AStater Autumn 2022

A STATER MAGAZINE Autumn 2022

President’s Letter:

MAGAZINE

VOL. 62, NO. 2 • AUTUMN 2022

Published by Adams State University Foundation

Adams State University • Alamosa, CO 81101 719-587-7011 • 800-824-6494 email: alumni@adams.edu

Digital magazine: adams.edu/alumni/astater/

EDITORS

Amy Kucera ’05, Linda Relyea ’96, ’10 DESIGNER Amy Kucera ’05

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Linda Relyea ’96, ’10 • Amy Kucera ’05 • Michael Clifford

Eric Flores ’11 • Garrett Carroll ’21

INTERIM PRESIDENT OF THE UNIVERSITY

David Tandberg, Ph.D. ’02

BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY

Michele Lueck Chair

Pam Bricker ’03 • Amanda DeLaRosa • Jonathan N. Marquez ’13

Mark Martinez ’13 • Jennifer Mueller

Arthur M. Ortegon • John Singletary

Beth E. Bonnstetter, Ph.D. Faculty Trustee Mary Benavidez Student Trustee

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD

Sandy Ortega ’74 President

Delzia Worley ’97 Vice President

Olga Montano ’06 Secretary

Jacqueline Archuleta ’11 President, Denver Chapter

Darrick Garcia ’17 • Katerie Lauck ’19 • Reyna Martinez-Ramirez ’10

William Mims ’17 • Robert Oringdulph ’71 • Carol Osborn ’84

Chris Page ’02, ’03 • Jerry Petersen ’77 • Richard Scanga ’75

Marcus Shawcroft ’15, ’19 • Jeremy Wilder ’96 • Loren Wright ’08

ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION BOARD

Ron Howard ’98 President

John McDaniel, Ph.D. Vice President Joe Martinez ’99, ’12 Secretary/Treasurer

Fred Bunch ’77 • Duane Bussey ’82 • Keith Cerny • Jennifer Chavez ’00

Joshua Cody ’05 • Jenny Cooper • Ed Crowther, Ph.D. • Bill Fassett

Chuck Houser ’62 • Dorothy Lucero ’61 • Liane “Buffie” McFadyen ’91, ’93

William "Bill" Rakow, Ph.D. ’69 • Richard Scanga ’75

Cheryl Schroeder ’07, ’09 • Jesse Torres ’97 • Tyree Walton ’08

FOUNDATION HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS

Stephen Bokat ’68 • Marguerite Salazar ’75, ’76 • Michael Ware ’69

FOUNDATION EMERITUS BOARD MEMBERS

Glenn Burnham • Harold Kelloff • John Marvel Jr. ’70 Izora Southway ’66 • J. Byron Uhrich • R. Paul Wagner

FOUNDATION EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Tammy Lopez ’91, ’00 Executive Director of the Foundation Pam Bricker ’03 Trustee Liason

GRIZZLY CLUB BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Hoyt Anderson ’97 President Ted Morrison ’69 Vice President Chas Moeller ’98 Treasurer

Keith Cerny, Donna Wehe ’12 Secretaries

Joseph Garcia ’73 • Eli Heredia • Amanda Maez • Diego Martinez ’16

Joel Polkowske ’12 • Marcus Shawcroft ’15 • Tim Walters ’73

ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY PURPOSE STATEMENT

Adams State University’s driving purpose is to provide equitable access to education for all. We promote successful and engaged lives by caring for, connecting with, and challenging our students, campus, and community. As Colorado’s premier Hispanic Serving Institution, Adams State University draws on its rural location in the San Luis Valley, to serve and empower all students, especially those from historically underserved populations.

VISION STATEMENT

To become the university community of choice for diverse, historically underserved groups, and all who value quality education and inclusivity.

Adams State does not tolerate discrimination in any form. Go to adams.edu/ads for the full anti-discrimination statement.

Homecoming – that’s the perfect word to describe my feelings since returning to the campus full-time as the interim president for this very special university. Since first arriving as a freshman, Adams State has been a central part of my life. Not only am I in a place of servitude for students and alumni, I’m thankful for the role Adams State plays in professional career and personal journeys.

Being the interim president would not have been remotely possible without the close mentorship of the wonderful faculty at Adams State. I came away from Adams with a strong foundation to prepare me for a professional career that has impacted education policy across this state and country.

I met my wife, Darin ’02, at Adams State. Darin grew up in Manassa, where her close and extended family still reside. Adams State was there for her when she decided to pursue her college degree. There is no place like the Valley and Adams State will always remain closely connected to life here.

As an alumnus of Adams State, I only ask three things of you as you think back on your journey:

1. Employ: Hundreds of Adams State students seek life-changing internships and employment opportunities. Please consider hiring a Grizzly(adams.edu/students/career-services).

2. Contribute: Adams State remains one of the most affordable colleges in Colorado due, in part, to the generosity of our strong alumni. The annual fund and scholarships are the lifeblood of our financial aid program(adams.edu/foundation).

3. Participate and volunteer: Homecoming; theater and athletic events; new student recruitment; you can make a difference - (adams.edu/admissions or adams.edu/alumni).

As the motto goes, Great Stories Begin Here; mine certainly did. I’m sure your story is as special, too. The past several weeks have been a joy and I encourage you to reach out over the next few months and connect with me and your alma mater.

