A-Stater Winter 2018

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winter 2018 the magazine of adams state university

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VOL. 58, NO. 3 • WINTER 2018

Published by Adams State University Foundation ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY • ALAMOSA, CO 81101 719-587-7011 • 800-824-6494 WWW.ADAMS.EDU • E-MAIL: ALUMNI@ADAMS.EDU WWW.ADAMS.EDU/ALUMNI/ASTATER/

EDITOR

Chris Lopez `84

DESIGNER

Amy Kucera `05

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Gaylene Horning `94 • Linda Relyea `96, `10

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS William McLaughlin ASU Sports Information Director Kaitlyn Kelley • Jonah Bricker • Daniel Parsons

PRESIDENT OF THE UNIVERSITY Dr. Cheryl D. Lovell

BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY

Cleave Simpson Chair Kathy Woods Vice Chair Pam Bricker • Reeves Brown • Donna Griego `03, `12 • Michele Lueck Wendell L. Pryor • John Singletary • Randy Wright `84 Dr. Rob Benson Faculty Trustee Cody Trujillo Student Trustee

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD

Lori Lee Laske `91, `01 Executive Director of Alumni & Donor Relations Liz Tabeling-Garcia `96, `06 President Delzia Worley `97 Vice President Holly Felmlee `76, `92 Secretary Toney Cantu `70 • D. Mike Garcia `73, `77 • Phil Lopez `04 Lynn Michalke `77 • Robert Oringdulph `71 Sandy Ortega `74 • Carol Osborn `84 • Chris Page `02, `03 Kasey Russell `03 • Rich Scanga `75 • Jeremy Wilder `96

ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION BOARD

Ron Howard `98 President Dr. John McDaniel Vice President Jeni Goodwin `85 Secretary Donn Vigil Treasurer Fred Bunch `77 • Glenn Burnham • Duane Bussey `82 Keith Cerny • Genevieve Cooper • Ed Crowther Bill Fassett • Valerie Finnegan • Dale Hettinger `64 Charles “Chuck” Houser `62 • Dorothy Lucero `61 • Joe Martinez `99, `12 Cathy Mullens `82 • Chuck Owsley `68 • Michelle Roepke Rich Scanga `75 • Don Stegman `61, `64

FOUNDATION HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS

Stephen Bokat `68 • Marguerite Salazar `75, `76 • Michael Ware `69 Harold Kelloff • John Marvel Jr. Izora Southway `66 • J. Byron Uhrich • R. Paul Wagner

FOUNDATION EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Dr. Cheryl D. Lovell ASU President Tammy Lopez `91, `00 Executive Director of the Foundation Kathy Woods Trustee Liaison

GRIZZLY CLUB BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Ron DeSautell `76 President Ted Morrison `69 Vice President Hoyt Anderson `97 • Keith Cerny Jeni Goodwin `85 • Chris Lopez `84 • Darrell Meis `81 Jeff Owsley `86 • Adam Roberts • Donna Wehe `12

ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY MISSION STATEMENT

ASU’s mission is to educate, serve, and inspire our diverse populations in the pursuit of their lifelong dreams and ambitions.

VISION STATEMENT 2020

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

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president’s letter: Two wonderful aspects of being president of Adams State University are the alumni you meet along the way, and the students whose lives we impact every day.

Whether it’s been sitting down for dinner with Jerry `70 and Patti `70 Crisci at their restaurant, Armando’s, in New York City, or having a recent graduate like Matthew Lobato, Class of 2013, come up and introduce himself at an event in Alamosa, the alumni of Adams State are accomplishing great things.

Take Joe DiPaola `84, who is CEO of World Financial Group. I sat with him in his office in the Atlanta area recently to talk about how Adams State positively impacted his life.

Or Gil Cisneros `70, chairman and CEO of Chamber of the Americas headquartered in the Denver-metro area, and David Tandberg `02, vice president of policy research and strategic initiatives for the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association. Both are eager to support the University in any way they can.

Then there are the current students of Adams State and how alumni can help ensure their success. David Tandberg, in an interview on Page 10 of the magazine, gets to the point when he says that “Adams State will need adequate financial support” to take advantage of the opportunities ahead.

“Adams State is well positioned,” he says, “to serve today’s student who is more diverse than ever before.” Our mission of enrolling and graduating first-generation and lower-income students, and our vision to be an institution that serves the local communities of the San Luis Valley, are smart goals.

But we also know the business model of higher education is rapidly changing.

Most immediate is the inconsistency in state funding and how that calls on the University to raise more dollars through its alumni and private networks.

Alumnus Wayne Evans `62 calls it “paying it forward.” He and his wife, Ellen, were honored with the Willis Fassett Jr. Award at the annual Adams State Foundation Dinner in November (see Page 6).

“If only 50 percent of graduates gave $5 per year to an academic scholarship, it could significantly lower the cost of tuition,” he says.

He is right. Adams State has not raised its tuition in three budget cycles, but the rising cost of today’s higher education continues to hamper our students.

So here’s where our great alumni come in.

During this holiday season of giving, please consider a gift to your alma mater.

Give what you can and consider making it an annual contribution.

I thank you, the students of Adams State thank you, and together we will continue to make this the best university that we collectively can for the students we serve.

At the end of the day, we are all proud Adams Staters.

adams family gatherings

contents

JANUARY

Keeping Current 4 TBD SLV Social

ASU Foundation Donor and Student Recognition 6 26 Denver Chapter

5 Questions for ASU alumnus David A. Tandberg 10

Annual Meeting

Butler `09 inspires students on the field and stage 11

Adams State alumnus is an award-winning principal 12

Visiting artists leave their mark during fall semester 13 FEBRUARY

Adams State nursing program achieves its highest ever pass rate on NCLEX 14 Northern and Southern

Where Gear UP students are now 15 California

Burns family scholarship 16

Economic impact study 17

Winter Commencement 18 MARCH Homecoming 20 Denver, Colorado Springs,

GrizzLEADS replaces homecoming royalty at Adams State 22 Pueblo, Lamar, La Junta,

Casias estate scholarship fund established 23 Walsenburg

Spud Bowl 24

Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet 26

Fall Sports Roundup 28 APRIL Holiday Performances 31 Durango

Adams State alumna travels the world 32

Salazar Center brings new focus to the Rio Grande Natural Area 33

Adams State student research takes a closer look at mistletoe 34 JUNE

New scholarship management system installed at Adams State 35 2019 Mediterranean Cruise STAYING IN TOUCH 36 ADAMS FAMILY ALBUM 40

Watch your mail for details. www.facebook.com/ adamsalumni • adams.edu/alumni 800-824-6494, ext. 8

Save the Date!

May 11, 2019 Spring Commencement

ON THE COVER: A rainy, autumn evening on our campus.

Cover photo by Amy Kucera `05

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current

Discover Day was Saturday, Sept. 15.

About 60 students participated in Discover Day.

The ASU nursing department accepted the SLV Health Community Partner Award at the annual Stephanie L. Miner 5K walk/run in September.

HSI Week Events including the Ghostlight Project, an ASU Music Department concert and a workshop in Traditions in Native Ceramics.

photo by Carmille Garcia photo by Carmille Garcia

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ASU Cares Day of Service was Saturday, Sept. 22.

The Model United Nations team hosted four regional high schools for a conference in October.

Showing some Halloween spirit and celebrating Dia de los Muertos with Mariachi. We also were treated with a Halloween snowfall.

Donor & Student Recognition Willis Fasset, Jr. Award honoree encourages alumni to “pay it forward”

President Lovell presents award to Wayne Evans

After receiving a scholarship as an Adams State student, Wayne Evans began paying it forward once he began his professional career. The Adams State University Foundation presented Wayne and Ellen Evans with the Willis Fassett, Jr. Award at the Annual Donor and Student Recognition Dinner on November 6.

“We were surprised and pleased to receive the Willis Fassett, Jr. Award,” Wayne said. “We do not think our efforts were anything special. I received a scholarship from the Alamosa Elks Club for full tuition to Adams State College in 1959. I took a heavy load and graduated in 3 years.”

The Elk’s Club scholarship and a student loan supplemented Wayne’s savings to pay for his undergraduate degree. “I know that a college education is expensive, even though Adams State is very low cost compared to national averages, for families in the San Luis Valley. So when I started full-time work with IBM in 1964, we began to pay back the financial help I received by making a small donation annually.”

As Wayne’s earnings increased, he and Ellen gave more.

In 2009, they established the Wayne O. Evans and Ellen M. Evans Science/Math Scholarship. After the death of a high school classmate, Wayne established the MVHS-Adams Scholarship Endowment for Monte Vista High School graduates to attend Adams State.

“We are proud of the recognition, but our success will be determined if current scholarship recipients continue to pay back by making their own donations,” Wayne added. “If only 50 percent of graduates gave $5 per year to an academic scholarship, it could significantly lower the cost of tuition. It is our wish to see the current percentage of donors increase to 50 percent, or beyond.”

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A Monte Vista High School graduate, Wayne graduated cum laude from Adams State with a Bachelor of Science in 1962. “I was the first of the Evanses to get a college degree.”

He believes the professors knew him as a person, not a number. “I was taught by great professors that cared more about students than a research grant. Adams State was like home away from home.”

Ellen grew up on a farm south of Topeka, Kan. She graduated from Kansas State University in 1961. Evans completed a Master of Science in mathematics from Kansas State University. Ellen and Wayne have three children who grew up in Rochester, Minn., where Wayne worked for IBM. They currently live in Tucson, Ariz.

The Willis Fassett, Jr. Award is given by the Adams State University Foundation to strong supporters of the University.

The award is named for the late Willis Fassett, Jr. who was a long-time president of the Foundation Board of Directors.

Wayne and Ellen Evans

“

Our success will be determined if current scholarship recipients continue to pay back by making their own donations. If only 50 percent of graduates gave $5 per year to an academic scholarship, it could significantly lower the cost of tuition.”

“

To be eligible for the PEO Scholarship, a student must be an incoming freshman female, with a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better, and be a graduate of a San Luis Valley high school. The scholarship is renewable for four years as long as the recipient maintains a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or better.

Duane Bussey presents award to Kathy Metz and Devi Jardon

Monte Vista PEO Chapter receives ASU Willis Fassett, Jr. Corporate Award Continuing a legacy of supporting women, the Monte Vista Chapter V Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO) established a scholarship for Adams State University students to assist women in reaching their academic goals.

The Adams State Foundation presented members of the PEO Chapter V with the Willis Fassett, Jr. Award at the Annual Donor and Student Recognition Dinner on November 6. Kathy Metz, president of the Chapter V PEO, and Devi Jardon, scholarship committee chair and past president, said they appreciate the recognition. “It is an honor to be recognized by Adams State for our commitment to improving the lives of women,” Metz said.

The Monte Vista Chapter was established in 1911. Jardon has been a member for 40 years. “PEO supports women in all aspects of their lives,” she said.

Metz, a member for over 15 years, spoke highly of those receiving assistance. “They are amazing women.”

Receiving a financial inheritance from Marian Sims Baughn, a former Monte Vista resident and PEO member, the group created an Adams State Chapter V PEO Scholarship. “We took the money and set up a scholarship for up to four female students who graduated from a San Luis Valley high school,” Jardon added. The scholarship was established in 2002 and has increased to $3,000 a year, per recipient.

