The Maverick Magazine: Fall 2024

A MAGAZINE FOR COLORADO MESA UNIVERSITY

FA L L 2 0 2 4

Heartbeat of The homeland PAGE 10

Spurs of the Moment PAGE 18

Games for Brains pAGE 20

SHATTERING PERCEPTIONS in higher ed

CONTENTS ON THE COVER 22

SHATTERING PERCEPTIONS IN HIGHER EDUCATION CMU is transforming perceptions in higher education resulting in a staggering 30% increase in freshman enrollment

BY HALEY HAHN

EVERY ISSUE 02 LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

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UNIVERSITY JOURNAL

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ALUMNI PULSE

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CLASS NOTES Janie VanWinkle, ‘93 Matt Bennett, ‘10 Spencer McAdoo, ‘11 Madison Tomlinson, ‘18 Misty Roberts, ‘21

FEATURES 07

UNDER ONE UMBRELLA Career Services and Alumni Association join forces under CMU Alumnus Sean Rubalcaba’s leadership

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ACCESSIBLE ARTISTRY Collaboration at CMU Tech empowers filmmaker with cerebral palsy

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HEARTBEAT OF HOMELAND Inaugural Grand Mesa Powwow shines spotlight on Native American culture

FEATURES 12

FEATURES 20

GAMES FOR BRAINS

MAVERICK CHAMPIONS

A new era for civic leadership thanks to the Aspinall Foundation

CMU Table Tennis Club is helping serve up solutions for cognitive diseases

Spring 2024 athletic season highlights

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FOUNDATIONS MERGE

SERVICE ON TAP CMU Engineers Without Borders club members help revive a rural Amazonian community’s water system

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SPRING COMMENCEMENT

ENGINEERING COMMUNITY CMU’s blueprint for first-year engineering student success includes building community

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HEALING THE UNHOUSED

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CMU faculty member Lucy Graham, PhD, serves the underserved

CMU Women’s Rodeo crowns the program’s first national champion

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SPURS OF THE MOMENT

LOVE OF THE GAME Alumnus transfer student transforms into World Series champion

FEATURES 32

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ROOTS OF LOVE The Dahl family tree has three more branches thanks to CMU

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DISTINGUISHED MAVERICKS Award recipient stories featuring Diana Bailey, PhD, ‘80 and ‘84 Les McPherson, ‘86 B.J. Russell, ‘05 Jordyn Moody, ‘15

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WHO’S WHO AWARD Aden Cesmat, ‘19 Kayley Kutcher, ‘19 Kianna Colaizzi, ‘20

State of the University

FALL 2024 • VOLUME 13.2 Mavericks, In August, we welcomed the largest freshman class in school history.

With an influx in students, we onboarded more faculty and staff and added more courses to keep class sizes small. We’ve increased our on-campus engagement opportunities and have seen an energy on campus worth celebrating.

Universities across Colorado and nationwide are experiencing an opposite trend around enrollment as students and families question the value of higher education. CMU has proven that there is significant value in continued education and it starts with being a Human Scale University — making college affordable and teaching students how to think, not what to believe.

President

John Marshall Board of Trustees

Lori Buck, Vice Chair • Ron Davis Charles Dukes • David Foster Tim Fry, Chair • Alison Griffin Kasia Iwaniczko MacLeod, Secretary Daniel Ramos • Gary Reiff, Treasurer Dominick Moreno • Joyce Sekharan

Brian Parry, Faculty Trustee Kylie Graham, Student Trustee Managing Editor

Haley Hahn In this edition of The Maverick you’ll read real examples of what makes CMU stand out above the rest — our people and our values.

Last June, McKenna Clingman won first place in Goat Tying at the College National Finals Rodeo bringing home CMU Rodeo’s first national champion in program history.

Alumnus Sean Rubalcaba is the new executive director of alumni engagement and career services. Realigning the priorities of our Alumni Association, the Career Services Office will be under Rubalcaba’s leadership with an added focus of supporting alumni as they transition from college to career or one job to the next.

You’ll also read about a group of CMU students in the Engineers Without Borders Club who visited Ecuador to rebuild a water system in the rural community of Runashitu.

Art Director

Lisa Smith Graphic Designers

Connie Betancourt Braydon Sondrol, CMU Visual Arts student Copy Editors

Katlin Birdsall Amber Whisman Kelsey Coleman Videographers and Photographers

Bronson Henriques Michael Gallegos Curran Estes, CMU Marketing student Online Maverick

Kendra Dardis What’s happening on this campus is intentional and meaningful work and I hope you enjoy keeping up with all the wonderful things happening here at CMU, home of the Mavericks.

Coordinator of Alumni and Campus Engagement

Kacie Wolter Copyright © 2024

Best,

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without express written permission is strictly prohibited.