David Tandberg, Ph.D. ’02 Interim President

Shannon Wilson, who received her Associate of Arts last spring, is a great representation of our hard-working students. She is currently taking her prerequisites in order to apply for dental hygiene school. Besides focusing on her academics as a full time student, Shannon is on the cheer team, coached by Aaliyah Duran, Class of 2021. Shannon also works as a dental assistant for Dr. Eva Mejia in Alamosa, as a server at a local restaurant, and enjoys photography as her hobby. Her mother, Lisa Wilson, Class of 1994, pictured above with Shannon at the spring commencement, is Adams State's Academic Records Coordinator in the Office of the Registrar. Lisa was a cheerleader while she attended Alamosa High School. Lisa and her husband, Chad, are both proud supporters of the Grizzly Club.

Faces of Adams State

Adams State band in the homecoming parade

Homecoming kickoff with trivia at Spare Keg Brewerks, Alamosa

Chuck Owsley and his wife, Becky, ride in the parade

Chuck Owsley ’68 is the Billy Adams Award Recipient

It’s early 1968, and Chuck Owsley is finishing his degree at Adams State University. In the meantime, with his wife Becky and three kids, he is also running a little furniture store called Buy-low Furniture in downtown Alamosa. When the time approaches to head to campus, Owsley draws up a sign for the door that says “Gone to graduate,” locks up, and heads to his night classes.

Attending Adams State on a golf scholarship, Chuck finished his studies, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in business administration and a minor in art in 1968. He was 23. Since then, he has gone on to have an illustrious career and a lasting legacy in the San Luis Valley. Charles “Chuck” Owsley is the 2022 Billy Adams Award recipient. “I’m incredibly thankful and honored.”

Chuck has lived his entire life in the San Luis Valley. “The valley has changed immensely. Because of Adams State, and because of the medical facilities, transportation and businesses, we [Alamosa] became the center of the Valley.”

While many come to call the campus home, Adams State has been home for Chuck since he was little. He was born and grew up on Richardson Avenue. “As a little boy, I played a lot on campus, almost every day of my life,” said Chuck. As an Alamosa High School student, he played football and basketball on the Adams State campus as AHS didn’t have a football field or indoor basketball court at that time.

After graduating he owned and operated Curtis Brothers Furniture, a large store in downtown Alamosa, where he would remain for 42 years until his well-deserved retirement. For a number of years, he was a board member for the Alamosa Chamber of Commerce, and in 1975 he was president on the board. He was a member of what is now the Grizzly Club and was on the Alumni Board during the 1970s.

The Owsley Family has a long legacy in the valley and at Adams State. Chuck's father graduated in 1936, and his children and grandchildren earned Adams State degrees. Much of the campus’s 100-year history has unfolded before his eyes, “I’ve watched almost every building be constructed [on campus] since the 1960’s.”

Since retirement, Chuck has spent a number of years on the Adams State University Foundation Board and owns some commercial rentals. He owns a cabin in South Fork, where he and his wife enjoy spending time together. He used to play a lot of golf, however an injury caused him to limit the activity. He is also an avid gardener.

Chuck has been a lifelong Adams State athletics fan, and has missed very few events. “In 2014, Becky and I received the Grizzly Club Individual Partners of the Year Award, and that was a big honor.”

Chuck encourages current students to do their best in college for future success in the world. “The motto for Adams State is ‘great stories begin here,’” said Chuck, “It was that for my father, for myself, for my kids, and for my grandkids.”

Article by Garrett Carroll, Class of 2021

Alumni Reception, Marvel House

Homecoming 2022 Outstanding Alumna Angelica Valdez ’98,

’08

A first-generation, low income, student, Angelica Valdez was in Upward Bound when she began her Adams State great story. The federally funded program not only enabled the San Luis Valley native to realize her academic goals but also laid the foundation for her professional career.

Not only the first in her family to attend college but the first to graduate high school, Angelica smiles over her chai latte on a cool summer morning at Milagros Coffee House in Alamosa, Colo., as she answers questions about her close association with Adams State and Upward Bound.

Seated at the small round table, her bright red dress accents her dark hair and her intelligent brown eyes express strong emotions as she recalls her Adams State mentors. In particular Dr. Ted McNeilsmith (emeritus professor of sociology); and Dr. Clarence Parks (the late emeritus professor of sociology), left lasting impressions.

“They (McNeilsmith and Parks) were so good to me,” Angelica recalls. Dr. Parks and his wife, who was Angelica’s middle school English teacher, took a personal interest in her. Dr. Parks often held her up as an example in the classroom and the couple even invited her over for family traditions, including decorating the Christmas tree.

Her relationship with Dr. McNeilsmith continued after graduation; he was a frequent visitor to the Upward Bound Office, bringing newspaper articles that mentioned Valdez.

“Ted always encouraged my goals and dreams. He and Dr. Parks were so kind and genuinely interested in my future. I was blessed to have people like that in my life. They were very instrumental in my love for Adams State.”

Angelica grew up in the San Luis Valley and understood first-hand the challenges students in the Upward Bound program faced, low-income and first-generation in particular. “When you grow up with a low income and think about life, you aspire to be rich, without really knowing what that means. The environment I grew up in and my trajectory didn’t provide any guidelines and what I saw on television seemed like a fantasy. You say the word ‘rich’ without anything tied to it.

“For me, at 46, it means all the people who have always looked out for me and I am rich in relationships. I can’t explain how people like them came into my life but I am so glad they exist in this world and I am so glad they were looking out for me.”

