HEAL program was an excellent fit and allowed Salazar, and Stefanie Sarno-Sutrina. Not picture are Sara Cardoza Lozano and Andrew Garcia. summer 2012| A-Stater | 7
ASU partners with Denver Scholarship Fund Adams State is the first university beyond the Front Range to partner with the Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF). Adams State's partnership includes collaborating with DSF on college access outreach efforts and strategies that target DPS students and specifically encourage enrollment at ASU. The outreach efforts focus on 16 high schools with Future Centers, established to increase overall college enrollment by 10 percent each year over the next three years. As a DSF partner, Adams State will provide a 50 percent match of the DSF scholarship to DSF scholars who choose Adams State. In 2012-13, DSF scholars who attend a partner college will receive $2,800-$3,400 in DSF funding a year. "Our partnership with DSF outlines a strategy for academic success. The students will be involved with intentional support services to help keep them here and graduate," noted Eric Carpio ‘01, Adams State assistant VP of Enrollment Management. DSF Executive Director Cindy Abramson explained how the DSF scholarship program has grown since its inception five years ago. "It's not simply a scholarship. We have a team of people in place to support students in their success. There is such enthusiasm here at Adams State for this partnership." Fourteen DPS students now attend Adams State, and at least nine more are expected to enroll for fall. "This is really about the students, and having the opportunity, as I did, as a first-generation college student, to be totally accepted and valued," said Adams State President David Svaldi. "We think Adams State is the perfect place for you."
In Denver, Admissions Counselor Priscilla Gardea ‘06 provides outreach to the students and their families. Oneyda Maestas, Adams State's coordinator of CASA (Cultural Awareness Student Achievement), will work with DPS students once they arrive on campus.
Cindy Abramson (left), Executive Director of the Denver Scholarship Foundation, and Adams State President David Svaldi (third from right) celebrated their partnership with current students from Denver Public Schools: sociology/criminology major Joanna Casillas, communications and government major Joshua Spearman, and mass communications major Danielle Hernandez. At far right is DSF Retention Manager, Rebecca Fernandez Martinez.
Art Prof Doell named American Council on Education Fellow Margaret Doell, professor and chair of the Art Department, was one of 57 selected as Fellows with the American Council on Education (ACE) for academic year 2012-13. As an ACE Fellow, Doell will spend the upcoming academic year under the mentorship of Chancellor Pamela Shockley Zalabak at University of Colorado Colorado Springs. Fellows are also asked to focus on an issue of concern to their home institutions. Doell hopes to inMargaret Doell vestigate best 8|
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practices in shared governance on college and university campuses. “I’ve always been interested in how things work, in getting the big picture,” Doell said. “The ACE Fellowship is an opportunity to further my understanding of how higher education functions, and hopefully, to make useful contributions on the way.” Established in 1965, the ACE Fellows Program strengthens institutions and leadership in American higher education by identifying and preparing promising senior faculty and administrators for responsible positions in college and university administration Doell was nominated for the Fellowship by Adams State President David Svaldi, who himself served as an ACE Fellow at the University of Wyoming.
“The selection process for the ACE Fellowship is extremely selective and rigorous, and her selection speaks volumes about Margaret Doell,” Svaldi said. “She has much to offer as a future leader in higher education. The ACE Fellowship will broaden her experience in higher education and also give her depth of experience as she participates in decision making at an institution different than ASU.” Doell joined the Adams State Art Department faculty in 1996 and assumed leadership of the department in 2003. In addition to her duties as chair, she primarily teaches printmaking and photography. In 2011, the Adams State Associated Students & Faculty presented her with its award for Excellence in Student Engagement.
Grants support teacher development, student experience New grants and agreements are helping Adams State University provide opportunities for both its students and public school teachers. teacher development The Department of Teacher Education was awarded a five-year, $1.9 million Title III Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) grant from the U.S. Department of Education. The project has three objectives concerned with teacher professional development, according to Dr. Joel Judd, professor of teacher education and grant author: • Course work for 90 Colorado teachers to add the "Culturally and Linguistically Diverse" endorsement to their license • Course work for 40 K-12 teachers to receive a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Certificate • Provide pre-K STEM training to 40 teachers Furthermore, Judd said the goal is to strategically place teachers in partnering school districts to increase the numbers and achievement of English language learners and Hispanic students. "By working with teachers at the preschool level, students' exposure to the sciences will begin at an early age," Judd said. "This can increase the likelihood the students will study science, technology, engineering, and mathematics at all education levels and hopefully pursue careers in those fields." Participating teachers can receive graduate-level credit for the courses and a certificate and can apply three of the courses towards Adams State's Master’s in Education Curriculum and Instruction. The STEM courses will be presented by the Space Foundation’s Space Across the Curriculum program. These intensive, week-long graduate-level courses provide space-related STEM content that is instantly transferable to the classroom. All courses are hands-on and focus on national standards and STEM principles. The K-12 STEM teachers will receive four courses during the summers of 2012 and 2013, and apply the knowledge and skills in their classrooms, as well as mentor a colleague in the same skills. The pre-K teachers will take the Foundation's early childhood course in summer 2015, and also apply the skills in their schools and with a colleague. STEM is also the focus of a new grant of $7,500 awarded to Adams State University Extended Studies by the Xcel Energy Foundation. It will support professional development of
middle and high school science and math teachers in the San Luis Valley. “This grant will provide scholarships for between 15 and 20 San Luis Valley teachers,” said Liz Martinez ‘99, program director with Adams State Extended Studies. “The teachers may choose from 24 online courses that support Colorado’s new Pre K-12 academic standards. The result will directly impact more than one thousand area students.” Each of the online courses includes modules focused on effective research-driven teaching/learning strategies, successful teaching modeling, lesson plans, and other resources. Credit will be awarded by Adams State University.
prep for natural resources careers Three students conducted research as part of summer internships with Bureau of Land Management (BLM) offices in the San Luis Valley, funded by a new, five-year cooperative agreement with the Department of the Interior. “We hope to grow to five internships each year. The agreement is renewable beyond five years,” said Dr. Benita Brink, chair of the Department of Biology and Earth Sciences and project director. “The Department of the Interior and the BLM created the internships to help students gain management experience for careers concerned with the environment or natural resources. This not only helps the students, but also builds a better educated future workforce to manage the public lands.” She said the projected total budget is $150,000, depending on BLM funding. This year, $26,500 was awarded to fund student salaries for the full-time, 13-week internships. They were required to conduct a research project and present their findings; they also earned three credits in independent study. Biology major Hannah Ortega worked on range management and conservation in the BLM’s Saguache office. History/government major Dan Dellosso conducted archaeological work through the La Jara office, while Brianna Boyd, a physical geography major, worked on heritage and archaeology projects with the Monte Vista office.
geoarchaeology with denver museum Several earth sciences and anthropology students spent the summer seeking evidence of the first humans that arrived in North America, through a research grant from the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Directed by Dr. Jared Beeton, associate professor of earth sciences and a research associate with the museum, the group conducted geoarchaelogical research at four different Valley locations. They evaluated the potential for early human (pre-Clovis) cultural deposits, with a final report to be submitted by the end of November. Summer 2012| A-Stater | 9
History is made Governor signs Adams State University into law a crowd of over 300 gathered under calm blue skies to witness Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper sign the law designating Adams State University, May 19. A banner proclaiming “Our great story just got better” set the stage for the 91-year-old institution’s move to university status. “You talk about oil, you talk about wind energy . . . the energy of our youth is the most powerful energy we have in this country, and you guys are helping make sure we get the most out of it,” Hickenlooper said. “In all of Colorado, it’s hard to find another community with as strong a sense of
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place as what you have created here. A good university is the heart of great community.” Adams State President David Svaldi welcomed the audience by recalling the school’s founder and early presidents: “Somewhere, Governor Billy Adams is smiling and perhaps
(Above) Students celebrated the name change May 7 with cake and Adams State University t-shirts. One-thousand free shirts were distributed in under an hour. “It’s exciting; it will give us more prestige,” said Jamonica Hudgins, from Las Cruces, New Mex. Vicente Vega, from Greeley, Colo., added it was a good idea to distinguish Adams State from community colleges. (Opposite page) Gov. John Hickenlooper signs the bill establishing Adams State University into law, witnessed by Adams State President David Svaldi, State Senator Gail Schwartz, and State Representative Ed Vigil ‘86.
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It’s exciting; it will give us more prestige.”
toasting this wonderful event with President Richardson and President Plachy. “Governor Adams worked his entire political career to found a teacher preparation school (so-called normal school) in the San Luis Valley. Against all odds, including political opponents and the Ku Klux Klan, Adams worked successfully with his constituents to legislate funds to construct the Normal School.” There is an “unbreakable bond of community” between Adams State and the San Luis Valley, Svaldi added, telling how – when Adams’ opponents blocked state funding – area residents donated produce, livestock, and other products to raise the school’s first operating budget of $25,000. “Now we are here today to celebrate the next chapter in the great story of Adams State. I again have to thank our community for helping us to this juncture. Now our name will reflect what we truly are: Adams State University,” he said. Alamosa Mayor Kathy Rogers presented a proclamation declaring August as the Month of Adams State University.
“We are so fortunate and pleased to have Dr. Svaldi with us. He has done so much for this campus and our city.” Steve Valdez ’87, chair of the Adams State Board of Trustees, said: “I can’t believe this day has finally come. It’s almost like reading a novel you can’t put down. You’re looking for the next chapter.” Fellow trustee Tim Walters ’73 said he is “Darn proud to be part of Adams State University.” The name change was proposed in HB 1080, co-sponsored by House Representative Ed Vigil ‘86 and State Senator Gail Schwartz. “Today is a day of pride and honor,” said Vigil. “I’m so proud of our college that is now a university; it was an honor for me to run the bill.” Schwartz also said, “It was a privilege to sponsor this bill, and to know what a difference it will make, both for today’s students and those to come in the future.” The name change was official Aug. 7, 2012. The Adams State Board of Trustees voted to pursue the change Aug. 26, 2011, after exploring the issue for three years. By Julie Waechter
los lobos • gala scholarship dinner • new poetry, art, music • lots more
great stories celebration all welcome • aug. 23 & 24 • WWW.ADAMS.EDU/UNIVERSITY-CELEBRATION/ summer 2012| A-Stater | 11
From beakers to bicycles Chemistry Professor Marty Jones retires
what would dr. jones do? At this spring’s commencement ceremony, Dr. Frank Novotny, vice president of academic affairs, drew attention to the green band around his wrist while addressing the packed gym: “Many of us today are wearing these bands with the initials, WWDJD – What Would Dr. Jones Do?” He would do the right thing – he would make the choice that most benefited the student, his friend or colleague, the campus, the community… the earth. If this statement sounds grandiose and exaggerated – you don’t know Marty. “Marty has a positive approach to life that is contagious, and he brings out the best in those around him, hence the bracelets WWDJD,” Novotny explained. Students and colleagues donned the bracelets to recognize Jones’ retirement and appointment as emeritus professor of chemistry. As for retirement plans, Jones said: “I think I will just figure it out after the fact. It will give me great opportunities to bike and fish in the middle of the week during the fall, which is the best season we have here in Alamosa, and I would also like to travel.”
