A
Stater
the magazine of adams state university
fall 2012
Seeking
the American Dream
A
Stater
president’s letter: education is key to the dream
VOL. 52, NO. 3 • FALL 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 • Eric Flores • Gaylene Horning ’94 • Danny Ledonne Lisa Marlin • Sarah Meier • Kellicia Morse ’14 Mariah Pepe ’15 • James Trujillo ’02 • Blake Wood
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 Meagan Smith 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
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.
It’s almost a cliché that education is the path to achieving the American Dream: upward mobility, meaningful work, a better standard of living. But cliché or not, it is a bedrock of the American ethos, one that has inspired millions to complete high school and college. Many second-generation Americans heard that mantra from their parents, who labored and scrimped so their children could reach that goal – something they never dreamed of for themselves. I heard this every day from my parents growing up. David Svaldi The instincts of those hardworking parents were right on. U.S. Census Bureau data show that educational level, income, and other measures of achievement increase between first and second generation immigrants. Just as in centuries past, America is seen as the land of opportunity, and education opens the door to those opportunities. College-educated individuals can expect to earn $1 million more over their lifetimes than those with only a high school diploma. That’s the minimum savings recommended for retirement. Those with higher educations also lead healthier lifestyles, have better access to health care, and tend to vote and participate in their communities at a higher rate. A college education also provides insulation against unemployment during economic hard times. The unemployment rate for college graduates is currently half that of non-college graduates. Whether their forebears journeyed to American centuries ago or last year, our students are motivated by those economic and social advantages. More than 37 percent of Adams State’s undergraduate students are the first in their families to attend college; among Hispanic students, that rate is more than 47 percent. I am a first-generation college graduate, and everything I have is because of the journey that took me from a confused college freshman to a Ph.D. holder from an elite graduate school. This magazine’s cover section about the American Dream profiles another journey by a young man determined to earn his education, against enormous odds (see page 19). Adams State’s smaller, more personal environment is less intimidating and more welcoming for first-generation students. ASU provides the individualized attention and services they need for success. Adams State also works with area school districts to improve public school capacity and, thus, college preparation. Through two new programs utilizing our graduate students in education and counseling, we are working to prepare more and better professionals for local schools (see page 6). A STEM grant for Hispanic Serving Institutions has funded outreach and facility upgrades to encourage more children to pursue scientific careers (see page 11). At Adams State University, we know the American Dream is an achievable reality. We appreciate all of you and all of our faculty and staff who help others achieve this dream.
the cover Autumn@Adams, a community and campus celebration now in its ninth year, recently explored the concept of The American Dream. See page 16.
order your adams state university diploma
contents
$15
cover story Seeking the American Dream 2012 Autumn@Adams
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update Fall enrollment second highest ever What makes life worth living? ASU partners to expand capacity in SLV schools Latino Leadership takes kids to the top A calling, a profession, a legacy Former students gather to dedicate McDaniel Hall Got Art? Upgrades position Zacheis Planetarium for outreach
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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
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alumni event calendar
features Adams State University blasts off Seeking the American Dream Autumn@Adams heats it up Reaching for the Dream Political and Personal A student considers the immigration experience
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DECEMBER 2 6
giving Foundation honors contributions of First Southwest Bank Morrisons & Arbys named Grizzly Corporate Partner of the Year Konnie & Damon ‘87 Martin named Grizzly Club Members of the Year Caldwell Scholarship to aid education majors Memorial scholarship helps launch ASU baseball
alumnotes alumni scrapbook sports scenes
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JANUARY 18
Grizzlies get a new logo Fulkerson to aid Athletics fundraising Colorado Sports Hall of Fame inducts Cockroft ‘67
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SLV Social
FEBRUARY 19 Albuquerque 21 Tucson 22-23 Phoenix
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ASU Theatre Matinee, Alamosa Retirees’ Christmas Dinner
MARCH 6 7 9 21
Colorado Springs Denver San Francisco Los Alamos
Watch your mail for details. www.facebook.com/ adamsalumni • adams.edu/alumni 800-824-6494, ext. 8
Students make the most of a pleasant fall day on the North Campus Green.
Stay up to date on events, sports, and news from Adams State University: www.adams.edu/news
Fall enrollment second highest ever Adams State University’s fall enrollment is just six students short of tying last year’s all-time record. The total student headcount of 3,724 includes 843 graduate students, according to Dr. Michael Mumper ‘76, senior vice president for Enrollment Management and Program Development. “We are pleased to report our second highest enrollment ever,” Mumper said. “Although our freshman class is somewhat smaller, we increased continuing students and graduate students. We lost some undergraduates due to changes in financial aid, but had gains from our growing NCAA athletics programs.”
academic quality Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management Eric Carpio ‘01 said, “We’re very happy with the academic quality of this year’s freshman class, which has a larger number of
merit scholarship recipients – students in the top tiers of high school GPA and ACT/SAT scores. This is part of an intentional strategy to improve student success and retention.”
“
We’re very happy with the academic quality of this year’s freshman class. . . This is part of an intentional strategy to improve student success and retention.”
The freshman class boasts 11 high school valedictorians and 205 merit scholarship recipients — the most at Adams State ever. Mumper explained the university has become more competitive in recruiting top students and is able to award more merit-based institutional scholarships. Adams State is simultaneously decreas-
The 2012 Adams State Freshman Class at New Student Orientation in August.
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ing admission of significantly underprepared students who have a lower chance of succeeding. Graduate enrollment hit another alltime high and is up 2.5 percent over
last year, nearly offsetting an undergraduate decrease of under 1 percent, Mumper noted.
business administration is most popular major The 2012 freshman class totals 525 this year, compared to last year’s 579, which was the largest freshman class in Adams State history. The largest undergraduate major is business administration, with 392 students, followed by nursing, with 187. Other programs reflecting growth this fall include chemistry, earth sciences, history government/philosophy, math, physics, psychology, and sociology. Graduate program growth is led by Counselor Education, which increased 12 percent to 482 students, most of whom are enrolled online. The Master of Business Administration program, also offered online, now numbers 81 students, an increase of 22 percent over last year. Adams State’s undergraduate student body is almost 32 percent Hispanic, with an additional 15.5 percent of students identifying as members of other ethnic/racial minority groups. Female students account for 52 percent of the undergraduate student body – similar to national trends.
What makes life worth living? SWAG gives 1,100 reasons
Each year, 1,100 college students end their own lives.
. . . Aspen Family Sweet Peas Whipping my hair back and forth Music Working Out Eating a lot and not getting fat Friends Soccer Love Church The Beach $$$$$$ Crazy Ass TV Shows Saying “I Love You” Sleeping in Sports Laughter . . .
SWAG, Adams State’s Suicide Watch Awareness Gang, works to dispel myths about suicide and spread information about resources available for students at risk.
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To combat that trend and increase awareness of resources, the Adams State University suicide prevention campaign, “SWAG: Suicide Watch Awareness Gang,” displayed 1,100 flowers on the North Campus Green. Attached to each potted flower was an ASU student’s reason to stay alive and connected, the campaign theme. Reasons ranged from “family” and “laughter” to “whipping my hair back and forth” and “rock-n-roll.” The flowers were sold for $1 each, netting the group $151.50 to further support awareness efforts. The group also incorporated students’ reasons to stay alive into a video shown on the Jumbotron at the last home football game, Nov. 10. Laurel Carter, outreach coordinator/prevention specialist in Counseling & Career Services, explained that SWAG is attempting to shift the way people talk about suicide through efforts to raise awareness, reach out and support those in need, connect to one another, and promote life. Her position is funded by a three-year, $225,000 Garrett Lee Smith Campus Suicide Prevention Grant awarded last year by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Carter is encouraged by students’ positive response to the campaign, which was initiated during New Student Orientation. “The amount of support at orientation surprised me. Many students came forward to become involved, and now we have a solid core of eight students in the SWAG group, and over 50 on our email list of interested students. People are grateful to have the conversation.” Gregg Elliott, director of Counseling & Career Services, said informal surveys show about half of all ASU students have been impacted by suicide in some way. He said there are typically 5-8 suicide attempts on campus each semester. Carter and Elliott have given presentations on suicide prevention in all freshman Academic Achievement Strategies classes, as well as in residence halls. They also regularly present suicide prevention trainings for residence life staff and the community at large. “We are focusing on high risk populations, such as veterans, GLBT students, and athletes,” Carter said. “We are having more students come forward to express
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ASU partners to expand capacity in SLV Graduate programs provide expertise for Boettcher Teachers Program and Colorado Counselor Corps boettcher teachers program in the slv Colorado Lt. Governor Joe Garcia, head of the Colorado Commission on Higher Education, joined Adams State and San Luis Valley educators at a luncheon Oct. 22 to launch the Boettcher Teachers Program in the San Luis Valley. “Schools like Adams State University are so critical to communities for economic and workforce development,” Garcia said. A collaborative effort of the Boettcher Foundation and Public Education & Business Coalition (PEBC), the program was announced at a dinner on campus Sept. 11. The program’s objective is to prepare more teachers for low-income, rural public schools. Participants will earn a master’s degree in education from Adams State, as well as a Colorado teacher license. Using the apprenticeship model, the program will focus on training teachers to work with culturally and linguistically diverse students. While completing the two-year master’s program, participants will work alongside a mentor teacher for the first year, then assume a classroom of their own for the second year. Participants will then make a service commitment to San Luis Valley schools. Rosann Ward, president of the non-profit PEBC, said, “In our teacher residency program, participants work side-by-side with effective teachers who inform, encourage, and model great instruction.” Garcia said Gov. Hickenlooper’s number one priority is jobs and the economy. “What does it take to create jobs? A well-educated citizenry that is engaged in its community. We need more focus on collaboration and breaking down the lines between systems.” Garcia added, “We need to figure out how to support families every step of the way. That means promoting adult and family literacy, because the home environment directly impacts how children learn.” The Boettcher Foundation and PEBC initiated the program on the Front Range nine years ago, resulting in 96 percent teacher retention over six years, in addition to statistically significant increases in student achievement. Their partnership with Adams State University and SLV schools is the first in rural Colorado. When the decision was made to expand the program to rural Colorado, “It was an easy choice,” said Boettcher Foundation President Tim Shultz. “We wanted school districts that Lt. Gov. Joe Garcia (left) joined Boettcher Foundation President Tim Schultz and Adams State President David Svaldi at a luncheon Oct. 22 to launch The Boettcher Teachers Program in the San Luis Valley.