Angelica began her professional career with the Adams State TRIO programs (Upward Bound, Educational Talent Search, and Student Support Services) as a student and was promoted to Director over the Upward Bound program in 2008, Executive Director in 2014 and added Upward Bound Math and Science in 2017. “Working at Adams State, I would ask for additional support to add to our TRIO

Azarel Madrigal, Chuck Owsley, Angelica Valdez at the Alumni Awards Banquet, Oct. 7

programs. I am not afraid of the word no, and if we didn’t have the resources before, it wouldn’t hurt to ask. So often, Upward Bound champions Ken Marquez, Class of 1987 and 1994, and former VP of Student Affairs and Bill Mansheim (former VP of finance and administration) would say, ‘Let’s try it.’”

Adding the Upward Bound Math and Science program and continuously writing grants to increase the capacity of students the programs could serve, Angelica increased the number of students from 94, when she accepted the position as director, to 174. She also involved 11 San Luis Valley schools with the UB Math and Science grant, up from 7 before her tenure.

“Our graduates frequently doubled the national graduation rate for first-generation students and over 200 matriculated to Adams State, during my time as executive director. My intention has always been to be the best ally for students. Working with the Upward Bound students taught me grace and humility. Sometimes I got it right and sometimes I needed to grow and learn. I will always be appreciative of all the Upward Bound students who granted me invitations into their educational experiences.”

This year, the Upward Bound program celebrates 50 years on the Adams State campus and Angelica appreciated the 32 years her predecessor, the late Mike Garcia, Class of 1973 and 1977, dedicated to the program. He retired as the director of Adams State Upward Bound in 2008. “He built such a strong foundation that made it easy for me to grow the program. I appreciated Mike for providing his staff with ownership of their work which helped prepare me to take over the program when he retired.”

As a new supervisor, Angelica recognized that TRIO programs don't have a lot of money for competitive wages. “It is more of a stepping stone than a career path. It took trial and error, but I realized that I could mold positions and career growth and provide opportunities for their career health. I adapted and learned to meet the challenges as a supervisor.”

She continues to stress the importance of relationships as her career trajectory continues along the path of service. “Relationships, from platonic to romantic, are much more important than you think or believe.” She encourages empathy for others. “Everyone is trying the best they can. Until the narrative changes, the story stays the same, when you allow yourself to see another’s perspective, that is when the narrative will shift and a new approach can be found.”

Always, Angelica will advocate for Adams State and its students. “The other Angelicas out there need it and our community needs Adams State.”

Her husband, Armando Valdez, Adams State emeritus associate professor of management, nominated Angelica for the 2022 Outstanding Alumna Award. “We are each other’s biggest cheerleaders.”

Professional Achievements

June 2014 – Present: Valdez Land and Livestock, LLC, Managing Member

March 2022 – Present: The Colorado Trust, Regional Manager

March 2016 – Present: AVAWise Consulting, Lead Consultant

December 2018 – Present: Colorado State University, Priority 1-Trainer Federal TRIO Programs

June 2008 – November 2021: Adams State University, Executive TRIO Director

Education

August 2014 – July 2015: Adams State University, Ph.D. in counselor education (paused) May 2008: Adams State University, Master of Arts in community counseling; Summa Cum Laude August 1998: Adams State University, Bachelor of Arts in psychology and sociology; Cum Laude

Affiliations

2017 – 2021: Member Adams State University LATINX 2020 – 2021: Founder and Member Adams State University First-Generation Task Force 2020 – 2021: Founder and Member Rocky Mountain Upward Bound Consortium 2020 – 2022: Board Member/Treasurer Center for Restorative Programs

Significant Grants

Lead Grant Writer: U.S. Department of Education Upward Bound Math & Science, 2017, 2021

Lead Grant Writer: U.S. Department of Education Upward Bound, 2005, 2007, 2012, 2016, 2022

Contributing Grant Writer: U.S. Department of Education Upward Bound, 88 Awarded, $185,000,000, Funded, 2022

Lead Grant Writer: Colorado Summer Food Service, Awarded, 2008-2022

Lead Grant Writer: U.S. Department of Education Student Support Services, 2014, 2019

Homecoming 2022 Exceptional New Alumna Azarel Madrigal ’16, ’18

When Azarel Madrigal decided to further her education at Adams State University, the first-generation student’s parents told her, “you will have to figure it out.” Not only did Madrigal figure out the process to begin her academics, she soon involved herself in student government, including serving as the student trustee; participating on the cheer squad; and winning a top award at an international Model United Nations event in Menton, France.

Azarel Madrigal, Class of 2016 and 2018, is the Adams State 2022 Exceptional New Alumna.

“My parents were always supportive,” Azarel said. “They just didn’t know anything about going to college.” After earning her bachelor’s degree in history/political science, she set her sights on a master’s degree and pursuing a profession to help others “figure it out.”

Notable Achievements

2022 Boettcher Foundation Doers and Difference Makers Fellowship Graduate

December 2021 – Present: Acting–now Executive Director First Southwest Community Fund, Rural Colorado

January 2021 – Present: Program Director First Southwest Community Fund, Rural Colorado September 2018 – January 2021: Grants Manager San Luis Valley Behavioral Health Group May 2016 – September 2018: Assistant to Monte Vista City Manager/Best & Brightest Intern

Education

May 2016: Adams State University Bachelor of Arts in political science and history; minor in Spanish May 2018: Adams State University Master of Arts in public administration

Volunteer

San Luis Valley Community Foundation Board of Directors Start Up Colorado Board of Directors

Bilingual: fluent in Spanish and English

After a referral from Beverlee McClure, Ph.D., a member of the First Southwest Community Fund Board, Azarel joined the nonprofit board. “I have focused my career on creating equity in capital disparities in rural Colorado and my skill set was a good fit as a volunteer board member. I was super excited about the nonprofit and being a part of it.” When a paid position for a program director was created, Azarel considered the idea of switching careers and filling her days working full-time with the FSW Community Fund.