focus on teaching In his 23 years at Adams State, Jones always taught chemistry, specifically organic chemistry. He also taught introduction, general, advanced, and chemistry of sustainability, as well as nursing chemistry and other courses when necessary. “Marty was never one to shirk responsibility or forgo an opportunity to lend a hand,” said Dr. Christina Miller ’92, professor of chemistry. “When I interviewed for a chemistry faculty position, and in my first year, it was very clear that Marty was very student-centered and expected other faculty, especially those in chemistry, to be the same,” Novotny said. “He challenges students to do their best, while providing the support necessary for them to succeed.” 12 |
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Jones said: “I came to Adams State because I wanted to move away from a Ph.D. granting institution to a primarily undergraduate institution, one that put a really high value on quality undergraduate teaching. I found a very good fit at Adams State. “People talk about when you see the ‘light’ go on, ‘I finally got it.’ That really does bring a smile to your face. When a student asks a very good question, that brings a smile to my face – that means they are paying attention and thinking about what we are covering.”
student respect & admiration “He has great teaching methods; he’s easy to understand, and if I don’t understand something, he’ll stop and explain it another way,” said Brianna Metter, a sophomore biology major. “If Dr. Jones ever did teach a chemical reaction wrong; the chemical reaction would change to ensure he was right out of pure respect for Dr. Jones.” Keiko Woodyard, also a sophomore biology major, added: “His classes are packed with information, but he approaches it with a light heart and brings real-world applications to the material.” Dr. Steve Valentine ‘95, a chemistry grad who recently accepted a tenure track position as an assistant professor at West Virginia University, said: “Marty’s devotion to student achievement affected me personally; it strengthened my desire to become a teacher. Marty was an exceptional instructor. He was able to connect with students at the individual
“
He makes you believe in yourself; that is the most inspiring thing about his teaching style.”
level, essentially providing the most effective learning environment.” While mentoring graduate students at Indiana University, Valentine often revisited Jones’ teaching techniques. “Marty would have classroom presentations to describe chemical phenomena such as reaction mechanisms. From him, I learned that visual learning is one of the most effective methods used by students.”
conscientious advisor “In addition to always being willing to write me letters of recommendation, he had a strong influence on my decision to attend graduate school,” said senior chemistry major Bryce Turner. “If it weren’t for him, I wouldn’t have finished my degree,” said James Trujillo ‘02, executive assistant to the President
and Board of Trustees. After switching his major multiple times and many years in college, Trujillo had given up on obtaining his degree. Jones reviewed Trujillo’s transcripts and discovered he was closest to a business degree. “He helped me make a plan and graduate.” Trujillo also noted: “You can’t frequent school functions and not see Dr. Marty Jones around. He is notorious for serving the flapjacks during the finals week late-night breakfasts.” Jones was also active in the community steel drum band. “Dr. Jones has an undeniable gift for teaching. He has the ability to light up a classroom with enthusiasm, which can be difficult for a subject with the reputation of being incredibly difficult,” said Reyna Reyes, a senior chemistry major. “He makes you believe in yourself; that is the most inspiring thing about his teaching style.” By Mariah Pepe ‘15 and Linda Relyea ‘96
the elements of marty jones bicycles Western Auto early ‘60s bike with longhorn handle bars, wide tires and coil springs under the seat; 3 speed English racer (although he coveted the “cool” kids’ Schwinn Sting Rays); Western Auto 10 speed (stolen); Peugeot 10 speed (stolen); Specialized Rockhopper mountain bike; 2 road bikes (including current Specialized Roubaix)
autos 1964 Chevrolet Nova,1972 Pinto station wagon (“bad decision”), 1968 VW van, 1980 Mazda station wagon,1989 Nissan pickup, 1989 Chevy S-10 Blazer, 1999 Ford Explorer
married 37 years to Diana (instructor of mathematics): “She is smarter than I am and a better teacher – she is phenomenal.”
fishing tip “It is a real treat to catch a carp on a fly in the San Luis Lakes.”
advice To Aaron Moehlig (filling Jones’ faculty position) “Respect the students and all your colleagues (including staff). The students are why we are here.”
volunteering He and Diana consider Adams State and the community their extended family and think it’s “cool to hang out with other good folks.”
favorite subject “Electrophilic aeromatic substitution is really cool chemistry.”
influences • Originally majored in math: “A lackluster math teacher turned me off –a wonderful chemistry professor turned me on.” • Discovered the rewards of teaching in graduate school. • Dr. Kay Watkins and Dr. Mel Arnold, emeritus professors of chemistry, convinced him to teach at Adams State instead of USC (now known as CSU Pueblo).
notable achievements • 2010 Autumn@Adams Last Lecture: “Things I Learned Without Going to Kindergarten” • Served as interim chair for Human Performance and Physical Education during the spring 2010 and spring 2011 semesters. • Initiated Adams State EARTH – Environmental Action for Resources, Transportation & Health – promoting recycling, renewable energy, and sustainability • Along with colleagues, hosts the annual Chemistry Magic Show, free and open to the public. • 2007 AS&F Award for Excellence in Student Engagement • 2009 Presidential Teaching Award • 2012 Associated Students and Faculty Award for Excellence in Student Centered Instruction
Summer 2012 | A-Stater | 13
The Heart of Art Judy Jones retires after 29 years
flowers, both fresh and fashioned from paper, filled the Art Department’s front office space on January 31. One colleague commented, “Feels like a florist shop in here.” Administrative assistant Judy Jones retorted: “I was going to say a mortuary.” The occasion was her retirement – somewhat akin to death – after 29 years devoted to Adams State. Through achievements, challenges, and change, Jones always kept her ironic sense of humor, commitment to the department and the college, and most of all, her customer service skills. “I always loved my job,” she said. Art Department chair Margaret Doell said Jones viewed the Art Department as part of her extended family for three decades. “She was the face of the Art Department. When alumni visited – they often came in to see her.” Andrea Silva ’05 said as Jones’ work-study student, she learned the importance of serving the people, more than just doing a job. “Judy was efficient in getting her job done, but also took time to really care about the people she was working with and the students she interacted with.”
Jones’ first supervisor in the Art Department was Emeritus Professor of Art Cloyde Snook, who said: “From the first day, Judy took her job seriously. Judy was always available and prompt with regards to individual concerns and to assist faculty and students, whether their questions were about the budget, supplies, class schedule, or work-study.” When she first started, Jones said there was “so much to learn.” She typed all the professors’ tests, ran the ditto machine, kept track of inventory, and assisted the students, as well as a host of other duties. “I only worked half days, and it was overwhelming.” Yet, she put forth the effort to learn the various duties as quickly as she could and soon became indispensable. Snook
“J
UDY LITERALLY FED STARVING ARTISTS.”
A new art faculty member this past academic year, Jenny Gawronski said Jones “knew the answers to all of my questions and was always extremely helpful. She made me feel comfortable to approach her desk with my questions about the department.” One of Jones’ responsibilities was organizing the annual Taos Watercolor Workshop, an Adams State Extended Studies class. “Judy was always very professional, friendly, and customer oriented,” said workshop director Pat Wolf. “She replies immediately to inquiries and questions from me or the students. She was a wonderful representative for Adams State.” Even after 29 years, Jones never behaved as a “short timer.” She worked past the last moment, balancing budgets, organizing computer and hard copy files, taking care of a variety of last minute details to make the transition as smooth as possible for the faculty and the incoming administrative assistant.
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and Mary Lavey, emeritus professor of art, became her confidants, and she continues to enjoy a close relationship with Snook. “I could talk to them about anything, even personal issues. Mary was so wise, and Cloyde is like a second father to me.” Monica Escalante did graduate work at Adams State in 1992 and later returned as an adjunct professor for the ’95‘96 academic year. “I remember Cloyde Snook telling me that Judy ran the department, so if I had any questions, just see her first. He was correct. She always had an answer with a smile. And Judy loved the students.” The Adams State students remind Jones of her own children. She listened to them and cared about their growth, personally as well as academically. “I became closer to some, but they leave and a new batch comes in. It is hard to see them go, but that is how it is supposed to be.” For her, the students made the Art Department. “I have always been so proud to work at Adams State,” she added. “My co-workers are the greatest anybody could
wanted to be and cared so much, about all of it.” Art professor Gene Schilling was one of four new faculty in the fall of 1996 and was immediately impressed by Jones’ willingness to help with everything from finding housing to orienting faculty to college operations. “She wasn’t the department head, but was the one in charge. Basically, she took care of us, and it stayed that way for the 16 years I have been here.” Doell, who also joined the faculty in 1996, said Jones not only excelled in her duties, but went far beyond her job description. “She made a birthday cake for everyone, brought flowers and meals to the department, and delivered chicken soup to faculty who were home sick.” Jones also cooked chile, loaded wood for the kiln, and even showed up at 6 a.m. with breakfast for faculty and students who had spent the Judy Jones, center front, surrounded by the appreciative faculty of the Art Department. From previous 12 hours engaged left: Claire Van der Plas, Dana Provence, Margaret Doell, Roger Erickson, Gene Schilling, and in an art marathon. Jenny Gawronski. “Judy literally fed starving artists,” said Anthony Gunwork with, we all worked together to achieve a goal of art extren ’10, who earned his master’s degree in art at Adams cellence,” Jones said. State and was recently accepted into the Colorado State UniThroughout the years, Jones witnessed changes in techversity MFA program. "JJ projected a very positive energy for nology and college administration, as well as the move from anyone who found themselves in her presence.” the former Art Building to the current facility, finished in Schilling witnessed Jones helping students pay their bills. 2000. As with any position, there are challenging times, “It is incredible what she did for the students.” when work relationships face difficulties, conflicts arise, and “I have such wonderful memories,” Jones said. “From the going to work becomes less of a pleasure. time of Mary and Cloyde to now and with all the camaWhile Snook’s era of leadership, from 1966 to 1992, was raderie and fun – we always got the job done.” marked by stability and a close-knit faculty, it was followed Jones and her husband, Lloyd “Butch” Jones ‘69, have by a time of change. By the fall of 1996, the Art Department been married for 43 years and have four children, Greg ‘93, had undergone a complete transition in faculty. Through those rather tumultuous years, Jones became the rock all stu- Kevin ’96, ‘04 (Cheri ’94), Lloyd Edward “Le,” and Jennifer dents knew they could rely on. She remained neutral and did (Dirk) Johnson, and seven grandchildren. not become involved in the office politics. “I would not let By Linda Relyea ‘96 anyone beat me. It is how I am made. I knew where I summer 2012| A-Stater | 15
Ron Loser joins Legacy Society roster Although Dr. Ron Loser ’65, emeritus professor of mathematics/ computer science, retired eight years ago, Adams State and its students continue to inspire his commitment. He has included Adams State in his will and received an Adams State Legacy Plate. Each year he adds to the principle of the Loser Family Scholarship, which he established when his father passed away in 2001. The scholarship awards students 300 times the Colorado minimum work-study hourly wage, about $2,300 for 2012. “Math textbooks are expensive,” Loser said. When he attended college, Loser said he could work a week to pay for a quarter’s tuition and fees. He did not take on a huge financial burden to complete college, and fears the rising cost of higher education will price students out of pursuing a college degree, or they will graduate with a “mountain” of debt. When Loser was a student, his brother, Robert ’62; mom, Lucille ’67; and father, O. Robert ’63, were also enrolled at Adams State. “Student loan debt has surpassed credit card debt,” Loser said. “This affects the entire nation, as professionals will increase their fees in order ASU Foundation President Duane Bussey ‘82 presto help offset their loans.” ents the Legacy Plate for planned gifts to Drs. Ron The mathematics program faculty select the best mathematics stuand Marilyn Loser, with their dog, Rita. dent to receive the annual award. Ron’s wife, Marilyn Loser ’86, ’87, Emeritus Professor of Computer Science, appreciates his commitment to Adams State and students. “Every year the recipient sends a thank-you.”
