A-Stater Summer 2016

A

Stater

summer 2016 the magazine of adams state university

John T. Salazar ‘82 Love of the land inspires public service

A

Stater

VOL. 56, NO. 2 • SUMMER 2016

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 online edition: www.adams.edu/alumni/astater/ EDITOR & DESIGNER Julie Waechter

ASSOCIATE EDITORS Gaylene Horning ’94 • Linda Relyea ’96, ’10

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Annalise Dorr ’18 • Daniel Parsons ’19 • Maya Ramirez ’16 Mike Skinner • ASU Sports Information • RMAC Sports

PRESIDENT OF THE UNIVERSITY Dr. Beverlee J. McClure

BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY Arnold Salazar ’76 Chair Kathleen Rogers Vice Chair Paul Farley • Michele J. Lueck • Wendell Lorenzo Pryor LeRoy Salazar • Cleave Simpson • John Singletary • Randy Wright ’84 Dr. Rob Benson Faculty Trustee John Owsley ’18 Student Trustee

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD Lori Lee Laske ’91, ’01 Executive Director of Alumni & Donor Relations Kasey Russell ’03 President Liz Tabeling-Garcia ’96, ’06 Vice President Holly Felmlee ’76, ’92 Secretary Toney Cantu ’70 • D. Mike Garcia ’73, ’77 • Phil Lopez ’04 Lynn Michalke ’77 • Karen Rubidoux Miller ’94 Robert Oringdulph ’71 • Sandy Ortega ’74 Chris Page ’02, ’03 • Brian Rossbert ’02 • Rich Scanga ’75 Jeremy Wilder ’96 • Delzia Worley ’97

ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION BOARD Ron Howard ’98 President Dr. John McDaniel Vice President Jeni Jack-Goodwin ’85 Secretary Donn Vigil Treasurer Russell Achatz ’85 • Tim Bachicha ’92 • Glenn Burnham Duane Bussey ’82 • Keith Cerny • Genevieve Cooper Bill Fassett • Valerie Finnegan • Dale Hettinger ’64 Charles “Chuck” Houser ’62 • Dorothy Lucero ’61 Cathy Mullens ’82 • Chuck Owsley ’68 • Michelle Roepke Rich Scanga ’75 • Helen Sigmond

FOUNDATION HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS Stephen Bokat ’68 • Marguerite Salazar ’75, ’76 • Michael Ware ’69

FOUNDATION EMERITUS BOARD MEMBERS Sharon Carter • Harold Kelloff • John Marvel Jr. Izora Southway ’66 • J. Byron Uhrich • R. Paul Wagner

FOUNDATION EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Dr. Beverlee J. McClure ASU President Tammy Lopez ’91, ’00 Executive Director of the Foundation Kathleen Rogers Trustee Liaison

GRIZZLY CLUB BOARD OF DIRECTORS Ron DeSautell ’76 President • Ted Morrison ’69 Vice President Hoyt Anderson ’97 • Heather Brooks • Keith Cerny Jeni Jack-Goodwin ’85 • Shayna Kindschuh ’13, ’15 Dennis Ortiz ’79 • Jeff Owsley ’86 Steve Valdez ’87 • 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.

History, heritage, and the San Luis Valley’s natural wonders are some of the themes evident in new works of public art that accompanied the renovation of Richardson Hall. Kay Malouff ‘81 created stained glass depicting Mount Blanca and environs for the third floor board room window (above), while Bob Booth ‘89 pays homage to founder Billy Adams with his bronze, Governor, which adorns the main staircase (below).

contents

adams family gatherings

cover story

september

John T. Salazar ‘82 champions rural values Outstanding Alumnus 2016

32

23-24

october

Cover photo: Linda Relyea ‘96, ‘10

latest editions What’s been happening Trustees reappoint President McClure for three years Academic Pursuits Legacy of Dr. John Marvel lives on at Adams State History Colorado funds Marvel House preservation Adams State to enhance ethics education Boettcher teacher residents receive licensure Student success a strategic priority Chemistry and math profs named 2015-16 Exemplary Faculty Earth Week focused on sustainability Nursing students learn the small things can make a big difference Speaker calls grads to the table Wendall Pryor and Michele Lueck named to ASU Trustees

Athletic Hall of Fame

4 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 10 10 11 12 13

28-29

Homecoming 2016 See page 30 for details.

1 4

Retirees’ Christmas Dinner SLV Theatre Matinee

december

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

great stories Teaching at ASU fulfilled dreams Bookends of the Adams State Bookstore: Meis ‘81 and Martinez retire “Doc” Newman takes his final bow Profiles in Passion & Promise

14 15 16 18

adams family legacies Your giving dollars at work Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center dedicated Crain Scholarship supports future nurses Donations help Music Dept. dance to a different drum

26 27 28 29

homecoming 2016 Homecoming Schedule John Salazar ‘82 champions rural values Exceptional New Alumna has perfected prescription for success Denver alumni chapter formed

staying in touch adams family album great grizz Lauren Martin runs to top of RMAC ASU is NCAA II Men’s Program of the Year Grizzly track stars sprint to the Olympics Grizzly Greats Hall of Fame Class of 2016 to be inducted Sept. 24 Grizzlies spring season

30 32 34 35

get your homecoming 2016 t-shirt:

36

See order form and Homecoming Schedule page 30-31.

42 44 44 45 45 46 47

Stay up to date on events, sports, and news from Adams State University:

www.adams.edu/news

◗ griz got talent is a spring tradition showcasing students’ extracurricular abilities, ranging from classical to contemporary arts, as demonstrated by Annelore Trujillo (left), Rachel Kresl (below left), and Derek Brown and Chaz Butler (below right).

◗

◗ 12 hours of art annually challenges participants to create through the night.

standing strong for

◗ 4

◗

aStater summer 2016

women's week guest speaker Leora Tanenbuam discussed “Slut Shaming in the Age of the Internet,” which explored the experience of growing up in a culture of slut-bashing and slut-shaming and ways to reform this culture.

◗

Orlando brought together campus and community members in June to share in the nation’s grief and decry hate crimes and terrorism.

Campus Minister Shirley Atencio addressed the group who gathered for a Circle of Hope and Healing on the Richardson Hall lawn.

what’s been

happening ◗

Shepherdson her diploma. Stacey began her coursework in Singapore through Adams State Extended Studies and completed her final year on campus.

◗

earn a degree from Adams State. The tradition began with his greatgrandfather, Hartley Owsley ’36 and continued to his grandfather, Chuck Owsley ‘68 (far left), his mother, Kathy Soden '89 (second from right) and his uncle Jeff Owsley '86 (second from left). Bowen’s younger brother is a new freshman, joining two cousins already on campus.

president beverlee j. mcclure (left) presents Stacey Faith

This spring, ASU awarded 271 bachelor's degrees, 91 associate's degrees, and 346 master’s degrees. Of the undergraduates, 78 completed their degrees through Extended Studies distance education programs, including 21 incarcerated students enrolled in the Prison College program.

See page 12 to read about the Commencement address, given by Placido Gomez ‘75, ‘76.

aStater latest editions

◗

bowen soden (center) represents the fourth generation of his family to

5

academic pursuits dr. leslie alvarez, professor of psychology, presented several sessions at the rocky mountain psychological association conference and concluded her third year serving the association as President Elect, President, and Past President. She also completed part two of the American Psychological Association’s Leadership Institute for Women in Psychology. dr. kristy duran, asst. professor of biology, served on the ford foundation fellowship Program’s review panel for the Ecological, Environmental, & Evolutionary Sciences. Also, she was awarded a grant of $52,120 toward a LI-COR Ecophysiology Package, presented by the LI-COR Environmental Education Fund (LEEF). In addition, Duran spoke at Northern New Mexico College about how her research influences her teaching and vice versa. The paper Duran published last year with alumni vance barksdale ‘13 and marcus newell ‘13 won the McClung Award for the best paper published in the journal BIOS for year 2015, titled “Nuclear intergenic DNA sequence divergence in a Texas dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium divaricatum) population.” dr. tracy doyle, professor of music, was as a winner of the national flute association Convention Performers Competition and performed in the Newly Published Music concert in San Diego in August. Under her direction, the ASU Flute Ensemble performed an outreach concert at The Bridge retirement community in Alamosa. The group performed a wide variety of repertoire that highlighted academic achievements from their chamber music class.

dr. jeff elison, asst. professor of psychology, presented “Humiliation: Recent Advances and Future Directions” at the rocky mountain psychological association conference. He also authored an invited entry on that topic for the Encyclopedia of Adolescence, which is in press.

jess gagliardi ‘11, ‘12, ‘15, instructor of developmental education, presented a poster, “Equality for All? Miscegenation and Same-Sex Marriage Law Connections,” at the western political science association Conference in San Diego. He presented another poster, “The Dark Side of Decisions: Presidential Censorship,” at the midwest political science association conference in Chicago.

dr. robert kirk, asst. professor of psychology, coauthored “Aging and ageism: The roles of identity processing styles and self-consciousness,” which was published by nova science publishers in C. Fields’ (Ed.) Stereotypes and stereotyping: Misperceptions, perspectives, and role of social media.

continued on page 8

6

◗

aStater summer 2016

Trustees reappoint Dr. McClure for three years the board of trustees for adams state university voted unanimously to renew president beverlee j. mcclure’s contract for the next three years.

McClure’s multi-year contract maintains her current salary of $205,000 per year, with possible bonuses based on performance, through July 2019.

“In the ten months Dr. McClure has been here, she has demonstrated she is highly valuable to this institution. She is a pleasure to work with; she is high-energy, transparent, and very strategic,” said Board Chair Arnold Salazar ‘76 at the April Trustee meeting. “President McClure has set a course for the university that, in time, will allow us to correct our administrative and financial challenges. We have a leader who can take ASU to a great place.”

Adams State’s tenth president, McClure assumed the post in mid-June 2015. “I am very happy to be here. Together with all of you, we are going to make Adams State even greater than it is now. That’s why I wanted to stay here,” McClure said. “I am confident that with the leadership of our board and the incredible commitment of our staff, faculty, and leadership team, we will see a turnaround in the next three years.”

Trustee Paul Farley, who chaired the presidential search committee, noted, “The most important job of a board is to hire its leader. We have made a good decision.” Trustee John Singletary echoed that sentiment “We are behind the president 100 percent.”

The trustees praised McClure’s work ethic and noted her success in building partnerships throughout the San Luis Valley and with the state legislature.

McClure’s impact on campus was noted by the student and faculty trustees, as well. “I have never seen such a great working relationship between the president and student government. I have also enjoyed watching and learning

Adams State President Beverlee J. McClure (center) was among several female heads of Colorado colleges and universities who were recognized at a Women in Higher Education Event held March 29 at the Denver Public Library in coordination with the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame.

Dr. McClure accepts a certificate from (former) Colorado Lt. Governor Joe Garcia and Betty Heid, chair of the board for the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame.

from Dr. McClure’s leadership,” said Student Trustee Azarel Madrigal ‘16.

(See story page 22.)

Dr. Rob Benson, faculty trustee and professor of geology and earth sciences, noted the faculty are also optimistic. “In spite of all that has come at us, President McClure has inspired and motivated the campus. The mood is very energetic around here.”

Legacy of Dr. John Marvel lives on at Adams State Adams State University is saddened by the July 28 death of its fourth president, Dr. John A. Marvel, who was 94. He headed Adams State from 1966-1977, then became president of the System of State Colleges and Universities Consortium in Colorado. In 1977, he was also installed as president of the American Association of State College and Universities.

“Dr. Marvel fostered shared governance and campus dialog during a time of often turbulent social change in our country and on campus,” said Adams State President Beverlee J. McClure. “That was also a time of growth and maturation for the college. Student enrollment grew to 3,073 in 1970, a record that stood until 2009. Dr. Marvel’s tenure saw construction of new dormitories, the College Center, and a new library.

He also helped initiate the Adams State Foundation in order to provide scholarships and other important resources.”

John Marvel ‘70, an ASU Foundation emeritus board member, said of his father, “He was considered very much a role model by the people that he taught. He lived a loving and caring life, and he had a very successful professional life, I think, because he was a humble and bright guy who was dedicated to education.”

In 2006, Adams State renamed its renovated president’s residence “The Marvel House” to recognize the contributions of Dr. Marvel and his late wife of 68 years, Frances. They had three children, including Merrill Martin (Jay), John ‘70 (Betti), and Kim (Connie ‘75); six grandchildren, and ten great grandchildren.

The Marvels received honorary doctorate degrees at Adams State's 1982 Spring Commencement, and Dr. Marvel gave the spring 2007 commencement address. The Adams State Foundation presented the Marvels with its highest honor, the Willis Fassett Jr. Award, in 2009.

Among his additional honors, Dr. Marvel was inducted into Adams State’s Educator’s Hall of Fame in 2015.

Highlights of Dr. Marvel’s presidency is the focal point of Mostly Marvelous, a history of Adams State from 1966-1981, by Emeritus Professor of English Don Stegman ’61, ‘64.

ues. His family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Marvel Family Academic Enrichment Series endowment to support annual presentations on campus by nationally known speakers.

Memorial gifts may be sent to the ASU Foundation, 208 Edgemont, Alamosa, CO, 81101. For more information, please call 719-587-7122.

History Colorado's State Historical Fund (SHF) awarded Adams State a grant of $25,473 to restore the exterior of the university’s Marvel House, which serves as the President’s Residence. ASU will provide a 25 percent match ($8,492) to the grant, according to Tawney Becker, ASU grant specialist.

The grant will fund development of construction documents to rehabilitate the home’s stucco exterior and improve its energy efficiency and access. Constructed in 1932, the structure is included in the City of Alamosa Historic Registry.

It was renamed “The Marvel House” in 2006, in honor of ASU’s fourth president, Dr. John Marvel, and his wife, Frances (see story above).

“This is an excellent example of the Spanish Colonial Revival style, popular in the 1920s and ‘30s,” Becker noted.

“Preserving and maintaining one of the campus’s most visible and well-known historic buildings contributes to the campus identity and sense of place,” said Scott Travis, associate vice president for Facilities Planning, Design, and Construction.

aStater latest editions

◗

history colorado funds marvel house preservation

dr. marvel’s commitment to Adams State students contin-

7

academic pursuits Sophomore percussion performance and music education major kevin johnson competed with the winter guard international (WGI) Independent Marching Percussion Group, “Altitude,” at the WGI World Championships at the University of Dayton.

dr. adam kleinschmit, asst. professor of biology, had his original peer-reviewed teaching case study accepted for publication by the NSF-supported national center for case study teaching in science (NCCST) SUNY University at Buffalo.

asu’s lost and found improv troupe, directed by Asst. Professor of Theatre jenna neilsen, traveled to Chicago over spring break for workshops at the worldrenowned Second City Training Center. The week-long intensive focused on the troupe and long-form improvisation. dr. michael mumper ‘76, professor of History, Anthropology, Philosophy, Political Science, Spanish, wrote the chapter, “The Federal Government and Higher Education,” in American Higher Education in the 21st Century (4th edition) by Michael Bastedo, Philip Altbach, and Patricia Gumport. It was published in 2016 by johns hopkins university press.

Eight students went to the national american chemical society meeting in San Diego during March and were given a Commendable Award for the club’s participation in the 2014/2015 school year. Students

samantha sargent and edgar pinedo escobedo gave presentations.

All 14 Adams State University participants in the recent 2016 phi beta lambda (pbl) state leadership conference qualified to compete at this summer’s National Leadership Conference. Adams State’s Chance Padilla was elected PBL State President.

dr. r. nathan pipitone, assoc. professor of psychology, had his paper, “Variation in Men’s Masculinity Affects Preferences for Women’s Voices at Different Points in the Menstrual Cycle,” accepted for publication in the journal evolutionary behavioral sciences.

Physical geography majors seth clock and cory ott presented their own research with dr. jared beeton at the annual association of american geographers conference in San Francisco. Their presentation was “An Undergraduate Researcher’s Guide to Building a Geomorphic GIS Database.”

Ten members of the HPPE department attended the

rocky mountain american college of sports medicine (RMACSM) annual conference in Denver during April. The group was led by dr. tracey robinson, who, as a board member of the RMACSM, helped organize the conference.

8

◗

aStater summer 2016

adams state to enhance ethics education through program with daniels fund and uccs Adams State University is among nine colleges and universities participating in the Southern Colorado Higher Education Consortium Ethics Program.

With the goal of broadening principlebased ethics education, the pilot program is led by the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs (UCCS) in conjunction with the Denver-based Daniels Fund. The program commits $120,000 toward training, support, and engagement with the cooperating schools over the next four years.

“This is going to be great,” said Dr. Zena Buser, professor of business, who is Adams State’s Ethics Champion for the project. “While I am quite sure we already convey ethical principles across campus, this added focus will provide continuity for students and help them

prioritize those considerations when they enter their careers. I would like to bring something multi-disciplinary that is applicable across campus. The focus will be on teaching.”

By collaborating with others in the program, Buser will develop teaching processes, participate in Faculty Roundtables, and provide professional development for Adams State faculty.