She stepped down from the board. It was a pivotal time, women in rural businesses received funding and Azarel built and implemented the program for the San Luis Valley. “I came on board and hit the ground running.” She worked with a “phenomenal” director, Cass Walker, who became a great leader and mentor for Azarel.

With Walker’s encouragement, Azarel applied for the position as executive director when it became available. “To have real social justice, you have to reach economic justice. I am excited to be a part of developing change in our community.”

In addition to her role with FSW Community Fund, Azarel serves on the Community Foundation of the San Luis Valley Board. One of the key activities of this organization is awarding scholarships to female students of Hispanic descent in the SLV. “I recently presented one to a first-generation student from Center. As I read her essay, I could see some of myself in her. By presenting her award in Spanish, her parents were aware of what was happening. I am happy to help bridge the divide. My story isn’t that inspiring but if potential students relate to it – and see if ‘she can do it, why can’t I,’ it shows you don’t have to be exceptional to be a good fit for higher education.”

Azarel is quick to credit faculty and staff for providing support and opportunities to sharpen her skills. From the start, Adams State brought Azarel into the fold with a personal touch. “Priscilla Gardea, Class of 2006, (then admissions counselor) met me at a public library to help build my first ever class schedule. Priscilla was there for me during my entire college career.”

Professors invested themselves in her success as well. Mari Centeno, Ph.D., professor of political science and Model United Nations sponsor; and Michael Mumper, Ph.D., director of the master’s program in public administration, were key to building her self-esteem and professional skills. “Dr. Centeno saw the potential in me I didn’t see in myself. I had a lot of self-doubt and Mari gave me positive feedback and encouraged me to take leadership roles across campus and network. She really helped me become a strong public speaker. The impromptu speeches she required in class really paid off.”

Azarel said all her history professors were passionate about their subject matter. Ed Crowther, Ph.D., then department chair and current emeritus professor of history; Rich Loosbrock, Ph.D., professor of history; and Nick Saenz, Ph.D., professor of history, taught relevant skills for her future profession.

“As an English Language Learner, I would often have issues transferring the thoughts in my head to paper. The history professors provided useful feedback and did not make me feel bad about it. They all took the time to help me.”

As an Adams State Associated Students and Faculty Executive Board member, Azarel worked collaboratively and networked with departments and community while she served as the student trustee for the Adams State Board of Trustees. “I was directly involved in policy change at the state legislative level.”

She served as vice president of the Adams State Model UN organization. At the Annual International Conference Sciences Po Paris - Campus de Menton in Menton, France, she won the outstanding delegate award. “I came from Adams State and competed against big universities like Duke and Brown and because of the amazing coaching from Dr. Centeno and the skills I learned from her, I beat out these big-name, large universities.

“Adams State will always have a place in my heart. I was there for seven years, (earning an undergraduate and graduate degree) and I am honored and humbled to receive this award.”

Alumni Golf Outing, Cattails Golf Course

CELEBRATING

YEARS

Amanda Atencio’s passion for education and serving students throughout her professional career began when she was a student at Adams State University. “My experiences as an undergrad and graduate student and working within the TRIO programs (Upward Bound, Educational Talent Search, and Student Support Services) shaped my love for students and supporting them. The people, el gente, in the valley are the primary reason I returned, back to my roots.”

Amanda, Class of 2005, recently accepted the position as Director of Upward Bound/Upward Bound Math & Science programs at Adams State. “I plan to continue providing quality services and opportunities for students in the program.” The Adams State Upward Bound program is in its 50th year. “We are the heart of pre-collegiate services for students in the SLV. My staff and I will continue the strong rapport with schools and communities throughout the valley.”

The U.S. Department of Education most recently renewed the Upward Bound Math and Science grant as well as renewing the Upward Bound grant for another five years, beginning in 2023, which makes an excellent launch for Amanda’s leadership role. “We received a perfect score on the Upward Bound grant,” Amanda added. She is grateful to Angelica Valdez, former UB director, Tawney Becker, Adams State grant specialist, and the entire Upward Bound staff that “poured their hearts and souls into the grant proposal.” There are nine high schools participating in the grant including Alamosa, Antonito, Centauri, Centennial, Center, Del Norte, Monte Vista, Sangre de Cristo, and Sierra Grande.

In the future, Amanda would like to expand community outreach for students’ health and well-being. “We can’t get to the core of academic needs or grow if a student is not emotionally, mentally or physically healthy.”

Amanda worked with Student Support Services soon after graduating and is excited to be back assisting students to succeed through her alma mater. “I am back home. After ten years it is great to reconnect with my Adams State family. This is where I built a desire to become the next leader of Upward Bound.”

A typical day at the office always means students first, regardless of schedules or advanced planning. “The students are at the heart of our decision making,” Amanda said. “Despite best efforts to plan the day, especially during summer programming, life happens and situations arise. We have to address the moment.”

Amanda received certification in elementary education from the University of Colorado Denver in 2017; and a Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts, in 2013 and 2005, respectively, from Adams State University. She worked for six years as an elementary teacher in Pueblo, Colo. prior to accepting the position as director of the Adams State Upward Bound programs. She served as the TRIO Upward Bound director for Colorado State University-Pueblo; and started her professional career at Adams State in 2005 with the Student Support Services/Talent Search and as a TRIO, Upward Bound counselor and academic skills coordinator.