The Monte Vista PEO has 19 active members and four non-resident members. “We serve women from all walks of life,” Metz added. “We are all proud to receive the Willis Fasset, Jr. Award.”

PEO is an international women’s organization dedicated to promoting educational opportunities for women. PEO was established in 1869 by seven women who wanted to start an organization to provide scholarships and other opportunities for women. The founders were college students at Iowa Wesleyan College and their commitment to supporting women continues in small and large chapters across the United States and Canada.

P.E.O. members include, left to right, front: Margot Alexander, Karen Howard, Dianna Paulson, and Carla Clutter; back: Michelle Jardon, Zoe Rierson, Devi Jardon, Kathy Metz, Karen Widger and Vicki Cannon.

ASU Foundation Scholarships Over 100 scholarships offered.

Students can apply by March 1 prior to the academic year.

For more information visit adams.edu.

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Grizzly Club Awards Individual Partners of the Year are Mark and Myra Manzanares

President Lovell, Elario Rickey, Gigi Darricades, Adam Roberts

Corporate Partner of the Year is Valley-Wide Health Systems, Inc. The Grizzly Club named Valley-Wide Health Systems as its corporate partner of the year during the Adams State Foundation awards dinner on Nov. 6. On hand for the ceremony representing Valley-Wide Health were Gigi Darricades, Valley-Wide Health president and CEO, Adam Roberts, chief financial officer, and Elario Rickey, marketing director.

Valley-Wide is a strong supporter of Adams State Athletics, contributing both monetary funds in support of events and medical services such as physicals and physical therapy, to help sustain the success of ASU Athletics.

Valley-Wide Health Systems is an integrated, financially sound, quality rural health care system dedicated to improving the overall health of all people. As the provider of choice, Valley-Wide Health Systems provides a patientdriven environment and is the employer of choice for highly motivated staff.

Established in 1976, Valley-Wide has 13 primary health care delivery sites strategically located throughout multiple rural counties in Southern Colorado. These full-service clinics are complemented by eight dental clinics, four physical therapy clinics, and numerous ancillary health services to address routine and/or complex needs of the patient populations and communities served.

Mark and Myra Manzanares bleed green, and it shows in their support for the Adams State Grizzly Club and their involvement with Adams State Athletics.

The Manzanareses were awarded the 2018 Grizzly Club Individual Partner of the Year for their longtime support.

Mark is the department chair for the Adams State Counselor Education program, while Myra works at Alamosa Elementary School as a READ Interventionist and has been a three-time San Luis Valley teacher of the year, once in Monte Vista and twice in Alamosa.

Mark transferred to Adams State from Mesa College to play football in 1986. He and Myra met at Adams State in 1989 when Myra transferred in from Milpitas, Calif. Mark earned his bachelor’s (1989) and master’s (1992) degrees from Adams State in psychology and community counseling, respectively. He has a Ph.D. in education and human resources studies from Colorado State University.

Myra received her bachelor’s from Adams State in 1993 and a master’s in 2001.

The Manzanereses have contributed financially to Adams State athletics for more than 15 years, including supporting the Joe I. Vigil statue project. Mark’s support for Adams State runners grew out of his friendship with Adams State running great Pat Porter `82, `83.

Myra & Mark Manzaneres

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Scholarship Recipients Sunday Abarca Kale Adams Teddy Adkins Tomas Agustin Chris Ah Mook Sang Andrea Alfano

Stephanie Cotter Caleigh Cowan Mason Craig Marisol Cristobal-Lucas Ashlyn Crossland William Crowther

Susan Andrews Ricardo Aragon Delaney Armstrong Cheyenne Atencio Justice Augmon Nohemi Baca Aragon Coby Baer Jade Bailey Keren Bakke Micah Ballantyne Juana Baltazar Francisco Allen Banner Mariah Barbosa Shane Barksdale Kaitlyn Barringer Joe Bencomo Sean Benke Hannah Boatright Kaylee Bogina Bianca Borile John Bowers Ann Brewer Darkia Brown Sara Brunelli John Buksa Joslin Bunker Mathew Burcin Madeline Bush Victoria Campbell Gihan Cardona Casey Carnaghi Rian Carrillo Gregory Carter Jacob Chambers Lilliana Chavez Caleb Clark William Clark Kyle Corder Brianna Corona

Aaron Davis Quron Davis Isaiah DeLaCerda Gabriella DeSimone Emma Deherrera Kalin Doyle Andreita Duran Germaine Duran Morgan Edwards Aryanna Elwyn Sean Erice Cassidie Fisher-Price Eilish Flanagan Roisin Flanagan Abby Flannigan Deanna Floriani Amanda Foster Kyle Freel Ian Fryday Kol Fuierer Darrius Gallegos Elaiza Gallegos Jennifer Gaona-Lorenzo Justin Garcia

Khalil Gipson Jeremiah Givens Korry Goldstein Briana Gonzales Lorena Gonzales Carlos Gonzalez Luz Gonzalez Shelby Graham Daniel Gruszka Christa Gulaian Taylor Hackett Nic Hannan Anakay Hanold Clarence Harris Selene Hart Shelby Haskins Elizabeth Heiny Katie Hensley Noah Hermosillo Olivia Hernandez Tayleur Hillis Marshal Hollingsworth Cheyenne Hopkins Ashley How Darek Huff Makayla Huffman Madeline Jackson Miranda Jackson Vanessa Jiron Dianna Johnson Emily Johnson Kalisha Johnson Shemar Johnson Adrienne Jones Bailey Jones Nicolette Jones Ian Kerr Alexander King Jesse Klene Mattea Klein

Jared Gay Savana Geringer Sydney Gidabuday Kaleb Gideon Burris Katelynn Gillen

Sarah Knight Elizabeth Kyler Alexa Laird Makenzie Lange Malik Langham

Nicole Lawrence Zachary Lewallen Alyssa Lewis Anthony Lewis Miriam Lipke Samuel Loera Alex Lopez Ashley Lopez Lesli Lopez Gonzalez Jennifer Lorenzo Levi Lowe Valentina Loza Adam Lucero Pablo Maldonado Alejandra MaldonadoMajalca Amanda Martinez Kathleen Martinez Marcos Martinez Deon Mayes Lauren McDonald Hannah McKee Shawn McKeeken Erika Medina Mariah Medina Madison Merschel Piper Meuwissen Braeden Meyer Angel Micciulli Katelyn Miller Felicia Minchaca Jose Mix Michael Mondragon Sara Montoya Skye Montoya Wyatt Moran Stephany MorenoRodriguez Alissa Morones Shannon Mulkey Katherine Muniz Zoe Munn Janet Najar Madera Isaiah Nelson David Newbury Samuel Ogden Esperanza Orozco Florence Owusu Caitlyn Paine Daniel Parsons Ro Paschal Jaedin Paxton Cedric Perea Kathryn Peterson Makayla Pfauth

Alli Quintana Garrett Quintana Brianne Rael Angelo Ramirez Samuel Reid Sarah Roach Raelynn Robertson Megan Robins Ryan Rochford Andrea Rodriguez Arthur Rodriguez Aurelio Rodriguez Isabel Rodriguez Michael Rodriguez Taylar Rohrich

Vanessa Thong Chelsea Todd Alejandro Tovar Alyssa Tovar Marissa Trujillo Lathen Tsalate Elijah Tuli Emma Ulmala Brooke Valdez-Trujillo Adela Valencia Lucero Hailee Velasquez Deandra Vialpando Danielle Vigil Miranda Vigil Sylvia Vigil

James Romero Jessica Ryan Kaitlyn Sachs Andree Salazar Monique Salazar Alexis Sanchez-Duran Felicia Sandoval Lindsey Sandoval Sarah Schaller Breanna Shaffer Marcus Shawcroft Brittani Shettron Amanda Silva Jordan Simon Coleton Smith Matthew Soldner Abbey Stagner Julie Starkey Erika Steenburg Jade Stemmler Ssynce Stewart Madalyn Stouder Chance Strand Amanda Strickland Candyce Strickland

Christopher Villagomez Kiara Villalobos Emily Walgast Mathew Watersbrown Oweneika Watson Kendall Weld Natalie Wheelock Avery Wilson Koery Windham Tiffany Wingard Elizabeth Wolters Daniel Woodis Alonna Younger Corri Zaiger Ellison Zimmer

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5 Questions For ASU Alumnus David A. Tandberg The A-Stater caught up with David A. Tandberg to talk about the state of higher education. David earned a B.A. in history and government and secondary education/social studies from Adams State. He also holds a master’s in political science and a Ph.D. in higher education from Penn State University. He is vice president of policy research and strategic initiatives for the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association.

Q: The landscape of higher

education is changing. In your view what does the future of small liberal arts universities like Adams State look like?

A: On the positive side,

there is far greater attention being paid to opening up higher education to traditionally under-served populations. There is more work and research being done focused on closing equity gaps by income, race/ ethnicity, and first-generation college students. On the challenging side, state budgets are becoming tighter and tighter. As this happens it makes funding higher education at adequate levels more and more difficult. Given these realities, the future for a university like Adams State is one of opportunity and challenge. Adams State is well positioned to serve today’s student who is more diverse than ever before.

Adams State prides itself on its ability to enroll and graduate first-generation and lower-income students.

Likewise, it takes seriously its Hispanic Serving Institution designation. It doesn’t just enroll Hispanic students, it serves them. Likewise, Adams State prides itself on being a location-based institution that serves its local community.

I believe that is going to become even more important moving forward. No other college or university can serve the San Luis Valley the way Adams State does. However, Adams State will need adequate financial support from the state to take advantage of these opportunities.

Q: By 2020, nearly three in four jobs in Colorado will

require some education beyond high school, which includes a certificate, two-year or four-year degree. Yet today, almost one-third of Colorado’s adult population lacks education of any type after high school. What advice would you give young people today to help them see the future and to be competitive in the job market?

A: Young people should think about where they want to be in 10 to 15 years. Then ask themselves what it will take to 10 AStater

get there and pursue the educational option that will help them accomplish their goals. They should reach out to an informed adult who they trust and who can help advise them. Of course, working hard in high school is a good idea, but even if their grades aren’t stellar, there are still many great options.

Q: Tell us about SHEEO and how you ended up there?

A: The State Higher Education Executive Officers

Association (SHEEO) is the national association of the chief executives of statewide governing, policy, and coordinating boards of postsecondary education. We also promote public policies and academic practices that enable Americans to achieve success in the 21st century. Finally, we serve as an advocate for state higher education leadership.

The story of how I ended up at SHEEO starts at Adams State. I came to Adams State to run cross country and track, but when an injury cut my competitive career short, I needed something to fill my time. I ended up serving in AS&F as a senator, vice president and then president. Through this service I became close to the vice president for student affairs (Frank Sanchez, Ph.D.) who encouraged me to pursue a graduate education in higher education. I did that by earning a Ph.D. in higher education from Penn State University. Following graduation, I worked in a SHEEO agency in Pennsylvania. From there, I went to Florida State University as a tenure-track faculty member in higher education. I earned tenure and promotion to associate professor, but then SHEEO and my home state of Colorado came calling. I decided that the opportunity to return home and to work for an organization I truly believed in was too good to pass up.

Q: What’s your 2019 New Year’s resolution?

A: I haven’t made an official one. But I certainly want to focus on my personal health more.

Q: When you’re not working, how do you spend your time?

