Duane Bussey ’82, Russell Achatz ’85, Jeni Jack-Goodwin ’85
Banking on a great future for Adams State and the Valley Here come the bankers – one, two, three – and they’re all part of the Adams State legacy. They love to see their customers succeeding in the community and growing in their industry, and they love their alma mater’s potential for the next century.
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hey are in good company. Adams State University alumni Duane Bussey ’82, CEO of San Luis Valley Federal Bank; Jeni Jack-Goodwin ’85, president of First Southwest Bank; and Russell Achatz ’85, CEO of Alamosa State Bank, are demonstrating their support for the institution from serving on boards to committing generous donations for the University’s 100-year anniversary.
Southwest Bank understands the importance “ First of Adams State,” Jack-Goodwin says. “We appreciate the opportunity to continue our strong relationship with the institution.”
Not Headed Toward Banking Ironically, none of the three financial leaders started their academics with banking aspirations. In fact, Bussey and Achatz expected to become teachers and coaches. Jack-Goodwin was a little closer, choosing business as a major with ambitions to join the retail industry. 28 AStater
“Never in a million years would I have predicted this career,” she says. Achatz has no second thoughts about his destination. “I would have no problem choosing the same path, as it has been very rewarding.” Bussey agrees. “Banking and the business of finance and money management have been a good fit for me intellectually, and the San Luis Valley Federal Bank has been a great fit culturally for me.” Jack-Goodwin says they support one another and all the banks throughout the San Luis Valley. Bussey also agrees with that sentiment. “We all fill different niches. I have tremendous respect for all the banking leaders in the community.” Making Their Lives in the SLV Carving out a life in the San Luis Valley felt just right for these alumni. Bussey grew up in Colorado Springs before coming to Adams State. Achatz and Jack-Goodwin each gave the metropolitan life a try. “I lived in Denver for a couple years but returned to Alamosa when I wanted to start a family,” Jack-Goodwin says. Achatz also soon learned the city life was