“Great Story” commemorates career of John Turano dren attended. Turano’s portrait and legacy are displayed in the Student Union Building. Adams State Foundation Board member Ray Skeff contributed the honor following Turano’s death in 2009. Turano had been the Center High School principal when Skeff attended. Turano’s career in education spanned 30-plus years, beginning in the high schools of Hooper and Center, Colo. He joined Adams State’s Education Back row L-R: Dr. David Svaldi, Mark Rustad, Coleen Skeff, Ellen and Psychology (Turano) Miller, Ray Skeff, Joe & Michelle Turano, and Bill Cairo. faculty in 1959, Front row L-R: Patty (Turano) Rustad, Kathy Turano, Phyllis (Tuand went on to rano) Maas, and Betsy (Turano) Cairo. The family and friends of former Adams State Vice President Dr. John Turano gathered for a dinner on May 5 to commemorate his Great Story on Walls in Halls. All six of Turano’s chil-
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serve as Head of the Education Division, Dean of the College, and Vice President of Academic Affairs. In 197778, he served as Interim President. He was appointed Vice President of the Consortium of State Colleges in 1978 and retired in 1984. Upon seeing Turano walking the halls, many students did not see an administrator or an education pioneer, they saw an advocate who, “made me go back to school,” “made me stay in school when I was about ready to quit,” “changed my life.” Turano sincerely and genuinely believed in people. He changed the lives of many by inspiring them to get an education, which in turn changed many lives for the better. This sincere and genuine interest in his students created a strong heartfelt sense of gratitude from his students that lasted far beyond the halls of Adams State.
Step up to the plate & support baseball baseball alumni Tom Bobicki '59 and Bill Waters '59 challenge their fellow players and other alumni to support Adams State’s reinstituted baseball team, which begins competition next spring. Construction of a new baseball field is underway (see story page 6). Contributions will fund upgrades to the baseball complex. Naming rights to the field, press box, scoreboard, dugouts, bullpen, and batting cage are available for significant gifts. A plaque will recognize all donors. Those giving $500 or more will also receive such perks as team caps and jackets, according to gift size. For more information on giving options, please contact Athletic Director Larry Mortensen at 719-587-7402 or email: lsmorten@adams.edu.
1958 adams state baseball team
Front, from left: Bill Waters, Ben Brown, Jerry Booher, Gabby Picone, Tom Bobicki, Bill Latham, Dick Lee, Jim Colbert. Back: Bill Blatnick, Bob Reed, Don Bucher, Bob Miller, Jim Workman, Bill Humphrey, Doug Anderson
First Motz Scholarship awarded Senior Jeremiah Van Valkenburg was awarded the inaugural Marv Motz Outstanding Athlete Scholarship at a May 5 luncheon on campus. A football player from Highlands Ranch, Colo., he is a double major in HPPE-exercise science and nursing. Bob Weems ‘56 established the $1,000 scholarship to honor the late Dr. Marv Motz ‘58, ‘59, emeritus professor of psychology. “Marv was a good athlete, a good friend, and a good student,” Weems said. During college, Motz played basketball, and Weems was a lineman for the football team. The scholarship is open to full-time student-athletes with a 2.8 or better cumulative grade point average. Applicants must demonstrate excellence both academically and athletically. At the luncheon, Weems also presented Van Valkenburg with a green Adams State sports jacket. Weems told the luncheon audience that he expects scholarship recipients to one day contribute to their alma mater, as well. Motz Scholarship recipient Jeremiah Van Valkenburg (center), with (from left) Michael VanValkenburg, Kaylee Gifford, Pam Gifford, and Bob & Thelma Weems.
Scholarship supports student teachers Gene Langowski '82, '87 and Charlene Bertolino '89 established a memorial scholarship in honor of their mother, Dominica "Minnie" Langowski ’64. A $500 award will be presented each fall and spring to a full-time student during their student Minnie Langowski ‘64 teaching semester. Preference is given to graduates of high schools in Las Animas and Huerfano Counties. Lindsey Johnson of Alamosa will receive the first award this fall. summer 2012| A-Stater | 17
james matthie ‘78, ‘79
Outstanding Alumnus develops life-saving medical technology passion and persistence
have fueled the athletic, academic, and business achievements of Dr. James R. Matthie ’78, ’79. Numerous medical journals are predicting the medical device technology Matthie co-developed will save thousands of lives each year. The technology is known as Bioimpedance Spectroscopy (BIS). “I am pleased that my body of work is contributing to the world,” he said. Matthie is Adams State’s 2012 Outstanding Alumnus and will accept the award at the Alumni Awards Banquet, Oct. 12. (See schedule page 29). According to the literature, BIS technology provides an objective means of determining fluid and nutritional status. BIS measures the amount of fluid inside versus outside the body’s cells. Matthie co-created BIS in the early ‘90s through the company he put together, Xitron Technologies, Inc. Matthie said the fluid outside the cells relates to hydration status, while the fluid within cells relates to the body’s protein stores, or muscle. “Fluid is the largest component in the body, and until now, there was no method of accurately measuring it clinically,” Matthie said. Fluid overload (FO) is a major problem in kidney, liver, and cardiac disease, and muscle mass loss is common in malnutrition, cancer, and other wasting diseases. FO causes hypertension and heart failure. In 2001, Fresenius Medical Care (FMC), the world’s largest kidney dialysis company, licensed Xitron’s BIS technology. Marketed as the Body Composition Monitor (BCM), it is used to identify and reduce the significant mortality caused by FO in the 250,000 kidney dialysis patients they treat, and is now marketed to other clinics globally. Severe FO is prevalent in 25% of the roughly two million patients on kidney dialysis. “The average life span of a kidney dialysis patient is only five years, and it is understood that chronic FO is one of the major killers,” Matthie noted. The device can also aid those who are overweight and obese. Over the past six years, Matthie has consulted with Dr. Rob Huizenga, diplomate for the American Board of In-
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ternal Medicine and associate clinical professor of medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles. Formerly the LA Raiders team physician, Huizenga created the weight loss program for the hit NBC reality weight-loss show “The Biggest Loser” (BL). “I was looking for a way to monitor body water changes in the BL contestants and was referred to Jim as being a world expert,” Huizenga said. “We validated the Xitron BIS device on the show contestants and now use it to monitor their fat, muscle, and hydration status,” Matthie said. Their work is described in Matthie’s March 2008 article in Expert Reviews of Medical Devices, as well as in Huizenga’s book, Where Did All the Fat Go. “Using BIS, we have documented something fundamentally ground shaking,” Huizenga went on. “The BL contestants lose massive amounts of weight while maintaining or gaining muscle, as compared to weight loss surgery folks, who lose weight but simultaneously shed large amounts of muscle.” Their findings will be presented at the upcoming Obesity Society meeting.
driven by determination Matthie, who received bachelor’s & master’s degrees in physical education from Adams State, was nominated for the award by his wife, Brittnei, who said his “passion and dedication to his dream” spurred him to secure the investment and engineering talent needed to complete his project. “After founding Xitron, Jim defined and helped develop their BIS device, then got it validated through a research collaboration with the USDA,” she explained. “Jim then led a successful FDA submission for the product, and subsequently it was included in clinical studies at many prominent
the Oklahoma Open, earned a black belt in Judo, won the 1987 US Sombo nationals and competed in the ‘85 and ‘87 World Sombo Championships in London and Italy. Sombo is a Russian national sport and recognized third style of international wrestling, Matthie calls Adams State an “oasis” of educational opportunity for first-generation students and athletes. “Dr. Joe Vigil said to me in 1979, ‘Work hard and follow your heart, because you will have passion.’ That was all I needed to hear, and has defined my life since,” Matthie 2012 Outstanding Alumnus Dr. James Matthie, with his 13-year-old twins, William and Sophia. said. “Adams State is an amazing place. There is usuresearch institutions.” Xitron’s BIS technology was judged ally tension between athletics and academia, but at Adams important by an NIH assessment in 1994, and used in the State the two are melded to form a serious, tight-knit trainCDC national population study (NHANES-4). ing ground for champions. Although Dr. Vigil’s blood runs A May 1997 article in the Journal of Applied Physiology through Adams State, it is the entire community of Alamosa that Matthie co-authored became the de facto operation that creates it all.” manual for scientists around the world conducting research Jody Thompson ‘70, retired director of athletics and Hall with BIS, a new and promising, but untested approach. of Fame wrestling coach for Labette Community College in Matthie’s 16 papers have been cited in nearly 700 other peerParsons, Kan., met Matthie when both were clinicians at an reviewed journals. Adams State "Cool Sunshine" wrestling camp. Matthie talked about the challenges of bringing such a “After a week of working beside each other, I knew that he large project to fruition. “It has been an exciting and interwas something special. He is very confidant and self-aware.” esting ride – and ride describes it well. It was like trying to ride a rocket – I never had a chance, and I’m lucky to be able Thompson hired Matthie as Labette’s head baseball coach and assistant wrestling coach. to tell the story.” Matthie said Labette was in “baseball land,” surrounded Now the managing partner of a new BIS device company, by nationally ranked teams. His team played on a dirt field, Spectral Z, Ltd., he received his doctorate from the US Inbut Matthie worked to improve the program. “With support ternational University in San Diego in 1989. from Thompson, the college and town, I took a losing prooasis of opportunity gram and built a new field, recruited, raised money, took the Even as a student, Matthie was determined to succeed and team on a ten-day road trip in a circus tent, and placed fourth in the NJCAA Region 6 Baseball Tournament, twice.” reach his full potential. As 1976 Junior College All AmeriThompson admires Matthie’s extreme loyalty and sense of can, Matthie was recruited for Adams State’s nationally humor. “Be it to a friend, an organization or an institution, prominent wrestling team. Matthie said his first year Jim is always and forever true-blue.” wrestling for Adams State was “only mediocre,” so he began Matthie lives in La Jolla, Calif., and is in discussion with a training four hours per day. publisher regarding a book titled Will a Phys. Ed. major win His persistence paid off. “I had a good senior year, althe Nobel Prize? He said that as his prospects grow with BIS, though faltered at the end. I was at one point 18-2 and had it makes for an interesting story of personal achievement, as placed second in the tough regional MIWA tournament and well as a reflection on the academic standards of Adams ranked sixth nationally.” State. Intense athletic training and competition continued to play a part of his life for another decade. He placed third in Summer 2012| A-Stater | 19
“I’m in this for the kids.” Music educator Elizabeth Ford named 2012 Exceptional New Alumna elizabeth ford ’08 took it as a compliment when a gym teacher walked into her music classroom and declared it smelled “like sweaty kids.” It meant she was doing something right, engaging her students in music, movement, and imagination. “Elizabeth does not simply teach children music; she teaches children through music, and in doing so instills joy, beauty, and wonder into each of their lives,” wrote Dr. Tracy Doyle on behalf of the entire Music Department faculty in nominating Ford for the 2012 Exceptional New Alumna Award. Ford will accept the award at the Alumni Awards Banquet, Oct. 12. (See full schedule, page 29.) Doyle introduced Ford to the Orff Schulwerk method of teaching music, a highly experiential approach based on inquiry and exploration. Ford has gone on to complete two of the three levels of Orff Schulwerk and is a board member of the Rocky Mountain Orff Schulwerk Chapter. “I am very proud of her. She’s taken this very seriously,” Doyle added. Developed in the 1920s by German composer Carl Orff and colleague Gunild Keetman, the Orff Approach is a "child-centered way of learning" that treats music as a basic system like language that every child can learn through a gentle and friendly approach. It utilizes materials that are “simple, basic, natural, and close to a child’s world of thought and fantasy.” “I normally start with a concept or idea, then the children create building
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blocks,” Ford explained. For example, she might guide a class through composition of a rondo. The children will brainstorm lyrics, create their own music, and incorporate movement. “By the end of it, we have a huge composition.” In her “ideal” class, she would present a piece of children’s literature and
ask the group to create a musical based on it. “Someone would start composing music with a recorder, while someone else might write poetry. These would come together with original dances and body percussion. Every kid would do multiple things.” What do Ford’s students learn in her music classes? Thinking skills, creativ-
”
ity, collaboration, questioning skills, movement, and leadership. “I never say ’no’ in my classroom,” she said. Ford has successfully applied the Orff method in two very different Colorado Springs schools. For the first three years of her career, she taught elementary school music at a Title I school. (Title I provides federal funding to schools with low income student populations.) “Those kids need music as a means of expressing themselves and developing creativity, and because they have access to so few extracurricular activities,” she said. “The kids could be rough, but I really learned classroom management. I’m in this for the kids. It’s all about building relationships. I thought I’d never love kids like I loved those kids, but I just love kids.” Under her direction, the school’s choir grew from 13 members to 60. “I would cap the group size and still have a waiting list.” “That can only be attributed to the quality of the teacher,” Doyle said. “She is loved and respected by her students, and she makes a difference every day they walk into her classroom.” Ford saw similar results in her current position teaching pre-K-5 music at Discovery Canyon, a public, International Baccalaureate school. IB schools offer curricula with “global significance—for all students in all cultures." Therefore, world music, her “new pet project,” is central in Ford’s classes and performances. She also enjoys working with multi-age groups, like her grade 3-5 handbell choir. She said parents have given her the most meaningful feedback. One parent told her: “My kids don’t like music, don’t sing, don’t play an instrument.