A key developmental window exists in young adults between the ages of 2030 when basic problem-solving strategies used to address ethical issues are molded, according to psychologist James Rest, who has conducted contemporary research in the field of moral development. This is linked to fundamental changes in how a person perceives his or her role in society.

boettcher teacher residents receive licensure Adams State’s Boettcher Teacher Residency (BTR) program presented teacher licensure to 18 San Luis Valley teacher residents June 1.

Nearly all of the residents have secured teaching positions for this fall, which will be their final semester in the Master of Arts in Education program, according to Lynn Crowder, the program’s advisor and site coordinator.

The BTR program works to prepare more teachers for low-income, rural, and urban public schools. In partnership with the Boettcher Foundation and the Public Education & Business Coalition (PEBC), Adams State offers the BTR residency in three regions: the San Luis Valley, Southwest Colorado, and Denver Metro, with a total of 67 teacher residents. Adams State is the

sole educational partner in awarding master's degrees for program participants across the state.

Dr. Belle Faust, PEBC's executive director of the BTR, told the residents that school superintendents working to address the state's teacher shortage have said they want more Boettcher teachers.

Statewide, 5,500 teachers will retire this year, but only 2,000 students will graduate with teaching degrees.

ASU 2020, the university’s strategic plan for 2016-20, details five overarching goals that dovetail to promote student success and academic achievement. In particular, the goals include initiatives to provide challenging, responsive curricula; varied learning opportunities; and support services that educate, serve, and inspire Adams State’s diverse student body. Also crucial are continued efforts to keep an ASU education affordable.

The plan will guide the university’s initiatives and budget priorities over the next five years. Each goal includes a set of specific strategic initiatives and activities to further its attainment. The goals include: Goal 1: Academic Excellence Goal 2: Student Success Goal 3: Personal and Professional Development Goal 4: Access & Affordability Goal 5: Community Relations “It’s difficult to project five years into the future, so this is definitely a living document that will allow us to respond to changes in the external environment,” said Adams State President Beverlee J. McClure. “The plan includes outcomes and measures assessment. New budget requests must tie to one of these goals.”

ASU 2020 may be viewed online: adams.edu/pubs/asu-2020-board-approved.pdf qualified san luis valley high school students are eligible to receive federal Pell grants to attend dual-enrollment courses from Adams State University through a new, experimental project of the Department of Education. Adams State is the only Colorado institution selected as one of 44 colleges and universities nationwide to participate. Walter Roybal ‘94, ‘08, associate vice president for Extended Studies-Academics, estimates about 400 valley students will be served.

“Many area school districts do not have the resources to transport students to campus, or to cover their tuition costs,” he said. Adams State will use existing online courses and develop live, two-way video streaming models, so students can take courses during the school day at their own schools. They will earn both high school and Adams State credit, speeding progress toward a college degree while minimizing cost. an office for graduate studies is being formed to enhance support for graduate students, both on campus and at a distance. Adams State offers eleven graduate programs, with ten at the master’s level and one at the doctorate level. The university’s graduate student enrollment has doubled in the last 16 years and now represents one-third of total enrollment.

President Beverlee J. McClure explained, “We will have a one-stop for students, with standardized and streamlined admissions procedures. This will give us greater capacity as we add graduate programs.” a new emphasis in english was approved for the Master’s in Humanities program. Geared to middle and high school teachers, it will offer two tracks: a 30credit-hour Master of Arts program, and an 18-credit-hour certificate in Graduate English Studies. Both tracks will provide teachers qualification to teach college level classes in high school, which requires 18 graduate credits in their content area. a new master of science degree program in applied sport psychology will be offered beginning in fall 2016. This 36-credit-hour program will be offered on campus, allowing students to gain mentoring and applied experience. The M.S. will prepare students for careers in applied sport psychology, as well as for doctoral study or certification with the Association for Applied Sport Psychology.

academic pursuits Graduate students dustin oranchuk and zach switaj presented three posters of their research results at the rocky mountain american college of sports medicine Conference. Oranchuk also presented his poster at the 10th annual coaches and sport science college, hosted by East Tennessee State Univ.

Adams State’s rocky mountain pan handlers steel band, under the direction of Assistant Professor of Music james doyle, recently performed for over 1,300 students at 11 performances over three days. Sponsored by the Music in the Mountains Summer Music Festival in Durango, the events also allowed interaction with students from pre-K to 12.

Five sociology majors presented their research at the

10th annual western slope undergraduate sociology symposium, held at Fort Lewis College in Durango. Students from Western, Mesa, Fort Lewis and Adams participate in the symposium, which will be held at ASU next spring.

The ninth annual student scholar days, held on campus in April, featured oral presentations and posters on current issues and studies in their respective fields by ASU undergraduates. Award winners included: Best Abstract: • 1st, russell geminden and garrett visser, biology • 2nd, azarel madrigal, political science ( page 22) • 3rd, john whitinger and alex mullins, biology Best Poster: • 1st, john whitinger and alex mullins • 2nd, russell geminden and garrett visser • 3rd ryan miller, cellular and molecular biology, and christian nenninger, chemistry and molecular biology Best Oral Presentation: • 1st, jackson espeset and david sheppard, HPPE • 2nd lenore reinhart, psychology (page 19) • 3rd, kole kelly, agribusiness The ASU chapter of the tri-beta national biological honor society hosted the 2016 Western-1 Regional Undergraduate Research Conference on campus in April. Seven ASU students presented their research: christian nenniger won first place for cellular/molecular oral presentation; alex mullins and john whitinger placed first for overall poster presentation, and ryan miller placed second. First place award winners received a $750 travel stipend to attend and compete at the National Tri-Beta conference.

continued on page 10

aStater latest editions

◗

Student success a strategic priority

9

academic pursuits continued from page 9 sunayna wahi received the 2016 Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists’ Neal J. Harr Memorial Outstanding Student Award, as well as the Association of Women Geoscientists Outstanding Student Award for 2016. (See story page 25.)

dr. benjamin waddell, assoc. professor of sociology, received the 2016 tom l. popejoy dissertation prize for best dissertation in the social sciences from the last three years, presented by the University of New Mexico’s Office of Graduate Studies.

His dissertation was titled “The Political Economy of Remittance-led Development in Guanajuato, Mexico.”

Waddell presented at the 63rd Annual Conference of the Rocky Mountain Council for Latin American Studies and at the University of Guanajuato, where he spoke about emigration and crime in modern Mexico. angelica valdez ‘98, ‘08, director of Upward Bound, was named a 2016 aspire trio achiever for the State of Colorado. The award recognizes former TRiO participants who have completed their degrees and current TRiO participants who have a record of achievement and stature within their academic institution and/or profession.

chemistry and math profs named 2015-16 exemplary faculty Dr. Christy Miller ’92 , professor of chemistry, and Dr. Tony Weathers, professor of mathematics, received Exemplary Faculty Awards for the 2015-16 academic year.

To qualify for selection, faculty must earn an exemplary evaluation in teaching effectiveness and another exemplary evaluation in scholarly/creative activity and/or service.

Miller, who has taught at her alma mater for 15 years, earned her Ph.D. from the University of Arizona in 1998.

She recently completed service as president of Adam State’s Faculty Senate; this coming year she will chair the Department of Chemistry, Computer Science and Mathematics. Miller was recommended for the award “based on her persistent record of outstanding student evaluation, efficacious role as Faculty Senate President, and readiness to volunteer for department service.”

Weathers has taught at Adams State since 2005, having earned a B.S. from Mercer University-Macon in 1991 and

This year’s Exemplary Faculty are Dr. Tony Weathers (left) and Dr. Christy Miller ‘92.

an M.S. and Ph.D. from Auburn University in 1993 and 1998, respectively.

His recommendation cited his dedication to constantly refining the craft of teaching, his work on the Euclid project, and his significant and productive contributions in departmental, university, and community activities.”

earth week focused on sustainability A Save the Planet Festival, river clean-up, tree-planting, bake sale, talent show, concert, and two lunchtime lectures highlighted the ninth annual ASU Earth Week celebration. The events were coordinated by ASU’s sustainability group, EARTH (Environmental Action for Resources, Transportation, and Health).

“The purpose of EARTH is two-fold. First is to provide education on sustainability on campus, and the second is to actually do things on campus,” said Dr. Jared Beeton, professor of earth sciences and coordinator of EARTH. The keynote speaker on April 18 was Auden Schendler, vice president of Aspen Ski Company and author of Getting Green Done. He discussed the realities and challenges of climate change, as well as potential solutions.

“The SLV Hemp Project” was the topic addressed April 20 by Arnold Valdez ‘79. Adams State has been collaborating on the project with Valdez’s Resolana Institute in San Luis, Colo., and Fibershed, a California firm working to develop a regenerative textile system. Two primary hemp products are fiber for clothing, paper and more; and hemp bricks for construction.

On Earth Day, April 22, EARTH coordinated planting of two spring snow crabapple trees to replace some of the aged trees that were removed from campus in December. Grounds supervisor Kevin Ruybal said Adams State is beginning the process required to be designated a Tree Campus USA. Planting trees and developing a tree maintenance plan are part of the requirements.

Student members of ASU EARTH plant two spring snow crabapples along the south campus walkway. EARTH and ASU Grounds contributed the trees, which were generously discounted by North River Greenhouse.

10

◗

aStater summer 2016

Nursing students learn the small things can make a big difference in honduras, children must have the appropriate black shoes to attend school. when they outgrow them, there’s usually no money for a new pair. so, in addition to health care supplies and service, adams state nursing students brought 6,000 pairs of shoes with them when they journeyed to the island of roatan, honduras, on a medical mission in april. ble. AS&F contributed about half of the trip’s $25,000 cost, and ASU Athletics teamed up with the Alamosa Chili’s restaurant to donate another $1,500. The students also solicited a large amount of medical supplies from local health care providers.

“We cannot thank our generous community enough for all their help in getting us there,” Atkins said. The group was accompanied by Paul Wertz ’12, visiting asst. professor of nursing; Karen Adamson, asst. professor of nursing; and two local nurses who paid their own expenses to help.

Stephanie Atkins (above, at right) helps conduct vision tests.

The nursing students were very popular as they distributed 6,000 pairs of shoes donated by TOMS shoes (below.)

Such outreach has become an annual tradition for nursing students. “This has become a very student-driven activity,” Wertz said. He’d taken the journey himself as part of Adams State’s first class of Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) graduates.

Atkins observed that most tourists to Roatan spend their time in expensive resorts. “But away from the beaches, there is a lot of poverty they probably never see. Sixty-five percent of the population lives in poverty; 35 percent live in extreme poverty.”

Her journey inspired Atkins to return to Honduras, possibly as a midwife. “It costs $15 to stay in the public hospital, so most women have their babies at home. I might be able to educate them on how to safely have a baby at home.”

aStater latest editions

◗

“It was eye-opening, to be culturally immersed like that, as far as medical training goes. It was really empowering,” said Stephanie Atkins ’16, who’d never been to Central America before.

“We learned that the smallest thing can make the largest difference, and that’s beautiful. We handed out shoes, and the kids smiled. The way it affects their lives on a day-to-day basis is impressive.” Honduras is the second poorest county in Central America.

Twelve nursing seniors participated in the two-week mission, coordinated

by Clinica Esperanza, as part of their clinical health/clinical rotation. They presented health fairs and screenings, and provided education on diabetes and dental hygiene.

The footwear was donated by TOMS Shoes. Adams State and the local community also helped make the trip possi-

11

placido gomez ‘75, ‘76

Speaker calls grads to the table commencement speakers typically laud graduates’ accomplishments and encourage them to become lifelong learners, to engage in community service, to use their talents to improve the world. on may 14, placido gomez ‘75, ‘76 brought an urgency to those messages with a dose of reality – and a call for the graduates to “take your seat at the table” and help resolve the world’s problems.

Placido Gomez drew upon his experiences in the justice system in addressing the Class of 2016.

ASU awarded 362 degrees at spring commencement, including 271 bachelor's degrees and 91 associate’s degrees.

Seventy-eight graduates completed their degrees through Extended Studies distance education programs, including 21 incarcerated students enrolled in the Prison College program. A law professor and criminal defense attorney, Gomez recognized this statistic during his comments and said, “I’ve never been so proud to be a graduate of Adams State. You’re doing something that no other school in the nation is doing.”

Adams State President Beverlee J. McClure said Gomez has carried the values of his alma mater throughout his career, demonstrating his commitment to the education of minority students.

Gomez said, “We live in a world with some serious problems. Things are not getting any easier. We need you and your perspective and ideas and skills at the table where decisions are being made.”

With a B.A. in elementary education and M.A. in guidance and counseling from Adams State, Gomez earned a 12

◗

aStater summer 2016

Juris Doctor degree from University of New Mexico Law School and a Master of Laws degree from Yale Law School.

Gomez shared four anecdotes concerning issues related to Native America, world hunger, America’s criminal justice system, and Central American immigration to the U.S. Now a visiting professor of law at the University of La Verne College of Law, he told of a harsh realization he gained when he accompanied his law students to observe criminal court. “One of the rookie law students poked me and nodded towards the inmates. ‘Professor Gomez,’ she whispered, kind of half laughing, but more as a challenge, ‘Is this the courtroom for Blacks and Mexicans?’ . . . There were a dozen or so prisoners, in their orange jumpsuits, in handcuffs. They were all poor, all people of color.

“The worst thing was, I was oblivious; it’s not that I didn’t see that all the prisoners were Black or Brown – it’s that it was the norm for me, and it had not registered. That was the student’s

challenge to me: ‘You’re a lawyer. This happened on your watch.’

“I know that the United States has 2.2 million people in jail, far more than any other country. And 7 million on probation,” he said. “A recent report by the Department of Justice indicated that 75 percent of the inmates in federal prisons for drug related crimes are Black or Brown. Seventy-five percent.” He then cited author Michelle Alexander’s book, The New Jim Crow, which states more Blacks are under the control of the criminal justice system today than there were slaves in 1860.

What’s more, Gomez said, the number of women in jail increased 700% since 1980, with Native American girls eight times more likely to be imprisoned than whites.

Nevertheless, Gomez said he was optimistic. “Class of 2016: It’s your time; your watch has begun. We need you; we need you to take your seats at the table; we need you to take those seats now.”

Elizabeth Streeter, who completed her B.S. in Business Administration-Accounting, gave the message on behalf of the graduating class. She is a third-generation Adams State grad, the granddaughter of the late Dr. Marv Motz ‘58, ‘59, emeritus professor of psychology and two-time interim president.

“He taught me Grizzly pride every day,” Streeter said. “I always dreamed of attending Adams State. Green was my favorite color early on. It’s been everything I hoped it would be.”

Streeter told her fellow graduates, “Great things can happen in small places. You do matter, and you can make a difference. We must be aware of our actions and our power.” Referencing a quote from Mahatma Gandhi, she said, “Now it is our turn to take what we learned from these wonderful people . . . let’s shake the world.”

By Julie Waechter

Wendell Pryor and Michele Lueck named to ASU Trustees colorado governor john w. hickenlooper recently appointed wendell lorenzo pryor, of denver and salida, and michele j. lueck, of englewood, to the board of trustees for adams state university.

wendall lorenzo pryor The former State of Colorado Civil Rights Director, Pryor believes his experience in higher education as an adjunct professor/lecturer/senior fellow will allow him to better understand the challenges Adams State is facing.

Now director of the Chaffee County Economic Development Corporation, Pryor is also an adjunct professor/lecturer with the University of Colorado School of Public Affairs and was recently appointed a Senior Fellow for the Buechner Institute with the School of Public Affairs.

“With regard to workforce development, my experience in economic development and human resources can assist in identifying career pathways for students to gain employment in emerging industries such as unmanned aerial systems and vehicles, agriculture, and technology. Also, I have advocated for un-served and underserved populations and promoted entrepreneurship, which are areas of awareness and opportunity for the university.”

Pryor retired as the State of Colorado Civil Rights Director and has extensive executive level management experience in civil rights, human resources, and nonprofit management in Colorado and California. A former lobbyist and social entrepreneur, he served as chair of the Foundation Board for Innovage, a senior care organization, and on its Board of Directors.

Pryor holds a law degree from the University of Denver, a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Colorado, and an undergraduate degree from Western State Colorado University. He does consulting with law enforcement and with underrepresented and underserved populations.

Most recently, he consulted on broadband deployment to rural areas and provided training on racial bias to the City of Boulder, Colorado, Police Department.

michelle lueck The president and CEO of the Colorado Health Institute, Lueck brings a variety of perspectives to the board from her experience as a parent, a health care expert, and employer. Always a strong supporter of public education, she understands the importance of an informed electorate, as well as educated consumers, particularly health care consumers.

"I see the need to train and nurture our next generation of workers and leaders in an ever-changing economy. My commitment to invest in public education and to chart the strategic direction of ASU will assist our growth and development," she said.

With nearly 20 years of health care experience, Lueck has worked for organizations that inform health care delivery and policy decisions with Michele J. Lueck (above) and Wendell research, data, and insight.