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surrounded a university that valued teacher education. The single most important person in a young person’s life is a teacher. This is a wonderful opportunity to provide funding. We are honored and humbled to be a part of it.” Noting that Adams State was founded in 1921 specifically to prepare teachers for rural Colorado, University President David Svaldi said the program is a natural extension of the vision of founder Billy Adams. “This is the beginning of another era. It’s not just a coincidence that Adams State has become a university at the same time it is forging this partnership with the Boettcher Teacher Program. “This program is an extra step to ensure the quality of teachers in the San Luis Valley. It is all about an investment for our kids and our grandkids,” he said. “A campus program like this will attract intelligent individuals who will come to appreciate the San Luis Valley, and they will stay. It can be difficult for rural school districts to fill certain teaching positions, such as those in math and science, and the Boettcher program will help address those needs.” Center, Alamosa, and North Conejos school districts will serve as training districts for the program, providing about 24 mentor teachers. All SLV school districts will be included in the partnership as it evolves. Details will be refined in coming months.
schools colorado counselor corps
Exercises on ASU’s High Adventure Challenge Course helped Latino Leadership Summit participants build communication skills and foster teamwork.
Latino Leadership takes kids to the top "First lead yourself. " That was the message of Adrian Molina, a spoken word artist and community activist from Denver who addressed high schools students at Adams State’s first Summer Latino Leadership Summit. The summit was designed to increase minority first generation student access to and success within higher education across southern Colorado. The 25 high school students who participated lived the college life, sleeping in the residence halls, eating in the cafeteria, and meeting current college students. Christina Sisneros, Alamosa High School junior, said: "This was an amazing summit." Aaron Miltenberger, assistant director of Student Life, said the program will continue as a means for students to learn about their leadership potential and how they can impact their local communities. He created the summit in conjunction with his graduate work in Adam State’s Higher Education Administration and Leadership program. Other keynote speakers included Elliot Cisneros, Antonito, Colo., and Priscilla Gardea ‘06, Adams State senior admissions counselor. Cisneros shared the power of doing what you love and knowing who you are in leadership. Gardea told the inspiring story of being the first in her family to go to college: "When I walked across the stage to get my diploma, I was not just walking for me, I was walking for everyone in my family."
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Adams State University’s Master’s in Counselor Education program is a key partner in a Colorado Dept. of Education School Counselor Corps grant awarded to the SLV Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES). Students in eight San Luis Valley school districts will benefit from the three-year grant, totaling $344,621. Preparation for college or the workforce is the main focus of the program, according to Kathy Mortensen, BOCES assistant director of special education. The grant will expand effective school counseling services by creating a master’s-level counseling internship program in conjunction with Adam State. This comprehensive internship program will be led by a full-time licensed counselor and a regional Advisory Council. The participating school districts include Del Norte, Moffat, Monte Vista, Sangre de Cristo, Sanford, Sierra Grande, Creede, and Centennial. “Our many rural schools are challenged with highly restrictive budgets and minimal staffing,” explained Adams State President David Svaldi. “The new ASU paid internship program, counseling infrastructure, and trainings will help improve students’ college and workforce readiness by increasing staff and other much-needed counseling resources in the schools.” The grant project aims to: • improve the counselor-student ratio in the schools (currently 1:246) • improve post-secondary student enrollment and ACT scores • increase advanced placement and concurrent credit offerings • increase the number of graduating students who complete financial aid and scholarship applications for college • decrease high school drop-out rate “We know our long-standing partnerships with Adams State and local districts will make a positive impact for the eight participating school districts,” Mortensen said. “Our mostly rural schools are having difficulty retaining licensed counselors. It is hoped that as interns provide support and learn about educational counseling roles, some of these vacancies can be filled.” Dr. Susan Varhely, professor and chair of Adams State’s Counselor Education program, said, “It is definitely a winwin situation for our master’s students and for the public school students they will work with. Partnering with BOCES and the SLV school counselors brings to mind the phrase ‘it takes a community to raise a child.’ The youth within the Valley have many opportunities, but also many challenges. I see this grant as offering them the potential for positive futures.”
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A calling, a prof
former students gather t In 1967, a brand new history professor from Texas began teaching in a brand new building at Adams State College. Now that building — and many student scholarships — bear his name. Although at the time he couldn’t imagine he would spend the rest of his career in Alamosa, Colorado, Dr. John E. McDaniel continued to teach in that building for 40 years, until his retirement in 2007. On Aug. 17, that building, formerly the Education & Social Sciences (ES) Building, was rededicated in his honor. “This man has donated his heart, his soul, and his lifetime fortune to helping students,” said Adams State University President David Svaldi at the dedication of McDaniel Hall. Through the second largest donation in Adams State’s history, in 2010 McDaniel established the McDaniel Scholarship Trust to fund student scholarships. He previously created 40 McDaniel Scholarship funds through the Adams State University Foundation. Last year, the ES Building was completely gutted and Dr. McDaniel was hired for the transformed into a welcomAdams State faculty by Dr. Norma ing, light-filled educational Peterson, whom he remembers environment equipped with could still a room with a stern the latest teaching technolglance or gesture. Yet her lectures, ogy. In late 2010, the Adams high expectations, and insightful State Board of Trustees voted comments on student papers proto rename the building in duced generations of great stories at McDaniel’s honor. McDaniel Adams State. Demanding and pasreceived the Billy Adams sionately committed to learning, Award that same year. she was responsible for establishing “This is a better place the Departments of History and than when you arrived in Political Science and was head of 1967,” Steve Valdez ’87, the Division of Social Studies until chair of the Adams State her retirement in 1983. Trustees, said to McDaniel. The new first floor lecture room “Little did I know the imin McDaniel Hall, McD 101, was pact a single individual could named in Dr. Peterson’s honor have. Many generations of through a donation from Dr. Ed students will thank you for Crowther and Lori Tanner.
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the opportunity to learn, to become part of something better than what they are.” Three former Adams State presidents were present to help honor this distinguished educator: Dr. John Marvel, Dr. William Fulkerson, and Dr. Thomas Gilmore.
more than a professor “Dr. John,” as many alumni fondly refer to him, did not merely teach. He inspired. He motivated. He mentored. He
helped many move on not only to stellar careers, but to lives enlightened by learning. Dr. Ed Crowther, professor and chair of the Adams State history department, read remarks sent by one of McDaniel’s most illustrious former students, Dr. Gary Gallagher ‘72, who is now the John L. Nau III Professor in the History of the American Civil War at University of Virginia. “It was John’s passion that most inspired me. His passion for history, for teaching, and for
fession, a legacy
to dedicate mcdaniel hall
“
Former students told of a special relationship with McDaniel that has endured over the decades. Jerry Crisci ‘70, a New York restaurateur, tutored a fellow history student who became his wife of 42 years. “Dr. John is very much like family to us. He is our first child’s godfather.” Former Adams State trustee Vickie Ford ‘71, who is retired from teaching and farming, added, “He adopted all of us, and our children.” McDaniel filled the role of father for James Johnson ‘07, whose father died just before he started college. “My dad was also one of Dr. John’s students. You never stop being his student.” Ford also praised McDaniel’s “generous bequest” that will assure many more students receive a college education. “May your legacy and teaching skills live on in this building,” she said. By Julie Waechter
Dr. John McDaniel was joined by colleagues and former students at the dedication of McDaniel Hall. In the photos at left, from left, are James Johnson ‘07, Jerry Crisci ‘70, Vickie Ford ‘71, Dr. McDaniel, Dr. Ed Crowther, and Dr. William Rakow ‘69. Top center: Dr. Ed Crowther presents Dr. McDaniel with a new cap featuring his favorite doctor. Above right: Frances and Dr. John Marvel were among Dr. McDaniel’s many admirers who attended the building dedication.
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books. I’d never met someone who owned so many history books,” Gallagher wrote. Crowther added: “Most students positively raved about McDaniel’s teaching.” Dr. William Rakow ‘69, a retired therapist, concurred, “He instilled the thirst for knowledge in his students. He became my intellectual model. I am in awe of him to this day.”
This man has donated his heart, his soul, and his lifetime fortune to helping students.”
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cho s h g s hi t e l nza vity i a t g a a e trav their cr x E rts re o A l l p a x u e Ann tudents s
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The Arts Extravaganza gave 70 high school students a sampling of Adams State’s fine and performing arts. The annual event introduces students to offerings in art, theatre, writing, and music. Jenna Neilsen and members of the ASU Lost and Found Comedy Improv Troupe conducted a workshop that introduced basic comedy improv skills, such as non-censorship, agreement, and basic character development. In the Music Department, students explored the capacity of the human voice in a workshop with Dr. Beth Robison. Meanwhile, James Doyle worked with high school students to learn a basic chord progression with accompanying rhythms. The vocal and percussion groups then collaborated to perform and record an original piece of music. Two English majors in Kathleen Chavez’s Methods of Teaching Secondary English class taught poetry to the high school students. They incorporated ice breakers as a warm up to poetry readings and poetry writings. 10
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Upgrades position Zacheis Planetarium for outreach Hands-on science activities, new planetarium shows, and an appearance by a NASA astronaut were enjoyed by more than one thousand people who participated in September’s Grand Re-Opening Celebration of Zacheis Planetarium.
Above: middle school students take part in STEM activities during the grand opening. Below: Students kick back in new planetarium seating to enjoy one of many new shows made possible by a grant from Title V.
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Public school students explored astronomy, comets, geology, and rocketry through workshops presented by the Space Foundation at the event’s San Luis Valley School Festival. In addition to space-shuttle astronaut Mike Good, special guests included representatives from the Space Foundation and Agencia Espacial Mexicana. Over the summer, Zacheis Planetarium underwent a $400,00 renovation, funded through a $3.6 million grant to ASU from the U.S. Department of Education’s Hispanic Serving Institutions STEM program (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The planetarium’s theater was completely gutted, rewired, and repainted, followed by installation of a brand new, top-of-the-line dome screen, new carpeting, a modern digital, full-dome projection system, and finally, all new seating. The five-year grant aims to help more Hispanic and low-income students earn a degree in STEM fields. The goal is to triple the number of STEM degrees Adams State awards to Hispanic students, according to grant project director Marcella Garcia. Adams State, with a Hispanic undergraduate enrollment of 33 percent, currently awards 18 percent of its STEM degrees to Hispanic students, comparable to the national average. “With these upgrades and new presentations, Zacheis Planetarium will offer multiple opportunities to translate the emotional experience of wonder and imagination into a desire to learn more about science,” Garcia explained. “ASU is now firmly positioned to make these connections for students of all ages and spark interest in STEM studies and careers.” Dr. Matt Nehring, professor of physics and chair of the Department of Chemistry, Computer Science and Mathematics, noted, “The field of astronomy lends itself perfectly to this objective, because it connects all STEM disciplines and is historically appealing to K-12 students and the general public. This will give area students a view into the world of science that may otherwise be inaccessible to them, due to financial and geographical reasons.” Work also began this summer to construct a new STEM Tutoring Center on the third floor of Porter Hall, the college’s math and sciences building, at a cost of $815,500. “Our vision is to create an environment that is supportive of STEM students, socially as well as academically, and that offers access to tutoring services and peer and faculty support,” noted Dr. Michael Mumper ’76, Senior VP for Enrollment Management and Program Development. The center will include a commons area, an open study area with four smaller individual tutoring rooms and one larger group tutoring room, and an undergraduate research lab outfitted with instruments for interdisciplinary STEM research. The grant will also fund replacement of outdated and worn equipment to support hands-on study and research across the entire STEM curriculum. For example, the greenhouse will be upgraded and such instrumentation as a modern X-ray diffraction system – priced at $90,000 – will be purchased. “Outreach, academic support, and student engagement are the three areas we will focus on to promote student success in STEM,” Garcia said.