Why do they like your class?” Another asked, “Is it just me, or is my son more creative since taking your class?” The boy in question, a very athletic fourth grader, went on to hold the lead in the school musical and now wants to take voice lessons. While Ford once aspired to become a singer and has also played saxophone and other woodwinds, she committed to a teaching career one summer during high school when she both directed a children’s choir and worked in community theatre. “Working with the choir, I was excited at the end of the day.”
“I
atre classes and performed with Adams State’s Chamber Choir, Concert Choir, and 68 West. Another important aspect of her undergraduate education was music clubs. Ford belonged to Adams’ student chapters of ACDA (American Choral Directors Association) and CMEA (Colorado Music Educators Association). “Music clubs were really a big deal. We made it a priority to attend CMEA conventions as an entire club, and also were fortunate to perform at the conventions,” Ford said. “It helped us build connections. I felt I was becoming a professional.” She remains active in CMEA and says she would “never miss” the Adams State alumni receptions held in conjunction with the annual conventions. During summers, Ford directs the musical that culminates VIP Camp, presented by Pueblo’s Steel City Theatre Company at the Pueblo School for Arts and Sciences. Geared to kids in kindergarten through eighth grade, the camp was conceived by Ford and SCTC’s managing director Andrea Garrett-Laughrey. With the Pikes Peak Metropolitan Community Church, Ford co-directs the choir, conducts the praise band, and presents theatre outreach. In addition to completing the final of three levels in the Orff Method, Ford hopes to earn her master’s degree in the next few years, ideally in Salsburg, Austria. “I am proud to be an Adams State graduate,” Ford said. “People in this field respect that.”
S IT JUST ME, OR IS MY SON MORE CREATIVE SINCE TAKING YOUR CLASS?” Teaching is somewhat in her blood, as well. Her mother is a fourth grade teacher, while her dad is a watercolorist. Her first piano teacher was her uncle, Joe Savarino ‘64, who also majored in music at Adams State. “He would be excited I went to Adams State,” she said. She transferred to Adams State after one year at another university that wasn’t meeting her needs. “I really felt supported by my professors at Adams State. They were almost on the ‘friend’ level. “The moment I walked on the Adams State campus, I felt a sense of community,” she said. “I still have a picture in my mind of the perfect fall day on campus.” She appreciates that Dr. Chris Keitges recognized her interest and background in musical theatre and invited her to help choose music and conduct auditions for Adams State productions. Ford also “loved” Dr. John Taylor’s the-
By Julie Waechter
summer 2012| A-Stater | 21
Oringdulph gives back to alma mater & community quiet leadership in the spirit of billy adams
patient, kind, considerate, altruistic. That’s Robert Oringdulph ‘71, the first Billy Adams Award recipient from Adams State University. His service to his alma mater and community demonstrate the ideals of the university’s founder. He will accept the award at the Alumni Awards Banquet, Oct. 12. (See page 29.) When Adams State President David Svaldi asked for suggestions from the university’s Executive Council, he said, “Rob’s name came up over and over, and when I decided, there was unanimous agreement.” Oringdulph said: “I am much honored to be selected as a Billy Adams Award recipient. It is quite a humbling experience. Adams State provided me with the skills needed to do what I’ve done with my life. The history of Adams State is in my family.” His grandmother, Lida M. Oringdulph, received her degree in 1930 and went on to be a lifelong educator in the San Luis Valley. The tradition was carried on by three of his six children, Mandy Jackson ’95, ’97; Wendy Kelson ‘95, and Shane ‘04. Oringdulph and his wife, Susan, also have 12 grandchildren. Willing to dedicate his free time to his alma mater, Oringdulph has been a board member of the Alumni Association for 14 years, making him one of the longest-serving board members. “Adams State is a great institution, and my fondness for the institution motivates me to give back when I can.” Scanning through years of homecoming and commencement photos, Oringdulph is often sighted in the background, helping prepare the alumni float or handing out alumni t-shirts at commencement ceremonies. Although the hours are long and the weather unpredictable, Oringdulph said he enjoys volunteering during homecoming and graduation ceremonies. “Homecoming is my favorite time to be on the board and associated with Adams State.” He also attends the meetings and serves on the
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rob oringdulph: according to his children • Sense of humor • Caring and understanding • Good listener • Offers good advice • Man of his word • Stands up for what he believes • Enjoys skiing and camping • Lives to ride roller coasters, “bigger the better” • Family orientated, playful with children & grandkids • Morning person • Avid voter
alumni awards committee. “Reading through the nominations reminds us of the amazing accomplishments by so many of our Adams State graduates.” Toney H. Cantu ‘70, senior vice president for the San Luis Valley Federal Bank and another longtime member of the Alumni Association, has known Oringdulph for 47 years. They attended Adams State together and have served on the alumni board together. “Rob has always had a passion and commitment to Adams State and is always there when you need him. He inspired me to become more involved with the college.” Oringdulph recalls the positive influence of his professors. “We had outstanding scholars in the history department and throughout campus.” He believes it is important that alumni make an effort to not only provide monetary support, but to give back through involvement. Cantu said Oringdulph is a role model who leads by example. “Rob is a leader who is willing to listen to others. He is a great ambassador for ASU.” Oringdulph said he encourages students to pursue higher education. “Not everybody is suited for a four-year institution, but today’s world continues to become more competitive, and additional training beyond high school helps individuals succeed.” His daughters Mandy Jackson and Wendy Kelson remain grateful for their father’s influence. After high school, Jackson received a scholarship for a college in Wyoming. “My dad just mentioned that the education program at Adams State is the best in the state, and I would be a little closer to home and that I would get a wonderful education for a wonderful price, and he was right.” Kelson said her father always talked about graduating from college “not as a, maybe it will happen, but as absolutely it will happen.” Oringdulph’s son, Travis, said: “I always noticed my dad doing the right thing.” Oringdulph has community spirit to spare. He founded the non-profit organization, the Alamosa Uptown River Association (AURA) in 1999, and volunteered as the president every year, except one. He led the board and shaped AURA's direction and commitments to historic preservation projects and downtown revitalization
for over 13 years, including establishing the downtown farmers' market, the Art Walk, and the Engine 169 Train Lighting celebration, as well as the restoration of the Alamosa Masonic Hall, the American National Bank Building, now Community Banks of Colorado at State and Main, and St. Thomas Episcopal Church. Adams State grant specialist Tawney Becker, who served as the executive director of AURA from 2002 to 2010, said Oringdulph gives unselfishly to the organizations he supports. Oringdulph’s years of solid commitment to multiple causes are a testament to his “belief in each individual's power to make a difference in helping others and building community for the greater good,” she added.
“R
OB IS A LEADER WHO IS WILLING TO LISTEN TO OTHERS.” Oringdulph also serves on the board of San Luis Valley Boys and Girls Clubs and volunteers with his church. His education began in a two-room school in the little town of Mesita, Colo., and continued at San Luis’ Centennial High School and Adams State. After earning degrees in history/political science/secondary education, he found teaching wasn’t for him.This prompted a move out-of-state, where he worked for Woolworth’s Department Stores in Texas and Oklahoma. Within a few years, he returned to the valley and worked with his father at Colorado Aggregate, a mine for lava rock used in landscaping and gas grills. In 1997 he started working for Edward Jones in Alamosa. “Edward Jones holds the same values that most reflect my values on how a business should run – for instance, the client always comes first.” Travis noted: “Dad has also been a man of his word. If he said he was going to do it, then expect it done.” Oringdulph’s colleagues also admire his sincerity “Rob is a great listener, an active problem solver, and a communityminded doer,” Becker said. “His depth of experience, perseverance, good humor, sense of community, and commitment to Adams State are unparalleled. ” By Linda Relyea ‘96 summer 2012| A-Stater | 23
alumnotes 1950s Joe “Ernie” Montoya `54, `59 (Centennial, CO) retired from Colorado Springs District 11 in 1993. He and his wife, Patricia, who is retired from Frontier Airlines, have 2 children. Ernie was an instrumental band director for 33 years and has been inducted into the Colorado Bandmasters Hall of Fame and Colorado Music Educators Association Hall of Fame. Charles Percival `59, `61 (Pueblo, CO) retired from Pueblo District #60 in 1991. A planetarium specialist, he now teaches astronomy at CSU-Pueblo.
1960s Jim Colbert `61, `65 (Imperial Beach, CA) was inducted into the Adams State College Athletic Hall of Fame for football and baseball in 2011. He is a professor of health exercise science at San Diego City College and a martial arts instructor. He retired from coaching football at Grossmont College in 2011. Jennifer Reglien `63 (Santa Fe, NM) retired from teaching and now works for the Los Alamos National Laboratory. Jennifer says, “Retirement is in the near future.” Robert Gallegos `65, `69 (Sun City, CA) went to California in 1982 and is enjoying his retirement by traveling throughout the state. Gaspar Abeyta `66 (Colorado Springs, CO) retired from School District 11 in Colorado Springs, but is still teaching as an adjunct at Pikes Peak Community College. Steve Mendelson `66 (Boynton Beach, FL) retired this past June after teaching and coaching for 47 years. He writes, “I have great memories of ASC. I have 4 children, 3 of whom are world class athletes. Scot is the #1 power lifter in the world. Shawna has 14 world records in powerlifting and body building. Richie was #3 in the world in Brazilian ju jitsu. I have a great wife in Debra. LIFE IS GOOD.”