Pryor were recently appointed to the Previously, she held leaderAdams State Board of Trustees. ship roles in two healthrelated nonprofits on Colorado's Western Slope. Before entering the nonprofit world, she worked at Sg2 and Thomson Reuters. She has consulted with many nonprofits, including the Children's Health Foundation, the Aspen Medical Foundation, and the Redford Center (previously the Sundance Preserve). Leuck has an undergraduate degree from Harvard and a master's degree from the University of Melbourne, Australia.

Her goals as trustee are to help the university create a solid financial foundation and ensure programmatic and academic offerings meet the needs of southern Colorado, its residents – particularly under-represented minorities, first-generation students and low-income students – and the state as a whole.

"Contributors to our economy and society in years to come will be flexible, adaptive, and strategic thinkers," Lueck said. "Cultivating critical thinking and equipping students with the skills they need now and in the future is paramount."

By Linda Relyea ‘96, ‘10

aStater latest editions

◗

“Both of these new trustees bring very relevant experiences to Adams State that complement our mission and will further our success,” said Adams State President Beverlee J. McClure.

13

linda reid ’96

Teaching at ASU fulfilled dreams by 10:15 in the morning, dr. linda reid ’96 has gone over half a dozen formulas and reviewed the study guide with her business students. more than once she asked, “what time is the exam? remember to come in early and read your study guide to prepare.”

Although Reid has a keen fashion sense, she doesn’t put on airs. Today she’s dressed in a black jacket with feathered trim, glasses that sport rhinestones, and jeweled rings that adorn her manicured fingers.

She always has a smile on her face,” said Angela Prentiss ’16. “For us students, it is the little things that brighten our day.” Reid keeps students engaged

and interested as she clarifies expectations. She stocks a basket of mini chocolate bars to supply them with a little energy boost. Reid genuinely wants her students to succeed and often says, “Put that down,” cueing students to take notes on what she just covered.

She shows genuine concern for her students and welcomes feedback. “Students are our number one priority,” Reid said.

Pamela (Bond) Klecker ’10 said Reid teaches students to focus on the essentials and not sweat the small stuff. “She 14

◗

aStater summer 2016

always drove home the major points, topics, concerns, etc., as applicable to the business world you would be entering. She taught you to be practical and relevant in a very big business world.”

dream come true Encouraged by her good friend and mentor, Dr. Carl Coolbaugh, emeritus professor of business, Reid joined ASU’s School of Business in 1997, fulfilling her childhood dream of becoming a teacher.

“Nothing is more rewarding than watching students grasp a subject and embrace it,” she said. “I am proud to be teaching at a Hispanic Serving Institution with many first generation students.”

Her commitment is reflected in the awards she’s received, most recently, the M-PBEA 2016 College/University Business Educator of the Year. She received Emeritus Professor of Business status this spring.

Reid’s commitment is obvious. “She truly cares about her students and will go the extra mile to make sure they succeed,” Prentiss said. “Not only does Linda excel regarding classroom content, but she also makes her classes fun. She uses humor to help keep students engaged during long lectures and adjusts her style to fit the needs of the class. She is always there to help and offer encouragement to a struggling student. Her passion for teaching makes a difference in the lives of students daily.”

Reid has taught undergraduate classes, extended campus classes, workshops, and MBA online courses. Her

specialties include Fraud/Forensic Accounting and Leadership Management, and she’s taught a range of other courses, as well.

real world experience “The School of Business is a diverse group of faculty who bring years of experience with them,” Reid said. “That provides students learning opportunities that go far beyond their textbooks.”

Reid’s previous positions include interim director of Alamosa’s Small Business Development Center and assistant brewmaster for Stroh’s Brewing Company in Winston-Salem, NC. Klecker admires Reid as a mentor and professor. “She just loves people.

This is manifest in the relationships she has in the classroom and beyond with students. We knew she genuinely cared about each of us. I am blessed not only to call her my teacher, but also my friend.”

Reid earned a D.B.A. from Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; a Master of Business Administration from Wake Forest University; and two Bachelor of Science degrees, one from Colorado State University and another from Adams State.

Reid will continue teaching at Adams State next year, as she transitions into retirement. She is married, with two stepchildren and five grandchildren. Her retirement goals include taking Road Scholar Trips, both domestically and abroad, and visiting many U.S. National Parks.

By Linda Relyea, ‘96, ‘10

Bookends of the Adams State Bookstore: Martinez and Meis ‘81 retire they finish each other’s sentences, remember special moments over the course of 25 years working together, and fondly reminisce about children, students, and other favorites. darrell meis ’81 and loretta martinez retired from the adams state bookstore this spring. throughout inventory, book buy-backs, summer sidewalk sales, and the day-to-day running of the business, they have enjoyed their careers.

After 25 years of operating the ASU Bookstore together, Darrel Meis ‘81 (above) and Loretta Martinez (left, with work-study student Kole Kelley ‘16) both recently retired.

estimate it takes a full year to become fully proficient working at the bookstore.”

Staff need to experience a full calendar year, because varius aspects occur in different seasons.

Ken Marquez ’87, ‘94, vice president for Student Services, has worked with Meis for nearly 15 years. “I liked Darrell's sense of humor best. He always had a smile on his face and was laughing about something. I loved that he made the ASU Bookstore more than just a store,” Marquez added. “He held Halloween costume contests and Easter egg hunts and other fun things to get students in the store.”

For both Martinez and Meis, interacting with Adams State’s diverse group of students, staff, and faculty has made their jobs interesting.

Martinez said, “We work with people from all different walks of life. In the last few years we have also dealt with inmates, who call in for books and supplies (through the Extended Studies Prison Program).”

“Loretta is one of the hardest working people I ever had the pleasure of working with,” Kelley said. For her part, Martinez can’t imagine a better career. “I really loved working here,” she said. Meis agreed: “I have always loved my job and being in the bookstore.”

By Linda Relyea, ‘96, ‘10

aStater great stories

◗

Many students have held work-study positions at the Bookstore through the decades. “We have now had children of former work-study students come in and apply for a position,” said Meis, director of the Adams State Bookstore and Grizzly Den convenience store.

Martinez, Bookstore program assistant, remembers when they employed up to 26 students during an academic year. “They come in so young, often with no work experience,” she said. “We watch them mature and become confident adults.”

Kole Kelley ’16 worked in the Bookstore for the last three years. “My favorite aspect of working there was by far the people I got to work with.

Darrell always put me in a good mood, and Loretta always made me feel like the work I was doing was valued.” Now interning with the State Land Board of Colorado, he said, “I have already begun to apply customer relations, inventory management, and time management.”

The college bookstore business has evolved over the past decades, especially in the last few years. Martinez’ office reflects some of the older supplies mixed in with newer technology. An electric typewriter sits on her desk; the shelves behind her stand empty, because inventory and other records are now stored in electronic systems.

“Our back storeroom used to fill with pallets of books at the beginning of the fall semester. Now, apparel, keepsakes, and supplies take up the vast majority of floor space,” she said.

Meis noted, “The way professors teach has changed,” referring to a more hands-on and interactive pedagogy, rather than strict classroom lecture and assigned readings. “We have seen a lot of changes, and just roll with them.”

But just as students now purchase their textbooks online or use a “borrowing” site, the ASU Bookstore closed its doors on the past, and the operation was outsourced to a commercial business.

Meis said Martinez was his “first and last hire.” She definitely knows the intricacies of her job after 25 years. “I would

15

“Doc” Newman takes his final bow days turn into nights, which turn into weekends as a play is produced. from the first audition to readthrough, blocking, and dress rehearsal, until the curtain rises on opening night, dr. paul s. “doc” newman directs, designs and builds sets, designs lighting and sound – bringing stories to life on stage.

He manages to inspire his students in the classroom and under the spotlight. “One of the pluses of my job is seeing these students all day long. I am very fond of them all.”

Kaitlyn-Dawn Perham-Dinner ‘12 appreciated Newman’s honesty. “He would say what was on his mind and helped me develop honesty with myself.” Now a teacher in Greeley, Colo., Perham-Dinner practices the same compassion for her students.

“He stressed the importance of listening to students, on and off stage.”

“Sometimes the most shallow and stupid idea leads down the deepest path,” Newman said. As a teenager, he saw girls apply grease paint on his

16

◗

aStater summer 2016

actor friends – that led to a professional career in theatre and teaching.

“At first, it was the perks of having attractive girls touch my face.” But by his senior year in high school, Newman had acted in three plays, and went on to study theatre in college.

“I realized I am not a good actor,” Newman said. “I am constantly looking at the whole forest, not the tree that was me.” Fortunately for two decades of theatre students, ASU’s Theatre program, and Adams State as a whole, Newman did excel at directing, set design and building, and other technical aspects of theatre.

Newman made students feel needed. “We all knew we were integral to the sustainability of the program,” Ben Butler ’09 said.

passion for teaching As with many in the profession, Newman was inspired to pursue his passion for teaching by a high school English teacher. “My junior year, an English professor introduced a whole new dynamic in teaching. He was engaging, funny, collegial, and I knew I wanted to love my work just as he

did, I wanted to teach English and direct plays.”

Newman received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota and landed his first job “in heaven.” He taught English in a small town in Minnesota along the Mississippi River. He managed to spread his passion for theatre to the high school students, taking four one-act plays to state competition. “One of our productions was the only play to ever receive a standing ovation.”

After 13 years in the public school system, Newman wanted a change. “I had great fun and had directed all I wanted to do, but I was a one-man band and was tired of being responsible for everything.” He returned to the University of Minnesota.

“It was still the dark ages,” Newman said. The program prepared theatre doctoral candidates for everything, from theatre history to machine shop, setting lights, designing tech, and directing. “Graduate education has changed: everyone is expected to become a specialist, not a generalist, as I was.”

“

he stressed the importance of listening to students.”

- Kaitlyn-Dawn Perham-Dinner ‘12

A year after finishing his Ph.D., Newman readily joined the Adams State faculty once he met his English department colleagues.

“When I first started (fall 1992), theatre was more of a club than a major or program. We chose plays based on how many students were available, rather than content,” Newman said.

“I love the ASU Theatre program.

We had a lot of autonomy when we were housed on the second floor of Richardson Hall, because few people came to see us.” All that changed when an architectural firm consulted with Newman on plans for a new performance space. He credits thenpresident Dr. Tom Gilmore ’67, ‘68, emeritus professor of business, with obtaining state construction funds.

“One of my greatest experiences was being involved in the process of designing and building the Theatre Building.”

Completed in 2001, the building breathed new life into the professors and swelled enrollment in the theatre program. By the mid-2000s, it peaked with over 60 majors. “It was overwhelming. Now, we are right where we should be, 40-50.”

Even after all these years, opening night continues to fill Newman with a “palpable electric current.” He always wears his tuxedo for opening night, even for the student productions. “I have learned to be a little calmer and rely on the students, especially the stage manager, to take care of all the details.”

Dessa (Donnelly) Baxman ’95 called Newman a “solid, professional, fair man. I have the utmost respect for him. He was a patriarch to this theatre.”

Newman appreciates both comedy and drama, but finds comedy more challenging. “There is a precision in the pacing of comedy you don’t need in drama. It is something you can attempt to teach, but in my experience, is very intuitive.” His ability to bring out that innate comic timing in student actors made for many great productions on the Main Stage, including an audience favorite, Cinderella, a comedic British version and one of Newman’s favorites.

For his final production on the ASU Theatre Main Stage, Newman

chose Arcadia. Set in an English country house, the play moves between past and present.

“Arcadia has it all. I love the language, the densely packed ideas, comedy, and, my favorite theme, unrequited love.”

Although some designers rely on specific steps and processes when designing a set, Newman keeps himself open to images and ideas after reading through a play a number of times. He approaches each production in its own unique way. “I love the collaboration of theatre and working together to solve problems.”

On June 25, Newman was surprised to receive the Distinguished Merit Award from the Colorado Community Theatre Coalition, its highest honor.

He and his wife, Patti, have three children and one grandchild. The Newmans are moving to the Bailey/Conifer area of Colorado, where Paul will continue to direct plays for community and local theatres. “You never retire from theatre.”

By Linda Relyea ’96, ‘10

the stage world: Upper left: Dr. Paul Newman, with his wife, Patti, were feted at an April Theatre Reunion/Retirement party attended by 60 current and former theatre students, as well as colleagues.

Below, from left: Among the countless productions Paul Newman has directed are Sleeping Beauty, A Streetcar Named Desire, The Little Match Girl, Dr. Jekyl & Mr. Hyde, Arcadia, and Cinderella.

Right: Newman at work with Alexander Adams ‘16 in the scene shop, where he has overseen set creation for 80 ASU theatre productions.

◗

aStater great stories

17

profiles of passion & promise

they are first-generation & non-traditional students. they are from the san luis valley & from other countries. they are accounting majors & pre-med majors. they are going to work & they are going to graduate school. they are seth & sunanya, taylor & joe, sasha & azarel, juan & lenore. they each have their own story, a unique chapter in the great story that is adams state.

juan francisco cristobal ‘16 ◗ Major: Music Education/Percussion ◗ Received full Fellowship to UCLA’s graduate ethnomusicology program

◗ Performs with Marimba Espiritu Maya & ASU ensembles: percussion, steel drum, wind, drumline

JfromuanGuatemala Francisco Cristobal’s parents brought him to the U.S. when he was a baby, hoping their children would go as far as possible with their educations. For Cristobal, that will be the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music’s Department of Ethnomusicology, where he will pursue a Ph.D. in ethnomusicology – on a full fellowship. The UCLA faculty were so impressed with the research he submitted, "The Maya: The Antiquity and Colonial Music of the Maya World," they flew him to LA for an interview.

“I attended a conference on the Maya while there and am keeping in touch with a professor who works on the same subject,” Cristobal said. When it comes time for his dissertation, he plans to research the marimba in the town where he was born, Santa Eulalia, Huehuetenango.

A s this issue of the A-Stater goes to print, I mark 25 years of telling Adams State’s Great Stories. I am not an Adams State graduate (although I have accumulated about 22 credits), but I feel more connected and loyal to this place than to my own alma mater, where I earned two degrees and worked for six years.

I work closely with our Alumni and Foundation offices and sometimes “ghost write” fundraising appeals, in addition to a large portion of what you read in this magazine. The message of these stories – and they are great – has remained constant over 25 years, reinforced through countless interviews and conversations I’ve had with students, alumni, and professors.

Whether they graduated 50 years ago or last spring, alumni tell me essentially the same thing, so I know it’s true: someone at Adams State, usually a professor, but frequently a coach or staff member, got to know them, cared about them, helped them find their direction and purpose.

18

◗

aStater summer 2016

“UCLA is widely considered the top ethnomusicology program in the country and among the top five in the world.

Juan's future is incredibly bright, and he's worked hard for all he's accomplished,” said Dr. James Doyle, asst. professor of music. “Juan has taught our area quite a bit about the music of the Maya and, in particular, of Guatemala. The informa-

“Individual attention” and “small classes” are things most colleges tout, but I’ve seen what those phrases translate to in a student’s life here. It’s a professor who arranges extra study sessions or answers a frantic email the night before a midterm. It’s a coach who helps an athlete gain the confidence to move past an injury or poor performance. It’s a financial aid officer who puts together resources to help someone stay in school. It’s an RA or counselor who listens and gives advice when the going gets tough.

Like many of our faculty, I never imagined I’d spend the bulk of my career at Adams State, which some of us still refer to as “The College.” It’s strange to think I’ve been writing about what goes on here for a quarter century. Many things are cyclical or seasonal: Homecoming, Commencement, art openings, faculty lectures. But every time I interview a senior about to launch into a life they couldn’t have imagined four – or six, or a dozen – years ago, I get tingly. It makes my day.

It makes me know Adams State matters.

- Julie Waechter, Editor

lenore reinhart ‘16

Lenore Reinhart isn’t afraid to try to new things. She decided to study psychology after various stints as a self-taught chef, restauranteur, photographer, and art framer.

“I needed to make a major change in life and figure out the rest of my career. Cooking for a living is physically demanding. My mom has dementia, so I saw I need to use my brain and keep learning,” she said. “The psychology faculty have all been great and so supportive. They help you step out of your comfort zone, both academically and as a person.”

She moved to Alamosa from Taos, New Mex., and continued baking 4,000 cookies a week at her company, Speltlicious Cookies. She bakes and sells three types of cookies, including some made with spelt flour, and distributes them wholesale locally and in neighboring states.

“Like most non-traditional students, Lenore is very conscientious, is serious about her education, is always asking questions in class, and has a good sense of humor,” said Dr. Rob Demski, professor of psychology.

“

◗ Major: Psychology ◗ First Adams State Psi Chi (International Honor Society in Psychology) member to win a Psi Chi award for undergraduate research

◗ Owns and operates Speltlicious Cookies in Alamosa

the psychology faculty help you step out of your

comfort zone, both academically and as a person.”

- Lenore Reinhart ‘16

He worked with Reinhart on a year-long, independent research project that made her the first ASU student to win a research award from Psi Chi (international psychology honors organization). She presented her findings at the Rocky Mountain Psychology Association conference and at Adams State’s Student Scholar Days, taking a $125 second place prize in oral presentations.