“It is the relationships with people throughout my career that built my foundation at Adams State and my love for education,” Amanda added. “I have learned, iron sharpens iron and I have not gotten here alone. There have been so many mentors, coworkers, and professors who have helped me develop into the professional I am today. The experiences I had as an undergraduate, graduate and employee with Adams State TRIO programs, and teaching, molded my love for students and I am excited to begin the next chapter of my story with Adams State leading the Upward Bound program into the next fifty years.”

Giving Back

New Building the

Future

Scholarship established by the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA).

Adams State University students majoring in mechanical engineering may be eligible for a new Building the Future Scholarship established by the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA). The scholarship will assist Adams State mechanical engineering majors with educational expenses. CHFA designated $100,000 to scholarships over the next 10 years. One or multiple scholarships will be awarded each year based on recipient need.

“CHFA is proud to invest in the Adams State University/ Colorado State University mechanical engineering program to provide students the ability to seek a robust profession after graduation. We established our Building the Future Scholarship fund to strengthen Colorado’s future workforce, advance equity in education access, and promote leadership in affordable housing and economic development,” said Cris White, CHFA executive director and CEO.

Adams State partnered with Colorado State University to establish the mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree. Students have the opportunity to earn the CSU degree, delivered entirely on the Adams State campus. Adams State provides all lower-division coursework for the first two

years of the program and CSU provides all upper-division coursework for the last two years by CSU faculty who are located in Alamosa.

Matt Nehring, Ph.D., Adams State professor of physics, is the director of the mechanical engineering program. “Our first class of students started the CSU/ASU mechanical engineering program this fall. We are striving to increase the size of next year's cohort by 50 percent over this year and this generous scholarship will be a great incentive for new students."

To be eligible for the scholarship, students must major in mechanical engineering; be an incoming freshman or sophomore during the award year; and meet grade point average requirements. Recipients must also be registered fulltime and be a resident of Colorado, with preference given to San Luis Valley high school graduates. A letter outlining educational and career goals must also be provided.

For more information about the CHFA Building the Future Scholarship and the CSU/ASU mechanical engineering program visit adams.edu/csume.

Charlotte (Schneider) Lehmann, pictured above, included Adams State in her estate planning. According to her niece, Leigh Hinojsa, executrix for the Charlotte Lehmann Estate, her aunt Charlotte took the time to update her will shortly after losing her husband in 2000. “She wanted to make sure everything was in order and to remember Adams State.”

The Charlotte Schneider Endowed Scholarship will provide scholarships to students with demonstrated need who are enrolled in a full-time capacity at Adams State. “Aunt Charlotte had fond memories of Adams State and the area,” Leigh said.

Charlotte received her Master of Arts in education. Leigh believes she worked at the local junior high school while pursuing her degree. After she left Alamosa, she moved to Alaska and accepted a position as a 4-H agent.

Charlotte and her husband later moved to Oregon, and then Montana, before returning to her hometown of Windsor, Colo. While a student at Adams State, Charlotte was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. “My aunt Charlotte battled MS for fifty years, but she always had a smile and remained in good spirits,” Leigh said.

R J

Friend,

Inc. recently established two annual scholarships

R J Friend, Inc. recently established two annual scholarships in nursing and business to support Adams State University students, who are Colorado residents. The intent of each scholarship is to support at least one full-time, undergraduate student from admission through graduation with an annual award of up to $10,000 to cover unmet need. R J Friend, Inc. also created a scholarship with the Adams State Prison College Program.

R J Friend, Inc. was established in 1985 by Ralph Friend, who worked with his parents and siblings in the family furniture business in Aurora, Colo. During WWII, Ralph was stationed in the Philippines and occupied Japan. Back in the states, he taught aviation classes to women in Arizona. “Uncle Ralph worked for everything and I know he would be so pleased to assist Adams State students who are genuine and respectful of education,” said Joan Friend, R J Friend, Inc. secretary.

R J Friend, Inc. doesn’t have a formal mission statement but the goal is to fund scholarships every year. After Ralph Friend died in 2016, his nieces and nephews continued the legacy. “We have grown our capability over the years,” Joan Friend added.

The organization restricts the scholarships to Colorado residents. “It is our hope the scholarship recipients will give back to their communities after graduating.”

“We are all grateful to work with Adams State and hope to continue to serve individual students with funding as they pursue their goals and dreams," Joan Friend said.

Donna Hayward ’77 sets up an endowed scholarship

Donna Hayward, Class of 1977, remembers the financial challenges while pursuing her master’s degree in counseling at Adams State. She attended classes on campus during the summer months of 1975, 1976, and 1977, paying for student housing, tuition and fees, while maintaining her rent payments on her apartment in Pueblo, Colo.

Through estate planning, Donna recently set up The Donna J. (Disert) Hayward Endowed Scholarship in School Counseling (Master of Arts).

“I wanted to give back and help someone who may not have

to struggle as much financially as I did while earning my master’s degree. I am excited that future students will receive the financial help I didn’t have.”

Donna appreciated the small school and class sizes at Adams State. “I had incredible instructors and learned valuable skills.”

After graduating Donna worked for school districts across Colorado, from smaller schools to larger metro areas. “School counselors are needed more than ever.” In her last position, 50 percent of the high school students were being raised by grandparents and the need for intervention crisis counseling was always high.