A: Mostly with my family. With a 17-year-old, a 16-yearold, and an 11-year-old, we are very busy. I also live near my parents and several of my siblings and their families. As far as hobbies go, I like to trail run; ski; and rock, ice, and mountain climb. I also like to read. Being back in Colorado has been a huge blessing.

Calling plays or directing plays, Butler `09 inspires students on the field and stage Whether rehearsing for opening night or practicing for the big game, Adams State University alumnus Benjamin Butler `09 pursues his passions and encourages the dreams of his students.

His love of football and theatre were nurtured as an Adams State student where he pursued both passions. “Adams State provided a place for me to grow into myself and experience a world very different than the one I grew up in. The football and theatre programs made it real for me that I did not have to be limited to one field, or one passion; they encouraged and supported me in doing both.” Coaches attended his theatre productions and theatre professors caught his games.

Now Butler shares his success as a man of sports and the arts. Currently the head of the English Language Arts Department at Manual High School, he teaches grades 9 through 11. He also is the director of Manual’s Performing Arts Department and head football coach.

His day can start by arriving two hours early to run a morning lifting program he set up for athletes. The rest of his day consists of teaching four English classes with lessons that range from deep literary analysis to debates.

Before going to football practice or theatre rehearsal he has office hours in order to meet with students who need help.

“I very seldom have a typical day. That is one thing I love about teaching, and is a major lesson I got from my time with Dr. John Taylor (Adams State professor of theatre) and the theatre program; I have to respond honestly to my environment and interactions every day.”

Often he runs back and forth between football practice and theatre rehearsals, delegating responsibilities to his assistant coaches and other theatre staff. At the end of the day, he helps drive some of his students/athletes home.

“The students affectionately call my car the Butler bus.”

After running around all day he goes home to get rest for another busy day. “These are all wonderful days and I regularly have to stop and breathe just because I cannot believe how lucky and blessed I am to live this life.”

Through his experiences at Adams State and teaching, Butler is a huge believer in K-12 students having access to extracurricular activities. “Extracurricular activities were project-based learning long before that became a popular and effective trend in education. With extracurricular activities, learning is enhanced by the excitement and buy-in.

These activities open up countless doors, careers, and futures that may have forever been lost if a student did not have access to them.”

Butler credits his experiences at Adams State for shaping his personal and academic career. “If you had asked me the day I graduated what I had learned at Adams State, we

Ben Butler, far right, with Manual High School students

probably would have had a five-minute conversation about whatever I had covered in those last few classes to get across the stage. But if you asked me what I loved about my time at Adams State or what I had accomplished, I probably could have talked for days on end about all the relationships, experiences, successes, and moments that made up my time there. And the funny thing is that now when I look back on it, I realize that what I loved about Adams State and what I learned were, and are, the same thing. Because of my experiences, I am able to recall and teach things that I don’t remember writing in a notebook, but it is in there, all this information, just sitting and waiting to be called upon.”

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Adams State alumnus is an award-winning principal When Thomas Dodd, Ph.D. `95, shows up for work as principal at Lesher Middle School in Fort Collins, he likes to bring what he calls his “A” game. That he learned it at Adams State is all the more appropriate.

“I learned to contribute anyway you can, in any role you can, to a winning time with high expectations, and to do what you say you’re going to do, with high accountability and follow through.”

The approach has certainly worked well for Dodd.

In 2016, he was named the Colorado Principal of the Year by the Colorado Association of Secondary School Principals, and in 2017 he was named the National Principal of the Year by the National Association of Secondary School Principals.

“Teaching, coaching and leading is hard work,” says Dodd. To achieve success, he advises people to “take a long look in the mirror at who you are and what you believe about yourself and others, be honest with yourself, and then realize it’s not about you.”

“People respect those who selflessly model character and integrity when no one’s watching,” he says. “They follow those who steadfastly commit to a bigger purpose.”

Dodd came to Adams State in 1993 as a graduate assistant for the wrestling team. At the time, Adams State was transitioning from an NAIA athletic program to an NCAA program, and Dodd was instrumental in helping ensure Adams State remained a competitive and winning team.

In 1994, the team took home the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Championship, the West Region Championships and eighth place at the NCAA Division II National Tournament.

“As a wrestler, you learn to embrace the grind and get comfortable being uncomfortable,” he says of the culture at Adams State.

Although athletics played a huge role in his time at Adams, he also found success in the classroom. He earned an M.A. in health, physical education and recreation, and an M.A. in secondary education social studies.

He also got his Colorado Professional Teacher License in social studies grades 7-12.

As an instructor, he taught exercise physiology and leisure science.

The dedication and values he learned throughout his education and coaching at Adams State is something he incorporates in his middle school.

Those values are, “To deliberately identify, advocate, serve, develop, defend, protect, confront and inspire. To keep pushing on the flywheel, keep caring, keep contributing, keep learning, keep teaching and not give up on delivering the promise of a free and appropriate education for every kid.”

That approach has helped him at Lesher Middle School, a diverse campus comprised of 37 percent minority students, including 22 percent who are English-language learners and 7 percent who need special education services.

During his time at Lesher, the school has been recognized for its character with the 2016 CHAMP School of Character award and praised multiple times for its academic success by earning awards such as the 2014 USDE Green Ribbon School, 2017 NASSP Breakthrough School, and a 2017-2020 National Forum to Accelerated Middle Grades Reform/CAMLE School to Watch recognition.

Now in his 14th year at Lesher Middle School, Dodd is supported in his work by his wife and two daughters.

Article by Kaitlyn Kelly

One of the most touching moments of the fall semester came during the Adams State Chamber Choir’s concert to honor the 100th anniversary of the Armistice signing that ended WWI. Music Director Beth Robison took a moment during the concert to give a bouquet of flowers and a special shout out to Darragh “Mac” McFadden for not only his military service to the United States during WWII but his longtime involvement with the Adams State Music Department. Mac, 99, passed away on November 22.

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Visiting artists leave their mark during fall semester

master of arts in music education

Musicians and artists held concerts and workshops as part of the Adams State University Rare A.I.R. (Artist in Residency) program.

Two concerts by Kenneth D. Friedrich and Franklin Stroble highlighted their talents. Stroble’s performance featured works for band and horn solo, as well as a variety of chamber works. He is one of the founding members of the Philharmonic of Southern New Jersey and served two terms as assistant conductor of the Wind Symphony of Southern New Jersey.

A 100% online program, accredited by the National Association for Schools of Music.

Franklin Stroble

Complete your degree online, in as little as two years, without putting your career on hold.

Friedrich has a body of over 200 original pieces and more than 100 arrangements. His first concerto for euphonium and wind symphony was premiered in Folkestone, UK, in 2007. His first sonata for tuba and piano was commissioned and performed in 2009 in Texas.

“The professors offer expert guidance and feedback throughout the challenging and in-depth program, and they are committed to an approach that inspires the individual learner and the learning community to reach their musical goals, together.”

Kenneth D. Friedrich Lily Kuonen hosted a free public postcard-making workshop created from her Mail Art Project.

Currently, she works as a foundation coordinator and associate professor of art at Jacksonville University in Florida. She has exhibited artwork on three continents, four countries, and 18 U.S. states. She has presented her work at 20 visiting artist lectures and workshops.

–Ted Heggen, 2016 MA in Music Education Graduate

Contact Dr. Tracy Doyle at 719-587-7574 or tdoyle@adams.edu

Lily Kuonen

Briana Lewis, Adams State Class of 2012, made her New York City professional debut with the Utopia Opera in November. Briana was a featured flutist in The Story of Harriet Tubman which the Utopia Opera performed Nov. 10-17.

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Adams State nursing program achieves its highest ever pass rate on NCLEX The Adams State Nursing program established its highest ever pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) thanks to the success of its 2018 graduating class.

Of the 18 students who completed their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) Degree in 2018, 17 have passed the NCLEX for a 94.4 percent first-time pass rate as a graduating class. That is the highest first-time pass rate on the NCLEX that the Adams State nursing program has ever achieved.

“We are very pleased and proud of our students,” said Melissa Milner, Ph.D., director of the Adams State nursing program. “The faculty and staff worked very hard to make this happen.”

Milner said the next goal is a 100 percent first-time pass rate. The NCLEX is a standardized exam that each state board of nursing uses to determine whether a candidate is prepared for entrylevel nursing practice. All students with a BSN must pass the NCLEX to practice nursing.

Melissa Milner, Ph.D.

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Admissions’ parent ambassador Liz Harms showed up at a recent student recruiting fair in Flower Mound, Texas, to help bring students to Adams State University. She is not your typical Adams State admissions recruiter. Rather, she is Adams State’s first volunteer parent ambassador.

The Adams State Admissions Office is reaching out to parents of students and to alumni to help the University get to as many high school recruiting fairs as possible, particularly in states like Texas, Arizona, California and New Mexico.

The brainchild of Adams State Executive Enrollment Director Karla Hardesty, parent and alumni ambassadors receive training and materials from the ASU Admissions Office and coordinate their activities with ASU admissions counselors.

In Texas, Adams State offers the Lone Star Scholarship, giving parents like Liz the support to help bring students from Texas into Colorado.

Adams State also recently added $2,000 scholarships to help recruit students from Arizona and California.

Students from those states also receive discounted tuition rates through the Western Undergraduate Exchange program. Students who are recruited out of New Mexico pay the in-state Colorado tuition rate.

If you would like to be a parent ambassador or if you’re alumni and would like to help the University recruit in your state, please contact admissions@adams.edu.

Where Gear UP Students Are Now GEAR UP has served more than 540 students over the past four years at Adams State, and has maintained an average of 85% persistence and retention rate. We caught up with three former GEAR UP students to learn how the program helped them and to hear what they are up to now.

GEAR UP is set up to support students at Adams State University throughout their college years. Liz Tabeling-Garcia `96, `06 coordinates the program and helps GEAR UP students figure out pathways to graduation, navigate the academic world, develop soft skills (e.g. time management and finances), adjust to the emotional and social challenges of post-secondary education, and with the many additional logistical and everyday concerns that students encounter. Collaborating closely with on-campus support services and professional staff, Liz guides students toward post-secondary success, all while pushing students toward greater independence and self-advocacy.

Juan Francisco Cristobal Juan is a Ph.D. candidate in ethnomusicology and the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music, where he also earned a master’s in ethnomusicology. Juan graduated from Adams State with a Bachelor of Arts in music education in 2016. During the fall semester he returned to the campus to work with ASU music students.

Juan joined GEAR UP in 8th grade and remained a part of GEAR UP until the completion of college (under the umbrella of Colorado Challenge).

When asked how GEAR UP helped him he said, “GEAR UP provided me with the support while in high school and in college, the pathway to college, as well as the financial support I needed to get me through college.”

Juan also said, “As a first-generation student, I didn’t have that type of guidance at home because although my parents stressed the importance of going to college, they didn’t have the college experience so they couldn’t help with FAFSA, scholarships, housing, and all the other things that GEAR UP guided me through.”

Kelli Williams

Juan Francisco Cristobal

Kelli will receive her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) in 2020. After graduating from Adams State University, Kelli worked as an orthodontist assistant at Comfort Dental in Pueblo and Colorado Springs. Kelli also volunteered and assisted with graduate research at Colorado State University involving DNA extractions and method development in sterile technique. She started dental school at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine in August of 2016. She is now in her third year. She is a member of Delta Sigma and ASDA (American Student Dental Association). Kelli has volunteered for pre-dental days at her school and is currently working on a community outreach program for populations in need.