Reinhart created and piloted a training program to help others develop selfcompassion. “I was going through a tough time in my life. I’m sure everyone could use a little more compassion in their life,” she explained. “I wanted to develop something for people that is not a big time commitment.” Her program requires about one and one-half hours a week over a span of four weeks and draws upon meditation, writing, visualization, and mindful eating.

“It’s about becoming mindful. These techniques affect the area of the brain that influences empathy. This helps us recognize when we’re giving ourselves a hard time and instead, to appreciate the positive things about ourselves. The results are pretty amazing,” Reinhart said. Her research showed improvements in the subjects’ self-compassion and self-control. “It’s been shown to decrease burnout. I’d like to try to work with hospice and caregivers.”

During any time that’s left over after studying and baking, Reinhart enjoys photographing birds, riding her bike, and walking her dog, a “Woodle,” which is a hypoallergenic mix of Poodle and Wheaton terrier. “I hope to use him as a therapy dog,” she said. She’ll graduate this December, and then perhaps enter ASU’s M.A. in counseling program. “I’m about to turn 50; then we’ll see.”

aStater great stories

◗

tion I learned about the antiquity of the Maya was new to me, fresh research.”

Cristobal’s research interest began in a History of Music course in his junior year. “I wanted to study the New World and find out more about my ancestors,” he explained. “The Conquistadors used music to convert the Maya. They introduced their own instruments from the Renaissance Period.”

By exploring extant Maya hieroglyphs and artwork, Cristobal came to focus on indigenous instruments that are still used for ceremonies and celebrations, including maracas; the ocarina, which mimics bird sounds; pax (kettle drum); and pit (flute wooden).

He presented his work at ASU’s 2015 Student Scholar Days.

Cristobal said he pursued a degree in music education and percussion in order “to teach the young Guatemalan/ Maya children about instruments and a cultural tradition that should not be lost.” He’s already begun teaching his younger brothers the marimba, which he has played since the ninth grade.

He also has a sister who’s attending Adams State.

He did some of his student teaching in a bilingual class. “It was an amazing experience getting to know and work with the kids and collaborate with the music teachers.”

Cristobal’s journey from Guatemala to UCLA was neither easy, nor direct.

He didn’t learn to speak English until kindergarten, and didn’t read music until he came to Adams State. Instead, he taught himself to play a number of instruments – guitar, keyboard, bass guitar, drum set, and Guatemalan marimba – all by ear.

He enrolled in developmental courses at the start of his ASU education and benefitted from the GEAR UP and Colorado Challenge programs for low-income, first generation students. Last summer, Colorado Challenge recognized him for his perseverance and accomplishments.

“Without their help, I don’t think I’d have been able to come to college.”

19

profiles of passion & promise joe schlabach ‘16 ◗ Major: Business Administration - Economics/ Finance

◗ Honorably Discharged, Disabled Marine Veteran; stationed with 3rd Combat Assault Battalion, Combat Engineer Company, in Okinawa, Japan; deployed to Iraq for 9 months

◗ President: Veterans at Adams State, AS&F student government

◗ City Council Member, Monte Vista, Colo. ◗ Interning in sales with Monte Vista Cooperative

Iraised t’s a little surprising to find someone Amish who became a Marine.

But Joe Schlabach ‘16 said, “As a kid, soldiers – anyone in a uniform – had always been my heroes. I saw this as a different path.” So at age 20, tired of his “dead-end” construction job and disillusioned with his Old Order Amish community in Ohio, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps.

His combat assault battalion moved ahead of the infantry in Iraq, sweeping for explosives. “I missed the rush of bull

riding, but that was nothing like waking up in a vehicle in mid-air. The adrenalin was just amazing,” said the former farm boy, thankful his entire platoon of 42 made it back home. “It’s amazing how differently I handle stress than before.”

Honorably discharged in 2009, he joined his brother in the San Luis Valley. “I needed help making the transition out of the service; I needed some type of plan. I wanted a degree,” he said.

The first step was to get his GED. Although his “avid” reading habit started at age four, his homeschooling concluded with eighth grade, which is customary among the Amish. His higher education began with math and English courses at the Trinidad State Junior College-Valley Campus. But he dropped out of college for more than a year to work and save money.

“The summer of 2011 was very rough. I didn’t sleep much, because I was trying to avoid crazy dreams.

Human strength only goes so far.” But another turning point came when he met Matt Martinez ’13 and

“

the club’s president. “I pretty much lived in vet center, trying to rebuild the group. We now have 30 members, but there is huge potential to expand it and for Adams State to educate vets,” he said.

He also served as president of AS&F in 2014-15. “I was elected by two votes,” he noted. “That felt really good.

I put in about 20 hours a week – to the detriment of my studies – but I was learning very much.” Initially drawn to civil engineering, he became interested in politics and changed his major to business administration-economics.

“People always say it’s about the journey, not the destination. This has truly been about the journey. I’ve loved every minute of the path I’ve taken,” he said, adding his internship in the Washington, D.C., office of Colorado Rep. Scott Tipton was also instructive.

“I wanted to understand how the economy works, to help improve it. At the root of every issue with society is money. If you help people live a little better life, they tend to improve.”

Schlabach has already launched his political career and holds a seat, along

people always say it’s about the journey, not the destination. this has truly been about the journey, and i’ve loved every minute of the path i’ve taken.”

other vets at an ASU Veterans Fair.

“They really helped me,” he said. So, in 2012, he transferred to Adams State and got involved with the Veterans At Adams State (VAAS), which Martinez had recently formed. The following year, Schlabach became

- Joe Schlabach ‘16 with Martinez, on the City Council of Monte Vista, Colo. “I hope to get more into local and state government. I believe I have a system and foundation that will allow me to help and serve our community. We as humans have a responsibility to make a difference, however that may be, even by smiling at someone. This is my way of getting involved, making my community better.”

Joe Schlabach (left) found a mentor and friend at Adams State in fellow Marine veteran Matt Martinez ‘13, who is now ASU’s Veterans Coordinator.

20

◗

aStater summer 2016

profiles of passion & promise azarel madrigal ‘16 nearly half of adams state’s students are the first in their families to attend college. azarel madrigal was the first in hers to complete high school. the former student trustee is still on campus, having begun a master’s degree program right after graduation in may.

“I wasn’t part of a college-bound cohort in high school. I was a very average student and really involved in sports. College was not in my future,” she said. Her first contact with Adams State was Azarel Madrigal (left) values the encouragement of Model U.N. advisor, then-admissions counselor Priscilla Gardea ’06.

Dr. Mari Centeno.

“She literally met me at the public library to help choose classes. I am very grateful to her. The college process was scary. No one in my family knew adams state is not short of amazing, what a FAFSA was. There was no savings. Paying for college was up to me.” She was so involved on inspiring mentors.” campus that it was hard to work part-time, so last - Azarel Madrigal ‘16 summer she held two jobs.

Madrigal originally double-majored in psychology and sociology. “Then I took a political science ties (HACU) and Central City Productions. Her third-place course. I loved getting into the international relations classes. finish earned her a scholarship.

Political science didn’t feel like work, because I was doing “Azarel has been a stellar student in political science and something I really liked.” she's been a remarkable student leader for Model U. N. stuDr. Mari Centeno, professor of political science, saw dents,” noted Dr. Ed Crowther, professor and chair of the Madrigal’s potential and recruited her to join Model U.N. Department of History, Anthropology, Philosophy, Political Madrigal later served as vice president of ASU’s Model U.N. Science, and Spanish. and traveled abroad for two conferences, in Brussels, BelMadrigal completed a second major, in history, during her gium, and in France, where she won a Best Delegate Award. fifth year, “a victory lap,” in order to represent students on “Dr. Centeno recommended I add a minor in Spanish, the University Board of Trustees. The post of Student Trustee since I was already bilingual. She was my academic advisor, a comes with serving as AS&F vice president for External Afteacher, and a friend. She graded hard, but is so encouraging, fairs. and I’m really happy to have her in my life.”

“Being a student trustee gave me a lot of confidence. I Madrigal also credits another mentor, Dr. Nick Saenz, asst. learned about a lot of things, like TABOR, ASU 2020 (see professor of history, who helped her prep last summer for the story page 9), and dealing with surprises. I can handle myself Hispanic Heritage Quiz Show, a televised competition sponbetter in those situations,” she said. “I’ve always enjoyed sored by the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universibeing in leadership positions. There’s stress, but it’s almost fun stress.” ◗ Major: Political Science & History, Minor in Spanish The practical experience she’s gaining as Community Out◗ Enrolled in ASU Master’s in Humanities – Public Administration program reach Assistant for the City of Monte Vista, Colo., dovetails with her continued academic work in a Master’s of Humani◗ Community Outreach Assistant for City of Monte Vista, Colo. ties with an emphasis in public administration. She views ◗ Student Trustee, AS&F Student Government VP of External Affairs both as stepping stones toward her ultimate goal of becoming ◗ Model U.N.: Best Delegate Award at Colorado Governor.

2015 Mediterranean Model U.N Conference “I’m really glad I stayed another year. I matured as a per◗ Third Place Scholarship in 2015 Hispanic College Quiz show son. I really unfolded through my undergraduate career. I ◗ Goals: To become Mayor of Denver, then Governor of Colorado never in a million years thought I would go for a master’s degree,” she said.

“

22

◗

aStater summer 2016

◗ Major: Cellular & Molecular Biology ◗ President of Tri-Beta (Biology Honor Society),

sasha vigil ‘16

T he funny thing about large research universities is the faculty often have reduced teaching loads to conduct research, yet few students might participate. But at Adams State, Sasha Vigil ’16 gathered new evidence in support of a possible new subspecies of dwarf mistletoe through her work with Dr. Kristy Duran, assoc. professor of biology.

She continued research Duran began in 2004 and continued with two 2013 grads, Vance Barksdale and Marcus Newell. The article they subsequently published in BIOS was named the journal’s Best Paper for 2015. Vigil’s segment of the research earned first place at a regional Tri-Beta meeting in 2015.

When choosing Adams State, she kept in mind her sister’s big university experience attending lecture courses with 200 other students and a teaching assistant. “Small college does not mean easier,” Vigil noted. “The teachers keep you on track, and students are very competitive on MCAT scores and acceptances to medical school.”

“

unique to that population and not found in any of the others.

“There was a 3.6 percent divergence in the nuclear DNA. Changes like this are rare, so it might indicate a possible subspecies. It’s a really big deal,” Vigil said. The next step is to amplify and sequence regions of mitochondrial DNA. That wasn’t done previously, because mitochondrial DNA tends to be more constant across species and subspecies, she said.

A leader within the biology program, Vigil was president of Tri-Beta (biology honor society), which hosted a regional conference on campus last spring, and also an officer in SACNAS (Society for Advancement of Hispanics/Chicanos and Native Americans in Science). She was on the women’s swim team her first two years at ASU and is proud her team made it to the RMAC finals.

ASU’s Porter Scholars Program provided additional funding last summer for Vigil’s travel to Spain as part of the Atlantis Project’s International Hospital Fellowship for Pre-med Students. She shadowed doctors and

a small college does not mean easier.

officer with SACNAS (Society for Advancement of Hispanics/Chicanos and Native Americans in Science)

◗ Won first place at regional Tri-Beta Conference for research

◗ Goal: To become a neurosurgeon scholarships awarded ◗ Porter Scholarship ◗ Chair’s Merit Scholarship ◗ Vernon Lantis Scholarship ◗ Olibama Tushar Lopez Scholarship ◗ Lorraine Young Memorial Scholarship ◗ ASU Womens Swim Team Scholarship Back in Alamosa, she held two jobs, one on campus doing lab prep for biology courses, and another at Rogers Family Mortuary. “I’ve seen lots of interesting things that will benefit me in med school. The idea of death is hard for most people to handle, so being exposed to the process has given me a new comfort level.”

In addition to Duran, Dr. Benita Brink, professor of biology and chair of the Department of Biology/Earth Sciences, was also an important mentor for Vigil. “I really like having the ability to talk to teachers and have relationships. I don’t know if I’d have done as well at a larger university.”

the teachers keep you on track, and students are very competitive on the mcat and in med school acceptances.”

- Sasha Vigil ‘16 learned about Spain’s health care system. Having been set on becoming a doctor since she was five, Vigil is interested in neurosurgery.

“In Spain, I got to see a lot of different disciplines.

Some were in areas I never thought I’d be interested in, like internal medicine. I witnessed different surgeries, too, so I’m keeping an open mind,” she said.

aStater great stories

◗

Vigil amplified regions of the nuclear DNA of three individuals from 43 different populations of the dwarf mistletoe, Arceuthobium divaricatum, across its distribution in the southwestern United States and Baja California. The DNA samples were sent to a lab for genetic sequencing. She then analyzed and quantified the differences between the nuclear DNA sequences. This continued the earlier nuclear work by expanding the populations sampled to ensure the differences first noted in the Guadalupe Mountain population were

23

profiles of passion & promise seth spiva ‘16 ◗ Triple Major: Business AdministrationAccounting/Finance/Management

◗ Member of Toastmasters, Bulls & Bears Finance Club, Phi Beta Lambda

◗ Goal: to earn a CPA and MBA scholarships awarded ◗ Baseball scholarship ◗ ASU President’s & Vice Presidents’ Scholarships ◗ Wells Fargo Scholarship ◗ Wall, Smith, Batema Inc. Scholarship

T here was no “gap week” after graduation for Seth Spiva ’16, let alone a “gap year.” Two days after commencement, he was working as a staff accountant with Arrow Electronics at the Denver Tech Center. The internship he did there last summer gave him great experience and a chance to prove himself. It paid off.

“I fully intend to get my MBA in the next couple years,” he said, but first he’ll work on CPA certification. That

shouldn’t be a daunting challenge, given that he powered through three majors in four years – taking 20 credits each semester and nine each summer – on top of working two jobs and playing on the baseball team.

He also interned for a full year at the accounting firm of Wall, Smith, Bateman Inc. and benefitted from the guidance of Sheryl Abeyta ’91, assistant professor of accounting; and Yusri Zaro, who passed on his expertise in the world of finance.

Nevertheless, as the first in his family to attend college, he said, "Attending college was a hard adjustment, but I am very proud of the accomplishment."

There was a time he considering transferring. He didn’t – thanks to the influence of professors and the Athletics Department.

“One reason I stayed was because of baseball and the relationships I made over the years. My friends and professors have become like a big family to me. Natalie Rogers was one of my favorite professors,” he said, adding he even referred to her (respectfully) as “mom.”

The assistant professor of business said, "Seth Spiva was the student who participated in class

“

discussions, who asked the questions others were thinking about, but not confident enough to ask. He was very analytical, yet practical about his approach to accounting, and he grasped concepts easily. I am very confident that he will be successful.”

Spiva also appreciates his advisor, Professor of Business Linda Reid ‘96 (see story page 14.) “She helped me all the way through to graduation and is another reason why I stayed at Adams State.”

That support, combined with campus involvement, made all the difference for Spiva. A member of Phi Beta Lambda, he competed at the national level in four events: accounting for professionals, financial concepts, accounting analysis and decision making, and financial analysis and decision making.

He also participated in SAAC (Student Athlete Advisory Committee), Toastmasters, and the Bulls and Bears Finance Club. He was a student representative on the appropriations board for the Campus Impact Fund and chaired its Make-A-Wish subcommittee.

"I feel I made the most of my time at Adams State. It helped shape me into who I am today,” he said prior to graduation. “When I was a freshman, being the person I was then, I couldn’t wait to get out of here. Now, I would give my right arm for it not to end.”

attending college was a hard adjustment, but i am very proud of the accomplishment. adams state helped shape me into who i am today. adams state prepared me for success."

- Seth Spiva ‘16

24

◗

aStater summer 2016

sunayna wahi ‘16 how did a woman from surinam come to study and run at adams state - all the way to the olympics?

Igeosciences t was easy for Sunayna Wahi. She simply targeted her search toward colleges with programs and good track & field teams, specifically in NCAA Division II. Adams State was the obvious choice. She just experienced the thrill of representing her country in the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, running the 100m. (See story page 45.)

“I love the small town setting here. It gives me the chance to focus on my studies and sports,” she said. She previously studied civil engineering at Surinam’s only university, Anton de Kom University, but said, “It was the worst decision I’ve ever made.” Besides that, Surinam has no interscholastic or intercollegiate athletic pro-

uncomplaining work ethic.”

- Dr. Rob Benson

grams. Wahi honed her sprinting skills in club teams.

Wahi concluded her undergraduate career with Outstanding Student Awards from the Association of Women Geoscientists and the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists. “These were a huge surprise. I had never heard of these associations before. You don’t study for the awards; I just try to do my best,” she said.

She has taken every geology class taught by Dr. Rob Benson and values the support of Dr. Jared Beeton, as well. “You can always ask for advice. Classrooms are a very personal setting,” she said.

“Sunayna is a very unassuming and highly accomplished earth sciences scholar.

She has maintained an exceptional and uncomplaining work ethic throughout her undergraduate career, a work ethic that has allowed her to learn and apply concepts to address many geological challenges,” said Benson, professor of geology and earth sciences. “As one example, in a recent geochemical modeling course, she specifically wanted to understand more about metal contamination in water, to assist with her future efforts on return to her native country. She has inspired and helped her classmates endlessly, recently giving up a graduation event to help another student study for final exams.”