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Alan Kuykendall `67 (Pueblo West, CO) retired last October from his accounting practice, which he owned for 36 years. He spent 44 years in the practice of accounting, using his degree from Adams State to the fullest. Joan (Felzien) Perry `67 (Fairfax, VA) is enjoying partial retirement. She completed her 42-year career with the National Credit Union Administration in January 2010, but continues part-time with the agency. She enjoys traveling, her church activities, and, especially, visiting her grandson. Alexander Lucero `68 (Pueblo, CO) was inducted in the US Army after graduating from Adams State. After spending a year in Vietnam, he worked for the US Dept. of Agriculture Farm Service Agency. He was the County Executive Director in Boulder for 6 years, worked in the state office in Denver for 6 years, then completed his career as District Director for 21 years. He is now retired and spends a lot of time at his condo in Cuchara, CO, fishing, etc. Tom McCann `68 (Kearney, NE) wrestling coach at Kearney High for the past 42 years, retired at the end of the academic year. "It was a tough decision, it's been a great ride," McCann said. "I love what I do.” McCann, who coached three years in Colorado before going to Kearney, led the Bearcats to 12 topthree finishes since 1992, including the state championship in 1998. The Bearcats produced 24 state champions in that time. Including his time as a high school and collegiate wrestler, he's been on the mats every Christmas, every Thanksgiving, every summer for the past 53 years. "Wrestling is pretty much my whole life," he said. McCann has been active in several summer wrestling programs and said he would like to continue that involvement.
1970s Gordy `71 and Wendy `71 Hoffman (Los Alamos, NM) celebrated their 40th anniversary March 4. Lonnie and his wife, Terry, were Wendy’s dorm directors at Coronado Hall in 1970-71. Terry hosted their wedding reception in the conference room at Coronado with “No champagne!” Wendy and Gordy have two children; Nick `95 and Angela. Nick and his wife, Peggy, are the parents of Camden Joseph Hoffman. Angela and her hubby, Mar-
cos, are the parents of James Gordon Gutierrez and someone else who is due into this world on 10/10/12. Bob Manzanares `71 (Silver Spring, MD) is married to Marveen `72, 76, an Alamosa native whom he met at Adams State. They have been together for 39 years. Bob has been with the State Dept. of Foreign Service for 34 years. He and his wife raised two sons and have traveled and lived in Africa, Mexico, Iceland, Israel, and Spain. Marveen is a teacher. Their oldest son, Thomas, who works for Discovery Communications, lives in Silver Spring, MD, with his wife. Their youngest son, Robert, is practicing law in New York City. Bob and Marveen both have fond memories of Adams State. William Hinz `72 (La Habra Heights, CA) is still working in his law office and is also contributing to the community as an elected school board member. In addition, he has been giving lectures to local groups on the United States Constitution. Lorreda “Lori” Lopez `73 (Española, NM) continues to teach 6th grade at James H. Rodriguez Elementary. Lori also does mission work in Honduras with Santa Cruz United Method ist Church for one week during the summer. Myra Loyd `73 (Clinton, MD) has traveled and moved over the years, but has resided in the D.C. area for about 14 years now. Jack Thaw, Jr. `73, `79 (North Newton, KS) was inducted March 3 into the first class of the Pratt Community College Athletic Hall of Fame. He was a team captain and a junior college All-American there from 1968 to 1970, then transferred to Adams State College, where he took third in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference twice. He was an All-American and helped
Alumni Cruise 2013 New England & Canada
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7 days • departs june 8, 2013 interior staterooms start at $999 per person, plus tax Deposit: $350 per person • Airfare not included To make your reservation, call Alumni Relations • 800-824-6494 ext. 8 lead Adams State to two National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics titles. Thaw competed at the 1972 and 1976 Olympic trials, finishing in the top 20 in 1976. After he retired from competition, Thaw returned to Newton and coached at Newton High School for 21 years, followed by 16 years at Halstead High School, which also includes wrestlers from Sedgwick High School in a cooperative agreement. He has been the Class 5A Coach of the Year three times. He also served as a wrestling referee. He has coached 29 state champions, 78 state placers, and one prep national champion — his son Justin Thaw. Thaw serves as a counselor at Holy Savior Academy in Wichita. He also coaches track at Holy Savior and is an assistant gymnastics coach at Newton. He also is active in his church. Judith Arellano Roybal `74, 81 (Pueblo, CO) retired from Pueblo District #60 after 33 years of teaching Spanish. She now teaches Spanish and methods at CSU-Pueblo. She and her husband, Rich, celebrated the marriage of their son Richie to Brittany Yarberry. Mary Anderson `75 (Fleming, CO) retired as a transitional first grade teacher at Ayres Elementary. She began working for RE-1 in August 2001 as a first grade teacher at
Campbell. In 2005, she transferred to Stevens Elementary and in 2007 to Ayres Elementary. Anderson received her bachelor's degree from Adams and her master's from the University of Northern Colorado. She was married in 1982 and has two daughters, Amanda and Kathy. In addition to RE-1, Anderson has worked for Northeastern Junior College, the Frenchman School District, Northeast Colorado BOCES, and Kim Elementary. Her immediate retirement plans involve vacations and visiting family across the country. She plans to increase her involvement with her church and work as a Hospice friend and is open to other opportunities that may come her way. Mona Blakey Brinkley `75 (Lamar, CO) is enjoying retirement. She and husband, Stan `73, have two adorable grandchildren. Joshua was 2 in June, and Katie will be 2 in December. Stan is still a district court judge. Anna Lozano Galvan `75 (Walsenburg, CO) has been a teacher in Huerfano RE-1 for 31 years at Walsenburg Washington School. She taught 4th grade for many years and was the district’s first pre-school teacher. She was named the 2004 Teacher of the Year by the Pueblo Latino Chamber of Commerce and Pueblo Hispanic Foundation. She is a mem-
ber of Alpha Delta Kappa Omicron Chapter and a member of the Bishop’s Diocesan Pastoral Council. Priscilla Lujan `75 (Arlington, VA) has lived in the Washington, D.C., area for the last 25 years and is the head librarian at the U.S Dept. of State, Foreign Service Institute. Priscilla writes, “Join the Foreign Service and represent Colorado.” John `75, `76, `81 and Candy `78, `86 Wilson (Lakeside, CA) are both retired from education and live in the San Diego area. They are enjoying their 19-month old grandson. Pablo Vigil ’75, ’91 (Loveland, CO) was inducted into the Colorado Running Hall of Fame in April. Vigil is the only man to have won four straight Sierre-Zinal mountain races, a 32-kilometer course through Switzerland. He’s also won the Cleveland Marathon
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Successful mural artist Ian Wilkinson ‘04 (far left) returned to campus for an artist lecture and workshop on April 12. “My work often finds itself in the service of my community,” Wilkinson said. “It has become increasingly important for me to be able to tell the visual story, and share the values of our community’s culture in a way that will remain timeless and undated. I have learned the value of creating work that maintains its relevance.” Since 2009, Wilkinson has been the director of the Asheville Mural Project, a non-profit program that utilizes the mural arts to support and empower the community and celebrate culture and history. He is also a teaching artist presenting in Asheville Schools (TAPAS). Wilkinson said: “Art is an amazing means of communication. It can be a tool to heal. It is a crucial element in the development of basic human understanding. It gives all people a way to connect to their most rudimentary senses.” Wilkinson began his business as a muralist after attending Virginia Commonwealth, then attended Adams State. After graduation, Wilkinson returned to painting murals, working in Colorado and New Mexico. He and his family now live in Asheville, N.C.
1970s 3 times, competed in U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, won a 100-mile stage race in Algeria in 1989, and was a National 25K Masters Champion in the Old Kent River Run in 1995. Vigil’s ongoing involvement with young runners is among the criteria used to select him for the Running Hall of Fame. John Tope, chair of the Running Hall of Fame, said, “He was an exceptional runner at Adams State, and he was one of those athletes that could run on the roads, as well as mountain races. Even to this day, he’s almost like a rock star when he goes back to Europe.” Colorado Running Hall of Fame athletes must have lived in Colorado for a minimum of 5 years of their running career and accomplished success at a local, national, or international level. “Then we look at if they’ve given anything back to the sport, do they conduct themselves in a fashion that the youth of the state can look up to and respect,” Tope said. “Pablo is just a great guy. He’s still involved, he even takes groups over to Europe from time to time, and he’s just one of the nicer guys you’re ever going to meet in any profession.” Cathie Graeser `76 (Pueblo, CO) teaches developmental reading at Pueblo Community College. Her daughter Lisa Maas Martin and husband JP had twin sons, Nick and Jake, on October 3, 2011. Big brother Kyle is 3. Lois Irwin `76 (Lohrville, IA) is the new site director for Buena Vista University at the Fort Dodge Iowa Central Community College campus. A native of Lohrville, she has spent 30 years in education, including serving as a teacher at all grade levels, guidance counselor, and principal. She received her first graduate degree from Adams State College,
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followed by a doctorate in educational administration from Drake University in 1996. "I graduated from high school, said I'm never coming back to Iowa or my home town. I was gone for seven years to Colorado, Oregon," she said. "I graduated from Adams with a master's degree in guidance, came right back to Iowa, married my high school sweetheart, and have been in Iowa ever since then." For the last 10 years, Irwin was a school improvement consultant for the Iowa Department of Education. Her primary responsibility involved accreditation. Irwin left the Department of Education through an early retirement incentive. "I thought being retired would be wonderful," she said. "Spent a year and a half in retirement and decided, ‘this is not working for me.’ As I looked at what I'm qualified for and where I might want to work, Buena Vista and Iowa Central were both high on my list.” Irwin said being at Buena Vista University now is "amazing." Jan Spinuzzi `76, `07 (Pueblo, CO) is in her fourth year as a reading facilitator/specialist at Franklin Elementary. She has taught in District #60 for 10 years. Albert W. Scarffe `77 (Denver, CO) is a parttime minister at John Collins United Methodist Church in Denver. Toni Sandoval de Koontz `78 (Alamosa, CO) has a daughter, Guadalupe, a granddaughter, Gloria, and a grandson, Esteban. She worked at New Beginnings Clubhouse from 2000-2003. Since then she has been a board member of WE CAN of Colorado – Wellness Education Coalition Advocacy Network of Colorado. She is very involved in mental health education and wellness and will be teaching classes in 2012.
1980s Pablo Sandoval `80 moved to Fort Collins 4 years ago and was recently promoted to regional supervisor for the Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. He also recently ran the Boston Marathon and is active with the Fort Collins Trail Runners, where he ran his first ultra-distance race, a 55k. Virginia J. Vigil `81 (Chimayo, NM) retired after teaching at Española School for 28 years. She enjoys spending time with her nephew, Tomas, and tutors part-time at Mountain View Elementary. Duane N. Bussey ’82 (Alamosa, CO), president and chief executive officer of San Luis Valley Federal Bank in Alamosa, was elected vice chairman of the Heartland Community Bankers Association for 2012-2013 at the association's annual meeting, held in Colorado Springs. Gene H. Langowski `82, `87 (Trinidad, CO) teaches high school health, special ed., and physical education at Primero High School in Weston, CO. He previously taught special ed. and counseled at Denver Children’s Home in Denver.