Donna retired and moved from Parker, Colo., to Calhan, Colo. to care for her mother. She and her husband continue to live there with their horses and dogs. “I continue to volunteer in my church as a counselor for young people as well as adults. It’s my service.”

U.S. Senator from Colorado, John Hickenlooper, tours the future mechanical engineering facilities and discusses education/workforce in the San Luis Valley on June 29.

Charlotte Lehmann ’79 includes her alma mater in her estate planning

Janene Mondragon is our new assistant director of Career Services

Janene Mondragon joined Adams State as the assistant director of Career Services in August, 2022. Prior to joining the Division of Community Engagement and Communication, Janene was career and technical education coordinator with the Adams State RISE Grant. Previously, she served as regional cooperative vocational transitional specialist in Northern New Mexico. Janene was a school teacher for a number of years, primarily in language arts (elementary and middle school) and is an adjunct professor of English at Adams State.

Janene earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology and a master’s degree in curriculum instruction, both from Adams State. She is completing her doctorate in curriculum, instruction, and assessment from Walden University.

Janene works closely with the Alumni Relations and Career Services director, Ashley Maestas ’13, ’20

“

I plan to promote career development and civic engagement for Adams State students and provide assistance to alumni as they pursue professional careers.”

Career Services and Alumni support Adams State students by:

Scan QR Code to watch The College Tour, Adams State

One of our student stars, Jasmina Martinez, Class of 2022, walks the red carpet during the premiere event, Sept. 14

Behind the scenes shots during the filming of The College TourAdams State edition

Interim President David Tandberg's first several months at Adams State

1. Vice President of Academic Affairs, Kent Buchanan, Ph.D. hands over the "key" to Adams State to incoming interim President, David Tandberg, Ph.D. on his first day, July 1, 2022

President Tandberg is interviewed for Great Day Colorado, Aug.25 –Scan the QR code to watch his segment–

Governor Polis and President Tandberg visit with STEM classes on Aug. 29 4. President Tandberg hosts a Marvel House luncheon on Aug. 15. Pictured left to right, Richard Loosbrock, Ph.D.; Koos Daley, Ph.D.; President Tandberg; Ed Crowther, Ph.D.; John McDaniel, Ph.D.

President Tandberg invites students to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, Sept. 3

President Tandberg visits with Adams State housing RA's, Aug. 17

President Tandberg; U.S. Ambassador to Mexico, Ken Salazar; Professor Nick Saenz, Ph.D.

President Tandberg visits with faculty and students during New Student Orientation, Aug. 19

“So much has changed since I started teaching in 1986. Personal computers had just become available and most people had never used a computer.”

In his first classes, George Sellman described teaching how special keys work on a keyboard. Over the decades, computers have become such prominent devices in our everyday lives that classes cover a wide array of systems.

“My time at Adams State has always been about continuous learning, not just about technology but learning how students think about technology.

“What has stayed the same [over the years] is the effectiveness of person to person learning. The mutual trust between a student and their instructor is essential. I learn as much, if not more, from my students as they do from me. Both learn and both grow.”

Nestled in the San Luis Valley, George explains that Adams State’s impact on the valley has been gratifying to see. “Seeing Adams State and the Valley evolve and adapt with the times has been a joy.”

Tim Armstrong is a first generation college graduate and the only person in his family with a college degree who has always identified strongly with Adams State’s mission and students.

As a boy, Tim was intrigued with the treasures his aunt brought home from her travels and he became an avid reader of National Geographic. As a result, travel became an integral part of his life and he knows it enhances students’ educational experiences. For over 10 years, he led trips with students and community members to places of unique biological interest including Australia, Peru, and multiple trips to East Africa and Costa Rica. These trips were life-changing events for some students who changed their focus or majors after traveling.

Tim also taught on two Semester at Sea voyages, including one that circumnavigated the globe with 600 students from around the world.

Throughout his life, Tim carefully observed nature and questioned what he saw. Although trained as an ornithologist, he spent the last 10 years studying small mammals and carnivores in the San Luis Valley.

Tim’s legacy is the former students who work for state and federal resource management agencies and those who went on to become veterinarians, doctors, and dentists throughout the western U.S.

Emeritus Professors

From tax firms to classrooms to ironman triathlons, Sheryl Abeyta has a knack for achievement for herself and those around her.

Sheryl, Class of 1990, credits her own Adams State mentors and teachers for helping her become a disciplined professional with strong ethical values, morals, and standards. She strived to bring those same traits to her students.

“I am proud to be a part of Adams State. I believe everyone should follow their dreams. I am a product of a great education. I believe education is power and I am inspired by the students. I wanted to inspire them in return. I am grateful for the opportunity to teach for the last several years and assist my students in seeing their dreams come true.” Sheryl's positive attitude and close mentorship proved invaluable to John Owsley, Class of 2018 and fourth generation Adams State alumni, pictured right.

In 2004, Sheryl completed a Master of Taxation from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. She encouraged Adams State accounting students to continue their education at Sturm College of Law. Through a strong relationship with her alma mater, Sheryl helped establish financial assistance for her students.

She ran the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA) for six years, applying for and receiving grants for five years. She received the 2013 Presidential Teaching Award. She has been a fitness instructor for over 30 years.

In 2006, Armando Valdez accepted a position as an Adams State assistant professor in the School of Business. “There is a community service role teaching at a small rural college. And for me, it provides great responsibility to represent my local communities of Conejos County, Capulin, and La Jara.”