Wahi will begin Adams State’s MBA program this fall and continue to run for the Grizzlies, since she has one more year of track eligibility. Athletically, she credits the support of Rock Light ‘80, head coach of track & field, and Dr. Brian Zuleger, who specializes in sport psychology, not to mention Damon Martin ‘87, head coach/director of Cross Country and Track & Field.

in the classroom ◗ Major: Geology, Minor: Physical Geography

◗ 2016 Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists’ Neal J. Harr Memorial Outstanding Student Award

◗ Association of Women Geoscientists (AWG) Outstanding Student Award for 2016

on the track ◗ Ran the 100m for her home country of Surinam in 2016 Summer Olympics; runs the 100m and 200m indoor & outdoor, plus the 60m indoor.

◗ Five All America Awards: 2 each in the 60m and 200m, and 1 in the 100m

◗ Member of 2014 Women’s National Championship Indoor Track & Field team

languages spoken ◗ Dutch ◗ English ◗ Hindi/Urdu ◗ Spanish ◗ Surinamese

aStater great stories

◗

“

sunayna has maintained an exceptional and

25

your gift dollars at work 393 alumni answered the call from students during the annual Spring Phonation, contributing a total of $28,933. Students phoned alumni for three 3 hours a night, four nights a week for four weeks, sharing news of Adams State and the importance of alumni gifts.

Back row (from left): Jessika Vandivier, Valita Brown, Maya Ramirez, Madison Mullen, Rosie Moore, Madison Pockrus Front row: Alyssa Archuleta, Madeleine Ahlborn, Adara Sandoval, Emily Serna

no bull Adams State Scholarships are a Ski Hi Stampede tradition. Three awards of $3,500 were presented on the final day of the rodeo this summer.

From left: ASU Rodeo Team Coach Jill Frances; scholarship recipients Orin Honeycutt, John Willschau, and Dax Malone; Lori Laske ‘91, ‘01, ASU Alumni & Foundation; and Stampede Committee members Eric Kimberling and Charlie Byrd

hands-on experience & cash in hand This year, eight students were placed in paid internships in various campus departments and Alamosa Elementary School, through the McDaniel Internship Program, created

by Dr. John E. McDaniel, Emeritus Professor of History.

Back row, from left: Duane Bussey ‘82, President of the ASU Foundation; Dr. John McDaniel; and Dr. Ed Crowther, professor of history and chair, Department of History, Anthropology, Philosophy, Political Science Student interns, front row, from left: Taylor Crowther (see page 21), Jordyn McMaster-Neely, McKenz Leekya, Amber Garcia Not pictured: Victoria Archuleta-Trujillo, Samantha Hammer, Brandi Watts, and Megan Benfield

26

◗

aStater summer 2016

Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center dedicated to preservation of history and culture “this is about our family, a celebration of our parents and grandparents,” ken salazar said at the grand opening of the salazar rio grande del norte center in the luther bean museum, june 24. the center is dedicated to the study and preservation of the natural and cultural resources of the rio grande and its colorado tributaries.

keeping upper rio grande heritage alive “This is a very special place,” Ken Salazar continued. “It bears the name of our family, because our history has been part of this valley for such a long time. The history of the San Luis Valley is linked to this river, the Rio Grande.”

With hands on the scissors to cut the ribbon on the Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center are (from second from left) John Salazar ‘82, Ken Salazar, Elliott Salazar, Adams State President McClure, and Trustee LeRoy Salazar.

The Salazars continue to farm and ranch in Southern Colorado’s San Luis Valley, where their ancestors were among the first settlers in the 1860s. Emma and Henry Salazar raised their eight children and farmed on 52 acres near Manassa, Colo., in a home with no electricity or running water. All eight Salazar children achieved a higher education.

“They were two great warriors of this valley, great warriors of the future,” Ken Salazar continued. “No matter how tough things were, no matter how poor we were, we knew the American dream was here for all of us. Our parents really gave us everything that we have today. As we inaugurate this center, we do it for our parents.

“Our concept is to make sure the region’s history is told and not forgotten,” he added. “It’s not enough for things to be displayed, you have to live them. Our heritage includes music and art, the contributions of Japanese-Americans to agriculture in the valley, the history of the Mormon community, and the history of Hispanics from New Mexico who came up and settled the Sangre de Cristo Land Grant. This is the living history we all need to keep alive.”

McClure noted, “The Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center is a wonderful thing that is going to touch the lives of so many students, as well as reach out to the community and position Adams State to be a steward of the San Luis Valley’s history and culture.”

By Julie Waechter

aStater adams family legacies

◗

The Salazar family established the center earlier this year through a $250,000 gift made following the January death of the family matriarch, Emma Salazar. The gift dedicated $100,000 to develop the Salazar Center and $50,000 for center start-up, internships, and museum operations. The donation also included a $100,000 endowment toward the Emma & Henry Salazar Memorial Scholarship Fund for firstgeneration Adams State students.

“The Salazar Center gives our students the opportunity to work alongside faculty to do research and explore history,” said Adams State President Beverlee J. McClure, as she welcomed more than 100 campus and community members to the grand opening. “I was so touched by the Salazar family and their creation of a scholarship for Ken Salazar first-generation college students in memory of their parents. Nearly half of our students are the first in their families to attend college, one of the highest percentages of all universities. If we can help one person in a family to graduate, the rest of the family often follows. The Salazars are leaving a legacy that will last a long time.”

Ken Salazar is former U.S. Secretary of the Interior and previously served as Colorado’s Attorney General and as a U.S. Senator for Colorado. Among several family members present at the event were Ken’s brothers John Salazar ‘82 and LeRoy Salazar. John Salazar is former Commissioner of the Colorado Department of Agriculture and former U.S. Representative from Colorado (see story page 32). LeRoy Salazar is a long-time member of the ASU Board of Trustees.

27

Crain Scholarship supports future nurses Dr. William “Bill” '60, '62 and Eleanor "Ellie" '82 Crain recently established a scholarship for junior and senior nursing majors who have a minimum GPA of 2.75.

A registered nurse herself, Ellie said, “I knew as a five-year-old I wanted to be a nurse. It was my passion and love.”

Thus, she wants to help others pursue

the same passion and, with her husband, created the scholarship to assist with such expenses as books, “which can be expensive in the medical field.”

Ellie understands the importance of students becoming well-rounded and informed through higher education.

“For me, higher education broadened my world and helped me understand people better.”

She earned her nursing degree in Illinois and worked as a school nurse, then later earned a master’s degree from the ASU counseling program. “Between my nursing and counseling degrees, I could help guide the students.”

She encourages nursing students to work hard and study hard. “Don’t give up, even when you get discouraged. It is well worth the

TÇ XäxÇ|Çz ã|à{ ÉâÜ fàtÜá

The Lost and Found, from left: Katie Mae Miller, Alexander Adams-Pachl, Mason Harvey, Nicholas Harlan, Isabel Schneider, Tyler Dunlap, Chelsea Ann Henderson, Trace Gross

28

◗

aStater summer 2016

time and energy to become a registered nurse.”

As a resident of Pueblo, Colo., Ellie appreciates that the master’s program held classes there (prior to online courses), in addition to two on-campus summer intensives. “I found attending on campus to be very delightful. I liked the small atmosphere. The professors were all so friendly. You are a name, not a number.”

She especially remembers Dr. John Holmes and Dr. Robert Compton. “I used the behavioral relaxation technique taught by Dr. Compton when I had to take my comps. It got me through.”

Ellie and Bill attend ASU alumni events held in Pueblo. “They make you feel like family,” Ellie said of Lori Laske ’91, ‘01, executive director of Alumni and Donor Relations; and Gaylene Horning ‘94, assistant director of Alumni Relations.

The ASU Foundation’s annual Evening with our Stars, featuring performances by The Lost & Found Improv Troupe and ASU Chamber Ensemble, raised approximately $5,000 to aid students in extenuating financial circumstances.

Chamber Ensemble (from left): Dr. Angela Winter, Director of Bands; Heather David, French horn; Emily Johnson, flute; Miranda Johnson, flute; Elizabeth Heiny, bassoon; Alexander Davison, clarinet

Donations help Music Dept. dance to a different drum internationally renowned percussionist valerie naranjo has not forgotten her alamosa roots. on visits home, she shares her passion for music and percussion with adams state students and performs as a guest artist. she recently donated a west african gyil to the music department.

ABOVE: Renowned percussionist Valerie Naranjo (left) helps Isaiah Pierce adapt to the West African gyil.

RIGHT: Valerie Naranjo and Barry Olsen have been performing together since 1982.

Dr. James Doyle, assistant professor of music, said, “We have been incredibly fortunate to have such a beautiful relationship with Valerie Naranjo. Not only is she a world-renowned percussionist, but a wonderful educator and mentor to my students and me. She's been incredibly generous with her time and always inspiring.”

An anonymous donor created the Valerie D. Naranjo Endowment to support ASU’s Music Department. With preference given to percussion, it will fund performances and workshops by professional musicians, instrument purchase, and other needs.

aStater adams family legacies

◗

A percussionist for NBC’s Saturday Night Live Band, Naranjo’s has recorded and performed with Broadway’s The Lion King, The Philip Glass Ensemble, David Byrne, The Paul Winter Consort, Tori Amos, Airto Moreira, and the international percussion ensemble, MEGADRUMS, which includes Milton Cardona, Zakir Hussein, and Glen Velez.

A percussionist, vocalist, composer, and clinician, Naranjo is known for her pioneering efforts in West African keyboard percussion music. In 1996 she and kuor player Barry Olsen became the only non-West Africans ever to win a first place award for their playing of the gyil’s traditional repertoire in Ghana’s Kobine Festival of Traditional Music.

In a recent interview with Allegro Magazine, she explained the gyil is the grandparent of the modern-day marimba. “It, like the marimba, is a series of wooden bars that is suspended over a frame from which are hung resonators. The gyil is tuned by hand with bars suspended over a frame that sits very close to the ground.”

According to Naranjo’s website, mandaramusic.com, the gyil is the national instrument of the Lobi and Dagara people of Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Ivory Coast. People throughout West Africa believe its “woody” sound comes from when percussion vibrates the water in the resonators, which physically balances the water in the bodies of humans and animals. The gyil tradition has set the tone for the “melodyimprov-melody” form common in jazz.

An Alamosa H.S. graduate, Naranjo moved to New York City after completing studies in vocal and instrumental music education at the University of Oklahoma and percussion performance at Ithaca College.

She began playing percussion at an early age. "I wanted to play flute, but my mother, Pauline, suggested that I try the drums. I adore my mother, so I took her suggestion to heart.

My parents felt the calling to music to be an honor and supported me all the way."

29

Homecoming Schedule 2016 30

â——

aStater summer 2016

or homecom

“blackou d

Front

Back

rder your ming t-shirt for ut night” against ixie state

Order form due October 1, 2016 • Please make checks payable to: ASU Foundation.

No refunds • Only reunion years will be printed on shirts. *Shirts will not be mailed until October, regardless of ordering date.*

aStater

homecoming 2016

◗

t

31

in opposition to Referendum A in 2003, which would have created a $2 billion bonding authority to construct reservoirs.

“The referendum did not specify where the water would come from. We knew if they built those reservoirs, during a drought they would come after the water on farms,” he said. “We were just off the fight with AWDI. We visited with every water district in the state, every editorial board, and raised money for advertising. We started with banks in the valley and in Pueblo. Referendum A was defeated in all 64 counties in Colorado. This taught me the

Warming. “I was working like a fool, but I loved it.

Nothing makes you feel better.”

John is proud of work on those committees that resulted in funding for the Veteran’s Administration hospital in Denver and passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. “During the economic downturn, the government injected money into the economy by creating jobs for badly needed projects, such

“

i reject the word ‘politician.’ i prefer to think of myself as a public servant.”

After 12 years in public office, John Salazar is glad to be back as higher education and on his ranch full time. roads.” That program was crucial to Adams State in a many during the Vietnam War. He had period of state funding cuts. enrolled at Colorado State University, He found his biggest challenge in but enlisted after drawing a draft lottery public office came from “extremes of number of 5. both parties.” He explained, “I was “My father was upset, but it did me a member of the Blue Dog Democrats – lot of good. I grew up in the military. I centrists. We were 52 members in Con- was not ready for college; my mind gress who voted as a bloc and could cre- wasn’t there,” John said. “When I got ate legislation that was more palatable back, I was ready to go to school.” So to both sides of the aisle. But the exhe entered Adams State’s School of tremes of both parties didn’t like it.

Business and earned a B.S. in business Thirty-eight of us lost elections in the administration in 1982. He values that same year.” education to this day. “Tom Gilmore

missing the valley For six years, John commuted from the nation’s capital to his beloved ranch, where his heart has always resided. “All that time, I was loving and missing the valley,” he said. Whether on the ranch or in public office, he is “very meticulous,” according to his wife, Mary Lou ’94. “He’s a person who likes to be busy, and he is so busy.”

They were married in 1978 and soon had three sons: Jesus, Esteban and Miguel. That was after he spent three years in the U.S. Army, serving in Ger-

[former president, then professor and dean of the School of Business] is a wonderful friend. I have a great admiration for him. Dr. Chase, who was from Montana and shared the Western heritage, taught me how to write business plans.”

John Salazar will receive ASU’s 2016 Outstanding Alumnus Award at the Homecoming Banquet, October 28 (see schedule page 30.) He said, “This college has a real special place in my heart.”

By Julie Waechter

aStater

homecoming 2016

◗

value of working together. You can build a team and accomplish more than working by yourself.”

John and his younger brother Ken Salazar (then Colorado Attorney General) both ran for U.S. Congress in 2004, with the campaign slogan “Send a Farmer to Congress.” Colorado voters did just that, electing John to the U.S. House of Representatives and Ken to the U.S. Senate.

Once on Capitol Hill, John helped to craft the 2008 Farm Bill, which provided assistance to rural communities and agriculture, including a provision to support “specialty crops.” He tells critics of the bill’s funding of food stamps, “We have plenty of food, and people need to eat.” He also cosponsored a measure with Senator Hillary Clinton that bolstered broadband service to rural communities.

John served two years on the Appropriations Committee and its subcommittees on Energy & Water Development and Military Construction, Veterans Affairs & Related Agencies.

He also served on the Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global

33

amber (harlan) price, m.d. ‘12

Exceptional New Alumna perfected prescription for success it stands to reason that exceptional students develop into exceptional alumni. case in point: amber (harlan) price, m.d. ‘12. she entered adams state as her high school’s valedictorian and outstanding female athlete, and as asu’s 2007 spud bowl queen. she’s just begun her medical residency, and is well on her way to achieving her childhood dream of becoming an orthopaedic surgeon.

But first, she will accept Adams State’s 2016 Exceptional New Alumna Award at the Homecoming Awards Banquet, October 28 (see page 30).

Dr. Price formed her life goal at age five, when she was injured in a farm accident and underwent multiple surgeries to save her feet. Having spent so much of her childhood in hospitals “brought to my perspective how much medicine can help people – it’s revolutionary,” she said. At one point in her third year of med school she thought about doing cardio-thoracic surgery. “I sat down and really looked at myself, my passion, and where I saw myself when I’m done with my residency and back in Colorado. I realized that orthopaedics was my first love, a love I would always have.” She is leaning toward a specialization in trauma, sports, or upper extremity surgery.

She was in the first class of Porter Scholars, earning scholarships all four years as she worked toward her B.S. in cellular and molecular biology. Price epitomizes the talented students William ‘51 and Joan Porter had in mind when they created the program for mathematics and science majors.

“The Porter Scholars program was important not just because of money or monetary gain; it was important because it surrounded me with people who were like minded.” She said she misses the camaraderie of her undergraduate years.

“We’ve all been successful, because of the smaller classes. Specifically in the 34

◗

aStater spring 2016

science program, it’s very difficult to make it all the way through. But it teaches you how to teach yourself, which is very important in medical school. Your hand is not held at all; it’s up to you to learn the material.”

Learn the material she did, graduating this past spring in the top 20 percent of her Creighton University School of Medicine class. Price went on to earn one of only five orthopaedic residencies at University of New Mexico Hospital, selected from among 700 applicants.

“Orthopaedics is very difficult to get into, and I feel very blessed,” she said.

“Creighton was wonderful to me. It was similar to Adams State, in that it is very personalized, not like a big university.

“I also miss the relationships I built with my professors at Adams State.

They were all incredibly invested in each of us, and helped us to be successful. They kind of became surrogate parents, to be honest.”

She was steered to Creighton, in Omaha, Neb., by Dr. Margery Herrington, ASU Emeritus Professor of Biology, who had worked closely with some of the teaching physicians there. Price remains in touch with mentors Dr. Benita Brink, professor and chair of the Biology/Earth Science Department, Emeritus Professor Brent Ybarrondo, and her research mentor, Dr. James Bedard (former faculty).