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Adams State
University blasts off
Campus celebrates Great Stories 12
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The Great Stories Celebration of Adams State becoming a university culminated Aug. 24 in a fireworks display that thrilled the approximately 2,500 people from all segments of the community who had gathered in Rex Stadium for a free concert by Los Lobos (below). The arts, food, and goodwill similarly characterized other events in the two-day celebration. Four faculty members unveiled the sculpture, poetry, and music they were commissioned to create in commemoration of the historic event. Also premiered was an original film by Danny Ledonne documenting their creative processes, Tribute to Commissioned Works. About 90 people attended the Gala Scholarship Dinner of surf and turf at Bistro Rialto, which raised more than $10,000.
looking forward Leon Memorial Concert Hall was nearly filled the evening of Aug. 23 with audience members eager to hear the premier of Ascendance, composed by Dr. Matt Schildt, assoc. professor of music. “It captures some of my ideas about Adams State, about the energy at Adams State . . . and a sense of reflection that I feel is important,” Schildt said. As his work progressed, he kept adding instruments, resulting in a septet. “Fortunately, we have amazing musicians here. We got a collaboration going with faculty and students to create something that enhances what this change is all about. We’re not resting, but looking forward, campus wide.” Performers on Ascendance included faculty: Dr. Tracy Doyle, flute; James Doyle, vibraphone; Dr. William Lipke, piano; Dr. Beth Robison, voice; and students: Ben Paden, glockenspiel; Chelsea Oden, clarinet; and Josh Wohlrabe, timpani.
Provence brainstormed with fellow art professor Gene Schilling to develop a timeless piece that would characterize the ideas and mission of the institution. Starting with the column concept, they eventually arrived at the idea of a pillar. “You think of pillars of the community, you think of strong people and institutions,” Provence said. “I feel onehundred percent that Adams State has taken its mission seriously. The most important thing is we’re always looking for better ways to reach our students. All of those things are what make Adams State a very exciting place to teach.”
the “miracle” of adams state Nielsen Library’s comfortable Information Commons was the setting for a poetry reading by English professors Aaron Abeyta and Dr. Carol Guerrero-Murphy, who read their original poems inspired by and commissioned for the move to university status. Guerrero-Murphy reflected on the significance of this change. “When you change the name of something, that’s a change, and it ripples out, and the way we imagine all of this is transformed. I don’t think it changes our mission of access, it just broadens.” By Julie Waechter Continued on next page.
pillar of the community In the Aug. 24 public lecture in conjunction with the 2012 Art Faculty Exhibition, Professor of Art Dana Provence described the development of his commemorative sculpture Pillars. The work will consist of three forms made of hexagonal basalt, bronze, and stainless steel to represent the three stages of Adams State, respectively: normal school, college, and now, university. Provence completed the stone and bronze pieces over the summer and continues work on the third. The finished work will be installed outside the west entrance to the Student Union Building, adjacent to the North Campus Green.
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Uni Verse City (excerpted) By Carol D. Guerrero-Murphy, Professor of English To all who create Adams State University: students, faculty, staff, families, alumni, antepasados I.
Driving
On a clear night when you drive down La Veta Pass under the bright black sky— Milky Way banner waving to say how clear and thin our air-you see below you the horizon of the San Luis Valley, great silver ring, shining edge of an overturned bowl of sky. Sky meets edge of earth—soft blue quiet plain—so that stars hang beneath your road and you know you are driving into a place—our valley— that holds the universe, holds horse herd nebula and cattle; holds deer, bear, hawks, fish, and sheep wide-eyed, white-eyed, shining eyes guiding us, today’s voyagers, like stars, too. Farmhouse yard lights and village galaxies shine next to the grey sheen of nebula of chico. The black holes of cottonwood trees, los alamosas, rustle, call us into them. From this distant view, descending the pass, see deep into the valley where our university floats above the stories that made it: Pleistocene oceans, cretaceous seaway, mastodons and camels grazing; ice ages; Folsom people; the university rises out of the camps of the Utes, trails of the Comanches, explorations of the Spanish who brought with them Moors, Jews, Africans, Arabs, and Greeks, marked in the valley languages; of los cautivos, and Japanese, Mexican, Chinese, Irish, Italian, Mormons, Dutch, Mennonitos, Amish, Mixtec, Mestizas, Global citizens and Urban escapees—dreamers and workers, all— And farmers and ranchers who know the secret ways and power of water, Who have sought, stolen, and died for it, and left, or endured. Watch the old lakes rise each spring like memory. Water webs the land in canals, ditches, the old acequias. Hear the whispering and singing. Languages and songs weave and interweave in tapestries As vivid and urgent as Eppie Archuleta’s Rio Grande patterns, stories of struggle, loss, survival and hope. Listen and see: out of this place come the cries that the university not forget our antepasados, That we be a place to remember and honor and be humbled by their stories, Grateful for our thirsty oasis and those who tend it. ... Drive on to Alamosa, little Uni Verse City. Here, near center of the valley, train and Rio and canal cross-roads, in our little galaxy of an eleven-stop-light city this university itself shines — Our university, not an island but one bright bit in the universe of rising planets of plans, morning suns of optimism, burning questions of purpose in the great swirl of space and time that is now and forever. ...
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A Letter to Mumper from a 4:00 a.m. Campus (excerpted) By aaron a. abeyta, Professor of English Dear Michael, Only the deer welcome me to campus, quiet as question marks they lift their heads and watch me as i move toward the building. They are not like the deer i have known all my life. There is no fear in their bodies, no tensed muscles locked and set on the edge of some real or imagined flight from danger. They graze in the thick fog, in the memory of yesterday’s rain as it lingers and kisses at the lights of campus; they graze as everything glows new and ghostly. None of them seem to dream of running; they seem to have some other purpose that is not immediately evident. The smallest of the bunch steps toward me, a young doe, her eyes are dark planets, legs as thin as razors of bone and flesh. My first year at Adams i met Raynell Gallegos. She was in my Comm Arts I class, sitting at the back of the room. She had long hair in tight curls, thin rays of blonde highlights rivered through and disappeared as they neared her shoulders. Her eyes were dark and round. She smiled often. I believe that she loved school, our school, the promise of it. She would ask me about various paper topics, if i believed they were good. i was an adjunct, newly married and working for $2,900 per section, but she trusted me when i told her that i did not believe she was writing about her true subjects. She looked at me, there was questioning in her eyes, but she nodded and moved toward her desk; her pen pushing furiously at the paper as she purged some truer subject from everything she had ever been told about writing. She confided in me, told me how her other professors said her writing was unorganized and lacked clarity. i believe we understood one another, she from San Luis, me from Antonito. We knew in our collective memory, the way so many of our students know, that really, despite the slogans, mission statements and educated people around us that profess our place in the academic world, that really, in the true place the heart cannot reveal, a stored place for secrets, wishes and fear, both of us felt like we did not belong. i assured Raynell that her writing was as circular and ancient as moons, planets and suns, her thoughts looping toward one another in intersecting orbits of joy, pain, and hope, each sentence linked by some invisible yet obvious confluence with her language, oral tradition, heritage, ancestors and unique worldview.
i did not know it then, but in retrospect i think she knew that she was dying, that there was a tumor in her brain, draining daily everything that she had ever known and smiled at. i believe now, nearly 15 years later, that she considered the possibility that education could literally save her life, how there is magic in books, defined and catalogued magic, indexed, annotated and given to us for the sole purpose of making us beautiful and whole. ... i think of Raynell more often now, i can no longer hear her real voice, only this one that asked to be included in this letter to you, only this one that i have adopted here; it is a soft voice. You may need to strain in order to hear it among the louder voices of celebration, exuberance and growth. ... i am not saying that Raynell was a great student but i believe she had faith in the power of education, faith in what is, for some, the slow and arduous steamroller of learning that lays low the many obstacles placed in their paths, the obstacle of illness, of poverty of schools that never believe, the obstacle of family obligations, obstacles of hunger both literal and figurative; obstacles of devastated homes ruined by divorce or shattered by violence the obstacles of low expectations, of broken and weary bodies, of unanswered prayers, of fallen friends, of wells that go dry, and jail doors that close, obstacles of bottles that drain daily like an intravenous prayer for hope, drugs that evaporate into blood for generations, fields that call for plow and shovel, animals that need tending, a child that needs someone to see her play, all of this is the miracle of what Adams State does, a magic of joy, sweat and perseverance that makes our students the best in the country. Each of them, in their own way, despite their obstacles has come here for a sole purpose, to be better. They are strong as memory, strong as blood, strong as a valley wind, each a constellation of their many parts, some stars brighter, others red and dying, all of them constant in their burning. ...
Photos from left: Dr. Carol Guerrero- Murphy reads her poem at the Gala Scholarship dinner; the bronze Pillar, one of three underway by Dana Provence; Dr. Matt Schildt is applauded by his music faculty colleagues after performing his composition Ascendance.
watch videos of the great stories celebration performances at www.adams.edu/a/1
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the American Dream El Sueño Americano Yours, Mine, and Ours Tuyo, Mio, y Nuestro “It’s the idealism I see that I love in the American Dream.”