At Adams State, the focus is always on the success of the college and the students. “Adams State students are as talented as any group of students I have been around. They are diamonds in the rough that bring their talents to Adams State for guidance on how to extract those talents.”

Armando has a lengthy list of accomplishments throughout his illustrious career at Adams State. Among his accolades are the 2010 Presidential Teacher Award, the 2008 and 2015 Student Engagement in Teaching Award, and the 2013 Excellence in Advisement Award.

He currently serves as the USDA Rural Development State Director in Colorado.

Grizzly Athletics

Eleven Elected to Class of 2022 Athletics Hall of Fame

The Adams State University Athletics Hall of Fame committee inducted 11 new members on Friday, September 30. Pictured front row, left to right, the 2022 inductees include Shane Barnes (wrestling), Deprece Washington (volleyball), Dominique Davis (volleyball), Alicia Nelson (cross country & track and field); back row, left to right, Travis Koppenhafer (wrestling), Adam Mars (wrestling), Marty Heaton (football), Manny Wasinger (football), Chris Day (Sports Information Director); Tabor Stevens (cross country and track & field) and Carl Palazzo (football) not

pictured. The 1990 & 1992 wrestling teams, who were elected as members of the Class of 2021, were in attendance to be inducted, pictured below.

In addition, Alamosa icons Lorey and Duane Bussey were honored with the Ted and Janet Morrison Special Citation.

For more information about the Adams State Athletics Hall of Fame or to nominate a future inductee, email the chair of the Athletics Hall of Fame Committee, Eric Flores, at erflores@adams.edu.

In winning the 1992 NCAA Division II men’s cross-country championship, Adams State accomplished the nearly impossible, posting the only perfect score at a national meet in any collegiate division ever. (Top five Adams State runners finished first through fifth, all within four seconds of each other.)

• Perfect scored the NCAA Division II National Championship meet in Slippery Rock, Pa.

• All seven runners earned All-American honors

• First team to ever be inducted into the Adams State Hall of Fame (2003)

• National Meet Runners include Phillip Castillo, Peter DeLaCerda, David Brooks, Paul Stoneham, Jason Mohr, Shane Healy and Kevin Schaefer

• Team was coached by 2000 Adams State Hall of Famer, Joe I. Vigil, Ph.D.

Semillas de la Tierra

Herman, Class of 1969, and Patsy, Class of 1970 and 1990, Martinez founded Semillas de la Tierra. In the fall of 1972, they began teaching Mexican and Southwest folk music and dance classes for academic credit and a year later co-founded the National Association of Grupos Folklóricos (ANGF). These efforts created a network of cultural exchange opportunities for students with visiting instructors and faculty from Mexico's universities and cultural centers. The door was opened for students attending higher education institutions to also attend ANGF Folkórico summer conferences in Mexico.

It is unique that past students have maintained the folklórico group through five decades; reaching this fifty-year anniversary milestone.”

“

Matthew Valverde, D.M.A. and Semillas de la Tierra on stage during the concert celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

50 Years

•1950s

Patricia

Richmond ’58, ’69 made a donation in honor of Rose Hohweiler Sterk who attended Adams State in 1955-56 and Paul Sterk. Rose served as the Alamosa County Court Clerk until she retired in 1994. Paul taught history at Alamosa High School for 30 years and later served on the Alamosa Public School Board of Education.

John Fuller ’57 visits campus and friends, left to right; Heidi Markey; Jeff Gallegos; Lori Laske ’91, ’01 and Tammy Lopez ’91, ’00.

•1960s

Norman ’62 & Mary Sue ’64 Howey are thank ful for their Adams State education that helped them have successful careers in education. “We have enjoyed and loved each other for the past 60 years.” All their grandchildren are in college pursuing mechanical engineering, medical, and other careers.

William “Bill” Emsick ’66, ’70 thanks all his teachers, professors, and coaches, who helped him graduate from Adams State. “There are many instructors, but one very special person was Dr. Frank Power, my coach and teacher. He trusted me and gave me a chance to attend Adams State. I truly believe there is not a better University in the country. There is not a day in my life that I don’t think about my education, instructors and fellow students. I have too many to mention in this letter, but in my life, they were second to none.” He retired from teaching in 2011, after 45 years, but continued coaching and working with the program up until 2017. During his coaching years in wrestling, he traveled to about 26 different countries. He coached one Junior USA World Team in Bulgaria in 1975. He moved to Canada and coached an international team. He coached four Pan American Teams, three Junior World Teams, plus three International Teams. He received numerous awards. “The time my ex-wife, Patricia, who is still my friend and we still share our family, and I were in Alamosa we loved every minute.”

Harold B. Smith ’68, ’69 lives in Colorado Springs with his wife. He is still active in real estate companies, gold and uranium mining, Colorado water rights, and his plastic injection molding plant. He is a car collector with 22 in his collection that keep him having fun.

Chuck ’68 & Mary ’70, ’75 Dalpiaz, from Cedaredge, Colo., celebrated their 63rd wed ding anniversary in August 2022. Chuck taught at Alamosa Junior High and Mary taught at North Conejos and Alamosa. She retired from Cherry Creek Schools. Alamosa and Adams State will always be special to them and their sons Darrin and Derek. Mary’s brothers and other reletives are also graduates of Adams State: Emmett ’63, twins Albert ’61 and Alfred ’66, John ’68, Rick O’Leary ’72 and Charlene Luke ’75

•1970s

Rodger ’73 & Cathy ’74 Bell are retired and live in the Ft. Collins area near two of their four grandchildren. They visit Alamosa and campus once every few years, since that is where they met and consider it a very special place.