When Kelli was asked how GEAR UP helped her achieve her goals she said, “GEAR UP helped me to have the opportunity to get an early start in high school with my college curriculum and provided guidance and counseling to keep me on track and give me inspiration.”

Ryan Schilling Ryan Schilling graduated from ASU in 2015, with a bachelor’s in organismal biology. He was then accepted at CSU Pueblo and received a Master of Science with an emphasis in environmental analytical chemistry and molecular biology. He now works at Waters Corporation as a chemistry technician II. Both Ryan and Kelli felt that their education at ASU prepared them very well.

Ryan Schilling and Kelli Williams

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Burns Family Scholarship The Adams State University Foundation has received funding from an anonymous donor to create the Gladys & Doyle Burns Family Scholarship.

The Burnses first moved to the San Luis Valley in the mid1950s, settling in the Fort Garland/Blanca area and then in Monte Vista, where Doyle Burns worked for the Colorado SLV Potato Administrative Committee. After moving to Denver, the family maintained a cabin in South Fork.

To be considered for the scholarship, an applicant must be a full-time student at Adams State; be at least a sophomore during the award year; be a graduate from a high school in the San Luis Valley; and be in good academic standing based on ASU’s Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.

Preference will be given to non-traditional students who are over 24 years old, are first-generation college students, or students who have been granted a General Equivalency Diploma (GED). Applicants must submit a letter of application that addresses their educational and career goals, community service work, and answer the question: “Why should I be considered for this scholarship?”

The Burns Family Scholarship namesakes, Gladys and Doyle Burns.

Don’t Let Your IRA Benefit Expire Act Now To Save on Taxes!

A Fresh Way to Reduce Taxes and Help ASU If you are 70½ or older and own an IRA, there is something you should know. Congress enacted a law that lets you do something special with your IRA to reduce taxes, but you must act before December 31 to benefit this year.

Rollover into Tax Savings The IRA charitable rollover allows you to avoid taxes when you transfer funds from your IRA directly to the Adams State University Foundation. You can transfer up to $100,000 this year. Your gift will count against your required distribution, reducing your income and taxes. Best of all, an IRA rollover gift is an easy way to help the next generation of ASU Alumni impact the world.

Phone: 719-587-7867 • Fax: 719-587-8159 lllaske@adams.edu • adams.giftlegacy.com 16 AStater

Contact your IRA administrator to make a difference this year. This opportunity may not last, but your gift can last well into the future.

Adams State University has a profound impact on the San Luis Valley A new economic impact study shows a $99.8 million return to the San Luis Valley economy because the campuses of Adams State and Trinidad State Junior College are located in Alamosa. Of that figure, Adams State accounts for 83 percent or $82.9 million.

“Without a doubt, if Adams State wasn’t here, it would be a huge negative impact on the Valley,” said ASU Associate Professor of Marketing Liz Thomas Hensley `05, Ph.D. “The number of people alone who are employed in the community because of Adams State is significant.”

Both institutions contribute to the work force of the San Luis Valley beyond their own employee bases, the study shows. Nurses, teachers, school administrators, and police officers who are trained at Adams State and Trinidad State Junior College help populate the Valley’s workforce.

Adams State is focused on expanding its student internship programs to create an even stronger tie with local businesses.

The University is also working to increase community service hours that students perform across the San Luis Valley and tying those hours to student-learning components of degrees.

Three Adams State marketing students participated in the study, and Thomas Hensley said their work will aide their own professional development. The students working on the study were Gabrielle Timmen, Mallory Grimsrud and Madison Mersche.

“It gives them real-world experience,” Thomas Hensley said. “Beyond crunching the numbers, they really got to learn about the communities that comprise the San Luis Valley and learn about how higher education works and its impact on a local region like ours.”

The economic impact report is scheduled to be completed and presented to San Luis Valley stakeholders later in December.

Impact Adams State University and Trinidad State Junior College have on the San Luis Valley Economy:

$49.9 million Student living and personal expenses

$17 million

$22.9 million Salaries

$4.2 million

Operations

Total impact

$5.8 million SLV health care

Visitors for ASU events Other benefits to having two campuses of higher education in the San Luis Valley:

million

1,416 local employees (full time and

part time) and work study students

9.4% of the SLV workforce is a result of

Adams State and Trinidad State

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LeRoy Salazar speaks at ASU winter commencement “Adams State is more than an educational center for our Valley, it is an economic engine and a vehicle for cultural exchange and interaction. It is a place where people come together to discuss, debate, and learn.”

– LeRoy Salazar

LeRoy Salazar, a San Luis Valley native and longtime champion of Adams State University, delivered the 2018 Winter Commencement address to 250 graduates at Plachy Hall on Dec. 15.

Salazar served two terms on the Board of Trustees for Adams State and was instrumental in developing the current partnership between Colorado State University and Adams State which provides the opportunity for Adams State students to earn a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies: general agriculture, with concentrations in biology and business, by enrolling in both Adams State online or on-campus courses and CSU online agriculture courses.

The degree is conferred by Adams State.

“Adams State is more than an educational center for our Valley,” Salazar said. “It is an economic engine and a vehicle for cultural exchange and interaction. It is a place where people come together to discuss, debate, and learn.”

Currently managing his family’s farm operation in the San Luis Valley, Salazar is president of the subdistrict #3 (Conejos Subdistrict) board of managers and acts as the project coordinator for the Hope for Children Foundation after serving on its board for 16 years. He walks-the-talk including volunteering each year in Mexico at the Santa Maria Home for Children, including spending the week before Thanksgiving serving the children.

In 2018 he received the El Pomar Foundation statewide award for Leadership and Service.

LeRoy earned his bachelor’s degree at CSU with a specialty in agricultural engineering in 1974. He then served in the Army Corps of Engineers. This was followed by receiving his master’s degree in agricultural engineering from CSU after which he worked for two years as a research associate for the same institution.

He then founded Agro Engineering, Inc., and from 1982 until 2000 served as president and CEO of the organization.

He has served as a member of the Colorado Agricultural Commission, and has also served as a director of Citizens for Colorado Water. He served on the North Conejos School District Board of Education, with several years as its president.

He serves as chairman of the SLV Federal Bank Board of Directors, and has been a member of the bank board since December 1995. He is also a member of the La Jara Rotary Club. He serves as president of the Confined Aquifer Sustainability, Inc. (CAS), an organization dedicated to the development of solutions to groundwater issues affecting subdistricts in the San Luis Valley.

Adams State awarded 140 associate degrees and 81 bachelor degrees at Winter Commencement. Vince Alcon gave the student commencement address and Cleave Simpson, chair, delivered a welcome from the Adams State Board of Trustees.

What’s next for our winter grads?

Cheyenne Cleveland Elementary Education

Hometown: Colorado Springs • First-generation student: “This means the world to me. I feel like I now have accomplished so much and have made my family so proud by setting a new standard for all to come in the future.” • Why Adams State? Recruited as a student-athlete for basketball. “The family-like atmosphere at Adams State kept me here. My professors and advisor always made sure they were available when I had questions or gave me out-of-classroom help when I needed it. Professors were giving me guidance along my whole college career.” • Future goals: Earn a master’s while assistant coaching for a collegiate women’s basketball program. • Final thoughts: “I feel now I have much more confidence compared to my freshman year to senior year. I learned how to ask for help and using my surroundings as a resource.”

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Marisol Cristobal-Lucas Sociology with an emphasis in social welfare and a minor in Spanish

Hometown: Alamosa. “I love the San Luis Valley. I couldn’t see myself leaving home and I wanted to stay in my hometown to serve and help my community.” • Honors: Summa Cum Laude • Family footsteps: Third in family to earn a bachelor’s degree. Her brother, Juan Cristobal, is featured on Page 15. “I am honored to follow in their footsteps. It also fills me with great pleasure to make my parents proud since they have no formal education.” • Career goal: Currently working part-time at the Department of Human Services. “I hope to continue working there right after graduating. I want to earn real life experience.” • Future goals: master’s degree in social work or related area. • Achievements: Vice President Merit Scholarship, among other scholarship awards. Graduated in 3 ½ years with no student loan debt. • Final thoughts: “I learned as I went from my freshman year to my senior year. Now as a graduating senior, I feel like an expert in being a student. I help out my family coming into college and those in high school. I encourage them and give them advice.”

Vince Eufred Galera Alcon Business administration with an emphasis in healthcare

Hometown: Santa Ilocos Sur, Philippines and Westminster, Colo. “Being an immigrant I know one of the reasons we migrated to the U.S. was to allow me to have more opportunities and a better education. I owe everything I am to my family, from my aunties to uncles to my cousins to my grandparents and especially to my parents.” • Next steps: Vince hopes to stay in academia and is applying for resident director positions around the country. • Achievements: CASA Center student manager; student ambassador; resident assistant. “I love this campus and have poured my heart out to ASU through my studies and also throughout my involvement in these various groups and organizations.” • Final thoughts: “ASU has helped me shape my voice, give it a direction and also empowered me to fight for what I believe in and to never back down.

Being a proud open gay man and an immigrant, sometimes our voices aren’t heard as often. This is true in a lot of different areas in our country, but I am proud to say that I never felt that way here at ASU.

Madison “Maddy” Merschel Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

Honors: Summa Cum Laude • Why Adams State? Recruited as a student-athlete to play basketball. “The community and area reminded me a lot of home. I loved the energy of the basketball team and was offered a basketball scholarship. I was also intrigued by the opportunity to pursue my MBA through the dual degree program.” • Career goal: Nonprofit marketing or communications staff position. • Achievements: President’s Merit Scholarship, among other scholarship awards. Captain of women’s basketball team for three years; secretary for student athletes advisory committee; inducted into National Society of Leadership and Success; Sigma Beta Delta Business Honor Society. Graduated in 3 ½ years with no student loan debt. • Final thoughts: “My academic goals multiplied during my time in college. I learned the importance of continued learning, which inspired me to get the most out of my education. I discovered what I am passionate about, which led me to finding what I want to do with my life. I grew into the person I want to be. I battle adversity in its many shapes in order to accomplish my goals and be successful.”

ASU Winter Commencement Graduates:

250

31%

59%

degrees awarded

first-generation

hispanic ethnicity

47% female graduates 53% male graduates

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2018

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The 2018 Adams State University Grizz LEADS included, left to right, Celestena Gonzales, Madalyn Stouder, Emily Johnson, Shelby Nelson, Angelique Hill, Sarah Patterson, Mariah McDermott, and Briana Gonzales, not pictured Megan Lakatos.

GrizzLEADS replaces homecoming royalty at Adams State A musician hailing from a small rural northwestern town and an athlete and native of a large southwest metropolitan city, Emily Johnson and Angelique Hill discovered their strengths and potential at Adams State in the close-knit, supportive atmosphere.

Johnson and Hill were named the first Adams State University Grizzlies of the Year during halftime of the homecoming game on October 6. Each received a $500 scholarship.

Hill, Adams State Class of 2021, is majoring in nursing with a minor in photography. She came as a hurdler and long jumper and since has been training to become a heptathlon athlete. “Coming from Tucson to a town whose biggest store is Walmart, was a bit of a culture shock.” But she soon made friends and quickly adapted to a more intimate atmosphere.