“I really believe this country provides opportunity for whoever wants to be at the top.”
brian rauscher segundo diaz dorothy brandt
“My main dream is to play in the major leag
nitschke ter kuile
“It’s being very inclusive, accepting of everybody – different nationalities, different religions, different colors.” 16
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jamie brooks
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America is people from all over the world who come here because they have a dream. We combine forces, and it becomes the American Dream.” - Dorothy Brandt
Taking its cue from the freshman Common Reading Experience, the ninth Autumn@Adams Celebration explored “The American Dream.” Just prior to the week of events for campus and community, Pulitzer-Prize-winning author Sonia Nazario appeared on campus to read from and discuss her book, Enrique’s Journey. It relates the true story of a Honduran boy who braves unimaginable hardship and peril to reach his mother in the United States.
Presentations by guest speakers and panelists showed the American Dream is based in rights: civil rights and responsibilities at both the individual and community level. The week’s first speaker was Thomas Linzey, awardwinning public interest attorney and co-founder of the Daniel Pennock Democracy School. Paul Loeb, author of Soul of a Citizen, addressed the importance of civic empowerment. Additional presentations by faculty and students offered diverse views of campaign advertising, civil rights, and immigration.
The faces shown here are of San Luis Valley residents who shared their perspectives on the American Dream in a video produced for Autumn@Adams by Danny Ledonne.
watch the video at: www.adams.edu/a/2 “I am accomplishing things I could not do in Mexico.”
adrian reyes karen lemke
gues.”
“. . . Freedom to express oneself, to do work that brings dignity.”
“My kids have the opportunity to do what they want to do.” russell box sr. pete atkins
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“We need to honor our creator first, then honor ourselves, respect one another.”
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autumn@adams ended with a sizzle at the traditional Cook-off (top four photos), with a new event this year: the jalepeĂąo eating contest. The winner devoured 11 peppers in three minutes.
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heated discussion characterized other events during the week. From left are Asst. Professor of Sociology Ben Waddell at the Civil Rights Roundtable, author Paul Loeb talking with students, and Democracy School founder Tom Linzey.
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Reaching for the dream Felipe Gonzalez didn’t learn English until he came to Alamosa at age 13. He lived with an older brother for several years, but left because of physical abuse. He was actually homeless for two winter months during his senior year, wrapping himself in blankets at night, huddled in a garage or shed. Eventually, Felipe was able to rent a room for $100 a month, about one-quarter of the wages he earned working at McDonald’s. Raised in Mexico in three different orphanages, and intermittently by family members and friends, Felipe did have one thing in his favor: he was a legal U.S. citizen, born in El Paso, Texas.
Despite the challenges, Felipe persisted through middle and high school, graduated, and now is in his first semester at Adams State. He takes morning classes at Adams State, then works about seven hours each day at Rustic Log Furniture. “I liked school a lot. It was my escape,” he said. He believes furthering his education will help him create a different kind of life for himself, his wife, and baby daughter. Erica, his wife, will begin college in January, majoring in early childhood education. Both Felipe and Erica benefited from the guidance provided by GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs), a U.S. Department of Education program for low-income students. His pre-collegiate counselor at Alamosa High School was Liz Tabeling-Garcia ’96, ‘06, who said, “Felipe was a great student, especially considering what he was dealing with. In high school his GPA was a 3.0. It never ceased to amaze me how positive Felipe was.” “I kept things to myself,” he said, so only a close friend knew his situation, knew he once bathed in the lawn sprinklers at Cole Park. GEAR UP not only supports students in becoming academically prepared for college, but assists in the process of applying for admission and financial aid.
Felipe and Erica Gonzalez will alternate attending classes and caring for their daughter, Estrella.
“Liz was always helping us. I was able to apply for scholarships,” he said. Now he hopes to become a high school science teacher. “School was the most fun thing I had,” Gonzalez said. “I always thought I wanted to do more. It relaxes me somehow – I like learning.” Tabeling-Garcia added, “He worked hard in every class and was liked by everyone. When we were working on letters of recommendation from his teachers, every single one said what a pleasant and positive student he was. He is a hardworking, good natured, and an intelligent human being.” Those qualities are helping him balance school, work, and family life. By Julie Waechter
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I liked school a lot. It was my escape.”
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Political and Personal A student considers the immigration experience By Mariah Pepe ‘15
As I sat looking around the room, I had an uneasy sense of hope, but others around me seemed to despair. I had been assigned the role of a Canadian. I had a law degree from the United States. I was single. I had friends in the U.S.. I had a job promise. I had help with the fees and paperwork. I had it all. I was a shoe-in for legal immigration to the U.S. Not all students who participated in the Immigration Simulation during Autumn@Adams had a positive outcome. Among the twelve characters was a pair of brothers from Mexico. Their father had opened a small business in the United States and offered them a
job and an opportunity to escape poverty. One brother was granted citizenship after ten years, but his brother was denied because he was married to a Mexican woman. They were separated, and the one brother was left with no way to support his family, despite the opportunity that awaited him. The simulation was conducted by Georgia Parment, community education coordinator for La Puente Home, Alamosa’s homeless shelter. Through this experience, many students, like me, were able to explore the realities of seeking citizenship by receiving a hypothetical name, home country, and identity. It was harsh to realize how these details could make a world of difference in seeking citizenship. While any detail could result in denial, a complex mix of circumstances must be in one’s favor to ensure citizenship, and that only means eligibility in six years minimum.
At a Hispanic Serving Institution, the issue of immigration hits home for many people. It seems we all have friends, students, teachers, peers, classmates, or coworkers who have come from another country. The issues surrounding immigration are personal and complicated. They are debated and legislated in Congress, yet they affect the daily lives of those around me. As a citizen, I feel it is my duty to be aware of these issues and encourage change, if it would benefit America and its people. An Immigration Panel during Autumn@Adams shed light on some of these personal situations. Moderating the panel, Dr. Mari Centeno, associate professor of political science, noted that 11.5 percent of the U.S. population is foreign born, a decrease from 15 percent 100 years ago. “Yet we are fed these images of hordes of people descending upon the country, taking our jobs, and abusing the welfare system,” she said. “Most studies indicate that immigrants pay millions — some say billions — more into the system than they use in taxes, and more and more undocumented immigrants are paying yearly income taxes.” If we really want to end this situation, “We need to invest in the countries that people are fleeing from,” according to Sonia Nazario, the author of this year’s Common Reading Experience for freshmen, Enrique’s Journey.
Pulitzer-Prize-winning author Sonia Nazario signs students’ copies of her book, Enrique’s Journey.
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what do you know about immigration? The Pulitzer-Prize-winning author spoke on campus Sept. 7. I think her suggestion is logical and cost effective. Nazario’s Enrique’s Journey is the story of a teenage boy who undertook the dangerous journey to the United States from Honduras in search of his mother, who was working here as a domestic. This situation is becoming more common, as mothers leave their children behind in order to earn money to feed, clothe, and provide other commodities. It is estimated 48,000 children attempt to enter the U.S. each year on their own. At the Civil Rights Round Table, government students Mike Cherneski and Cory Diss debated and explored immigration laws. Cherneski took a very liberal stance, saying we should change the process of naturalization and make citizenship more achievable in order to decrease illegal immigration. On the other hand, Diss argued that America needs to do more to protect our southern border; otherwise people will continue to sneak in through the desert. Angered students questioned Diss and encouraged him to look at the impossible situations that faced immigrants. He countered that immigrants face exploitation in the United States through the underground labor market and that it’s our duty to prevent that pattern from continuing. Both white males, Cherneski and Diss hold very different ideologies, but it is clear both are looking at immigration from a removed position, as many citizens do. At the opposite end of the spectrum, the Immigration Panel featured three minority women who told their personal experiences. Dr. Alicia Alvarez, assistant professor of education, came from the Philippines, where many women and children
don’t have the opportunity to earn 25% of immigrants to the U.S. are living wages. She is active to remedy undocumented that situation. Joining two 40% of undocumented immigrants overstudents on the stayed temporary visas — they did not panel, Alvarez said enter illegally the most important characteristic of the United skilled labor force or who don’t have States is “this is a nation of laws. And kids or who don’t qualify for a seempeople obey the law. In Southeast Asia, ingly infinite number of reasons. no one obeys the law.” Only recently The point is that we need to get inhas a sense of security allowed her to volved and interested. Autumn@Adams sleep soundly. speaker Paul Loeb really drove this Education student Theresa Felix married an immigrant in 1975 who had point home. He urged people to become involved in politics, to increase no paperwork. She watched as her husawareness about issues that matter to band was discovered hiding above the them, and to generally practice persistence in any area that matters. I think that begins with the individual choices we make. What products will we buy, and will we vote for political candidates who ceiling tiles at their workplace, apprewant to change the naturalization hended, and then deported. She later process? What do we want this process became an illegal immigrant in Mexico while her husband sorted his citizenship to reflect? Throughout listening to many peopaperwork. She had to learn a new lanple’s views on immigration and learning guage, grow accustomed to a new culabout its realities, I have come to appreture, and even make authorities believe ciate being born in this country. I look she was a Mexican citizen. at opportunities like travelling abroad Finally, Marlayna Olivares, a sophomore majoring in government and soci- with ease; I’d only have to wait a few months and pay about a hundred dolology, was born in Mexico to two lars to have the right to travel to anAmerican parents. Her family fought other country. I’m not in danger or at a the legal system for sixteen years before disadvantage simply because of where I she received citizenship, and she recalled the struggles of her cousins whose was born, and I never have to worry about my family suffering extreme parents were Mexican. poverty in another country. At the Civil Rights Round Table, Overall, this week was very proactive History Professor Ed Crowther said the in encouraging people to question their United States’ main means of naturalizbeliefs regarding financial well-being, ing a person is to reunite them with racial attitudes, and the role of the govtheir family, but that only applies to parents and children. That is very limit- ernment. I felt not only encouraged but empowered to make change. ing to people who could be part of the
This is a nation of laws. And people obey the law.”