Price and Bedard conducted genomics research one summer at Washington University in St. Louis. “That was a huge factor in getting into med

Dr. Amber Price is an orthopaedic resident at University of New Mexico Hospital.

school – it was crucial. It made me competitive with students from large universities, and I wouldn’t have been able to do that without funding from Porter Scholars Program,” she said.

At Creighton, she worked with Dr. Paul W. Esposito, a forerunner in his field who studies osteogenesis imperfecta, or "brittle bone disease," a genetic condition that afflicts children – melding both of Price’s medical interests.

Two years ago, Price returned to campus and told Adams State’s new Porter Scholars that all post-graduate work is hard, “But you can adapt. Have faith that Adams State has prepared you really well. The best advice I could give you is to work your butt off; it pays off."

She’s following her own advice in medical residency, which she began June 30 and will continue for five years.

Interns like Price are “limited” to working 160 hours, often in 12-hour shifts, over a two-week span. It stands to reason that further success lies ahead for Price.

By Julie Waechter

first meeting set for jan. 28

denver alumni chapter formed The 1,500-plus Adams State alumni in the greater Denver area now have an official chapter. The chapter’s first meeting will be Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, time and place TBA. Guest speaker, President Beverlee J. McClure, will share her vision for Adams State and how alumni can be helpful in reaching those goals.

The Denver Chapter represents all alumni and former students in the six Colorado counties of Adams, Arapahoe, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson. Its mission is to reach out to current and future alumni and the community throughout the Denver area to cultivate loyalty, pride, and commitment to Adams State University.

Other activities will include but are not limited to helping generate scholarship funds and recruiting high school students to attend ASU.

The chapter’s bylaws, approved by the Adams State Associated Alumni board in February, were developed by a team of five people appointed by President McClure. This team will conduct the annual meeting in January, when officers will be elected. The team is Wayne Melanson ‘69, Liz Watts ‘70, Toney Cantu ‘70, Camila Alire ‘70, and Jeremy Wilder ‘96. Cantu and Wilder also serve on the board of the Associated Alumni of Adams State University.

An “Adams State Alumni Denver Chapter” Facebook page is now available, and all area alumni are invited to “like” the page and follow the posts.

For more information, contact: Wayne Melanson, wayne_melanson@icloud.com.

calling all vintage convertibles: Alumni Relations seeks two vintage convertibles (with back seats) to ferry award winners in the Homecoming Parade, Oct. 29. Owners will receive a gas card and free tickets to the Homecoming Tailgate Party, in addition to showing off their wheels!

For details, please contact: Lori Laske ‘91, ‘01 • 719-587-7867 lllaske@adams.edu

Alaska: Beyond Your Dreams, Within Your Reach option 1: land and sea june 5-17, 2017 Five Days sightseeing at Denali National Park.

Then cruise through the glaciers from Anchorage to Vancouver, British Columbia, with stops in Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan and scenic cruising around Hubbard Glacier and Glacier Bay National Park. Interior staterooms start at $3307.98/person.

option 2: cruise only june 10-17, 2017 Interior staterooms start at $1179.

Prices includes port fees and tax. Airfare, transfers, gratuities and optional travel insurance are additional.

Fares are subject to change and availability,so call early for best pricing.

For additional information and to reserve your spot, please call 1-800-267-7613.

homecoming 2016

◗

aStater

35

◗1940s Hazel Harris Gohr `49 (San Antonio, TX) is celebrating her 95th birthday with a card shower. Hazel was born June 28, 1921, in Frederick, OK, and grew up in Oklahoma, West Texas, and Southwest Colorado. She married Lawrence Gohr `49 of Monte Vista in 1950.

They were married 53 years before he passed away in March 2004. The Gohrs lived in various places in Colorado, as well as Cheyenne, WY; Wichita Falls, TX; and Monte Vista. They raised 4 children. While living in Monte Vista, Hazel was active in St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, TriCounty Senior Citizens, and the SLV Quilt Guild. Send her a greeting with a story of your favorite memories or well wishes. E-mail MrsBuzzy@hotmail.com or send a card to: Mrs. Hazel Gohr, 3619 Fallscreek Drive, San Antonio, TX 78230.

Photo courtesy of Valley Courier

◗1950s Kay Watkins `55 (Alamosa, CO) was recently awarded the Colorado Trout Unlimited (TU) Outstanding Volunteer Award, presented at the San Luis Valley Trout Unlimited Annual Fundraiser Auction in late April.

Kay was largely responsible for re-chartering the San Luis Valley Chapter of TU in 1991. He has served the chapter as president, program director, grant writer, project director and all-around volunteer for any job.

His grant-writing efforts rought significant resources into the Valley.

◗1960s Arthur Salazar `62 (Lancaster, CA) writes, “As usual, it was a great get-together in Costa Mesa, CA, with the Alumni Office. I hope we can be at the next one in 2 years. I am still working/teaching at Antelope Valley College in Lancaster, Calif.”

Jim Witt `62, `68 (Grand Junction, CO) and wife Julie became great-grandparents when their only grandson married a lady with a son.

But in July they gained another great-grandson, with another great-grandchild due in October. Jim wrote, “Life is great as the generations continue. Thanks to Adams State, my education allowed me to earn a good living, raise 2 great children, and enjoy 5 grandchildren and soon, 3 great-grandchildren.”

Hardy Turrentine `64 (San Diego, CA) is retired from teaching middle school math in San Diego City Schools. He teaches Sunday school and sings in the chancel and men’s choirs in his church.

Carol Bach Shepherd `65, `70 (Sun City, AZ) lived in Colorado Springs for 40 years and worked at Regis University for 28 years, retiring in 2007. She and her family recently moved to Arizona.

Al Wengert `65 (Arapahoe, NE) retired after 40 years of coaching and teaching K-12.

Sue King `66, `90 (Pukalani, HI) is still substitute teaching at age 71. She enjoys her time in the classroom. She gives financial help to her granddaughter, who is attending college.

Jim Stephens `66 (Cortez, CO) has retired as president of Jim Stephens, Inc. He and his wife, Conni, have been married for 48 years and have 2 daughters who are chemical engineers at Los Alamos National Lab.

great stories Norman "Crash" Nash ’57 comes by his nickname honestly – and luckily. He survived two mid-air collisions with another plane.

A 31-year career in the U.S. Navy fulfilled his childhood obsession with airplanes. He learned to fly 20 or so different types of planes, including carrier-based props in his first tour (1959-64) as a Naval Aviator and jet aircraft in 1965 as a weapons test pilot in the early days of the Vietnam War. Nash also flew in an A-6 Intruder squadron based in Whidbey Island, Wash. He was deployed to combat duty in Vietnam on the aircraft carrier USS Ranger. Other tours included flying EA-6B Prowlers and commanding squadrons of Prowlers in the Mediterranean on the carriers USS America and USS John F. Kennedy. Nash was also the Executive Officer of VX-5, the Navy's Test and Evaluation Squadron.

"Flying was my life. I loved flying for the glamour, thrills, exhilaration, and the fun that came with it . . . I loved flying because it gives you a kind of freedom you might not have otherwise."

36

◗

aStater summer 2016

Joan Felzien Perry `67 (Fairfax, VA) retired after a 43-year career with the National Credit Union Administration. She was recruited by the agency while at Adams State and has worked as a contractor for the same agency since retirement. She and her family are deciding where to move.

◗1970s Mary O’Leary Dalpiaz `70, `75 (Cedaredge, CO) celebrated her 75th birthday this year with a trip to St. Pete’s Beach, Florida. She wrote the following poem for her husband, Chuck `68: For my 75th Valentine Birthday Year My husband, my sweetheart, my dear Lovingly granted my birthday wishes To go to the beach with the fishes.

With sandy toes and salty kisses For over 56 years we have been Mr. and Mrs.!

Arvilla Weldon `70, `92 (Alamosa, CO) has been immortalized on the new Medical Wall of Fame at the San Luis Valley Health medical office building. The Alamosa hospital hosted the first of what is anticipated to be an annual event recognizing long-time medical providers. Arvilla was a nurse for many years before and after she came to Alamosa with her husband, Dr. Lynn Weldon, Emeritus Professor of Human Relations.

Douglas Hartman `71 (Salem, OR) writes, “I finally retired after 41 years in music education! My preparation at Adams State gave me a great foundation to a terrific career. I taught all levels of bands here in Oregon, finishing up my career as the field supervisor of music teachers for the University of Oregon. The biggest prize of all my experiences was that I met my wife, Karen, at Adams. She is still by my side, keeping me on track after 45 years!”

Leonard Martinez `71 (La Jara, CO) is a project manager and associate producer of entertainment with International Special Attractions, based in LA. He was an audio engineer and tour manager for professional bands from 1971- 2001. He did more than 6,000 concerts in all 50 states and 42 coun-

Photo courtesy of Valley Courier

staying in touch

Liska Crowley `72 (Klickitat, WA) writes, “I continue to live off the grid. Our self-sufficient lifestyle and vocation as living historians is thriving. When not attending Rendezvous (a gathering of mountain men and their families), we ride our 1952 Harley Davidson.”

Dwight Proctor `72 (Denver, CO) writes, “Being retired is a real blessing. May God bless ASU in all its great ventures!”

Dale Babudar `73 (Chula Vista, CA) writes, “My first job after college was working as an instructional aide, elementary school, K-6. I later worked in direct sales for about 9 ½ years. Ultimately, I got into banking and primarily worked in the legal, loss mitigation, and repossession departments, as well as bankruptcy and commercial leasing. I have a son who is 26 years old and an 8-year-old granddaughter. My hobby? I am a passionate Cleveland Indians fan. I follow them 24/7/365!”

Gene Chappell `73, `73 (Austin, TX) reports that his wife, Lynn Bullock Chappell, passed away January 15 due to complications from leukemia.

Frank `73 & Beth `74 Keller (Grand Junction, CO) have been married for 41 years and have 3 kids. Frank retired in 2001 from Mesa State College (now Colorado Mesa University), and Beth, from Mesa County School District #5 in 2013.

They are busier now than before retirement!

Larry Zaragoza `73, `74 (La Jara, CO) is running for the office of Conejos County Commissioner, District 3. He has lived in Conejos County for the past 40 years with wife Julie `79.

They have raised 2 sons, Geoffrey and Matthew. He began his career as an educator for North Conejos School District. In 1983, he began teaching and coaching in the Alamosa schools. After retiring in 2006, he continued coaching high school cross country and track & field, which remains his true passion. He has been the director for the National Youth Sports Program. Upon retiring from teaching, Zaragoza became interested in local government and civil organizations. He has served on the La Jara Board of Trustees since August

2007 and is beginning his second term as mayor of La Jara.

Dennis Lopez `74, `78 (Alamosa, CO) described the origin of place names within the San Luis Valley as part of ASU’s “Lifeways of the San Luis Valley” course. He explained how names of towns and establishments came into being and have been adapted over the years.

DK Deaderick `76 was the FAA technical team lead on the final rule regarding the use of portable oxygen concentrators on aircraft. The 4-year rule-making project required coordination with oxygen suppliers, air carriers, the FDA, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, and Department of Transportation.

Billy Jenkins `76, `78 (Point of Rocks, MD) writes, “God has blessed me with 2 sons who are attending TCU and K-State universities. I am presently praying for the opportunity to work on my Ph.D. in theology.”

Arnold Valdez `79 (San Luis, CO) discussed the SLV Hemp Project at a lunch lecture held during Earth Week at Adams State, April 20 (See story page 10). Adams State has been collaborating on the project with Valdez’ Resolana Institute and Fibershed, a California firm working to develop a regenerative textile system. Two primary hemp products are fiber for clothing, paper and more, and hemp bricks for construction.

◗1980s Glenn Madrid, MD, FAAFP `82 (Grand Junction, CO) has been married to Chris Santarelli Madrid for 36 years.

Their children are Stephanie, Mallory, and Bethany, and they have 3 grandchildren.

Glenn has been a family physician in Grand Junction for 30 years. He is the Immediate Past President and current board chair of the Colorado Academy of Family Physicians. He is an avid mountain biker, hiker, and fan of the Broncos and Rockies.

Carl Kiehn `84, `88 (Crozet, VA) is the new director of the Charlottesville-Albemarle Technical Education Center, having been assistant principal at Albemarle High School since 2001.

Dan Morford `86 is the new superintendent of Scotts Bluff National Monument. He served a 3-month assignment in Scotts Bluff last summer and had been a seasonal employee at Mount Rushmore. He previously worked as the Fire Management Officer for Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Providing support to three other park units in two states, he began as a seasonal employee for the National Park Service and the US Forest Service in 1987, while still teaching high school.

continued on page 38

great stories Dr. Mackie Faye Hill ‘66, ‘74 checked a goal off her “bucket list,” publishing her memoir, Black Army Brat, at age 73. It recounts Mackie Faye’s life from birth in 1942 to high school graduation in 1961: 18 years of living in and visiting many different cities and countries.

Her experiences cultivated her understanding and acceptance of the vast amount of diversity that exists in our world. It is available in print and electronic versions from Amazon.com.

Tony Monfiletto ‘69 is “one in a million.” Twenty years ago, while rafting down the James River in Missouri, Tony went into the water and came out without his Adams State class ring. He mourned the loss and thought about replacing it many times, but could never bring himself to do it. But a few months ago, Gaylene in the Alumni Office called Tony to let him know a man had called about an Adams State class ring he found on a rafting trip in Missouri. It was Tony’s. For 20 years, it was literally stuck in the mud on the river bank. Thanks to the kindness of a complete stranger named Jason Budd, Tony has been reunited with his ring, which is in fantastic shape.

Tony says, “Finding my ring made me believe in miracles!”

aStater staying in touch

◗

tries. He worked 26 Nitty Gritty Dirt Band concerts in the USSR in 1977 — the first tour by an American band. From 2001- 2010, he was a principal, track coach, and athletic director in Alamosa and Sangre de Cristo schools.

37

◗1980s

◗1990s

He has been a full-time NPS employee for 15 years and served in the NPS Northern Great Plains Area Fire Office before going to Indiana Dunes, where he's held a variety of management assignments. Morford and his wife, Becky, have three adult children and enjoy the outdoors, visiting new places, and checking out back roads. She also works for the NPS at Indiana Dunes, serving as the SHRO Point of Contact for the 5 parks in the Lake Michigan and Ohio West Business Group.

Karen Ehmke Greening `88 (Thornton, CO) has been in education for 24 years. During the past 26 years, she has continued to act and direct as much as possible. She would love to hear from fellow classmates at Karen 1205w@gmail.com.

remembering . . .

Jerry Vinyard `53 (Wickenburg, AZ) passed away Apr. 16 at the age of 87. Among his survivors is wife Jean Meister Vinyard `53.

Virginia Young `70 (Del Norte, CO) passed away May 24 at the age of 92.

Stella Quintana `61 (Arboles, CO) passed away June 8 at the age of 99.

Evalyn James Bailey `62, `71 (Walsenburg, CO) passed away Apr. 7 at the age of 87.

Lenore Bankston Lane `63 (Waukegan, IL) passed away Mar. 17 at the age of 74.

Mary "Beth" Garcia `65 (Manassa, CO) passed away Mar. 3 at the age of 72. Among her survivors are husband Castelar Garcia `65 and sister-in-law Annette Garcia Sadler `80.

Robert Lowenberg `67 (Castle Rock, CO) passed away June 3 at the age of 72.

John Queen `67, `70 (Cedaredge, CO) passed away Apr. 18 at the age of 94.

Clara Orr `68 (Casper, WY) passed away Mar. 1 at the age of 69. Among her survivors are former husband Ronald Orr `68 and sister Bonnie `65, `66 & John `65, `66 Duewall.

Mike Mudd `71 (Colorado Springs, CO) passed away Feb. 23 at the age of 66.

John Spannagel `73 (Cottonwood, AZ) passed away Mar. 3 at the age of 64. Among his survivors is mother Doris Spannagel `69, `75, `77.

Mark McKinna `74, `76 (Maricopa, AZ) passed away Apr. 18 at the age of 67.

Lloyd Eitemiller `75 (Seneca, SC) passed away Apr. 2 at the age of 83.

Maria Schmitz `75 (Antonito, CO) passed away Apr. 22 at the age of 63. Among her survivors are husband Leo Schmitz `75, son Christopher Schmitz `98, sisters Virginia Trujillo `64 and Lupita Trujillo-Thieman `88, and brother Edmund Trujillo `72.

Brooke Plastino `76 (Spokane, WA) passed away June 4 at the age of 69.

Robert Madril `78 (Antonito, CO) passed away June 17 at the age of 66.

Mark Hunter `84 (Baton Rouge, LA) passed away Apr. 24 at the age of 61. Among his survivors is wife Linda Hunter `83 and brother Tim Hunter `87.

R. Craig Kelley `69 (Alexis, IL) passed away Feb. 26 at the age of 72.

Marie Sierra De Ramos `84 (Alamosa, CO) passed away Jan, 29, 2015, at the age of 56.

Among her survivors is sister Mary Sierra `84.

Ellen Chacon `70, `76 (Antonito, CO) passed away June 14 at the age of 88. Among her survivors is daughter Gerry Cummings `13 and granddaughter Holly Blackwell `09.