Scott Ritzen `83, `85 (Chadron, NE) retired from coaching after 25 years as head wrestling coach at Chadron State College. He will continue as a professor and department chair of the Health, Physical Education and Recreation department. Ritzen has been a mainstay for the wrestling program. He is the school’s longest tenured and winningest wrestling coach, with a record of 134-139-8. He tutored 33 All-Americans and 3 national champions. In addition, the Eagles earned first- or second-team academic honors from the NCAA Division II Wrestling Coaches Association 33 times during Ritzen’s tenure. Nineteen of those honors have been since 2000. Ritzen has been inducted into several halls of fame: the NAIA Wrestling Hall of Fame in 1989, Adams State Athletic Hall of Fame in 2005, and recently, the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Hall of Fame as a member of the national champion Adams State squad. He’s in the Chadron State Athletic Hall of Fame as a coach. The RMAC Coach of the Year in 1995, Ritzen was also selected president of the NCAA Division II National Wrestling Coaches Association at the 2004 national tourney. Lynn Sutphen `83 (Menifee, CA) stays busy in retirement through entertaining her grandchildren, volunteering within their schools, traveling, and quilting. Verda Peterkin `84 (Laurel, MD) is a science teacher and assistant principal at a private school in Washington D.C. Verda enjoys spending time with her three children: Brittany, 27; Jamie II, 22; and Tia, 20. Her hobbies include refereeing basketball, singing, and traveling internationally. David Van Pelt `86 (Denver, CO) is practicing critical care medicine in Aurora, CO. He enjoys skiing, running and also travels to Europe in his free time. Stephen Birchak `87 (Gloversville, NY) has published a new book, The Jerk Whisperer. He is a professor at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY.
Lloyd Engen `87 (Fort Collins, CO) writes, “I had a great time at the Fort Collins gathering, and I’m excited about Homecoming coming up, as this is my 25th anniversary of graduating from Adams State, where I turned my life around. ASC was like a home to me.” Albert Galvan `87 (Walsenburg, CO) is an educator who has taught at Hoene School and both elementary and middle schools in Walsenburg. He has also been support staff for Regis University at Colorado Springs and currently at CSU-Pueblo in the teacher education program. He has received many awards, including the La Plaza de Los Leones award for Exemplary Leadership, Outstanding Educator, Colorado Reading Teacher of the Year, Thelma Pett Continuing Education Award, Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers, Target Scholarship, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from La Plaza de Los Leones. He has been a member of the NEA, the CEA and the HEA for 34 years. Albert is also an author and has had 1 poem published and is currently working on 3 children’s books. Robbie Harris `87 (Los Alamos, NM) was married in 1996 to Michelle. They have 2 children: Lauren, 11, and Jenna, 8. Robbie has worked at the Los Alamos National Lab for 8 years. He coaches children’s basketball and softball teams and is also a lean six sigma black belt. Charlene (Langowski) Bertolino `89 (Trinidad, CO) retired from teaching in 2010 after 22 years in “bricks and mortar” and 8 years online. She is married to Robert and has a daughter, Tory, a sophomore at Trinidad State Junior College majoring in elementary education. Charlene is a data collector for the research company Westat and is also the president of the Trinidad School District #1. In her free time, she is completing her 31st year officiating high school volleyball (CVOA), traveling, and spending time with family. She is also an avid Broncos fan and season ticket holder.
1990s Lucinda Yazzie `90 (Leupp, AZ) is a case manager for children and young adults with development disabilities in Flagstaff, AZ. She has a stepdaughter and stepson and one grandson. She enjoys being with her grandnephew and niece, TsuTsu and Belle. The last time she visited ASC was in 1998. Kenneth DeLeon `91 (Pueblo, CO) moved to Pueblo to work for the Department of Corrections in Cañon City. He has 6 grandchildren and is enjoying life. Kathryn Anderson `92 (Lamar, CO) retired this year from Lamar School District. Joe Erickson `94 (Rocky Ford, CO) recently started his own business, Erickson Consulting Services, LLC, which specializes in grant writing, management, and evaluation. Cathy Holm `93 (Santa Barbara, CA) is a drug/alcohol/ substance abuse counselor in Santa Barbara, where she has lived for 5 years. Her daughter and her fiancé live in Los Angeles and will be getting married in Lake Tahoe in December. She is looking forward to retiring in a “few” years. Jeri McAndrews `95 (Bisbee, AZ) published her memoir Runaway Dancer, Getaway Tales in March 2011. She was trained by the finest ballet instructors in the USA. She moved to the West and, after seeing the Hopi Snake Dance, changed her performance ethic. She concentrated on making dances performed out of doors, such as at the Great Sand Dunes National Park. She couldn't make a living teaching dance in Crestone and is happy she obtained her teaching degree. Mary Gabriel `97 (Pueblo, CO) moved to Pueblo and is now a sergeant with the Department of Corrections. Ellen (Dilk) Talboom `98 (Cottonwood, AZ) owned and operated two private practice counseling offices in Colorado. She was a therapist at a residential behavioral treatment center for adolescents in Montana and was also a therapist for a guidance clinic. In Arizona, she was an elementary school teacher and behavioral consultant for children and families.
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2000s Kenny Schneider `02 (La Veta, CO) is running for Country Commissioner District-2 in Huerfano County. Saida Montoya-Chaparro `02, `04 (Brighton, CO) and her husband, Luis, celebrated the birth of their third daughter, Aria, in July, 2011. A compliance investigator in the Labor Standards Division of the Colorado Department of Labor, she has worked with the state since 2004. Tina Valdez `02 (Pueblo West, CO) is a mental health supervisor with the Colorado Department of Corrections in Cañon City. She is grandmother to Daisy, age 2. Erik Blake `03 (New Britain, CT) is the head track and cross country coach at Central Connecticut State and was married to Anne Leonard on July 14.
John V. Carlson `03 (Farmington, NM) is a domestic violence counselor at Farmington’s Family Crisis Center. John is also a volunteer chaplain at the San Juan Regional Medical Center. In his spare time, he loves to hang out with his sweet wife, Chris, his two daughters: Meg and Sara, and their lab, Stormy. John writes, “Thanks A.S.U! Life is good.” Sandra Hubbard `05 (Parker, CO) completed her master of applied science programing in environmental policy and management with an emphasis in natural resource management in November 2011 at the University of Denver. She has 2 cats and 2 border collies. Sandra enjoys running and walking with her dogs on all of the wonderful trail systems in her neighborhood.
Jessica Castillo `10 (Alamosa, CO) was named to the Colorado Education Association’s Teaching and Learning Committee, which is producing the CEA Blueprint and Senate Bill 191 resources. Laura Beth Garcia `10 (Alamosa, CO) has been the office manager at KRZA Radio since last November. She also hosts a weekly Contemporary Classical show and writes, “I am so happy here and consider myself beyond fortunate to have found a job in my field of study in the SLV!” Sarah Voights `10 (La Junta, CO) thought she would always be a teacher, but she took a job in the mental health field. She is still teaching, but in a different capacity. Southeast Mental Health has given her the opportunity to use her skills and knowledge learned through Adams State Extended Studies to teach, model, and give classroom strategies to help children with special needs.
remembering . . . Glen Bean `36 (Alamosa, CO) passed away April 4 at the age of 96. Among his survivors are daughters Laurie Bean Cameron `74 and Elinor Bean Gonzales `78, son Ralph Bean `87, sisters Lois Moeny `43 and Hazel Petty `46, `71, and brother Kenneth Bean `49. Nancy King Giordano `38 (Pagosa Springs, CO) passed away Feb. 12 at the age of 96. Susie Maxwell `39, `72 (Alamosa, CO) passed away March 3 at the age of 94. Mary Foley Tegnell `40 (Gwynedd, PA) passed away March 22 at the age of 93. Paul Stong `47 (Alamosa, CO) passed away March 23 at the age of 88. Among his survivors are 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. Edicia Manzanares `47, `74 (San Pablo, CO) passed away April 25 at the age of 91. Among her survivors is son Wayne Manzanares `70, `71. Willard Dynes `50 (Colorado Springs, CO) passed away Feb. 19 at the age of 83. Among his survivors is brother Vallerd Dynes `50. John Seaberg `51 (Norman, OK) passed away June 4 at the age of 84. Among his survivors is wife Rhea Seaberg `51.
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Molly Brubaker `58, `61 (Swink, CO) passed away June 18 at the age of 87. Among her survivors are son Tom Brubaker`73, `89, daughter-in-law Karen Brubaker`73, `82, and daughter Mary Hobbs `74. Jose Gonzales `58, `68, `78 (Amalia, NM) passed away April 20 at the age of 84. Vera Tavenner `60 (Aztec, NM) passed away Feb. 26 at the age of 94.
Betty Crona `77 (Monte Vista, CO) passed away June 23 at the age of 84. Pat Porter `82 (Albuquerque, NM) passed away June 26 at the age of 53. See story page 39. Patricia Skroch `92 (Pagosa Springs, CO) passed away March 16 at the age of 64.
Darrell Fosberg `62 (Flagstaff, AZ) passed away April 16 at the age of 73.
Jolene Ford `93 (Alamosa, CO) passed away Feb. 2 at the age of 44. Among her survivors are father Jim Ford `59 and brother James Ford `79.
Dorothy Scott `67 (Newport Beach, CA) passed away Feb. 12 at the age of 96.
Keith Weaver `95 (Castle Rock, CO) passed away April 22 at the age of 39.
James Lively `69 (Hendersonville, NC) passed away Feb. 20 at the age of 69.
Sandra Sinclair `97 (Grand Junction, CO) passed away June 6 at the age of 61.
Betty McCall `71, `82 (La Junta, CO) passed away March 22 at the age of 82.
Ann Coyle `99 (Cañon City, CO) passed away May 21 at the age of 58.
Nancy Rhodus Dailey `72 (Carter Lake, IA) passed away May 30 at the age of 61. Among her survivors are husband Mike Dailey `73 and brother Tom Rhodus `73.
Crystal Ferrendelli `08 (Trinidad, CO) passed away March 12 at the age of 30.
Sharon Smith `73 (Alamosa, CO) passed away June 18 at the age of 64. Among her survivors is husband Terry Smith `70. Betty Greener `76 (Levelland, TX) passed away March 9 at the age of 75. Carla Mulkey `77 (Durango, CO) passed away Feb. 28 at the age of 61.
friends Dr. Bill Chase, Emeritus Professor of Business, (Lewiston, ID) passed away April 25 at the age of 80.
ADAMS ADAMS STATE STATE
UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY
www.adams.edu • email - alumni@adams.edu
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New Hall of Fame inducts edu the inaugural Adams State University Educator Hall of Fame celebration, May 7, honored dedicated educators who enabled students to succeed academically, professionally and personally. All recipients received a small tile plaque; a larger plaque will be mounted in Adams State’s McDaniel Hall. This new recognition program was initiated by Ted Morrison ‘69, who was also instrumental in reviving Adams State’s Athletic Hall of Fame. The selection committee included Betty Shawcroft ‘74; Lynn Crowder, Teacher Education professional program coordinator; Kurt Cary ‘78, associate department head of Teacher Education; Mary Motz ‘62; and Don Stegman ’61, ‘64, Emeritus Professor of English. The event was made possible by contributions from Alamosa State Bank, San Luis Valley Federal Bank, and Ted Morrison/Arby's. The following summaries do little to fully credit these former educators who inspired generations of young people to achieve their full potential. charlotte bobicki ‘58, ‘71 enjoyed all aspects of education, from teaching special education to administration. She acknowledged her family's support throughout her 36 years in the education field. The Adams State Outstanding Alumna of 2005, she taught in Albuquerque; Fredrick, Maryland; Center, and Alamosa. She also served two terms as Alamosa County Commissioner and now operates the SLV office of Senator Michael Bennett. don brooks “was a consummate classroom teacher,” according to Stegman, who accepted the award on Brooks’ behalf. The Adams State Emeritus Professor of English was a methodical, organized, and energetic classroom teacher. “Most of all, he loved the students. He made them better writers and better people."