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75% of immigrants to the U.S. have legal, permanent (immigrant) visas
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Foundation honors contributions of First Southwest Bank First Southwest Bank’s enduring commitment to Adams State University inspired the ASU Foundation Board to award it the 2012 Willis Fassett, Jr. Award. The bank was honored at the Nov. 1 ASU Foundation Donor and Student Recognition Dinner. Named for a founding member of the Foundation — also a banker — the award honors individuals and organizations with an exceptional record of support for the college’s educational mission. The bank’s Chairman of the Board David E. Broyles ‘74 and Chief Operating Officer Jeni R. Jack-Goodwin ’85 said they are honored to receive this prestigious award. In 2008, First Southwest Bank received the Grizzly Corporate Sponsor Award. Broyles said the partnership between the bank and the university provides economic advantages, and both institutions play important roles in the community. “One of our key core values is education. Adams State provides so much for the whole San Luis Valley community and is beneficial for growth within the community.” For over 20 years, First Southwest Bank has been a Grizzly Club Corporate Sponsor at the $10,000 level. In addition to their yearly financial commitment, the bank recently helped fund the purchase of the scoreboard at Rex Stadium and also supports a full-tuition men’s golf scholarship. “We also co-sponsor the Bankers’ Classic Basketball Tournament,” Jack-Goodwin said, noting the tournament boosts the local economy by attracting out-of-town teams and fans. “We try to look at Nearly a third of First Southwest Bank’s employees (right, celebrating Homecoming) are Adam State alumni, as are its Chairman of the Board David Broyles ‘74 (above, right) and Chief Operating Officer Jeni Jack-Goodwin ‘85. Both have a history of serving on various ASU boards.
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the total impact to the community when we commit. When our contribution is multiplied by helping local businesses, we believe that is a worthy cause.” “Adams State offers a higher education to many of our local students who cannot afford to go elsewhere,” JackGoodwin said. She appreciates the addition of the agribusiness program, and Broyles is excited about the new Master of Business Administration Program and the direction the university has taken in the last few years. They are pleased with the growth of the university and the new athletics programs, including the junior varsity and developmental sports programs. They value the impact the athletic programs make on enrollment and the local economy. Jack-Goodwin noted First Southwest Bank, its directors, and employees have contributed their time to the ASU Foundation, Grizzly Club, and Alumni Association. She has served on the Grizzly Club Board for many years and on the ASU Foundation Board for the last five. Broyles is also a former Grizzly Club board member. The bank also has an alliance with Adams State’s School of Business. Broyles has taught classes on loans and finance, and the bank hires many Adams State graduates. “Almost one-third of our employees in the main Alamosa Branch are Adams State University graduates,” Jack-Goodwin added. The bank also employs full and part-time students. Jack-Goodwin said the ASU Foundation Board strives to increase growth, focusing on raising more unrestricted funds. The majority of donations are earmarked for specific scholarships or programs. She also said the Foundation serves as a sounding board for the community and university regarding various issues. “The Alumni Relations and Foundation staff do an incredible job building relationships and support for the university,” she said. By Linda Relyea ‘96
Morrisons & Arby’s named Grizzly Corporate Partner of the Year Founders of SLV All-Star Basketball game After 25 years of supporting Adams State University Athletics through their business and their service, Ted and Janet Morrison of Arby’s of Alamosa were honored as the 2012 Grizzly Club Corporate Partner of the Year at the Nov. 1 ASU Foundation Donor and Student Recognition Dinner.
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equally proud of the Adams State Teacher’s Hall of Fame, which he helped launch earlier this year. His role with the Athletics Hall of Fame was permanently recognized in
Adams State campus, it was only natural that Morrison enroll at Adams State. He then met his future wife, who goes by the pet name of “Skip,” in 1967. The Morrisons have two daughters: Kim Woodke ‘95 and Melissa Moeller, a former admissions counselor for Adams State, who is now back in part-time role while pursuing a nursing degree. “I can’t give back enough. I bleed green,” Ted Morrison said.
I can’t give back enough. I bleed green” 2008, as the couple was awarded a Special Citation. In conjunction with that honor, other citation recipients are recognized with an award bearing the couple’s name and are perpetually recognized on a plaque that hangs in the Dr. Joe I. Vigil Hall of Fame Room, named after Ted’s high school football and track coach. “I love doing for Adams State, because they did for me,” he said, adding that after his father passed away when he was a sophomore in high school, his mother, Jo, attained a job at Adams State College. After playing all of his Alamosa High School basketball and football games on the
By Chris Day
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Both 1969 Adams State graduates, the Morrisons have owned Arby’s and have been boosters since 1987. The following year they initiated the Arby’s San Luis Valley All-Star Basketball game, which celebrates its 25th anniversary next March. The game raises funds for the Adams State men’s and women’s basketball programs to provide scholarships to high school standouts from the SLV. Although that game is very visible, it is just one of the numerous things the Morrison’s have done for ASU Athletics. For the last two years, Arby’s has sponsored the schedule cards and posters for the Grizzly athletic teams. The Morrisons also provide use of their Conejos Canyon cabin for the Grizzly basketball teams’ fall retreat weekend. That retreat weekend, a great way for early team-building, has borne plenty of fruit, as the Grizzly men’s basketball team has advanced to back-to-back NCAA Division II Tournament appearances, while the women did the same in 2010 and 2011, advancing to the Sweet 16 in the latter. Ted Morrison was also instrumental in restarting the ASU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2000 and has served on the selection committee since its inception. He also recently began a term on the Grizzly Club’s Board of Directors and is already hard at work on several special projects. Ted, a physician’s assistant with Valley-wide Health Systems in La Jara, is
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Konnie & Damon ‘87 Martin named Grizzly Club Members of the Year Konnie is now the chief operating officer at San Luis Valley Regional Medical Center, a position she moved into in That’s how Konnie Martin feels about the many studentAugust 2011 after a year as the organization’s chief financial athletes who have come through the illustrious Adams State officer. She previously had a 25-year career at Valley-Wide University cross country and track and field programs to be Health Systems, where she held a variety of leadership posicoached by her husband, Damon ‘87. In fact, Damon is now tions, including COO. She has been pivotal to both of these coaching the children of some of his earlier runners. leading San Luis Valley healthcare organizations becoming donors to Grizzly Athletics of both scholarship dollars and medically-related services. Meanwhile, Damon earned 30 National Coach of the Year honors as the head coach and Director of Cross Country and Track & Field for the ASU Grizzlies. That’s just one of the numerous honors he has received in recognition of the unmatched success of his programs on a national level: his teams have won a whopping 26 national titles. Their partnership has had huge benefits for ASU. “I really enjoy the community partnership and what Adams State brings to our community in terms of the diversity and activities. I am grateful to Alamosa for being a community where we can fit and be,” Konnie said. “Adams State is a big part of what makes us a learning and growing community. The university makes the community more intriguing and provides for a healthier and more-educated work When they first arrived in Alamosa for Damon to attend graduate school at Adams State, the force. Both Adams State and the hospiMartins thought they’d only stay for a couple years. Now, they are both key to a vibrant comtal share key values in health care and in munity. education. In that way, we are great complements to each other.” Those relationships and all of the things that the Martins Damon added, “When you give something, you have to have done for ASU Athletics through their careers were recbelieve in it. ASU is very special.” ognized with the 2012 Grizzly Club Member of the Year Konnie went on: “The athletes are, of course, the dearest award, presented at the Donor and Student Recognition Din- to my heart. We still keep in touch with many, many of ner, Nov. 1. them. It’s great to see them use their experiences at Adams The Martins have made the San Luis Valley their home State to form themselves into incredible community memsince 1985, just six months after they were married, when bers, both here and across the country. Damon came to Adams State for graduate school and to assist “That’s very satisfying. When we travel, we almost always Coach Joe Vigil. They now have two children: daughter, Lau- see and connect with somebody that Adams State touched in ren, who is a standout student-athlete for the Grizzly cross a special way.” country/track programs; and son,Tanner, a student and runBy Chris Day ner for Alamosa High School.
“They’re all an extended part of my family.”
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The 2012 Donor & Student Recognition Dinner honored (from left) Ted & Janet Morrison of Arby’s, the Willis Fassett Jr. Award recipient; David ‘74 & Valerie Broyles, representing Grizzly Club Corporate Partner of the Year, First Southwest Bank; Billy Adams Award winner Rob ‘71 & Susan Oringdulph; and Damon ‘87 & Konnie Martin, Grizzly Club Individual Member of the Year. Tara Wyatt ‘14 (far right) spoke on behalf of the many ASU students who benefit from donations to scholarship funds.
Caldwell Scholarship to aid education majors
enterprise zone tax credit for colorado residents
The Calvin "Bud" ‘53, ‘59 and Mary Regan ‘52, ‘60 Caldwell Scholarship was recently established to aid students majoring in teacher education. The scholarship will award $1,000 each year to a junior or senior with a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or better. Mary first considered establishing the scholarship when Calvin passed away several years ago. Once Adams State was named a university, she determined to follow through. Tara Wyatt (in photo above) was the first student to be awarded the scholarship. She is an elementary education major with an emphasis in special education.
The Adams State University Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, is an approved project of the San Luis Valley/ Upper Arkansas Area Enterprise Zone. Contributions of at least $100 to the Foundation through the Enterprise Zone qualify for a 25 percent Colorado state tax credit. To find out how to take advantage of the Enterprise Zone tax credit, please contact: Tammy Lopez 719-587-7122 tllopez@adams.edu
Memorial scholarship helps launch ASU baseball
Freshman Dillon Granzella signed with Adams State’s baseball team, which takes to the diamond next spring after a 35-year hiatus. The scholarship was created by Salida native Bill Mansheim, who is Adams State’s vice president for Finance and Governmental Relations. The
$1,000 annual award is open to graduates of high schools in Chaffee County and the San Luis Valley who are recruited to Adams State’s baseball team. Price and Bustos, both deceased, were part of a very successful fast-pitch softball team Mansheim played on in his youth. “I wanted to remember these friends, and help kids who have a dream,” Mansheim said. “Playing sports with these guys and other friends were some of the best times of my life.” He added that Price and Bustos were “sports fanatics” who never attended college. “I can’t
help but think that if Adam State had fielded a baseball team back then, some of us might have worked hard to get an opportunity to play ball in college.” Other donors to the endowment include KSPK Radio, The Valley Courier, Steph Chichester, and Michael Mumper ‘76. Dillon Granzella
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An outstanding Salida High School baseball player is the first recipient of the Steve Price & Gil Bustos Memorial Scholarship, awarded by Adams State University.
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alumnotes ◗1950s Laverne Etter `50, `55 and his wife, Betty `58, are retired and living in Fruita, CO. They enjoy fishing and the out-ofdoors. They taught in Colorado and Alaska and retired from Alaska. Kenneth Joseph `51 and his wife, GeorgeAnna `51, (Spring, TX) have enjoyed traveling to visit their sons and their families who live in Alexandria, VA, and Highlands Ranch, CO. They celebrated their 63rd anniversary in September and plan to visit Kauai, HI. They write, “We are thrilled to learn of Adams State’s growth and expansion!”