For Johnson, Adams State Class of 2019, and double major in music business and flute performance with a double minor in percussion performance and business administration, Alamosa was larger than what she was used to. “At first I was a little worried, I thought I wanted to go to a big university but all four years my academics have been tailored to fit my future career goals. I wouldn’t have had the opportunities like I have had here at a big school.”

Both GrizzLEADS are very involved on campus. “I believe in making the most of your experience,” Hill added.

Her extracurricular activities include being the coordinator of programs and events organized by the Grizzly Activity Board. She helps plan Welcome Week, Grizz Daze, Homecoming, and many smaller events. Hill is currently taking 19 credit hours, maintains a GPA above 3.0, and is a track and field athlete.

As a music major, Johnson participates in six ensembles, and manages all ensembles on campus, the Percussion 22 AStater

Academy, the music lab, and is the lead recording technician.

Her current GPA is 3.94. For the last couple of summers she held the position as interim operations manager for the Classical Music Festival in Durango. “My fate is up to me, why not be as happy as you want to be.”

The Grizzlies of the Year were chosen from nine Grizz LEADs (Leadership, Engagement, Achievement, and Dedication) candidates. All the candidates were scored on each of the following categories: application, interview, student vote and involvement in homecoming week activities.

According to Jeni Carter `09, `12, director of Co-Curricular Recreation and Engagement Office (CoRE), Adams State moved from the traditional homecoming royalty to GrizzLEAD with a renewed commitment to inclusion.

GrizzLEAD is more than a one-time contest and the two Grizzlies of the Year will stay involved in their roles throughout the year. “GrizzLEAD recognizes students for their uniqueness as engaged students at Adams State, particularly based on the abilities in Leadership, Engagement, Achievement, and Dedication on and off campus,” Carter said.

The 2018 Grizzly of the Year Award recipients Angelique Hill, far left, and Emily Johnson, far right, and Adams State President Cheryl Lovell.

Photo by Ryan Jewe

Casias estate scholarship fund established Inspiration came, and Susan and Vernon Casias acted.

The couple realize the importance of Adams State and recently bequeathed their entire estate to the University to support scholarships, even though they have no direct ties to the University.

“Setting up a scholarship fund through Adams State University is very important to us because of our own personal experiences,” Vernon Casias said.

The Casiases, first-generation college graduates, want to help individuals who are unable to attend college due to the cost of tuition and fees. “We were impressed with the knowledge, loyalty and dedication of the staff in carrying out the mission of ASU,” Vernon Casias said.

Because of their experiences, the Casiases understand the value of higher education and the importance of keeping higher education accessible, especially in rural areas and for underserved and first-generation students. “We encourage others to establish a scholarship fund through ASU to help students succeed and contribute to their communities,” Susan Casias said.

Vernon Casias grew up in Del Norte and has relatives who attended Adams State. “Adams State is very important to us because it offers valuable opportunities to people in the San Luis Valley with similar experiences as ours.”

After high school, Vernon joined the United States Air Force. Without the GI Bill he could never have attended college. He also worked his way through college as a laborer for CF&I Steel in Pueblo.

Susan grew up on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation in northeastern Arizona. She received a bachelor’s degree in political science from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Ariz., and her master’s in social work from Portland State University in Oregon. As a Native American, she learned getting an education and training has long-term rewards. She was employed with Indian Health Service until she retired after 31 year of government service.

Did you know?

New Year’s Eve is the single biggest day of online giving each year in America.

November and early December see a steady low rate of giving, there’s a slight uptick around Christmas, and then donations skyrocket on New Year’s Eve.

Why? Tax deductions.

This link lets you give to Adams State until the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve: https://www.adams.edu/foundation/online-donation/

Dr. McDaniel helps students Christmas came early for some Adams State students thanks to the generosity of professor emeritus John McDaniel, Ph.D. Dr. McDaniel, retired history professor, paid off the outstanding fall semester tuition bills of about 50 students, enabling them all to register for the spring semester and move forward with their academic degree plans.

“It seems to me it is all about the students,” Dr. McDaniel said. “Anything we can do to keep them working toward a degree is important. I am still committed to students as I have been for all these years.”

The scholarships were awarded to students who had done all they could to stay in good financial standing, including filling out the FASFA, completing all financial aid paperwork, and remaining in good academic standing.

A bequest of your life insurance policy is an easy way for you to make a gift to us.

Your life insurance proceeds will help Adams State educate our future and your estate will benefit from an estate tax charitable deduction for the value of the proceeds paid.

To learn more about making a bequest of life insurance or other estate gifts, please call or email Lori Laske at (719) 587-7867 or 1-800-824-6494 ext. 8 or lllaske@adams.edu.

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Center High’s Brisa Castillo crowned Spud Bowl Queen Brisa Castillo, a senior at Center high school, was crowned the 72nd spud bowl queen during halftime of the Adams State University vs. Dixie State football game on Nov. 10. Brisa was awarded a $2,000 scholarship to attend Adams State by the Colorado Potato Administrative Committee.

Judges for this year’s contest were Jason Tillman and Matt Seger, Colorado Potato Administrative Committee, and Maria Valdez, Adams State accounting technician II. An added feature to this year’s Spud Bowl was the Monte Vista High School marching band, which recently won its regional band competition and finished runner-up at the state marching band competition.

Adams State Athletic Director Larry Mortensen `88, `93 invited the band to entertain the crowd at halftime of the football game as a way to recognize its achievement.

focused • personalized • rural

We know ag Choose from two programs: Agribusiness Emphasis

ASU/CSU General Agriculture program

• earn a business degree specialized in agriculture to increase your marketability

• Earn an ASU Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies: General Agriculture, Concentrations in Biology and Business

• preparation for business management careers in agriculture, food production, agribusiness, and other rural-associated sectors of the economy • participate in the adams state agribusiness Club and ASU Collegiate farm Bureau Chapter for networking and competition opportunities.

• Students learn Soil and Crop Science, Horticulture, Weed and pest Management, Irrigation, Water Conservation, and Greenhouse Management.

• Student will enroll in both ASU online or face-to-face courses and CSU online agriculture courses. The degree is conferred by Adams State.

“I love it. Even though Adams State is smaller, they still have a program that fits what I want to do after I graduate. I have always lived on the farm and plan to live and work on the farm when I graduate.”

– Brooke Mitchell, junior agribusiness major

ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY • Alamosa, Colorado • www.adams.edu

Spud Bowl judges Maria Valdez, Matt Seger, Jason Tillman, 2018 Queen Brisa Castillo, and President Cheryl Lovell.

The Adams State Cheer Squad encourages the crowd to make some noise for the Grizzlies.

The 2018 Adams State Spud Bowl candidates, all of whom received $1,000 scholarships to attend Adams State are, left to right, seated, Brisa Castillo, Center High School; Zilah Montoya, Centennial High School; Hayley Crowther, Sanford High School; Zoe Midgett, Creede High School; Kaitlynn Martin, Centauri High School; standing, Alliyah Garcia, Sangre de Cristo High School; Brooke Paine, Sierra Grande High School; Brianna Martinez, Antonito High School; Gracie Burkhart, Sargent High School; and Trinady Gonzales, Monte Vista High School. Not pictured, Emma Gilmore, Alamosa High School, and Hannah Velasquez, Del Norte High School.

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Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet

Adams State University Athletics inducted nine individuals and eight teams into its Hall of Fame in September. The Adams State Hall of Fame Room inside Plachy Hall is a must see when alumni are visiting the campus.

The Class of 2018 inductees were: John Flores `77, Ronda Leyba DeLaCerda `95, Dave Smith `91, Sharon Foster Greenbaum `86, Scott McMillan, Phil Castillo `95, `98, James Workman `61, and Amy Cousins. They all proudly had a gold medallion placed around their necks as they were welcomed into the Hall of Fame.

The team recognitions went to the 1985 women’s indoor track and field team and the men’s cross country teams from 1983 through 1989, which was the longest stretch of men’s championships in school history.

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Class of 2018 Hall of Fame inductees at the September 28 ceremony held at Plachy Hall

Seeking new team members to the Adams State Grizzly Club Athletic Director’s Club $1,000 Includes six all-sport season passes

Platinum Level $500 Includes four all-sport season passes

Silver Level $350 Includes three all-sport season passes

Bronze Level $250 Includes two all-sport season passes

Or make any donation of $25 or more and Adams State will send along a promotional gift by mail.

Please send membership payment to:

ASU Grizzly Club 208 Edgemont Blvd.

Alamosa, CO 81101 AStater 27

Fall Sports roundup Men’s Soccer The Adams State Men’s Soccer team started the 2018 campaign under first year head coach Stanley Rodrigues.

The Grizzlies had a tough outing but still battled throughout the year as they finished with a 1-15-2 overall record. Six of Adams State’s losses all came down to a one goal differential as the combination of youth and experience on the field learned to gel together. The Grizzlies lone win came in their road finale, a 2-1 victory at CSU-Pueblo.

#2 Dylan Udero

Volleyball

#5 Shannon Mulkey

The Adams State Volleyball team posted a 12-19 overall record and was 9-9 in RMAC play. The Grizzlies finished in a tie for eighth in the conference standings and missed making the RMAC Tournament by just one spot. A trio of Grizzlies earned All-RMAC honors in outside hitter Julianna Zamora, middle hitter Shannon Mulkey, and setter Rachael Ringler. All three garnered Honorable Mention accolades.

The Grizzlies closed out the 2018 season winning six of their last seven games.

#14 Rachael Ringler

Women’s Golf Adams State Women’s Golf competed in four tournaments for the fall season to start the 2018-19 season. The Grizzlies highest finish came in the season opener at CSU-Pueblo Farmers Insurance Samuel Proal Invite as they placed eighth.

They also competed in the RMAC Fall Preview (16th), the West Texas A&M Lady Buff Invite (12th), and the Skyhawk Intercollegiate Invite (13th). Brooke Lucero and Madison Horton both were the top competitors for the Grizzlies throughout the fall portion of their schedule.

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Brooke Lucero

Women’s Soccer Adams State Women’s Soccer posted a 2-15 record in 2018 under first year head coach Janie Hurst. A pair of Grizzlies earned all-RMAC honors in forward Diana Cerillo and defender Payton Billingham. Both were named Honorable Mention for the season. The Grizzlies two wins came against Minnesota-Crookston, 5-3, and RMAC foe Black Hills State, 5-1. Like the men, the women had a combination of youth and experience on the field during the 2018 campaign.

#26 Payton Billingham

Football The Adams State University Football team put together a 2018 season that saw them showcase one of the highest scoring offenses in Division II. The Grizzlies ranked No. 3 in passing yards per game at 329.7. They were 10th in total offense with 488.6 yards per game. They had seven All-RMAC selections headlined by wide receiver Chad Hovasse, who was a First Team AllRMAC selection and the Offensive Player of the Year.

Earing second team accolades was receiver Marquese Surrell. Nick Rooney, Tyree Harris, Ono Tafisi, Aleki Tapa, Garrett Jackson were named Honorable Mention All-RMAC picks. First year Head Coach Josh Blankenship led the Grizzlies to a 4-7 overall record and earned wins in both the Colorado Classic vs. Western Colorado and the Musket Game vs. Fort Lewis College.