Phoebe Russell `85 (Pueblo, CO) passed away May 27 at the age of 86. Among her survivors are sons Steve `73 & Mary `80

aStater summer 2016

reading and math interventionist at Lincoln School of Science and Technology. Life is busy with raising their 2 beautiful girls: Atalia, 11 ½, and Taiya, 7. They enjoy karate as a family and watching Andy race cars at the I-25 Speedway in Pueblo.

Tiffanie (Mortensen) McAllister `96 (Salmon, ID) taught secondary English for 14 years in Colorado and Idaho and now works at an education non-profit.

She enjoys whitewater rafting and mountain biking. She finished the Ironman Boulder 2015 with her younger sister, Cynthia McDaniel `97.

“Remembering” lists only survivors who are Adams State graduates or are affiliated with ASU. David "Mike" Price `70 (Eckert, CO) passed away Mar. 3 at the age of 68.

Gerald Maes `57 (Trinidad, CO) passed away Feb. 19 at the age of 81.

◗

Andrew `96 & Tonya `98 Fisher (Cañon City, CO) both teach in Cañon City. Andrew is teaching drama and English at the high school, and Tonya is a Title I

Marlyn Swift `50 (Salida, CO) passed away Mar. 27 at the age of 89.

Barbara Ray Brown `56 (Boone, IA) passed away Mar. 26 at the age of 81.

38

Sandra Barney `94 (Clifton, CO) has 2 new granddaughters and a new greatgrandson. Another granddaughter was due in July, with a great-grandson due in September. She has been working on publishing a book filled with the local lore of Colorado, then plans an autobiography and a fiction that will be available on Amazon.

Russell, Dan Russell `77; daughter-in-law Terrie Lenzini `82, `02; and grandson Jesse Russell `11.

Molly-Jayne Martin Bangert `91 (Cortez, CO) passed away Mar. 9 at the age of 54. Among her survivors is husband Buckley Bangert `73, `81.

Nancy Hansen Sloan `92 (Phoenix, AZ) passed away Apr. 15 at the age of 73. Among her survivors are son Rick Sloan `98 and sonin-law Darryl Montgomery `86.

Tracie Grimwood Gillespie `93, `96 (South Fork, CO) passed away Apr. 11 at the age of 45. Among her survivors is mother Patricia Cook `88.

Felix Lopez `93 (Romeo, CO) passed away June 9 at the age of 67. Among his survivors are son Phillip Lopez `04; brother Daniel Lopez `90; and sisters Marcella Duran `93, `96 and Carmen Jaramillo (ASU Employee).

Yvonne Norman `99 (Windsor, CO) passed away May 10 at the age of 79.

Jeff Silzell `04 (Alamosa, CO) passed away May 14 at the age of 60. Among his survivors are brother Paul Silzell `78 and brother-inlaw Greg Gillaspie `82.

Joshua Stevens `14 (Longmont, CO) passed away May 16 at the age of 27.

friends Clarence Svendsen, Emeritus Faculty, (Berthoud, CO) passed away Apr. 23 at the age of 90.

◗2000s Jennifer Chavez `00 (Silverspring, MD) is a staff attorney with Earthjustice, a non-profit public interest environmental law organization. She works on a variety of cases to protect water quality and stop pollution.

She was awarded the 2014 “Protection of the Potomac” award by the Potomac Riverkeepers.

Philip Gibbs `00 (Fort Morgan, CO) and his wife, Michelle, have 2 sons, ages 17 years and 16 months. He taught 2 years at Meeker High School, then joined the Army. He is now working on an MBA. Kate Blount `01 (Monte Vista, CO) earned a BSN at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs in 2008. She worked in the cardiovascular unit at Penrose Hospital in Colorado Springs for 6 years and is now in the ICU at SLV Health in Alamosa.

Christy Lucero `01 (Blanca, CO) was selected to attend a 10day Study Tour to Peru, April 8-17. The Global Economic Education Alliance selected ten secondary-level school teachers from throughout the United States to participate in this unique educational opportunity. The program provides an opportunity for teachers to exchange ideas, teaching methodology, and experiences in economic education with Peruvian educators, as well as other teachers through out the U.S. Lucero is the middle school social studies, health, and character education teacher at Sierra Grande schools.

Stephanie Bruce `02 (Lakewood, CO) is now the mother, hopefully, of a future Adams State grad.

She continues to act, making people laugh at the Lumber Baron in Denver.

Megan Brockriede `04 & Jason Forquer `03 (Falcon, CO) have been married since 2007 and have 2 children: Ellie and Macy. Megan has taught art in Colorado Springs since 2004 at both the middle school and high school level. Jason is the English department head at Sierra High School in Colorado Springs.

Charles Ashley `05 (Albuquerque, NM) has been married to Monica Garcia Ashley `05 since 2006. They have 3 girls: Kaelynn (8), Ayva (6), and Charlee (6). Their company recently won “Startup Tech Company of the Year" at South By Southwest in Austin, TX. Press clips and videos can be found on these websites: www.KOB.com/new-mexico-news/computer-codingcamp-coming-to-four-corners/4106384/ (Video) www.abqjournal.com/744548/biz/biz-most-recent/abq-firm-takes-boot-camp-concept-on-theroad.html www.bizjournals.com/albuquerque/news/2016/03/ 14/abq-company-named-tech-co-s-startup-of-theyear-at.html (SXSW Tech Startup of the Year).

Travis Garoutte `05 (Saguache, CO) was named superintendent/ high school principal for the Mountain Valley School. He became interested in teaching while coaching kids in wrestling. He taught grades 4-6 at Sargent School for 14 years, 6th grade for one year at Mountain Valley, and has served as principal for 2 years.

Cedar Stagner `05 completed her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision with a specialization in Forensic Mental Health Counseling. She is a Clinical Director for a behavioral health agency in Tucson, Ariz.

Kristina Daniel ’06, ’11 (Alamosa, CO) related the lessons she’s learned from personal and professional challenges at SLV Health’s July Lean-in Lunch.

ASU’s 2015 Exceptional New Alumna, she is Chief Operating Officer of San Luis Valley Behavioral Group and an Alamosa City Councilor.

Emily Whalen `07 (Denver, CO) married Andrew Moser in August 2015. She is on the board of directors for the Aurora Fox Arts Center and is a mild-mannered banker by day. She hopes to be integral to the development of an arts center for the city of Aurora.

Randy Menegatti `08, `12 (Fountain, CO) has taught 5th grade on the Fort Carson army post for 5 years.

great stories "Well, Now You're in I.T." was the topic Mark Campbell ’89 discussed at a Lunchtime Talk in Science and Mathematics on campus February 24. Now Director of Research at Trace3, Mark has a 27-year career in information technology that has taken him to 16 countries. He also earned a master’s degree and owns two patents. Drawing on that career, he shared his wisdom with current students interested in the field. He pointed out, “Everyone from an Ivy League school I’ve worked with has worked for me.”

Mark’s family include two alumnae: his mother, Julie Campbell ‘86, Emeritus Professor of Business; and mother-inlaw, Cathy Mullens `82. He and his wife, Caitlin, have two children, MacKenzie and Keaton.

Mark Campbell ‘89 (left) with his mother, Julie Campbell ‘86, and son, Keaton.

aStater staying in touch

◗

Norbert Martínez ‘98 was the director of the mariachi program in Questa, Nm, for 5 years.

He began teaching music at Taos Elementary School in 2004, then became the director for the Taos Middle School and Taos High School mariachi programs in 2009.

39

◗2010s Lauren Gibbons `10 is living in Santa Fe, NM, working at Victoria’s Secret and slowly but surely getting involved with film.

Robin Pryor `11 (Durango, CO) married Robin Zorck June 26. She moved to Durango 2 years ago, which she said is “amazing.” She was just made manager of Verizon Russell Cellular’s Cortez location.

Eleanor Smith `11 (Albuquerque, NM) moved to New Mexico and is involved in its quickly growing film industry.

Jacob Sorling `11 (Los Angeles, CA) is a graduate of The Second City Hollywood, 10 West, and UCB LA.

Brad Greening `12 (Thornton, CO) is teaching math for the 3rd year at Northglenn High in Denver. He still uses his acting training every day on stage in front of his students.

Kaitlyn-Dawn Perham-Dinner `12 (Greeley, CO) recently finished teaching for the Peace Corps in Ukraine and now teaches at a premiere IB school in Greeley.

She was married to her high school sweetheart, Kyle Dinner, on June 19. Professor of Theatre John Taylor officiated. They adore their fur baby, Kelev Maximus Dinner, and enjoy recreational activities together.

Kyle `12 & Gretchen Motz `11 Sand live in Grand Junction. Kyle works for the Department of Youth Corrections, and Gretchen teaches 1st grade. They love watching their children Beckett (4) and Harlow (2) grow and learn new things each day! Living close to Tot-tot and Grammy’s (Tom `82 and Kristy Motz) is a plus too!

Abby Sandoval `12 lives in Pueblo with her husband, Joe, and manages the special education department at an innovative primary school. Abby and Joe have 2 wonderful children: Thaddeus Finn (4) and Thessaly Lorelei Amaya (2). Abby is finishing her MA in special education through CSU-Pueblo.

great stories

Jan Vigil `13 (Alamosa, CO), was named the 2016 Outstanding Elected Official by the Colorado Association for Recycling. Since being elected an Alamosa City Councilor in 2014, he has focused on the “Go Green” path. This led the city to purchase a glass pulverizer for recycled glass, allowing it to reuse the material locally, for a savings of $14.20 per ton, compared to disposal at the landfill. He also initiated work to convert streetlights to LED technology, which is underway to reduce the city’s energy consumption.

Nick Corsentino `14 (Colorado Springs, CO) works for a medical device company in Colorado Springs. “Dr. Newman was absolutely pivotal in my success at Adams State. I am so grateful to have known him and to be a part of this welldeserved celebration of success,” he said at Newman’s retirement party in April.

(See story page 18.)

Caty Herrick `14 moved to Chicago in August to pursue improv comedy with iO Chicago, where she performs sketch and improv. She has begun sketch and comedy writing, as well. She looks forward to continuing her pursuit of acting, writing, and comedy in Chicago. She still loves dance “just ever so much.”

Emeritus professors and alumni were honored at the fifth annual Educators Hall of Fame, which recognizes excellent area educators who have made significant contributions to the field.

Former ASU faculty Dr. Don Basse, Dr. Ron Loser ’65, and Dr. John E. McDaniel were recognized in the Post-Secondary Educators division.

Among alumni inducted were Dr. Herman ’69 and Patsy ’70, ’90 Martinez, selected for the Elementary Educators and Administrators categories, respectively. Edwina Myers ’59, ’61, Al Bennett ’42, ’60, and Emerita Romero-Anderson `71 were also recognized as administrators.

Ralph K. Mortensen ‘54, ‘64 was also honored as an

Elementary Educator. Alumni Secondary Educators included D. Jolene Coombs-Pavlosky ’63, ’67; Linwood D. Warwick ’57, ’60; Gayl A. Woodke ’66, ’70, and Larry Zaragoza ’73, ’74.

40

◗

aStater summer 2016

Recently inducted into the Educators Hall of Fame were (from left) first row: Sr. Leann Cogan, Megan Githens, Karen Hobbs, Jolene Pavlovsky, Brad Mortensen, Patsy & Herman Martinez; second row: Ron Loser, Larry Zaragoza, Don Basse, Dr. John McDaniel, Gayl Woodke, Sharon Adams and Linwood Warwick.

Katie Schubert `14 received a master's and doctorate degree in sociology and gender studies from the University of Florida. She completed her postgraduate studies at Florida Postgraduate Sex Therapy Training Institute and is a certified sex therapist, providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families on issues related to sexuality, sex, and gender in St. Petersburg.

Amanda Wade `14 decided to stay in Alamosa, her hometown, for a few years to make some decisions about relocating. She has a steady job as a restaurant manager.

Jessica Palacio`15 writes, “I am back in Albuquerque as marketing manager for the Garcia Automotive Group, the largest family-owned dealership in New Mexico. I was hired as event coordinator in September, then named Marketing Manager after a few months. I also coach Splashball with the water polo club I played for in middle school, a youth water polo program for ages 4-9. It’s great to get back into the sport that shaped a huge part of my childhood and help introduce water polo to the next generation. I am also the club’s creative director, which includes redesigning literature, the website, logos, and even team apparel. I can't imagine any of this having been possible without my time at ASU.”

What have you been up to since graduation? Your classmates want to know. Email your update for “Staying in Touch” to alumni@adams.edu.

Kimba Rael ’08 (San Luis, CO) of Centennial School District took top honors at the San Luis Valley Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) 31st Outstanding Educator Recognition Banquet. Eleven additional alumni were recognized as top educators at their respective schools: Betty Romo `89 (Monte Vista, CO) Celeste Salazar `89, `90, `03 (Romeo, CO) Toni Reed `91, `02 (Alamosa, CO) Blake Canty `96 (Sanford, CO) Colleen Hurst `97 (Del Norte, CO) Teresa Wall `06 (Creede, CO) Shelley David `07 (Monte Vista, CO) Kaitlyn Horton `09 (Alamosa,CO) Kevin Hintz `11 (South Fork, CO) Loraine Glidewell `12, `15 (Monte Vista, CO) Omar Gonzalez `12, `15 (Alamosa, CO)

three alumni are reaping career rewards after earning a Master of Arts in Education Curriculum and Instruction with STEM concentration through ASU Extended Studies. The NASA Endeavor Science Teaching Certificate Program provided the STEM courses.

◗

Jason Wells `14 (Beulah, CO) works for Trane Air Conditioning. “My position tests the air conditioners when they are half built. If problems are found in the unit, I repair them into a functioning condition,” he said.

great stories

Two obtained or furthered their positions with NASA, while a third has enhanced her teaching credentials.

Brandon Rodriguez ‘15, of Lethbridge Alberta, Canada, is NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory's Education Specialist in Pasadena, California.

Most recently a science teacher in Houston, his new position is part of a partnership between NASA and Texas State University aimed at bringing quality science programs to minority serving schools.

As a curriculum resource for empowering teachers, he encourages future teachers to "learn as many sides of the trade as you can: from a technical content perspective, to the classroom mechanics, to curriculum design."

Maria Chambers '14 has been with NASA for three years and is now an Educator Professional Development Specialist working mostly with teachers at NASA Ames Research Center. For two years previously, she was an education specialist working with high school and community college programs at NASA Johnson Space Center.

"The ASU Extended Studies program prepared me for success in my current field because I was able to take more STEM courses that help me with training educators on NASA resources," she said.

Laura Kitagawa ‘16 developed “Made for the Shade: A creative task engages kindergarteners in building protective structures for UV-sensitive lizards,” which was integrated as an exemplar in the Next Generation Science Standards. Her article was published in Science & Children magazine, a journal for elementary school teachers published by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA). She also presented the paper at a recent NSTA conference.

Kitagawa teaches K-2 science enrichment and 6-8 science at Almaden Country School, a private K-8 school in San Jose, Calif. She also works part-time as a STEM curriculum developer for zSpace, a high tech company that provides 3D virtual reality for the classroom.

From top: Brandon Rodriguez, Maria Chambers, and Laura Kitagawa

aStater staying in touch

◗

Ian Orbke `14 moved to Santa Fe and is working at the Santa Fe Opera with Danny Durkin in their shop. He has been on stage crew this summer.

41

adams family album

avalanche game TOP LEFT: L-R: Cody Narvaez `15; Eric Flores `11; Samantha Hall `13, `16; Rachel Heaton `15; Diane Dexter; Dave Dexter; Lloyd Engen `87; Matt Zaragoza; and Julie Zaragoza `79 TOP RIGHT: Diane & Clay `73 Agee, son Grant & Lauren Agee, Mona `75 & Stan `75 Brinkley BOTTOM LEFT: Amanda Collins `04, Darlene Clayton Brace `04 and Michael Brace

washington, d.c.

◗

alaska cruise kick-off

◗

A little salmon . . . a little wine . . . now we’re ready to cruise to Alaska in June of 2017. You should join us! Details on page 35.

L-R: Billy `76, `78 & Elizabeth Jenkins; Joan `67 & Joseph Perry; Karen `11 & Michael Chase; Lori Laske ’91, ’01; Priscilla Lujan `75; Jennifer Chavez `00; and David Evans `70

football alumni Coach Ross Brunelle, Judy & Don `68 Alley, Coach Timm Rosenbach, and AD Larry Mortensen ‘88, ‘93

42

◗

aStater summer 2016

grand junction Front L-R: Beth Keller `74; Karen Stone `71; Sandra Barney `94; Rita Paronto `65, `72; Gretchen Sand `11; and Mary `70, `75 & Chuck `68 Dalpiaz Middle L-R: Frank Keller `73; Glenn Madrid `82; Deana Znamenacek `91; Lori Laske ’91, ’01; and Kyle Sand `12 Back L-R: Jim Witt `62, `68; Tom Motz `82; Cody Znamenacek `72; and Jim Paronto `66, `66 “The Doctors”: Glenn Madrid `82 (left) and Tom Motz `82 have been friends since college and are both practicing physicians in Grand Junction. They commented, “Dr. Watkins would be proud.” We’re sure he is!