◗1960s Donald Poulson `60, `62 (Albuquerque, NM) is happily retired after 37 years in the mathematics department at Mesa Community College in Mesa, AZ. He enjoys travel overseas and in the USA visiting 7 children and several grandchildren. He writes, “Life is great!” Evan Valdez `60, `68 (San Luis, CO) taught jr. high from 1961-1968 in the Centennial District R-1 in San Luis, CO. He then was the jr. high principal from 1968-70. Between 1970-74, he was the Teacher Corps Director for Centennial and Adams State. After that, he went back to being a principal for the jr. high from 1975-83 and then the elementary school from 198389, when he retired. Ron Fink `62, `66 (Lamar, CO) is retired after 25 years in the Rocky Ford school district as a teacher, guidance counselor and elementary principal. Peggy (Fink) Machone `82 (Lamar, CO), Ron’s daughter, just began her 24th year of teaching. She currently teaches math at Lamar High School. Her son, Joshua Machone ‘12, received his BA in the spring of 2012 and is applying for dental school for the 20132014 school year. He is currently working in a dental lab in Lamar.
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Class of 1962
◗ 50th Reunion ◗ Notes & Photos pg. 30
Sharon Carey Heien `63 (Centerville, IA) married the Rev. Carl Heien on July 13, 1963. Their son Carl Heien Jr. was born in November, 1964, and their next son, Mark Heien, was born in December, 1967. They have lived in Monte Vista, CO; Burlington, Haysville, and Fredonia, KS. She started training in ministry through Bethany Seminary (Church of the Brethren) in 2009 and will graduate in 2014. Kenneth Barr `64 (Orange Park, FL) says he is enjoying his retirement in northeastern Florida! Denver Fitch `66 (Colorado Springs, CO) retired in 1992 after 38 years in education: 10 years as a teacher and 28 years as a principal. He taught 3 years in the UCCS School of Education. His wife, Agnes, passed in October 2007. She had a master’s in nursing. He has 4 children who are all college graduates and 10 grandchildren. James Martin `66 (Dunwoody, GA) married his wife, Blanca, in 1966. He made a career at the FDA until his retirement in 2005. He helped start the Veterinary Analytical Section for the FDA. He and his wife have a son and a daughter. Their son is a Navy lieutenant on the staff at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD. His daughter has a master’s degree in gerontology. Darryl Laye ‘67 (Colorado Springs, CO) was inducted into the Cheyenne Mountain School District 12 Hall of Fame, which recognizes those who have made exceptional contributions to the district and its students. Laye retired in 2003 after 35 years of teaching physical education and coaching football, swimming, wrestling, track, and soccer. As an undergrad, he majored in physical education and Spanish and played football at Huron University in South Dakota. He later earned a master's degree in secondary education from Adams State University. He and his wife, Martha, have two children and four grandchildren. His daughter, Anne Cross, teaches second grade at Skyway Elementary, and their son, Marty Laye, is an Air Force major. Philip Born `68 (Grand Junction, CO) retired in 2006 and immediately took a part-time retirement job as assistant curator of archaeology with the Museum of Western Colorado. His wife, Fran, retired from teaching in 2004. They spent a lot of their summertime fishing. Aaron Sahr `68 (Roanoke, VA) writes, “I am doing okay in retirement from my last longterm position as a school psychologist, de-
spite my wife of 35 years being now deceased. Positive memories of her and my memorable years at Adams State keep on being emotionally sustaining experiences/ influences.”
◗1970s Camila Alire `70 (Sedalia, CO) was nominated by President Obama to serve on the National Council on the Humanities. She is Dean Emerita at both University of New Mexico and Colorado State University. She has also been professor of practice in the Managerial Leadership Ph.D. program within Simmons College’s School of Library and Information Science since 2007 and an adjunct professor at the University of Denver since 2011. Eugene Jimenez `70, `70 (Koloa, HI) recently retired after 30 years in government service with the county of Kauai, most recently as the director of housing. He writes, “Lorraine and I are looking forward to traveling, cruises, and just relaxing!” Mike Edgar `71 (Colorado Springs, CO) retired from Wells Fargo Bank of Colorado Springs after 35 years in banking. He is married to Linda Carter `73, who is a 30-year educator at Harrison School District in Colorado Springs. Karen Stone `71 (Grand Junction, CO) is retired and volunteers at her school 3 days a week and tutors.
Bob Swiebel `71 (Navarre, FL) is retired from 27 years in the Navy. He worked for 13 years at Lockheed Martin in the space shuttle program. He also worked 5 years for State Farm in auto claims. He was RV-ing in the Rockies and stopped by the Alumni Office. Richard Bellotti `72 (Colorado Springs, CO) is retired after working for Penrose Main Hospital for 5 years, for Regis University for 18 years, and for Colo. Fuel and Iron Corp. for 9 years. He has 3 grown daughters and 7 grandkids. His wife, Susan, is an accounting manager for El Paso County.
in Colorado to play baseball. Good luck in the coming season and returning Adams State to the dominant RMAC baseball legacy of many years past.” Barbara Mann `75 (Boulder, CO) says she is having a lovely life in Boulder. She still loves children and continues teaching in various ways. She has a great son who works as a TV reporter. She writes, “I have such fond memories of Adams State. I would love to get in touch with friends from those days!” Azada Casper `76, `80 (La Veta, CO) retired and enjoys travel – most recently to Iceland and Yosemite.
Ron Maestas `67, `70 (Las Vegas, NM) and Randy Casper `74 (Maxwell, NM) work the Clayton, NM – Guymon, OK baseball game.
Al “Flats” Lujan `72 (Alamosa, CO) has owned and operated the Bank Shot Sports Bar since 1981. He and his wife, Mary, have a son, Kurt. James Moore `72 (Lander, WY) retired after 35 years in the classroom, teaching 7th grade through college. He spends his summers in the beautiful mountains of southern Colorado. He writes, “ASC, or is it ASU, will always hold fond memories for me. Keep up the good work!” Katherine Cook `74 (Cañon City, CO) volunteers at the Cañon Literacy Center, a free tutoring 1-on-1 service for children in 1st-8th grades. They serve the children without IEP’s who would otherwise fall through the cracks. She writes, “Each child has been successful!” Rick Rignall `74, `78 (Grand Junction, CO) has a son, Rick, who attended Adams State in 1998, who has 2 daughters: Aubrey, 3 and Macey, 1. Rick’s daughter, Tauna ‘98, lives in Denver and is on a roller derby team. Norm Keller `75 (Tualatin, OR) is married to Jana Hudgins, with five children from their previous marriages. He is the owner of Bali Home Furnishings. He writes, “I am excited to finally see baseball returning to Adams State. We just drove through Alamosa this past week, and the construction of the new baseball field was coming along very well. It sits right next to the Rio Grande, and with the new turf field it should be one of the finest venues
John Michalke `77 (Alamosa, CO) retired as assistant chief from the Alamosa Police Department, after working there from 1978-2009. After retirement, he began working as a criminal intelligence analyst for Homeland Security, which he will continue to do as long as the position is funded. His wife, Lynn `77, worked for the City of Alamosa for 27 years and finished her “working” life with Adams State, retiring in 2010. Lynn writes, “There still isn’t enough time to do everything, but we have found time to ‘cruise’ with the Alumni, serve on the Alumni Board, take thousands of photos, and visit grandbabies (but not often enough).” Francie Ton `78 (Alamosa, CO) moved back to Alamosa in 2011. She is just hanging out with her dogs on the river. She was a ski instructor for Vail Resorts, living in Eagle County for 25 years. She says she loves being back in the Valley, traveling, and her dogs.
Kathleen Jaquez `83, `88 (San Pablo, CO) retired in May 2011 after working for SLV BOCES for 28 years as a severe needs teacher. She now works for BOCES as a speech paraprofessional. Her husband, Charlie Jaquez `69, is a retired teacher. They have 2 sons: Carlos is a sophomore at CSU – Ft. Collins, and David is a senior at Centennial HS in San Luis, CO. Kathleen is a 3-year breast cancer survivor. Due to early diagnosis, great medical care/treatment, positive attitude, prayer, humor, and support of family, friends, coworkers and community, she continues to do well. She writes, “I encourage all to get their annual check-ups.” Lori Thrailkill Parker `85, `97 (Lamar, CO) continues teaching special education in Lamar, and her husband, Dave, has a successful heating and air conditioning business. Both of their children are now in college. They are looking forward to this next phase in their lives. Sweetie Marbury `87 (Durango, CO) was elected to the Durango City Council in April 2011. Monica Martinez `88 (Pueblo, CO) has been with the Department of Corrections since August of 1997. She has 3 children: Sean Michael, 20; Blaze Elias Vaughn, 16; and JesseRose Avelina, 11. Pat Melgares `89 (Manhattan, KS) is the marketing coordinator with K-State Research and Extension. Gregg `89 and Lori `89 Maul visited the campus with their daughter, Ashley, who will soon be on campus as a student, and Lori’s mom, Lois Widhalm.
◗1980s Bhrett `80, `82 and Terrie Mercure `85 Pizza are the proud parents of Carmen Rene Pizza, born Sept. 2. This is their first child. Wayne McGinn `82, `89 (Pueblo, CO) is the defensive coordinator and secondary/running back coach for Central High School.
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Liska Anne Crowley `72 (Klickitat, WA) had a serious motorcycle crash in 2010, but now is back riding and continuing her love of living history, traveling to rendezvous and being at home at River Spirit Trading Post, where she and her mate, Raunchy, entertain friends and family. She writes, “I hope to see fellow Adams State alumni in our travels throughout the USA. It’s hard to believe 40 years have gone by since graduation!”
Neal Nelson `82 (Waukesha, WI) was inducted into the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in October. He is the winningest men’s coach in Wisconsin junior college history. He had 520 wins, 5 state titles, and 16 conference championships in a 30-year career at the University of Wisconsin-Waukesha. Nelson was an assistant coach under Doc Cotton and Bob Boerigter at Adams State while earning his master’s degree.
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◗1980s Don Trujillo `89 lives in Pueblo with his son, Dalton, and daughter, Briana. He works as a Systems Administrator for HUB International Limited. He spends his free time with his children and volunteering on several boards within the community.
◗1990s Brian Ackerman `92 and Kendall Martin `11 were married in September 2012. Kendall is the finance manager of the North Conejos School District, and Brian is the controller for the San Luis Valley HMO. Paula Fellows `97, `12 (Clarksville, TN) is in her 3rd year working for the Department of Defense Education Activity at Ft. Campbell, KY. She teaches elementary music to 507 students, all children of enlisted service persons. She writes, “I am happier here than I have ever been, and I feel blessed to have received my education at ASU – both of my degrees have prepared me for my current assignment! Thank you to all of the Grizzly staff and faculty for giving me confidence, knowledge, and the motivation to be the best teacher I can be!”