Hovasse was also one of 37 nominees for the Harlon Hill Trophy. He set career- and single-season records in 2018. He became the single-season record holder for receptions and the career record holder in touchdown receptions. His 104 receptions is not only the most in a single season for Adams State, but it is the first time a player has pulled in 100 receptions. His 44 touchdowns, 268 receptions, and 3,964 receiving yards are all the most in a career for the Grizzlies. He led all of Division II during the regular season in receiving yards (1,356) and receptions per game (9.5), while ranking in the top five in touchdowns (19, 2nd) and receiving yards per game (123.3, 2nd).

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Cross Country The Adams State Men’s and Women’s Cross Country teams fared well once again as both finished in the topfive at NCAA Division II Cross Country National Championships held in Pittsburgh, PA on Dec. 2.

ASU women finished third, while the men were fourth in the team standings.

Head Coach Damon Martin was named the South Central Region Women’s Coach of the Year as he guided the Grizzlies to a region crown on the women’s side, while both teams won the RMAC Championships.

Eilish Flanagan highlighted Nationals with a gutsy performance to finish second. Elias Gedyon was the top men’s finisher. He was third overall in the race.

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Holiday Performances

The annual ASU Music Department Holiday concert.

Sarah Off was featured in the ASU Percussion concert, “Affinity� in November.

ASU Alumni fill the theatre at their 14th annual Alumni Christmas Matinee.

John Taylor, Ph.D., honors Valley-Wide Health Systems CEO Gigi Darricades at the annual Share the Magic performance.

Valley-Wide donated a tree to Adams State in her honor.

Back row, Andrea Alfano, Beauty; Travis Romero, Beast; Brandon Billings, The Man in Pink; Hannah Eubanks, Cecile; pose with children of alumni after the Adams State Theatre performance of Beauty and the Beast.

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Adams State alumna travels the world She is the Indiana Jones of Adams State, seizing the day and following her passion for archaeology around the world.

Jamie Devine `10 nurtured her passion for adventure at Adams State, participating in the Adams State University Field School in Historical Archaeology and excavation work conducted at Fort Massachusetts, Colo. Fort Massachusetts was built in 1852 as the first regularly-garrisoned government installation established on land that would become the territory of Colorado.

In 2010, Devine was hired as the administrator, aiding in starting up the field school at Fort Massachusetts, which was established by Richard Goddard, Ph.D. She continued with the field school as a crew chief through 2014, and still subs in as crew chief whenever she is in the area.

She completed her Adams State degree in business, with a minor in anthropology, in the spring of 2010. Inspired by her work in the field to pursue a graduate degree, Devine was accepted at University of Denver on a full-ride to pursue her master’s in archaeology. “I had a fantastic experience and mentorship there as well.”

After graduation from the University of Denver in 2014, Devine accepted a position with a Canadian Oil and Gas company called Encana. Her current role as a materials analyst includes managing several yards across the United States to ensure the material goes where it needs to. “Although I had an M.A., it was my business degree from Adams State that got me my current job at Encana. I also have the skill set to start my own company down the line if I choose to do so, and I received most of my training for that at Adams.”

She credits her professors at Adams State for the guidance and support they provided. “That is what I loved about Adams State. You could ask your professor anything and they would help in any way they could and take the time to get to know the students.”

This fall, Devine’s son, Jonah Bricker, began his great story at Adams State. “I told him the small class size and attention of the professors can change your life,” Devine said. “At

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Adams, I was encouraged to better myself as an academic, a professional, and as a person.”

She has traveled extensively through North, Central and South America, and has explored Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. “Adventure travel is the name of the game,” Devine said. “I cannot sit at an all-inclusive resort. There is just way too much to do and to see and to eat outside of those resort walls.”

Follow the travels and get expert advice from Adams State alumna Jamie Devine on her blog, traveling-anthropologist.com.

“The mission of the blog is to provide anyone with the tools to be able to travel,” says the author. “Some people are hesitant about traveling to new places with different foods and languages. My goal is for people to feel confident enough in themselves to be able to explore this beautiful earth.”

Salazar Center brings new focus to the Rio Grande Natural Area

The Salazar Center, with a focus on opportunities in the Rio Grande Natural Area (RGNA), is off and running.

Rio de la Vista was hired in January as the first director of the Salazar Center and has been busy working on programming and fundraising to build onto a $250,000 gift from the Emma and Henry Salazar Family to establish the educational center on the Adams State campus.

“Over time, the goal of the Salazar Center is to develop programs that benefit the land, water and communities of the Valley and that engage ASU and the community in conservation opportunities,” said de la Vista. “We aim to both directly benefit the community and to provide exciting learning opportunities, volunteer and internship work, and career paths for students.”

Before her work with the Salazar Center, de la Vista worked in land and water conservation in the San Luis Valley for nearly 20 years with the Rio Grande Headwaters Land Trust, including helping to develop and implement the trust’s Rio Grande Initiative. She serves as the environmental representative on the Rio Grande Basin Roundtable and was on the Rio Grande Natural Area Commission that developed a voluntary management plan for the area.

Her work with the Salazar Center will also allow de la Vista to continue working on SLV water issues and solutions, as part of the Valley’s collective effort to achieve a sustainable water balance for the future. “This means finding ways to sustain the water needed for working farms and ranches, while also ensuring there is water for the health of the environment, including the river corridors and the extraordinary wetlands that exist in this high, dry Valley and that support nearly all of the Valley’s wildlife, including internationally important habitat for migratory birds.”

Rio de la Vista, director of the Salazar Center

She is working on collaborative efforts with the Rio Grande Water Conservation District, the Rio Grande Basin Roundtable, and the other key districts, state and federal agencies, a range of conservation organizations, and other partners who are all part of our community’s ongoing work to find local solutions to our water challenges.

“We aim to engage Adams State students and faculty in learning about the Rio Grande Natural Area as well as the Valley’s water issues and solutions,” de la Vista said. “Adams has a vital role in developing future conservation and water leaders for the Valley.”

The Salazar family designated the gift following the death of the Salazar family matriarch, Emma Salazar. The $250,000 donation included a $100,000 contribution to the Emma and Henry Salazar Memorial Scholarship Fund for firstgeneration Adams State students.

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Adams State student research takes a closer look at mistletoe

As far back as ancient Greece, mistletoe has been associated with magical properties. Adams State University biology student Paitton Heltenberg is seeing the plant differently.

Heltenberg, teaming up with biology Professor Kristy Duran, Ph.D., is conducting research on the once considered sacred plant, with her study strictly looking at properties of the parasitic plant and its effect on Piñon and Ponderosa trees located in the Rocky Mountains of Southern Colorado and Northern New Mexico.

Heltenberg says working on a research project as an undergraduate student will help prepare her for graduate school and eventually her own Ph.D. “One day I hope to receive a Ph.D. and begin a professional career in researching cancer treatments. I am learning more about cells and their functions and extracting DNA, which will be helpful for future research. The project has also helped with my mycology class at Adams State.”

Although the North American dwarf mistletoe isn’t the same plant that earned a place in the folklore of early civilizations, it does have many mysteries to unlock for scientifically-minded students like Heltenberg.

Under the tutelage of Duran, Heltenberg has been characterizing endophytic fungi in mistletoes and their hosts.

Endophytic fungi live inside leaves and can protect plants against herbivores and heat and water stress. Little work has been done on the relationship between pines, their dwarf mistletoe parasites, and endophytic fungi living in both plants. The goals of the study are to characterize the endophytic fungi in two different species of dwarf mistletoe and their two different pine hosts (piñon and ponderosa), 34 AStater

and determine if mistletoe infection influences the type of endophytic fungi living in their host.

According to Duran, fungi can actually help its host tolerate other potential damaging conditions. Studies have shown that endophytic fungi may help plants tolerate drought and protect against herbivores. The dwarf mistletoe-pine system is interesting because infection puts trees under drought-like conditions and may mimic the effects of herbivory.

“We wanted to work with a project that hasn’t been carefully studied,” Heltenberg said. “There is so much fungus can do. It may differ in the host depending on a variety of factors. If you spray the pine with an agent to make it go from a non-pathogenic state to a pathogenic state, it can kill the mistletoe but not harm the pine at all.

This could be a serious control agent against mistletoe and help protect our forests.”

Duran guides the research and helps when Heltenberg isn’t sure of the next step. “We are learning together,” Duran said. “I have never done this type of analysis.” Their project studies fungi, which has grown out of their hosts. From skills learned in microbiology class, Heltenberg uses aseptic techniques to create pure cultures of endophytic fungi.

Professor and student worked this summer taking needles from infected and uninfected trees as well as from mistletoe shoots. They put the specimens on agar plates and let them grow, and then selected different types of colonies and transferred them to their own plate.

“We grew them out of the needles and twigs and then isolated them to extract their DNA,” Heltenberg said. “It is so crazy how we can’t see all this microscopic fungi with the naked eye and when we encourage the growth, all these fungal communities live inside there.”

After extracting the DNA, using a DNeasy plant kit and amplifying a portion of the DNA, they send the specimen to a lab to be sequenced. “Once the results return we use a database to identify the species of fungus,” Heltenberg said.

Heltenberg, a major in organismal biology and president of the Adams State Society for Advancement of Chicanos/ Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS), plans to graduate in 2020. The research she is undertaking adds to her full Adams State experience.

“Paitton is a lot of fun to work with and very enthusiastic and interested,” said Duran. “She gets as excited about the research as I do.”

New scholarship management system installed at Adams State Adams State University is the first Colorado institution to implement the system.

Thanks to funding from the Adams State Foundation, the University has implemented a new scholarship management system that will increase the number of scholarships available and awarded to Adams State students.

The new CampusLogic ScholarshipUniverse management system is the first of its kind to offer both the capabilities needed to manage ASU Foundation’s scholarship portfolio and give Adams State students access to over 14,000 vetted scholarships from across the country to help them cover the cost of their education.

CampusLogic provides students with easy access through a secure single sign-on using the same ASU login and password students use to view all of their ASU student business information. The single sign-on makes it simple for students to access more scholarships.

The benefits to the University are no more paper applications to collect, sort, compile and store, and less confusion on recipient verification of information and awarding.

Adams State Financial Aid Director Phil Schroeder says the system “will open the door to thousands of scholarships our students never had access to before.”

“ScholarshipUniverse will give them access to funding sources outside of the normally accepted federal, state or institutional funds previously seen as the only way to pay for college,” Schroeder said. “It can become a new review source for the institution.”

With Adams State University being the first Colorado institution to implement the system, it should be viewed as a “one-up” on peer institutions in the name of services to Adams State students.

“It can be a game changer for our students as well as for the institution,” Schroeder says.

The system was recently purchased through the generosity and funding from the ASU Foundation, with the desire to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the scholarship program for the benefit of students at Adams State.

Adams State niversity Co nselor Ed cation All that is missing is

U

Offering Master of Arts degrees in Clinical Mental Health or School Counseling

• Apply now for the five semester on-campus program in Alamosa or our online program • Contact us to find out if you qualify for a $10,000 merit award scholarship* toward your master’s degree * Scholarships are available only for the Alamosa, on-campus program

CACREP Accredited

Contact: 719-587-7626 ceonline@adams.edu

staying in touch •1950s

Dale Kerby `59, `61 (Albuquerque, NM) has been retired for 20 years. He spends most of his time volunteering with his wife, Karen, with church functions and Catholic charities.