◗

doc newman retirement • theatre reunion

rio grande scenic railroad ALL ABOARD: 256 alumni and their friends and families rode the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad to the top of La Veta Pass for a concert by Suzy Bogguss.

TOP L-R: Holli Greening, Eleanor Smith `11, Ian Orbke `14, Dr. John Taylor, Nick Corsentino `14, Mark Jones `15, Jason Wells `14, Lauren Gibbons `10, and Robin Pryor `11

◗

MIDDLE L-R: Dessa (Donnelly) Baxman `95, Jason Ponder `96, Kristin Hettinger Holtz `97, Michele Wright `98, Andy `96 & Tonya `98 Fisher & family, Bootsy Jones, and Rob Wright `97 BOTTOM L-R: Bootsy Jones, Dessa (Donnelly) Baxman `95, Tiffanie (Mortensen) McAllister `96, and Michele Wright `98

Photo courtesy of Diego Baca

◗

aStater adams family album

43

woman of the year

Lauren Martin runs to top of RMAC lauren martin ’14, ’16 was honored as the 2015-16 rocky mountain athletic conference woman of the year. an exceedingly accomplished cross country and track & field student-athlete, she was also nominated for the 26th annual ncaa woman of the year award.

8th consecutive honor

ASU is NCAA II Men’s Program of the Year For the eighth consecutive year, Adams State University was crowned the NCAA Division II Damon Martin Men's Program of the Year. ASU is the only school that has received the title, awarded by the USTFCCCA. The Grizzlies finished as national runners-up at the NCAA Cross Country and Indoor Track & Field Championships and tied for fourth at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Championships.

The award is named for ASU Head Coach/Director of ASU Cross Country and Track & Fielld, Damon Martin ‘87, who said, "I'm extremely proud of everyone in the program, from the kids in three different seasons that are involved to the coaches and the hard work they did to develop these young men."

The ASU men raked in an astonishing 28 All-American honors combined between the cross country and indoor and outdoor track and field seasons.

44

◗

aStater summer 2016

Martin was named a female track & field Scholar Athlete of the Year in NCAA Division II by the USTFCCCA. She brings her running expertise to her new position as cross-country coach for Trinidad State Junior College. For the first time, the team will include athletes at the Valley campus.

Martin ended her ASU career as a four-time National Champion, including two national titles at the 2014 and 2015 NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships in the 10,000m and the 5,000m. Martin was also a nine-time AllAmerican, including once in cross country in 2012, and a five-time RMAC champion, winning the 10k conference title this season. Although her dad, Damon Martin ’87, is ASU’s Head Coach/Director of Cross Country and Track & Field, she said, “As a high school athlete, I could only dream of being on the Adams State University team and making an athletic contribution. Being an average runner in high school required me to dedicate myself to training, follow my coach’s guidance, and learn from the great mentors who were part of the running family. It was this winning combination that resulted in my athletic success.”

As an ASU student-athlete, she completed a B.A. in political science in 2014 and recently finished her Adams State MBA with an emphasis in leadership.

Her achievements in the classroom, combined with her athletic endeavors, have made her a four-time CoSIDA Academic All-American in cross country and a three-time Academic All-American in track and field. She was an RMAC Scholar-Athlete selection last year and has landed on the RMAC All-Academic list in both cross country and track and field four straight years.

Martin also served as VP of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and volunteered in community efforts, incluing Special Olympics.

- RMAC Sports

Grizzly track stars sprint to the Olympics attracted to the grizzlies’ esteemed track & field program, sunayna wahi ‘16 and jurgen themen ‘16 came to asu together. the couple recently went to rio together – to run the women’s and men’s 100m in the 2016 summer olympics, competing for their home country of surinam. boyfriend and girlfriend; we’re training partners; we motivate each other.” A serious injury kept her from the 2012 games, while Themen competed in both 2008 and 2012.

“Based on my life experiences, I would say that if you believe hard enough in what you’re doing, amazing things will happen, and your dreams will turn into reality,” Themen said, adding, “Also, always stay humble.”

Both achieved personal records during their ASU careers in the 60m, 100m, 200m, with Themen also excelling in the 400m.

Sunayna Wahi all-america honors • 3-time Indoor, 2-time Outdoor selected titles • RMAC Outdoor champ: 200m (2015) • RMAC Outdoor champ: 100m, 4x100m relay (2014) • RMAC Outdoor champ: 4x100m relay (2013) • ASU NCAA Qualifier champ: 60m Jurgen Themen

Jurgen Themen all-america honors • 1-time Indoor, 3-time Outdoor selected titles • NCAA DII Outdoor champ: 100m (2016) • NCAA DII South Central Outdoor champ: 4x100m relay • RMAC Outdoor champ: 100m, 200m (2016) • RMAC Indoor 60m champ • RMAC Outdoor champ: 100m, 200m, 4x100m relay (2015) • RMAC Outdoor champ: relay (2014) • RMAC Outdoor champ: 100m, 4x100m (2013)

mike allison ’74, ‘77 (Fruita, CO) was recently inducted into the RMAC Hall of Fame. He competed on Adams State’s 1973 National Championship team, which was inducted into the RMAC Hall of Fame. He was twice NAIA National Wrestling Champion, finishing his career 46-4 with 38 career pins, including 12 straight during his 1973-74 season. He was a fourtime Rocky Mountain AAU Champion and Rocky Mountain Region Olympic Qualifier Champion in 1972 and 1976. From 1990-1995 he served as the Colorado USA Cadet and Junior Director (Freestyle-Greco) and was the Colorado USA Cadet/Junior National Team Wrestling Coach from 1987 to 2001.

marty heaton `82 (Helena, MT) has joined the Carroll College football staff. He was head coach at ASU from 2008-14, compiling a 40-37 record before retiring after the 2014 season. He also spent six seasons as ASU's assistant head coach and defensive coordinator. In 2004, his defense earned NCAA Division II Defense of the Year from College Sports Report. manny wasinger `82, `93 (Alamosa, CO) was inducted into the CHSCA Hall of Fame, having compiled an overall record of 212-87 over 26 years. He coached in the All-State Games and received multiple Coach of the Year honors. He led his Alamosa H.S. teams to two State Championships and one State-Runner Up from 1985-2007. He was an assistant coach at ASU for five years and now coaches at Monte Vista H.S. (Colo.), qualified for state all three years of his tenure. kim bugg jackson ’00 (Orem, UT) was recently inducted into the RMAC Hall of Fame, having previously been inducted into the Division II Cross Country Athlete Hall of Fame and the Adams State Hall of Fame.

She was a member of four Adams State National Championship teams, in addition to winning individual National Championships. During her final year running cross country at Adams State in 1998, Jackson won the national championship with a 6K time of 21:43:0. On the track and field team, she won a national title in the 5,000m in 2000. She and her husband, rodney jackson ‘02, have 7 children. matt daniels ’16 (Alamosa, CO) placed second in the Mount Evans Ascent. Held in Idaho Springs, Colo., the 14.6-mile road climb starts at 10,600 feet and finishes at the 14,265-foot summit. He finished in 1:47, just one minute behind the winner.

KEY TO ACRONYMS:

Sunayna Wahi

NCAA National Collegiate Athletic Association RMAC Rocky Mountain Athletic Association NAIA National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics USTFCCCA U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association

CHSCA Colorado High School Coaches Association

aStater great grizz

◗

“Our coaching staff and team are so proud of Jurgen and Sunayna representing Surinam and Adams State University in the Olympics,” said Rock Light ‘80, head coach for track & field. “They have been training hard this summer on the track and in the weight room.”

“It’s going to be awesome for Jurgen and me to be at the Olympics together,” Wahi said before the event. “We’re

grizzly greats

45

Hall of Fame Class of 2016 to be inducted Sept. 24 two football teams, three national champion cross country teams, and seven individuals will be inducted into the adams state athletics hall of fame for 2016.

The banquet will be held Friday, September 23, in the ASU Student Union Building, beginning with a social at 5 p.m., and dinner at 6 p.m. Tickets are $35 each, or a table of ten for $300.

To make reservations, contact Dianne Lee: diannelee@adams.edu, or 719-587-7401.

Glen Engle ’71• Wrestling Glen Engle was a two-time All-American and an individual champion in 1968. His individual title at 177 lbs. contributed to the team’s first of eight NAIA National Championships. He placed fourth at the 1969 national tournament, helping Adams State repeat as national champions.

Scott Brown ‘74, 77 • Football Scott Brown was a four-year starter at defensive end and linebacker who began his 30-plus year coaching career with Adams State. He coached at several universities and most recently was a regional scout and defensive line coach (2015) with the San Francisco 49ers.

Ron Johnston ‘80, ‘89, ‘01 • Football Ron Johnston was a NAIA All-American defensive back from 1977-79, registering 160 tackles in his senior year. He was named a NAIA Academic All-American, NAIA Kodak All-American, All-District, and All-Conference, as well as the 1979-80 Adams State Student-Athlete of the Year.

Chuck Schwartz ’91, ‘94 • Track & Field Chuck Schwartz was the first Adams State runner to earn a title in the 3000m steeplechase during the 1988 outdoor track & field campaign. He now holds the Azusa Pacific University stadium record (8:55.19) in that event. He was also a cross country All-American in 1988, helping Adams State win the NAIA Cross Country national title.

Chris Perry ’96 • Football Chris Perry holds every Adams State receiving record and was named an All-American by four different organizations in 1995. He caught 143 balls for 2,527 yards and 26 touchdowns in just two years at Adams State. In 1995, Perry caught a national-record four touchdowns in one quarter against Colorado Mesa College. In the RMAC record books, he holds the top single-season mark for receiving yards and touchdowns. In 1995, Perry was College Sports Magazine’s NCAA Division II Athlete of the Year and RMAC Player of the Year.

Men's X-Country Teams • 1979, 1980 & 1981 The 1979 men's cross country program captured its first of three consecutive NAIA national titles, which helped establish Adams State as a national cross country powerhouse. Despite leaving the NAIA prior to the 1992 season, Adams State still holds an NAIA-record 12 team titles and 8 individual championships. Each national championship was preceded by Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) titles. Legendary coach Joe I. Vigil ’53, ‘59 was named NAIA National Coach of the Year each year.

1980 Football Team The 1980 team won Adams State’s ninth RMAC championship in 1980, via an 8-3 overall record and 7-1 mark in conference play. Highlighted by a historically great defense, the 1980 team still holds the RMAC single-game record for interceptions (7 vs. Colorado Mines) and the RMAC season record of 8.4 points per game allowed.

1988 Football Team The 1988 team posted a 10-3-1 record under Hall of Fame coach Jeff Geiser and went to the NAIA Division I Championship game. That year saw several notable individual accomplishments, highlighted by a single-season school record 13 interceptions by Scott Wiedeman. The offense was led by quarterback Bobby Saiz.

Kevin Cunningham ’92 • Track & Field Kevin Cunningham was a four-time All-American and holds the Adams State school record in the high jump by clearing 7’ 1” in 1991. At the 1992 NAIA Indoor Championships, his impressive 6’ 11” high jump was Adams State’s first national cham in that event.

Stacy Mills ‘94, ‘97 • Track & Field Stacey Mills was a four-time All-American and two-time NCAA Division II individual champion.

She was a member of the 1992 cross country national championship team and a nine-time RMAC individual champion. She capped her career with two individual titles in 1997, both the indoor and outdoor 800m.

46

◗

aStater summer 2016

RMAC Commissioner Chris Graham (below) addressed baseball fans May 8, as the RMAC and ASU Athletics honored the late Ross Barlow ’80, ’81 with the planting and dedication of a crab apple tree at the baseball field. An Adams State football player, Barlow became a baseball umpire for the Junior College World Series and NCAA Division II College World Series. In June, he was inducted into the Colorado High School Baseball Umpires Hall of Fame.

Men’s Track & Field

Baseball

The Grizzlies took four national titles at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Championships, placing fourth overall.

It was a championship to remember for senior sprinter Jurgen Themen, who won the 100m dash and set an Olympic standard time of 10.13 in the process.

He takes his speed to the summer Olympics, running for his home country of Surinam. (See story page 45.)

Oliver Aitchison successfully defended his 1500m title with a winning time of 3:48.42, as Sydney Gidabuday won the 5000m crown in 14:12.29.

Aitchinson was named the RMAC's Men's Indoor Athlete of the Year, as well as a men’s Scholar Athlete of the Year in NCAA Division II by the USTFCCCA. Competing against Division I AllAmericans and professional runners, Gidabuday broke the Adams State record for the 5000m when he finished first at the 58th annual Mt. Sac Relays.

His time of 13:36.83 was fourth fastest in NCAA Division II history and the fastest 2016 outdoor time in any NCAA division.

The Grizzlies finished the outdoor campaign with eight First-Team AllAmerican honors and five Second-Team All-American honors. In recognition of this success, Rock Light ‘80 was named RMAC Men’s Outdoor Coach of the Year and the USTFCCCA South Central Region Coach of the Year.

ASU reached the RMAC Tournament for the second consecutive season, concluding with a 22-28 overall record and an 18-17 mark in conference play.

It marked the collegiate end for 15 seniors who entered as freshman during the program’s first year, 2013. Senior Chris Morley was named All-RMAC Second Team, ABCA/Rawlings Second Team All-Region, and CoSIDA Academic AllDistrict. Senior Drew Wells earned the RMAC Summit Award, presented to the student-athlete participating in an RMAC Championship tournament/ game with the highest cumulative GPA.

Women’s Track & Field Lauren Martin concluded her Adams State career with a pair of individual titles at the NCAA Division II Outdoor Championships. With a time of 34:25.20, she claimed her second 10,000m title. Two days later she picked up a win in the 5000m run by clocking a time of 16:33.70. For her efforts, Martin was named First-Team All-American in both events. She was ultimately responsible for 20 of ASU’s 23 team points at the championships.

(See more page 44.)

Softball With a young squad, the Grizzlies compiled a 19-31 overall record and an RMAC record of 17-19. After a difficult non-conference schedule, ASU hit their stride in RMAC play to earn a trip into post-season play. Leading the way were Marissa Harmon and Paige Reichmuth, who both earned All-RMAC Honorable Mention.

Women’s Lacrosse It was a difficult season for women’s lacrosse, which posted a 0-11 overall record. Cera Cyester, Alleah Baltzer, and Kendra Cheda tied for a team-high 10 points. In the net was Alyse Mims, who logged 93 saves while facing a total of 296 shots. The trio of Jessica Hammer, Samantha Hammer, and Zena Manzaneres were named to the RMAC All-Academic Honor Roll.

Men’s Lacrosse In their first season in the the RMAC, the Grizzlies posted a 4-10 overall record and a 3-5 conference mark. Adams State went 3-2 in home contests and posted a season sweep against Colorado State UniversityPueblo. The season closed with a 9-6 loss to Colorado Mesa University at the RMAC Championships. Goalie Connor Johnson had a record-setting season as he pulled in RMAC Freshman of the Year honors, having led the NCAA Division II with14.79 saves per game.

Johnson also ranked fifth in the nation with a save percentage of .580. Seth Stowell earned First-Team All-RMAC.

Men’s Golf As the lone ASU representative at the RMAC Championships, Jake Ice placed in a tie for 36th. He had a two-day stroke total of 161 (+17). Ice qualified for the championships with a regular season stroke average of 75. He also nabbed his first Division II win at the Hardrocker Invite at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, posting rounds of 75 and 73 to lead the Grizzlies to second place. Off the course, the duo of Josh Cronk and Beau Saltz were named to the RMAC AllAcademic Honorable Roll.

Women’s Golf The Grizzlies wrapped up the spring season in 13th place at the RMAC Championships. Brooke Lucero was the top ASU finisher, tying for 40th with a two-day total of 167 (+23). Taylor Hackett tied for 48th at 171. Jessica Guajardo tied for 54th, as Kylie Duarte finished in 64th. Away from the course, Guajardo was named to the RMAC AllAcademic Honor Roll.

Track & Field breaks 8 records women’s indoor t&f • 4x400m relay - 3:46.86 (Jessica Scherrer, Leanne Allen, Roisin Flanagan, Chante Roberts) • Distance Medley Relay - 11:28.53 (Jessica Scherrer, Leanne Allen, Roisin Flanagan, Noel Prandoni)

men’s indoor t&f • 60m dash - 6.65 (Jurgen Themen) • Mile - 3:58.59 (Oliver Aitchison) • Heptathlon - 5250 points (Samuel Bilderbeck)

men’s outdoor t&f • 100m dash - 10.13 (Jurgen Themen) • 5000m run - 13:36.83 (Sydney Gidabuday) • 4x100m relay - 40.12 (Chaz Butler, Jurgen Themen, Brian Maldonado, Micah Ballantyne)

aStater great grizz

◗

grizzlies spring season

more details on grizzly athletics: www.asugrizzlies.com

47

non-profit u.s. postage

paid permit no. 80 alamosa, co A-Stater Adams State University Alamosa, CO 81101

Mt. San Antonio provides the backdrop for haying season at the Salazar Ranch, home of 2016 Outstanding Alumnus John T. Salazar ‘82 (front cover).