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The first class inducted into the Educator Hall of Fame includes (from left) Charlotte Bobicki, Martha J. Valdez, John B. Roybal Jr., Inez Oaks (accepting for Floyd Oaks Sr.), Don Stegman (accepting for Donald M. Brooks), Barbara Relyea, Mary Motz (accepting for Marv Motz), Angelina Velasquez, Charlie Jaquez Jr., Becky Forster (accepting for Adah Morgan), Mike Gomez, and Charlotte Coombs (accepting for Deanna Thomas).
mike gomez ‘72, ‘74 was often asked how he managed teaching middle school students. He said: "Their energy and excitement rubbed off on me." He taught English and became the secondary principal at Centennial School District in San Luis, Colo. He served on numerous committees and co-founded Mariachi San Luis. charlie jaquez jr. ‘69 taught high school mathematics and science in Centennial School District and served on the district’s Board of Education. He was president of the San Luis Valley Board of Cooperative Education Services, an adjunct professor at Adams State, and served on several other community and school organizations. adah morgan ‘58, ‘63 taught all elementary grades for a total of 43 years, 32 of those in Sanford, Colo. She received the Sanford Teacher of the Year Award, San Luis Valley Outstanding Teacher Award, and an award for appreciation of her exemplary teaching. marvin motz ‘58, ‘59 taught psychology at Adams State and held ad-
ministrative positions, including two terms as interim president. His daughter, Susan Arnold ‘88, accepted his plaque. She said her father loved teaching and believed if students only have "easy problems to solve," there is little value in education. Motz was the Outstanding Alumnus for 1997 and received the Billy Adams Award in 2006. floyd oaks sr. ‘61 taught science in the Alamosa Schools for 30 years and was named Teacher of the Year. His wife, Inez, said: "Floyd always said it wasn't his teaching; it was his outstanding students who made the difference." barbara relyea ‘67 was ahead of her time, understanding that pedagogy requires constant refreshment of material and innovative approaches. She organized events such as job days, "A Fair of the Heart," and an outdoor classroom experience of three days at Beaver Creek Youth Camp. In 1990, the Colorado Association of Conservation Districts named her Teacher of the Year in Conservation, and the Home Economics State Technical Committee named
ducators from Adams State her Home Economics Teacher of the Year. john b. roybal sr. ‘51, ‘60 attended Adams State on the GI Bill. He taught, served as principal, superintendent, and head of the school board, always working to improve systems, programs, and institutions at all levels. He was awarded the Adams State Billy Adams Award in 1995, was presented a Governor's Proclamation by Gov. Roy Romer, and received the Colbert Cushing Award from the Colorado Association of School Executives for
Significant Contributions to the Education Profession. deanna thomas ‘64 worked 33 years in the North Conejos School District, teaching wherever she was needed. Her daughter, Charlotte Coombs, accepted the plaque, saying her mother set a "tremendous" example. Widowed at age 51, Thomas raised her seven children, managed the family farm, and enjoyed her teaching career. martha j. valdez ‘64, ‘66 was involved in all levels of education for 46 years. She received the Trinidad State Junior College Faculty of the Year
Award and served on numerous boards and committees. Valdez is a leader who serves as a positive role model for other Hispanic women. angelina velasquez ‘47 said she always appreciated the support from principals, parents, and students. She taught for nearly 50 years, often in schools in such isolated areas as Ortiz, San Rafael, and Las Mesitas. She received the South Conejos Teacher of the Year Award and continues to support non-profit organizations. By Linda Relyea ‘96
Alumni honored in SLV Teacher of the Year program LaRee Bearss `72, `11 (Monte Vista, CO), a Monte Vista and San Luis Valley Board of Cooperative Services (BOCES) special education teacher, was named the 2012 San Luis Valley Teacher of the Year. Bearss has been with BOCES for six years and also teaches in a transition program that prepares high school students with severe needs for a life that is independent and meaningful. This includes preparation for post-secondary training, careers, and independent living.
Frank Cordova `99 (Alamosa, CO) has been with Sangre de Cristo School District for 13 years and teaches jr./sr. high social studies. Robbie Curto `00, `06 (Alamosa, CO) is the K-12 counselor with the Sargent School District, where she has worked for 3 years. Matt Lucero `98 (Blanca, CO) teaches K-12 physical education in the Sierra Grande School District, where he has taught for 7 years.
Other alumni nominated for SLV Teacher of the Year, who won the award at their respective schools, include: Kelly Ozawa `88, `99 (Alamosa, CO) teaches 4th grade in the Alamosa school district, where she has taught for 23 years. Kimba Rael `08 (San Luis, CO) has been in the Centennial school district for 4 years, teaching jr./sr. high school English and language arts.
Photo courtesy of Valley Courier
Darlene Medina `93, `01 (Alamosa, CO) is a 19-year teacher for the Del Norte School District, where she teaches 4th grade. Sherri Garcia `02, `06 (Alamosa, CO) has been with the Moffat School District for 7 years and teaches 4th and 5th grades. Tracy Simon `03 (Del Norte, CO) is a special education teacher with the Mountain Valley School District, where she has worked for 2 years. Moe Crowther `89 (La Jara, CO) teaches social studies and has been with the North Conejos School District for 20 years. Monica Edgar `94 (Sanford, CO) teaches jr. and sr. high business in the Sanford School District, where she has worked for 18 years.
Front row, from left: The 2012 SLV Outstanding Teacher of the Year LaRee Bearss, Darlene Medina, Lisa Abeyta, Kimba Rael, Veronica Starcher, Monica Edgar, Sherri Garcia. Back row: Matt Lucero, Moe Crowther, Russ Braiden, Frank Cordova, Robbie Curto, and Kelly Ozawa. summer 2012| A-Stater | 31
sky s wrestling reunion
Front L-R: Robert & Michelle Gallegos, Kim Lorimer, Walt & Leisl Stoufer Back L-R: Harold Montoya, Marcus & Olive Aretz, and Lori Laske
Front L-R: Terry Smith, Aaron Casetta, Troy Bonewell, Brad Hargreaves, Rocky Humphrey, Jim Plane, and Coach Jason Ramstetter Back L-R: Matt Zene, Greg Jones, Mark Walker, David Larson, Frank Westcott, Mark Hensley and former Coach Rodger Jehlicka
orange county
walsenburg
la junta
Front L-R: Cleo Bellah, Maryann Vigil, Georgann Gomez, Jewel Geiger, Virginia Archuleta, Bertha Ragsdale, and Loyola Litz Back L-R: Anna Lozano Galvan, Bill Crain, Albert Galvan, Kenny & Nina Schneider, Mary Butero, Lori Laske, Dianne Hanisch, Ellie Crain, Ione & George Glumac
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scrapbook
Front-Back: Gerrie Valerio, Lori Laske, Jake Martinez, Sarah Voights, Gaylene Horning, and Teri Erickson
sky sox Front L-R: Jolleen Myers, Dutch & Marilyn Malberg, Diane & Darrell Trembly
Near left: 1982 Classmates Bobbi Gordon, Gary Cunningham, and Sherri Hunt, with Lori Laske, enjoy the Sky Sox game and discuss coming to Homecoming 2012!
Back L-R: Louis Myers, Shar & Bruce Short, John Carlson, and Lori Laske
Adams State alumni and their families were all smiles, despite the cold at the Sky Sox game on May 19.
durango
Albuquerque alumni gather with their families to enjoy the Adobe theatre.
albuquerque ft. collins
washington, d.c. Front L-R: Karen Glorioso, Brigitte Sherrod, Verda Peterkin, Lori Laske, and Joan Perry Back L-R: Bea Valdez, Fulton Armstrong, Douglas Thomas, David Evans, Bob and Marveen Manzanares, Priscilla Lujan, Myra Loyd, and Joe Perry
Back L-R: Pablo Sandoval, Brenda & Clarke Echols, Dixie Longman, and Barbara Olander Middle L-R: Lori Laske, Shari & Mark Massey, Connie & Kim Marvel Front L-R: Holly Dey, Lloyd Engen, Ron Dey, Linda & Doyle Thornton. summer 2012| A-Stater | 33
los alamos
L-R: Shirley Jeffryes, Wendy Hoffman, Larry Jeffryes, Gordon Hoffman, Michelle & Robbie Harris, Jennifer Reglien, Matthew Felton, Lori Laske, Kathy & Rob Hipwood
Front L-R: Cindy Baer, Jim & Cheryl Abernathy, and Bessy McCorkle Back L-R: Stan & Mona Brinkley, Kathy & Ken Anderson, Lori Laske, and Lavoy McCorkle
granada Retirees: top right, LR: Joanne Clayton, Jan & Kay Watkins, Berda Helms, Marian Seegrist, and Arvilla Weldon Bottom Right, L-R: Rich Scanga, Carl & Alberta Coolbaugh, and Tom & Pat Gilmore
phoenix
Front L-R: Roger Trotter, Sharon Basovsky, Judy Martin, Bev Price, Mary Jane Gibson, Lucinda Yazzie, and Ardith Nance Middle L-R: Marta Pastirchak, Teresa Hall, Judy Jones, Velma Workman, Sherrie Maule, Connie Spencer, Priscilla Gibson, Yvonne Moulton, and Frank Nance
Back L-R: Rudy Basovsky, Butch Jones, Jim Workman, Robert Pollard, Brent Williams, Lori Laske, and Burt Moulton
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retirees
san diego Front L-R: Dianna Downey, Jim Matthie, Lynn Sutphen, Candy Wilson, and Cathy Holm Back L-R: Ed Downey, Paul & Christine Morley, Jim & Valerie Colbert, John Wilson, Lori Laske and Cathy McMullen
santa fe pueblo Pueblo area alumni gather on the riverwalk to enjoy some Angelo’s pizza!