They were recently honored by the Archbishop of Santa Fe as outstanding volunteers.

Richard Seals `59, `62 (Hereford, AZ), after graduating from Adams State, was a teacher in Elbert, Colo. for two years then was the principal and superintendent of La Veta, Colo. schools for two years.

He then went to Rangely College in Rangely, Colo., and was assistant to the president for seven years. He was also the chief administrator at the Rangely District Hospital. In 1973, he became dean of students at Cochise College in Sierra Vista, Ariz. He retired from that position after 20 years and has spent his retirement traveling all over the world.

•1960s Rudy Basovsky `62 (Fountain Hills, AZ, and Grayslake, IL) has been inducted into the Lake County High School (Illinois) Sports Hall of Fame. He taught school in Colorado, at Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, Cameron University in Lawton, Oklahoma, and North Chicago at the high school and middle school (1972-2000). He coached football and baseball at Bishop Gorman High, Cameron University and North Chicago Community High School; coached National Baseball Congress semipro baseball; officiated basketball in Illinois for 40 years and Special Olympics basketball for 10 years.

Frank `63 and Ardith `63 Nance (Chandler, AZ) went to Barcelona where they boarded a cruise ship and toured the Mediterranean for 12 days. This was for their 56th wedding anniversary.

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Jerry Schloffman `65, `70 (Golden, CO) writes, “Still doing well—no time to work—hunting, fishing, and golf (and yard work—ugh!).

Yvonne Moulton `65 (Goodyear, AZ) writes, “I have retired from teaching. I spent three years teaching 3rd graders how to read as a volunteer. I live in Goodyear, Ariz. It was very hot this year—no rain for three months and then LOTS of rain.

“Red for Ed” was the motto as many teachers left their classes in protest—saying they need more money in their paychecks. Election time kept me busy watching news on TV and reading the paper. It was a busy time.”

Glorianna Dominguez Atencio `66 (Espanola, NM) serves on the Espanola Valley Opera Guild She is a member of the Legislative Board of the New Mexico Educational Retirees Association and a member of Taos County Water Advisory Board.

Alfred O’Leary `67 (Phoenix, AZ) retired from Corona del Sol High School in Tempe, Ariz. in 2003. He lives in Ahwatukee. He is single with no children.

Joel Korngut `67 (Albuquerque, NM), after working at Adams State, worked at University of New Mexico-Taos conducting training in Title IX. He has now relocated to Albuquerque.

Dennis Zaiger `68 (Colorado Springs, CO) writes, “I am a retired realtor after 33 years. Just attended my 50th year homecoming—it was wonderful. Currently, my granddaughter Corri Zaiger is the goalkeeper for ASU soccer team.

We both love Adams State.”

Gertha Mountfort `69, `73 (Glendale, AZ) loves living in Arizona. Her 21-year-old grandson lives with her while getting his commercial flying license. Colorado is still her home in her heart.

•1970s Val Vigil `71 (Thornton, CO) writes, “ASU gave me the foundation to achieve the goals that I had set for myself.

I taught school for 14 years; served in the State House of Representatives for eight years; eight years as a council member for the City of Thornton; five years as a Board of Trustee member at ASU; and 45 years as a business owner (Vigil & Company, LLC) doing tax preparation accounting for small businesses and real estate in the Denver region.”

Coy Gaddie `71 (Tucson, AZ) is back coaching little guys and gals at the YMCA. He is also a scorekeeper for Marana High School girls’ and boys’ basketball and volleyball. He loves living in Tucson. He is still involved with helping young basketball officials.

John Hocker `71 (Grants, NM) writes, “It was my first time attending an ASU Alumni gathering in Albuquerque. It was lots of fun! I enjoyed meeting and talking with other alumni. Thanks to the Alumni office!”

David Cruz `73 (Albuquerque, NM) has been a regional director with Londen Insurance for 40 years and married to Betty (Martinez) Cruz for 52 years! His youngest granddaughter Hope Cruz `17 came to Adams State University 43 years later on a scholarship and played on the soccer team. She is now teaching 9th grade health and IMPACT at her alma mater Volcano Vista High School in Albuquerque, NM. Dorothy August `73 (Tucson, AZ) moved in 1990 from the Denver area to Tucson with her husband, Mark Duke.

They moved for Mark’s career in aviation. She got her master’s at the University of Arizona.

She taught special education in Tucson Unified School District for 19 years. In 2011, she retired but she still volunteers one morning a week at a T.U.S.D. school with special needs students.

Ronald Ewy `73, `76 (Wichita, KS), after graduating from Adams, went to Syracuse High School in Kansas where he taught, coached and was a counselor for 38 years. They built a new track complex and they named the complex after him on October 19, 2018. He is now a college track official.

Laurie Bean Cameron `74 (Bernalillo, NM) loves her retirement in Bernalillo along the Rio Grande.

Jerry Roybal `75 (Albuquerque, NM), after a 30-year-career as a nuclear engineer with Sandia National Labs, is retired and is working on full-time leisure activities. He and his wife, Geri, recently attended a wonderful alumni dinner at Rancho de Chimayo. They live in Albuquerque with their two dogs and one cat.

Stephen Anderson `75 (Fremont, CA) has been named CEO of Lockdowel, Inc., the glue-less, tool-less fastening company. He has had more than 25 years of experience leading private, public and family-owned building and wood product companies—including Enkeboll Designs, Pergo and Wellborn Forest Products.

He holds a Masters of Management and an MBA from the Drucker School at Claremont Graduate University in Claremont, Calif.

Barbara Johnston `75 (Denver, CO) after receiving her Master’s from Adams, was the director of the Monte Vista Headstart and also worked with the migrant programs in the Valley.

In 2016, she retired from Denver Public Schools where she was a school nurse for 20 years.

Vida Martinez `75 (Arvada, CO) writes, “I have spent my years since retiring traveling and enjoying seeing more of the U.S. and some foreign ports. I have one grandson who

keeps me hopping with his activities, baseball games and tennis matches. Life as a retiree is fulfilling and busy.”

Duane Ludwig `77 (Aurora, CO) writes, “I am retired now. I never got married. I have done more helping senior citizens, mowing their lawns, shoveling snow off their sidewalks than I did with my intended direction—teaching children.”

Elinor Bean Gonzales `78 (Corrales, NM) is loving retirement.

After 35 years of moving around the country and beyond, she and her husband are happy to be settling for good in Corrales.

•1980s Virginia Vigil `81 (Chimayo, NM) is working part-time at Santuario de Chimayo church. She went on the Alaskan cruise in 2009 and 2017. She is going on the Mediterranean cruise in 2019.

Wayne McGinn `83 (Loveland, CO) was named Broncos high school football coach of the week. Wayne, after his eight-year stint as head coach of Adams State, returned to the high school arena, first at Pueblo Central and now Loveland. The Broncos coach of the week is selected in partnership with the Broncos and CHSCA. Marty Wood `88 (Grand Junction, CO) is the PE teacher for Grand Mesa Middle School. He is anticipating retirement in 2019. He is an avid skier, hiker, hunter and biker. He also owns Wood Properties and works with his wife and oldest son, restoring “tired” properties. He has been married to Stacey Colesar Wood `87 for 31 years. She is a physical therapist and athletic trainer. She owns and operates Grand Junction Therapies.

She and her rehab team specialize in orthopedics, post-surgery rehab and pain management. Stacey loves to ride her bike, ski, hike and help her husband restore properties. They have two sons, Dylan (26) and Jordan (24).

Marty and Stacey have been abundantly blessed since their early beginnings at Adams State.

Lori Barringer `89 (Grants, NM) writes, “I am in my 29th year of teaching high school social studies. I plan to retire in a year. My husband, Shawn Barringer `92 and I are proud parents of ASU graduate student Kaitlyn Barringer `17.

She will graduate with a Masters in Counseling in May.

•1990s Kimberly Florio `92 (Albuquerque, NM) is the technical director of the ultrasound department at New Mexico Health Institute. She performs echocardiograms, and mentors students and teachers in new advancements in performing echocardiograms.

She is involved in the Left Ventricular Assist Device program where they implant artificial heart pumps.

Sarah Menapace Walker `93 (Farmington, NM) writes, “We traveled 10,682 miles on a 102day journey through the Canadian Maritime Provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Prince Edward Island and it was a trip of a lifetime! On our way to Canada we visited the Nation Museum of the US Air Force and Niagara Falls. Upon our return we took a trip to Hawaii and visited all four islands. Traveling in retirement is a great adventure exploring our world.”

Joseph Baca `96 (Canjilon, NM) and his wife, Loretta, still love to go to Alamosa. They have three kids and are proud grandparents of a grandson age 5 and two granddaughters ages 10 and 8.

What have you been up to since graduation? Your classmates want to know. Email your update and photo to alumni@adams.edu.

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Scott Brown ‘97 (Gilbert, AZ) is the new director of golf at Apache Creek Golf Club in Apache Junction, Ariz.

He was an All-Conference Adams State Golf Team member in 1997 who went on to pursue a career in golf. He is a PGA Member (Class A) of the Southwest Section and competes in various events each year.

He has been working in the golf business in Arizona for 17 years starting in outside services and working his way up to director of golf. He spent 14 years at a private club in Mesa, Alta Mesa Golf Club, before recently moving to the public side of golf at Apache Creek. Scott manages the course, hosts events and is also a golf instructor. Golf has been his passion since he was young and now, as a father, he is able to share that love of the game with his son Hudson. He is married to his wife, Julie, of 10 years. Although she is not good at golf, she too

came from a golf background having previously worked for the PGA and LPGA Tour Events in Arizona. Living in Arizona, one of the golf capitals of the world, the endless sunshine makes golf a high-demand sport and favored hobby for the many locals and winter visitors he enjoys working with each year.

• 2000s Rick Palmer `02 (Charlottesville, VA), for more than a decade, has trained hundreds of aspiring wrestlers in Central Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley.

Now he will take on the new challenge as wrestling coach at Monticello High School.

After college, Palmer transitioned into coaching and took on a leadership role at local wrestling

family bookshelf Diane Edwards `93 (Fort Collins, CO) has published a book, Painting Landscapes of Colorado and the West.

She is a lifelong artist and painting instructor. She is a master signature pastelist in the Pastel Society of Colorado and an award-winning oil painter. Diane has a Master’s Degree in Art and uses her education to teach others who love painting landscapes. Her awardwinning work is in many private collections as well as the Medical Center of the Rockies, Women’s Clinic and Kaiser Permanente Clinics in northern Colorado.

Linda Sheader `86 (Grand Junction, CO) has published a book, Minds of Metal. Her science major and philosophy classes at Adams State were one of the influences for the book.

This science fiction novel is the first in a trilogy that explores the interplay between nature and technology: that there is an interconnectedness between what we call natural and what we call artificial. Ultimately everything is borne of nature, and all things are part of nature. This novel was written for intelligent young adult readers who value a book that makes them think.

This story explores how artificial intelligence might evolve when it is not opposed to humankind. How might human beings feel about such a thing? The illustrator of Linda’s book is her daughter-in-law, Katie Sheader. Katie is married to Kerry Sheader, a 2013 graduate of Adams State art department.

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clubs in Colorado, Georgia, California and Washington. In 2003, he moved to Virginia to take the job at Waynesboro High School.

During his tenure, he was named Valley District coach of the year five times.