•1980s

Karen L. Morrison ’88, ’94 has great memories of summers spent in the classroom with Jodine Ryan, Susan Varlely, Barb Andrews, and Don Basse, wearing his signature basketball shorts and/or suspenders. Now, as a retired educator, she sings with her community choir and travels for concert tours to countries including Ireland, Spain, Italy, Greece, and Scotland. “The joy of music.”

•2000s

Lindsey R. Eagan ’03 the new board director for Asian Elephant Support, has a back ground in animal care and training and has been working with Asian elephants at the BioPark Zoo in Albuquerque, New Mexico for almost 16 years. Her experi ence in the care and conservation of Asian elephants, as well as her drive to help educate the public about the need to help this species, will make her a great member of the Asian Elephant Support team.

Roger Dawson ’77 has led a mushroom foray through the town of South Fork for over 20 years. This year the participants learned about easy to identify edible mushrooms in the morning. After lunch participants spread out and “hunted” for edible mushrooms above Tucker ponds in Rio Grande County.

On October 10, a small group celebrated John McDaniel’s 90th birthday at the Marvel House. Pictured, left to right, front, Darin Tandberg ’02; Interim President David Tandberg ’02; John McDaniel, Ph.D., emeritus professor of history; Cheryl Ravens Schroeder ’07, ’09; back row, Wes DeVaul ’23; Ed Crowther, Ph.D., emeritus professor of history; Tammy Lopez ’91, ’00; Linda Relyea ’96, ’10.

Adams Family Album

Oct. 1 Tailgate: Aaron ’94 & Lori Casetta, Melissa ’92 & Jimmy ’95 Plane

Oct. 1 Tailgate: Jimmy Melek ’03

Oct. 1 Tailgate: Gontis Family, Boomer, and Ashley Maestas ’13, ’20

Boomer with Chuck ’68 and Becky Owsley

Edward "Champ" Atencio ’68, ’73

Rob ’70 and Susan Oringdulph with President Tandberg ’02 and his wife Darin ’02

June 1 Alumni trivia night at Spare Keg Brewerks, Alamosa

July 4 Alamosa Parade

July 23 Monte Vista Ski-Hi Stampede Parade Sept. 24 Denver Chapter Scholarship Luncheon

Carol Osborn ’84 with "The Three Amigos": Board of Trustees members Jonathan Marquez ’13, Arthur Ortegon, and Mark Martinez ’13

Oct. 5 Homecoming kickoff with trivia at Spare Keg Brewerks

Oct. 8 Tailgate and football game: Will Mims, Chris Martinez, and the Alumni/Foundation team

Future alumni Gisel and Jaylani enjoy the President's box Delzia ’97 and Tom Worley.

Final Chapters

Rhea Seaberg ’50 (Lehi, UT) passed away Apr 24 at the age of 94.

Margaret King ’53, ’61 (Fort Collins, CO) passed away Jun 11 at the age of 90.

Fredrick W. Sorenson ’58 (Pagosa Springs, CO) passed away Jul 20 at the age of 85.

Donald E. Johnson ’58 (Harrodsburg, KY) passed away Jun 20 at the age of 87.

Fred J. Stuart ’62, ’69 (Pueblo West, CO) passed away Sep 25 at the age of 87.

James O. Willburn ’63 (Delaware, OH) passed away Jun 10 at the age of 93.

Ann Grant Reddin ’64 (Grand Junction, CO) passed away Jun 6 at the age of 80.

Merlin R. Norenberg Jr. ’66 (Clovis, NM) passed away Apr 15 at the age of 80.

Judith R. Anderson ’69 (Kim, CO) passed away Apr 26 at the age of 75.

John E. Ludlow ’70 (Manitou Springs, CO) passed away Aug 4 at the age of 87.

Keith L. Hunzeker ’71 (Ordway, CO) passed away Mar 26 at the age of 75.

Carol M. Richardson ’71 (Jackson Hole. WY) passed away May 25 at the age of 72.

David W. Absmeier ’78 (Clay Center, KS) passed away Sep 4 at the age of 66.

Janice K. Guffy ’90 (Grand Junction, CO) passed away Jun 14 at the age of 70.

Donald D. Guffy ’90 (Grand Junction, CO) passed away Jul 7 at the age of 75.

Janet L. Heger ’90 (Cheyenne, WY) passed away Aug 27 at the age of 76.

Stephen M Bittel ’92 (Pueblo, CO) passed away Apr 3 at the age of 67.

Terrence G. Smith ’94, ’95 (Huntsville, AL) passed away May 12 at the age of 51.

Susan K. Vincent ’98 (Penrose, CO) passed away Apr 8 at the age of 69.

John P. Medina ’02 (Monte Vista, CO) passed away Aug 5 at the age of 67.

Viola Bristol-Johnson ’16 (Fort Morgan, CO) passed away Sep 30 at the age of 87.

friends

Harry Daley (Alamosa, CO) passed away Jan 5 at the age of 85.

Eva Brown (Frederick, MD) passed away Jun 2 at the age of 66.

Dorothy Brandt (Alamosa, CO) passed away Feb 25 at the age of 95.

Darrell Mudra (Crawfordville, FL) passed away Sep 21 at the age of 93.

Freddie Jaquez, Class of 1976, will perform at the 4th annual Adams State Gives Day.