Back L-R: Viola Vigil, Leanne Lounsbury, Lori Laske, Lorreda Lopez, Virginia Vigil, and Jennifer Reglien Front: Francis & John Marvel
irees
tucson L-R: Judy & Bruce Moulton, John & Marilyn McBride, Dick & Debbie Smith, Jim & Susie Willburn, Ellen Talboom, Dorothy August, Shela & Dick Seals, Ellen Evans, and Lori Laske
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2012 Athletic Hall of Fame include seven of adams state’s top student-athletes and its first national championship cross country team joined an elite club June 2, when they were inducted into the ASU Athletics Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame now boasts 87 individuals and 4 teams. The 2012 class includes 4-time all-America wrestlers Aaron Casetta ‘94 and Rodney Romero ‘89, national championship distance runners Craig Dickson ’90 and Kim (Bugg) Jackson ‘00, women’s basketball school-record setter Meagan Hoffman ‘05, 3-time football all-American Scott Wiedeman ’92, ’04, and Mike McDonald ‘71, who was Adams State’s first cross country All-American. The 1971 men’s cross country team, coached by interim head coach Larry Jeffryes ‘69 and assistant Dannie Makris ‘73, was the first Adams State squad to win a national cross country crown. Lloyd Nelson, former owner/operator of McDonald’s of Alamosa, was honored with the Ted & Janet Morrison Special Citation. The Morrisons were instrumental in getting the Hall of Fame restarted in 2000. Nelson has been an Adams State supporter since 1982, when he moved to Alamosa to open McDonald’s. He owned the restaurant until retiring in 2004 and helped start the McDonald’s All-Valley football banquet and awards program. casetta is ASU’s all-time winningest wrestler, with 131 career wins, and is one of just five 4-time all-Americans in Adams State history. He earned NAIA honors in 1991 and
1971 men’s cross country Back, L-R: Pablo Vigil ’75, ‘91; Tim Ramey ‘73; Milt Place ‘74; Norm Roberts ‘75, ‘77; Larry Jeffryes ‘69 Front, L-R: Steve Vining ‘73; Mark Weeks ‘75; David Wood ‘67, ‘75
sports scene
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1992 before Adams State moved up to the NCAA Division II ranks for his 1993-94 seasons. Casetta also won three individual Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference titles in his career and helped lead coach Rodger Jehlicka’s teams to team crowns in those 1992, 1993, and 1994 seasons. He and Romero share the Adams State career record for tournament championships (13). romero, also a 4-time all-American, earned those honors during his 1986-89 career. He was also a 4-time RMAC and Colorado Collegiate Champion and owns the school records for near falls in a season (75) and in a career (218), technical falls in a career (21), and team points earned (416.75). He helped the then ASC Indians win 1986 and 1989 RMAC crowns, as well. dickson was the 1988 NAIA Individual National Cross Country Champion and a member of three straight national championship teams from 1986-88. He was an 8-time overall all-American and the former school-record holder in the 5,000 meters (13:48). hoffman played for the Grizzlies from 2001-05 and earned First Team All-RMAC West honors in three straight years. She still holds Division II era (1992-present) records for career rebounds (861), steals (163), and free throws (354). She also set D-II era records for career scoring (1,378) and field goals (504), marks that were only recently broken. Hoffman has been playing professionally in Europe for teams in Iceland, Wales, and Spain and has made 29 appearances for Great Britain’s National Team as a dual-citizen. jackson was a 10-time all-American and won the 1998 NCAA Division II National Cross Country title before claiming victory in the 5,000 meters at the 2000 NCAA Division II Indoor Track & Field Championships. A member of four straight national championship cross country teams from 1995-98, Jackson was inducted into the Division II Cross Country Athlete Hall of Fame in 2008 and selected to the RMAC’s All-Time Cross Country team during the 200809 Centennial Celebration. mCdonald was Adams State’s first cross country allAmerican, earning the honor in 1967 after a seventh place finish at the NAIA National Championships. Going on to earn three other top-10 finishes, McDonald earned five total all-America honors, including one on the track, and won 1967 and 1970 individual RMAC cross country titles. He later represented the U.S. at the 1972 World Cross Country Championships in Tunis, Tunisia.
udes 1st men’s X-C nat’l champs
Front Row, L to R: Scott Wiedeman, Aaron Casetta, Rodney Romero, Kim (Bugg) Jackson, Craig Dickson, Tim Ramey; Back Row Lloyd Nelson, Meagan Hoffman, Mark Weeks, Norm Roberts, Milt Place, Pablo Vigil, Mike McDonald, Larry Jeffryes, Dannie Makris, David Wood, Steve Vining
wiedeman was named to the RMAC’s All-Time Football Team in 2009 and was 3-time all-American defensive back in 1988, 1990, and 1991. Still the holder of the school records for interceptions in a season (13) and a career (27),
Wiedeman was a 4-time First Team All-RMAC pick and helped lead the then ASC Indians to the 1988 NAIA National Championship Game and the 1989 National Quarterfinals after earning the RMAC crown that year. By Chris Day
6 consecutive years in top ten
Grizzlies finish 6th in Directors’ Cup The Grizzlies earned their sixthstraight top 10 finish in the Division II Learfield Sports Directors’ Cup standings, concluding a year in which 9 Adams State teams advanced to their respective NCAA tournaments, and 7 finished among the top ten nationally. Developed as a joint effort between the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) and USA Today, the Learfield Sports Directors’ Cup is awarded to the nation’s top athletics program, with points awarded according to finishes in up to 14 sports - seven men’s and seven women’s. The Grizzlies’ 6th place finish is the highest of any institution with fewer
than 12 point-scoring sports. The Grizzlies scored 667.50 points in nine sports. Grizzlies’ men’s cross country took second at the NCAA championships last fall, while the women finished fourth. ASU then saw four teams contribute points in the winter. The men’s and women’s indoor track & field teams nabbed runner-up national finishes, while the Grizzly grapplers tied for eighth at the DII Wrestling Championship, and the men’s basketball team made an appearance at the DII Central Regional Tournament for the second straight season.
Spring efforts earned points in women’s golf, women’s outdoor track & field, and by taking 100 points with the men’s first outdoor track & field national championship. The 2011-12 year also saw the Grizzlies earn nine individual NCAA titles between track & field and wrestling. ASU also laid claim to four Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Championships during 201112. In addition to both indoor and outdoor track & field titles, the volleyball team finished the regular season as the RMAC West Division champions. By Scott Kretzmann
summer 2012| A-Stater | 37
Men take Adams State’s first Outdoor Track & Field Nationals Despite admirable success since 1971, Adams State had never won an outdoor track & field national title … until this spring. Fittingly, a large crowd of Grizzly supporters was on hand to witness the feat in Pueblo, Colo., May 24-26, where the ASU men won the team title over runner-up Lincoln (Mo.), and the women’s team placed third. The Grizzly men received the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches’ Association (USTFCCCA) DII Program of the Year Award for the fourth time in the 4-year history of the award, while the women earned their fourth runner-up finish. The Grizzlies won six events at the meet. On the men’s side, senior Drew Graham successfully defended his 1,500 meter crown, winning his third career DII individual championship, as he also won the indoor mile in March. Freshman Boris Berian, the NCAA indoor champ at 800 meters in March, repeated the feat at the outdoor meet. Women’s national champs included senior Indira Spence, 100 meter hurdles; sophomore Kayon Robinson, 400 meter dash; senior Kristen McGlynn 5,000 meter run; and the 4x100 meter relay team of Spence, Robinson, Chelsea Fenderson, and Zenobia Sims.
Women’s golf scores best season
Katelyn Lovato
Softball stays strong Grizzly softball started the season strong, but just missed out on the league tourney. The Grizzlies had their second straight .500 or better season, 24-24 overall and 20-20 in the RMAC. Freshman designated player Erika Ecsedy was named an All-RMAC and National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-Region performer. Junior Katelyn Lovato was named First Team All-RMAC, to NFCA and Daktronics all-region squads, and was also recognized as an all-American by the NFCA, Daktronics, and Easton Sports. Wrapping up a great career, senior Rebecca Lindquist was tabbed an Academic AllRMAC performer, First Team All-RMAC, an NFCA and Daktronics all-region performer, and Daktronics all-American.
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sports scene
Freshman Rachel Reiling and the Adams State women’s golf team as a whole finished a record-setting season with a strong final day performance at the NCAA Division II Central Region (Super Region 3) Championships. The tournament was the last for sixth-year head coach Jay Meyer, who announced his resignation, effective at the end of the season. Under Meyer, the Grizzlies lowered their team scoring average every season. Rachel Reiling Taking over the team will be Adam Jardon, one of the best golfers in Adams State University history. The team achieved a 339.56 scoring average over 18 competitive rounds this season, besting the former schoolrecord mark of 341.58 set in 2010-11, when the Grizzlies qualified for their first NCAA regional as a team. Reiling was a Third Team AllRMAC pick, finishing the year with a new single-season school-record average score of 83.28. Fellow freshman Maressa McClintock was named the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference’s Freshman of the Year for the 2011-12 season and earned Second Team AllRMAC honors.
get extended stories & full stats www.asugrizzlies.com hall of famer, olympian
Pat Porter ’82 killed in plane crash
top student-athletes named junior distance runner kristen mCglynn was recently named USTFCCCA DII Women's Outdoor Track Scholar Athlete of the Year. She helped the ASU women to their ninth straight outdoor RMAC title. She earned her 4th RMAC Academic Athlete of the Year recognition, was named RMAC May Athlete of the Month, and took her 2nd honor as the NCAA Elite 89 Award winner (student-athlete with the highest grade point average competing in that sport’s championship) for DII Women’s Outdoor Track & Field. She won the NCAA 5,000 meter championship. senior luke mCpeek was one of 4 wrestlers selected for the 15-member Capital One Academic All-America® Men’s At-Large First Team and was named the At-Large Academic AllAmerican of the Year. He was also Outstanding Wrestler of the Tournament at the NCAA DII Wrestling Championships, as well as the 2012 RMAC Academic Wrestler of the Year, and a National Wrestling Coaches’ Association (NWCA) First Team Academic All-American. His two-year ASU overall record was 49-13.
legendary former Adams State University and Olympic distance runner Pat Porter ‘82 and two children, including his 15-year old son, died June 26 in a tragic plane accident near the Sedona, Ariz., airport. Porter earned a degree in business administration - marketing from Adams State University. “This is just heartbreaking,” said Damon Martin ‘87, Adams State’s men’s & women’s cross country and track and field coach. “Pat was an icon for our program. People identified Adams State with him. Even recently, I’m so proud of his association with our current teams. He took time out of his schedule to cheer the runners on and spoke to them after their runs.” Athletic Director Larry pat porter Mortensen ’88, career highlights ‘93 said, "Pat was one of our • 1980 and 1981: NAIA most noted Individual Nat’l Cross alums. His athCountry Champ letic achieve• 1982: 2-mile NAIA ments are Nat’l Indoor Champ, renowned. He several individual was extremely RMAC titles loyal to his • 1984 - 10,000 m run, Adams State, LA Olympics and we will miss • 1987 inducted into him." NAIA Hall of Fame Dr. Mark • 1988 - 10,000 m run, Seoul Olympics Manzanares • 2000 - inducted into Adams State Athletics Hall of Fame ’89,’92, associ• 2009: named RMAC's All-Time Top Cross Country ate professor of runner counselor edu• Won a record-setting eight USA Track & Field senior cation, was a men's cross country national championships. close friend of Porter’s. “When I was an admissions counselor, we recruited a lot of students who were attracted to Adams State because of Pat’s accomplishments,” he said. Porter, 53, had just been inducted into the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Hall of Fame, July 20. He lived in Albuquerque, N.M., and was an avid pilot. He is survived by his wife of 20-plus years, Trish, who was a 1988 Olympian in the high jump, and 11-year old daughter, Shannon. His son, Connor, and Connor's friend were also killed in the crash. There were no survivors. The twin-engine plane, registered in Porter's name, hit a boundary fence at the south end of the Sedona Airport runway and then went down a steep mesa, according to eye-witnesses. The plane then burst into flames upon impact at the bottom of the hill, according to Ron Wheeler, the Field Operations Commander for the Sedona Police Department. For further details, go to: www. asugrizzlies.com or www.adams/news/. summer 2012| A-Stater | 39
non-profit u.s. postage
paid permit no. 80 alamosa, co A-Stater Adams State University Alamosa, CO 81101
the great stories celebration for Adams State University is open to all alumni and community members, Aug. 23 & 24. Faculty were commissioned to create commemorative poetry, music, and art for the occasion. Art Professor Dana Provence (right) works with his assistant on a piece of hexagonal basalt, one of three 7.5-foot forms comprising his sculpture. Special events include a FREE concert by Los Lobos, a gala scholarship dinner, and much more. For details, go to: WWW.ADAMS.EDU/UNIVERSITY-CELEBRATION/