Kelly Wubben `04 (Alamosa, CO) is the PE teacher at La Jara Elementary. She previously taught in Antonito and Alamosa.

Nathan Fyock `07 (Grand Junction, CO) has made partner at the accounting firm Dalby, Wendland & Co. Since joining the Firm in 2008, he has developed expertise in providing attest and accounting services such as financial statement audits, reviews, compilations, and agreed-upon procedures for a variety of clients. His industry specialties include life and health insurance, third party health plan administrators, construction, manufacturing, nonprofit organizations, institutions of higher education, governmental entities, and employee benefit plans. Nathan also attained accreditation in business valuations (ABV) from the American Institute of CPAs in 2016 and provides valuation services in a variety of areas.

He is a member of the Colorado Society of CPAs and the American Institute of CPAs and serves on the finance committee of local nonprofit Marillac Clinic, and Federally Qualified Health Center in the Grand Valley.

•2010s Tim Provost `11 (La Junta, CO) is in his 17th year in the classroom and is teaching at Cheraw High School. He is at the helm of the new FFA chapter there.

Josh Heersink `12 (Monte Vista, CO) was recently awarded the Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from Salus University Pennsylvania College of Optometry. During commencement exercises, Dr. Heersink graduated Summa Cum Laude and received the following awards: the Dr. John E. and Ethel M. Crozier Memorial Award for Excellence in the study of anatomy and pathology,recognition for Clinical Excellence in Neuro- Ophthalmic Specialty at The Eye Institute, and the Practice Excellence Scholarship. Dr. Heersink has joined his father, Dr. Paul Heersink, in practice at the Monte Vista Eye Care Center, and looks forward to giving back to the community where he was raised.

alumni at work Tiffany Leggett `13 (Phoenix, AZ) with her boyfriend, Oscar, is currently traveling for work between Minnesota, Kentucky and Arizona, which she now calls home.

Last year they brought home a French bulldog named Brody. He has been a blast. Other than Brody, they are taking on one home renovation project at a time at their house in Phoenix.

David Sanchez `14 is the new cross country coach for College of the Sequoias, after three seasons as an assistant coach.

Courtney Vance `14 (Colorado Springs, CO) is employed by Stockman Kast Ryan + Co. as a senior audit consultant.

She received her master’s degree in accounting from the University of Washington, Tacoma.

She was formerly the payroll administrator of Zones in Washington state.

Jenny McCarroll Signs `16 (Sanford, CO) writes, “I recently accepted the position as director of finance for the City of Monte Vista in Colorado. I began my accounting career 15 years ago as a senior in high school. I have a diverse background in financial accounting, governmental accounting, and law. I graduated from Adams State with my Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, as well as my Associate of Arts in Business Administration, and a Paralegal Certificate. I currently serve on the Vocational Advisory Board for Centauri High School’s business program, coach little league basketball, and I’m a member of the Government Finance Officers Association and the Colorado Government Finance Officers Association. I currently reside in Sanford, Colo., with my family. I have one son, Carter, who is the light of my world! I’m so grateful for the education I gained through Adams State University and wouldn’t be where I am today without it!”

Candace Shaw `16 (Alamosa, CO) is a fifthgrade teacher at La Jara Elementary and does double duty as the Centauri Varsity Volleyball coach. She previously taught 5th grade at Alamosa.

Sara O’Rear `17 (Colorado Springs, CO) has joined Ent Credit Union as a licensed insurance agent. Previously she was an agent for USAA. Marisa Morado `18 (Longmont, CO) has been hired as an accountant at Prologis. She plans to pursue a future in corporate accounting. She and her husband plan to start a family soon.

Michael Cawthra `76 (Lakewood, CO) poses as jolly old St. Nick. Mike told us, “In 2007, I grew a beard. It was mostly white. A friend told me I would make a great Santa. I searched for Santa schools and found one in Denver. I spent a weekend learning to BE Santa from Susen Mesco, an extraordinary teacher and promoter.

I began in 2008, going to homes and corporate parties. In 2009, I was Santa for the Parade of Lights in Denver. I had to take a year off, as I became ill and lost all my hair. I came back in 2013, and have been all around BEing Santa.”

Lillian Adams `06 (Alamosa, CO) and Michael Davis `11 (Alamosa, CO) work for Wall, Smith, Bateman Inc. and spent some time in the Foundation Office auditing the books.

key dates for

13

February

New student orientation

January ASU Foundation Phone-a-Thon

18-22

1

April Summer class registration begins

March

Spring Break

10-11 April

Student Scholar Days

11 May

Spring Commencement AStater 39

adams family album

ALBUQUERQUE Albuquerque Alumni visit at Nexus Brewery.

Bottom from left: Joann Hernandez, Darlene Polonis, John Hocker and Kim Florio. Top from left: Michael Obrey, Joel Korngut, Elinor Gonzales, Dale Kerby, Laurie Cameron, Lori Laske and Gordan & Wanda Golsan.

DENVER

The Denver Chapter Committee Left to right: Michael Cawthra, Alfred Petross, Wayne Melanson, Liz Watts and Jacque Archuleta.

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Jacque Archuleta visits with Levi Martinez at the Denver Scholarship Luncheon.

CHIMAYO Alumni gathered for an intimate dinner at Rancho de Chimayo.

Left to right: Gaylene Horning, Christine Maestas, Virginia Vigil, Willie & Glorianna Atencio, Lori Laske and Tony & Geri Roybal.

SAGUACHE The staff of Mountain Valley Schools in Saguache enjoys a Teacher Appreciation luncheon during an inservice.

Left to right: Kay Watkins, Neil Rudolph, Ted Laws, Connie Spencer and Cole Foster enjoy visiting over a cup of coffee.

RETIREE’S COFFEE

Left to right: Butch Jones, Jim Woodke, Gordon Gillson, Ron Loser, Gayl Woodke and Judy Jones always enjoy getting together.

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TUCSON

Left to right: Coy Gaddie, Darrell Sabers, Shela Seals, Lori Laske, Caroline & Joe Vigil, Jerry Petersen, Mark Duke & Dorothy August, Richard Seals and Bruce Moulton.

Tucson alumni sat down for an Adams Family breakfast.

Left to right: Mark Duke & Dorothy August, Richard Seals, Judy & Bruce Moulton, Wayne & Ellen Evans, Coy Gaddie, Darrell Sabers, Lori, Laske, Caroline & Joe Vigil.

PHOENIX

Gaylene had to get in on the picture so it was selfie time in Phoenix!

Top from left: Oscar Quiroz, Frank & Ardith Nance, Brent Williams, Roger Trotter, Mike Edgar, Linda Nash, Burt Moulton, Mike Sloan, Jim Workman and Dennis Nash. Bottom from left: Arthur & Susan Lowe, Tiffany Leggett, Gertha Mountfort, Yvonne Moulton, Alfred O’Leary, Velma Workman and Lori Laske.

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final chapters

“Final Chapters” lists only survivors who are Adams State graduates or are affiliated with ASU.

Helen Gonzales `55, `68 (Fort Garland, CO) passed away Sept 10 at the age of 87.

Jack Distel `74 (Kaysville, UT) passed away Oct 10 at the age of 69.

Victor “Pete” Peterson `57 (Lincoln, CA) passed away Aug 20 at the age of 88.

Tamaria Purdue Parrill `74 (Alamosa, CO) passed away Aug 31 at the age of 66. Among her survivors is husband Christopher Parrill ‘85, ‘04, ‘17.

John “Jack” Oberrick `58 (Alamosa, CO) passed away Sept 12 at the age of 87. Among his survivors is son James Oberrick `92.

Mike Gonzales `79 (Mountain Home, ID) passed away Oct 11 at the age of 61.

Thomas Howard `60, `63 (Bloomfield, NM) passed away Apr 19 at the age of 87.

Doug Steward `79 (Monte Vista, CO) passed away Aug 10 at the age of 63. Among his survivors are son Paul `12 & Toni `12, `18 Steward, brother David Steward `81 and sister Deb Haverfield `95.

Tony O’Brate `63, `72 (Syracuse, KS) passed away Aug 27 at the age of 86.

Earl Hedgecoke `64 (Aurora, CO) passed away Aug 21 at the age of 81.

Janice Tingley Coombs `65 (La Jara, CO) passed away Oct 25 at the age of 75. Among her survivors are husband Larry Coombs `64; sons Jason Coombs `95 and Nathan `96 & Charlotte `97 Coombs, and daughter Alyson Coombs `99.

Kenneth Coulter `67, `67 (Eugene, OR) passed away Oct 26 at the age of 81.

Michael Sanchez `68 (Colorado Springs, CO) passed away Aug 29 at the age of 83.

Nancy Mercure Weintraub `68, `75 (Chandler, AZ) passed away Aug 10 at the age of 73. Among her survivors are daughter Terrie `84 and Bhrett `80, `82 Pizza.

Walter “Skip” Grande `69 (Aurora, CO) passed away Jul 15 at the age of 73. Among his survivors is wife Alice Grande `71.

Eleanor “Ellie” Crain `82 (Pueblo, CO) passed away Jul 25 at the age of 80. Among her survivors is husband William “Bill” Crain `60, `62.

Liz Crawford `85 (Pueblo, CO) passed away Oct 18 at the age of 81.

Annalise Davis `89 (Denver, CO) passed away Aug 1 at the age of 53.

Tiffanie Trent Mortensen McAllister `96 (Carmen, ID) passed away Sept 5 at the age of 45. Among her survivors are mother Sheryl Anderson `69, sister Cynthia McDaniel `97, brother Gregg `05 & Elisha `05, `14 Anderson; brother-in-law Ed Mondragon `90, stepbrothers Jared Anderson `99 and Hoyt `97 & Dyan `13 Anderson.

Dennis Crown `04 (Del Norte, CO) passed away Sept 23 at the age of 65. Among his survivors is daughter-in-law Amber Crown `09.

Michael Boreson `12 (Pueblo, CO) passed away Aug 18 at the age of 39. Among his survivors is mother Josie Boreson `83, `87.

Richard Dudrick `70 (Pueblo, CO) passed away Sept 7 at the age of 81.

friends

William Cappella `74 (Plymouth, MA) passed away Oct 2 at the age of 66.

Gordon Gillson ASU Retiree (Alamosa, CO) passed away Oct 7 at the age of 90.

Dr. Edmon Adams, ASU Retiree, passed away on Nov 25 at the age of 76.

Back Cover: frosty day on campus Photo by Ryan Jewe

The Adams State Alumni Denver Chapter will hold its annual meeting on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2019. The meeting begins at 10 a.m., at the Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, 4005 Kipling St., Wheat Ridge, CO, 80033.

Chris Lopez `84, director of public relations and marketing at Adams State, is the guest speaker and will update the Denver alumni on plans for promoting the University.

A former Denver resident, Lopez began his career as a journalist, working for The Pueblo Chieftain and The Denver Post. He moved into higher education as associate vice president at The University of Texas at El Paso.

“We look forward to hearing Chris inform us of plans for our university,” said Wayne Melanson, class of 1969, outgoing Denver Chapter president. “We hope to see a good turnout of Denver metro-area alumni.”

The Denver Chapter continues to work on new student recruitment. In 2018, the recruitment committee staffed dozens of high school college fairs in the area. In addition, the first Denver Chapter scholarship was awarded in Fall 2018 to a graduate of Douglas County High School.

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