◗2000s Ryan Allen `01 and Amanda Zkiab `02 just got married! They live in Gunnison, CO, where Ryan is a financial adviser and Amanda teaches music at Gunnison Elementary. They write, “If you’re ever in Gunnison, come by and have tea!” Brian Rossbert `02 (Nashville, TN) and wife, Laura, are proud to announce the birth of their daughter, Harper Ruth Rossbert, born 9/9/2012 and weighing in at 7 lbs., 7 oz. Zoila Gomez `04 (Alamosa, CO) is the new coordinator of ASU’s High Altitude Training Center and will be the fall commencement speaker.
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Justin Mays ‘95, senior special agent for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement in Iowa, was named the 2012 Officer of the Year by the North American Wildlife Enforcement Officers Association (NAWEOA). Mays was recognized for his skills and accomplishments as a criminal investigator; his successful partnerships with state agencies in Iowa, Missouri and other states; and his outstanding covert work on cases exposing illegal take and trafficking of federally and state protected wildlife resources. That covert work included going undercover in a cooperative Service/ Environment Canada investigation of a waterfowl hunting celebrity/video producer in what ranks as the largest commercial waterfowl case in recent memory. Mays assisted Service special agents in Alaska to apprehend a couple who trafficked in walrus ivory, polar bear hides, and automatic weapons. He also completed the largest poaching case in Iowa history and successfully investigated an Iowa man who had been killing bald and golden eagles. Mays has been the lead Federal wildlife investigator in the State of Iowa for much of his 15-year law enforcement career. He previously served 4½ years as a game warden with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Bonnie Ortega `04 (Alamosa, CO) was appointed the new associate dean of instruction at Trinidad State Junior College’s Valley Campus. She is also a licensed professional counselor and a certified addiction counselor III through the State of Colorado Division of Behavioral Health. She provides aftercare services for juveniles who are on parole. She is married to Tommy Ortega, sergeant for the Monte Vista Police Department. They have 3 children: Tyler, 14; Riley, 12; and Raelle, 9. Enrique Guerrero `06 (Alamosa, CO) was the keynote speaker for ASU’s 2012 Freshman Convocation. He teaches at Ortega Middle School. Jeri Haley `06 (Dayton, OH) moved to Ohio in January and is a pharmacy technician for Meijer Pharmacies. Denise Trujillo `07 (Alamosa, CO) is pursuing her Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Regis University. She was awarded a Health Professions Scholarship sponsored by the Colorado AHEC Program Office at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus and the San Luis Valley Area Health Education Center (SLVAHEC). Scholarship recipients commit to practice two years in a Colorado rural community and/or urban underserved practice. Denise is the director of nursing at ValleyWide Health Systems, supervising nursing staff in nine system clinics. She said, “I am a rural nurse with a vision to improve the quality of patient care by teaching nurses evidence-based standards, competency, critical thinking, and research-based interventions to promote, maintain, and improve health outcomes.” Denise was Adams State’s 2011 Exceptional New Alumna.
Kathy Park Woolbert `07 (Jaroso, CO) was asked by Lesley University, her grad school alma mater, to read from her book, Seeing Into Stone: A Sculptor’s Journey, for the first annual MFA creative writing program alumni weekend in Cambridge, MA, in June. Jason Romero `08, `11 (Alamosa, CO) is married to his high school sweetheart, Erica, who works at Adams State. They have 3 awesome children: Sofia, 5; Emilia, 3; and Nico, 2. He is the K-5 physical education teacher in the Alamosa School District, varsity baseball coach, and assistant wrestling coach. He was named the 2011 Inter-mountain League Coach of the Year. He also volunteers with the new ASU baseball team. He says that he is grateful to all the people at ASU for the support and is very proud to be a Grizzly!
◗2010s Sara Lamar `10 now lives in Pitkin, CO and spends most of her days playing and exploring with her one-year-old son, 2 dogs, and husband, Chip. She also works as a therapist parttime at Western State Colorado University. Jacob McClure `11 lives in the San Luis Valley, after graduating with his degree in communications.
Know a fab teacher? The Adams State Educators Hall of Fame is seeking nominees for the 2013 awards. Inaugurated in 2012, the Hall of Fame recognizes educators who have made significant contributions to the field and demonstrate high moral character. Eligible nominees must have served in an educational field for at least ten years. Nominees need not have graduated from Adams State, but they must have demonstrated service to the institution. Awards may be made posthumously. For more information and to nominate an educator for the Hall of Fame, please go to: http://www.adams.edu/academics/ ted/hall-of-fame/index.php
Adams State staff and students joined more than 600 participants in the Stephanie L. Miner 5k Walk and Run, which benefits the Women’s Imaging Center at San Luis Valley Regional Medical Center. The 9th annual event, Oct. 6, raised more than $36,000– the largest amount to date. Alumna Stephanie L. (Motz) Miner ’82 passed away in October 2003 after a four-year battle with Susan (Motz) Arnold ‘88 is welcomed through the breast cancer. She was a valued comASU runners’ arch. munity member, public school teacher, wife, and mother of four. The Motz and Miner families graciously permitted the SLVRMC Foundation to use her name to fundraise for a new Women’s Imaging Center, which opened in 2006 with a staff dedicated to and trained in women's health. It recently acquired a digital mammography unit and a new ultrasound unit, thanks to fundraising. Adams State’s runners were the first to cross the finish line this year. Members of Chi Sigma Iota, the International Counseling Academic and Professional Honor Society, handed out water on the course for the second year. The ASU wrestling team not only joined the event, but showed up at 6 a.m. and stayed to the very end, helping to set up and dismantle. “This is the third year that they have adopted us, and they are irreplaceable,” said Kelly Gurule, director of Foundation and Volunteer Services at SLVRMC Foundation.
Alumni Cruise 2013 New England & Canada Boston • Bar Harbor • Sydney • Montreal • Nova Scotia Quebec • Prince Edward Island • Gulf of St. Lawrence
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 ◗
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Frank Van Bockern `61 (Lakewood, CO) is still working in financial planning/life & health insurance/real estate investment. He is still married to Edie, who is also still working. They celebrated their 52nd anniversary in August. They have 4 daughters and 10 grandkids. They have lived in Lakewood for the past 18 years. Frank has lost 2 younger brothers this last year, including Hollis Van Bockern `64. Glen Clark `62 (Alamosa,CO) married his classmate Frances Funk `62 in 1962. They have 4 boys. He retired after 37 years as a Navy and airline pilot, and she is a retired homemaker. Phillip Haram `62 (Colorado Springs, CO) is enjoying life. He still works 2 days a week and stays active. He has 3 children and 3 grandchildren. He is married to Barbara from Wyoming. He writes, “Adams State was good for me. I am enjoying seeing past acquaintances.” Priscilla Mestas Lemak `62, `64 (Denver, CO) writes that retirement involves gardening, relaxing (getting up late), and staying healthy. She and her husband, John `64, `66, look back on their years at ASC/U as “happy” years—everyone was nice, teachers were great, but tough! They appreciate that their lifestyle was made possible by attaining degrees from this institution. They are hopeful that their grandchildren may return to attend their alma mater. Doug Rohrer `62 (Mt. Vernon, WA) and his wife, Bonnie Panitzke, just celebrated their 50th anniversary. They have 3 kids and 6 grandkids. He was a Navy pilot for 5 years and then had a career as an airline pilot, retiring in 2000. Their hobbies include travel, tennis, and Mexico. Lavoy “Corky” McCorkle `60, `62 (Lamar, CO) retired after 30 years of teaching. He is married to Bessy, and they have 9 granddaughters. He has lived in Lamar for most of his 75 years. Shari Montgomery Steiner `62 (San Francisco, CA) has always been a writer, thanks to Adams State Journalism and Debate Squad! She has written several books, including The Female Factor, about women in Europe, and Steiner’s Complete Mortgage Talk, on personal finance. She writes, “It is great to be back and see people at our 50th! Thanks, Adams State!”
Top, clockwise from bottom left: Fran Clark, Bonnie Rohrer, Glen Clark, Priscilla & John Lemak, Doug Rohrer Center: Ellwood Ervin, Doris Sullivan, Glen & Freeda Steyer Bottom: Edie Van Bockern, Phillip Haram, Eddie Turner 30
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Glen Steyer `62 (Salina, KS) worked for Holly Sugar in Colorado Springs, CO, for 11 years, then Western Auto in Wichita & Salina for 11 years, then retired from 1st Bank of Kansas in Salina after 27 years. He’s been married to his wife, Freeda, for 41 years. He has served as chairman of the board for both Salvation Army and Volunteer Connection in Salina. He volunteers in his church and community organizations. They winter in South Padre Island, TX. Eddie Mae Turner `62 (Worcester, MA) writes, “This is my first reunion. It has been 50 years since I have been at Adams State. It is truly pleasant to be here and reconnect with classmates.”
Norm “Crash” & Kristen Nash
Becky & Chuck Owsley
Fran Clark and Doug Rohrer take a trip down memory lane.
From left: Carlos Lucero, Shari Steiner, Eddie Turner, Dorothy Lucero, Lavoy McCorkle From left: Dorothy Lucero, Eddie Turner, Shari Steiner, Doris Sullivan
remembering . . . LeDonne Haynie `46 (La Jara, CO) passed away Aug. 10 at the age of 88. Among her survivors are grandchildren Krista Bond `01 and Cole Miller `10.
Donna Krout Wheeler `67 (Colorado Springs, CO) passed away Sept. 18 at the age of 69. Among her survivors is husband, Ray Wheeler `58, `67.
Grady Timberlake `50 (Bakersfield, CA) passed away Aug. 9 at the age of 86.
Dale Umberger `69 (Lebanon, PA) passed away Sept. 21 at the age of 65. His widow, Cookie, and sons Jud and Logan greatly appreciate the flowers sent by his Adams State football teammates. Among his survivors is brother Dennis Umberger `71.
Bob Reed `53 (Gerrardstown, WV) passed away June 23 at the age of 81. Among his survivors is wife, Mary Reed `55. Bill Humphrey `60 (Hawkins, TX) passed away Sept. 30 at the age of 77. Dr. Robert Pollard `61 (Sun City, AZ) passed away Sept. 9 at the age of 77. William Lovato `61 (Lafayette, CO) passed away Aug. 1 at the age of 83. Elaine Childs `63, `65 (Orem, UT) passed away Sept. 12 at the age of 83. Among her survivors is husband, Gordon Childs, former professor at ASC. Dorothy Brink `65 (Monte Vista, CO) passed away Aug. 18 at the age of 98. Among her survivors is son Ted Brink `70.
Katheryn Kiley `85 (Florence, CO) passed away July 28 at the age of 50. Geraldine Spannagel `04 (Manassa, CO) passed away Aug. 7 at the age of 53. Among her survivors are son Josh Spannagel `07 and mother-in-law Doris Spannagel `69, `75, `77.
Charles Paolino `70 (Raton, NM) passed away Aug. 6 at the age of 81. William Sinclair '70, '76 (Las Animas, CO) passed away May 13 at the age of 71. Among his survivors are his wife Phyllis Sinclair '71, daughter Amanda Elder '94, son Matt Sinclair '95, and daughter-in-law Eva Sinclair '95. David Pagitt `71 (Tampa, FL) passed away July 23 at the age of 64. Mary Sanderson `71, `75 (Grand Junction, CO) passed away July 23 at the age of 88. Max Mestas `73, `77 (Pueblo, CO) passed away Jan. 13, 2011, at the age of 63. His wife, Virginia Romero Mestas `72 passed away July 9 at the age of 68. Arlene Reed `75 (Sanford, CO) passed away Aug. 24 at the age of 90. Among her sur-
Dr. Stuart Hilwig, Adams State University professor of history, was killed in an auto accident Oct. 28 at the age of 44. Hilwig joined the Adams State faculty in 2000, having earned his B.A. from Vanderbilt University in 1991 and a Ph.D. in history from Ohio State University in 2000. He is survived by his wife, Dr. Stephanie Hilwig ‘94, Adams State associate professor of sociology, and their three children. His book, Italy and 1968: Youthful Unrest and Democratic Culture, was published in 2009 by Basingstoke, UK: Palgrave Macmillan.
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Ruby Payne `52, `56 (Del Norte, CO) passed away Aug. 2 at the age of 86. Among her survivors is brother Lee A. Payne `50.
vivors are daughter Carolyn Lopez `86 and step-son Calvin Reed `71, `81.
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tate rolls on Homecoming 2012 Below: Robert Oringdulph ‘71 (seated, with grandchild on lap, bottom of photo) surrounded by his family, who helped him celebrate his selection as the first Billy Adams Award recipient from Adams State as a university. The annual Alumni Awards Banquet honored James Matthie ‘78, ‘79 (left) as the 2012 Outstanding Alumnus and Elizabeth Ford ‘08, the 2012 Exceptional New Alumna.
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grizzly club boosters (from left) Keith & Deb Cerny, Tim Walters ‘73, and Joe Martinez ‘99.
Kathy McGinty & Darla Chappell
grinning grizzlies graced downtown Alamosa store fronts, thanks to art alumnus Henry Blount ‘12 (left), assisted by BFA student Omar Gonzalez. Blount has created many murals all over the country, including one in The Loft at ASU. His art is considered to be a mix of cartoon-surrealism and contemporary conceptualism. His work can be seen in many galleries across the state at www.henryblount.com. Both artists are members of the San Luis Valley Low-brow Congress (SLVLC) and are considered to be rising stars in the Colorado art scene.
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Homecoming happiness
Lori Laske, Mary Cline, Mike Smith, Francie Ton, and Azada Casper
the annual alumni golf outing was essentially rained out, but that didn’t stop this group of loyal putters from having fun: (from left) Lori Laske, Donald Salazar, Albert Felix, Ken Marquez, John Dale, Spencer Harris, Brent Williams, Garrett Marquez, Francie Ton, Justin Willis, Azada Casper, Mary Cline, Mike Edgar, Russ Seymore, Michael Smith, Erik van de Boogaard, and Gaylene Horning.
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alumni scrapbook pueblo
◗ John Dunow `71 headed out for a ride in the Adams State bike jersey.
grand junction SLV comedy night
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Alumni Board members Rich Scanga, Karen Rubidoux Miller, Toney Cantu, Lynn Michalke, Liz Tabeling-Garcia, and Rob Oringdulph pose with Comedienne Tammy Pescatelli (3rd from left).
Front L-R: Brenda Trujillo, Ricardo Martinez, and Jan Vigil Back L-R: Fred Lopez, Boogie Jr. and Boogie Romero, Don Trujillo, Jacob McClure, Chuck Owsley, Jeff Owsley, and Lori Laske
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Front L-R: Robert and Laura Glad, Rita Paronto, and Larissa Rignall Back L-R: Lori Laske, Betty and Laverne Etter, Julie and Jim Witt, Karen Stone, Chuck and Mary Dalpiaz, Jim Paronto, and Rick Rignall
L-R: Lori Laske, Ryan and Amanda Allen, and Chip and Sara Lamar and son
◗ Norman Tucker `79 (bottom left) and his family show their Adams State Pride!
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Grizzlies get a new logo A new logo to represent Adams State University athletics was unveiled during the Aug. 24 Great Stories Celebration. Designed by Phoenix Design Works after a summer-long design process, the logo strongly incorporates the “U” of the new institutional name. The university colors of green and white continue to play a prominent role, as does part of the Grizzly paw, which will remain as a secondary mark. In May, the ASU Athletic Department conducted a survey of the campus and external community and received over 300 ideas, which helped shape the design process, led by Grizzly senior woman administrator and business manager Dianne Lee. ASU Graphic Designer Amy Kucera ‘05 also joined the committee of ASU coaches and community members. The Grizzlies now have 21 varsity sports, including baseball, which will hit the field for the first time since 1976 this academic year.
volleyball had its best season ever, with an impressive 23-4 overall record, while winning the RMAC West Division title by 4 full matches with a 16-3 conference record. The Grizzlies, who hosted an RMAC Tournament match on Nov. 13, were nationally ranked in the American Volleyball Coaches Association’s Top 25 Coaches Poll for the first time in their NCAA Division II history, reaching as high as No. 19 while being ranked for nine straight weeks (as of Nov. 12). The Grizzlies were also ranked fifth in the Nov. 7 edition of the NCAA’s South Central Regional Rankings and at press time were looking for their first NCAA Division II Dominique Davis National Tournament selection. ASU ended the regular season as winners of 10 straight matches. Senior Dominique Davis led the Grizzlies with 334 kills in the regular season, while junior Gabriella Rifilato earned four RMAC Setter of the Week honors after pacing the conference with 1,143 assists and 45 service aces during the regular season.
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Fulkerson to aid Athletics fundraising Dr. William (Bill) Fulkerson, Adams State president from 1981-93, returns to serve as Associate Athletic Director/External Development. The new part-time position will call on him to develop new or increased revenue sources for the university’s 21 NCAA Division II athletic programs. Following his work at Adams State, Fulkerson was appointed President of the State Colleges in Colorado, a position he held until 2000. He then taught in the business department at the Metropolitan State College of Denver for two years before retiring. During his tenure at Adams State, Fulkerson was most proud of increasing enrollment and refining operations of the Adams State Foundation. With his leadership, Adams State reached its highest enrollment in 10 years in 1987-88 and saw its 1989 freshman class increase 46 percent over 1983. Fulkerson was also active in Adams State’s move from the NAIA to the NCAA Division II ranks after serving on the NAIA board. “It was an exciting time,” he reminisced.
head cross country coach Damon Martin ‘87 was named both the RMAC and South Central Regional Coach of the Year. His men’s and women’s teams will aim for the eighth national title in the last ten years at the NCAA Div. II National Championships on Nov. 17 in Joplin, Mo. the individual title at both the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference and NCAA Division II South Central Regional Championships, leading Grizzly women’s cross country to team titles at both meets, the highlights of another strong season. The RMAC title was the 25th for Alicia the Grizzly women, while the regional Nelson crown was their 16th in 21 tries at the NCAA Division II National level. Nelson was named Athlete of the Year by both the RMAC and U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association. The Grizzlies put six runners on the AllRMAC team and seven on the USTFCCCA’s all-region team.
grizzly men’s cross country was favored in the nationals, having been ranked first in the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association national rankings throughout the season, which was highlighted by comfortable wins at both the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference and NCAA Division II South Central Regional Championships. Kevin Batt Sophomore Tabor Stevens won the individual title at the RMAC meet on Oct. 20 in Colorado Springs, becoming the first underclassmen to win the RMAC’s individual crown since 2003. He then skipped the regional championships as redshirt freshman Kevin Batt, who had also won ASU’s home meet, took top honors to lead ASU to a fifth straight regional title. Stevens was named the RMAC Runner of the Year and was one of seven All-RMAC performers, while Batt claimed USTFCCCA South Central Athlete of the Year accolades and led six Grizzlies on the all-region team.
Trevor Eggleston
grizzly football had its best season since 1989, winning eight games — a NCAA Division II era (1992-Present) school-record — including each of the last four, to finish 8-3 overall and 6-3 in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference play. The Grizzlies led the RMAC in scoring, total and pass efficiency defense, and set a new Division II era school-record for total offense with 4,581 yards. Senior quarterback Trevor Eggleston went 5-0 as a starter throughout the season and became ASU’s all-time career completions record-holder, surpassing ASU Athletics Hall of Famer Bobby Saiz. Defensively, the Grizzlies forced 40 total turnovers, equal to the most in the nation. Senior safety James Ackel led the team with 101 tackles and 5 forced fumbles, while senior middle linebacker Brent Lush tallied 86 stops while recovering five fumbles. Senior kicker David Van Voris led the special teams as he booted 18 field goals in 20102 to break his own single-season school-record, while besting 2-time NAIA All-American Rocky Paulson’s career record in his final game, a 19-0 shutout of Colorado Mesa.
Colorado Sports Hall of Fame inducts Cockroft ‘67 Former Adams State University and Cleveland Browns punter and place kicker Don Cockroft ’67 will be one of six inductees to the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame for 2013. He becomes the third Adams State great named to the Hall of Fame. He set the national record for punting average in 1966 (48.1 yards per punt). In 2008, Cockroft was inducted into the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Hall of Fame, and in 2009, to the RMAC's All-Time Team. Cockroft was named an All-Pro in 1972 and in 2007 was added to the Cleveland Browns Legends program. To purchase tickets for the April 18 Colorado Sports Hall of Fame induction, contact the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame at 720/258-3535; www.coloradosports.org.
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senior alicia nelson won
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non-profit u.s. postage
paid permit no. 80 alamosa, co A-Stater Adams State University Alamosa, CO 81101
SWAG offers 1,100 reasons to live: students build suicide awareness and prevention.