Colora do Mesa University 1100 North Avenue Gra nd Junction, CO 81501-3122

John Marshall CMU President

To be removed from T he Ma veri ck mai l i ng list or receive a n electronic vers i on contact a lumni@colora domesa .edu.

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S u ppo rtin gCMU .o rg/m av e rick m av e rick@co lo rado m e sa.e du

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The Maverick magazine is printed on 20% recycled (10% post-consumer waste) paper using soy-based inks. Our printer meets or exceeds all Federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) standards and is a member of the Forest Stewardship Council and Sustainable Forestry Initiative.

On June 7, Governor Jared Polis alongside CMU Trustee Chair Tim Fry, Representative Rick Taggart, Senator Janice Rich, Shaw Construction and community members participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of CMU’s geo-exchange system. This system, already the largest in Colorado and the Intermountain West, is being expanded to connect the Jac Kephart Fine Arts Building during phase one — with the ultimate goal of integrating 100% of campus.

Supported by Governor Polis and a substantial grant from The Colorado Energy Office, the project helps significantly reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 9,000 metric tons annually. This initiative underscores CMU’s dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Governor Polis has been instrumental in advocating for geothermal technology, which aligns with CMU’s mission to provide affordable education in an environmentally responsible manner. The expansion of the geo-exchange system marks a milestone in CMU’s journey towards a more sustainable campus infrastructure. •

UNIVERSITY JOURNAL

Governor Polis Celebrates Geo-Exchange Expansion at Colorado Mesa University

Announcing Asteria Theatre: Bringing THE Stars to the Stage Colorado Mesa University opened the new Asteria Theatre in September with the Department of Theatre Arts’ production of Amadeus. Ground broke on the $54M theatre in March 2023 and involved more than 900 construction workers’ help during the 18 months it took to complete.

The new space was named Asteria Theatre — Greek for “the stars” — to capture the sense of wonder and unity communities feel when looking to the night sky. The theatre’s design reflects this theme with a star-like exterior that glows at night — blending with the stars on the horizon. The name is a celebration of humanity’s timeless connection to the cosmos.

The 860-seat theatre establishes Grand Junction as a regional cultural destination, which allows CMU to host touring productions that otherwise would not have a suitable venue for performing on the West Slope. The theatre will house CMU performing arts productions that celebrate the emerging talent of students as well as bring world-class professional entertainment to the region, from theatre and comedians to civic dialogue and musical acts of all genres.

CMU Stages is the umbrella under which all performing arts at CMU, whether at the Asteria Theatre or the Moss Performing Arts Center, will be presented. For a listing of the 2024-25 season, visit cmustages.com. •

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Mike Dunlap Hired as Men's Head Basketball Coach Colorado Mesa University named Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Hall of Famer Mike Dunlap as the university's new head men's basketball coach in April.

Dunlap brings an extensive and decorated coaching resume highlighted by two National Collegiate Athletic Conference (NCAA) Division II national championships, a combined 10 regular season and tournament RMAC titles and six seasons coaching in NCAA Division I. Dunlap’s time as head coach of NBA’s Charlotte Bobcats (now the Hornets), as well as a championship title as assistant coach for NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks boost his accolades.

Dunlap will lead the Colorado Mesa men's basketball program amidst the most successful stretch in program history. The 2023–24 Mavericks set a program record last season with 29 wins and an RMAC regular season title finishing the year ranked number six in the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) poll. The Mavericks have qualified for five consecutive NCAA Tournaments and have reached the Sweet Sixteen in both 2022 and 2024. Dunlap’s return to Division II is a testament to his dedication to the student-athlete model. •

Civic Forum Hosts Esteemed Guests, Upholding CMU’s Values in Dignity In February, CMU's Civic Forum launched the Dignity in Dialogue Speaker Series. The series welcomed three esteemed guests to facilitate discussion around civil discourse and pressing societal issues while encouraging understanding and engagement.

The series focused on defining a Human Scale University — a model of the world CMU wants to create — by extending the value of dignity to the campus and the community.

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The series commenced with Nadine Strossen, former president of the American Civil

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Nadine Strossen

Liberties Union (ACLU), professor of law at New York Law School and renowned advocate for civil liberties. Strossen and President John Marshall’s interview-style discussion explored the dangers of free speech censorship and the role of the First Amendment in protecting civil liberties.

Strossen’s sentiment highlighted the importance of dignified discussion in modern day culture.

and insightful analysis on politics, international affairs and culture provided perspective on the complexities of global politics.

He specifically addressed the nexus between free speech and antisemitism, both particularly pertinent on college campuses.

In April, as part of the Holocaust Awareness Series, Pulitzer Prize winner and The New York Times columnist Bret Stephens delivered the keynote address.

Stephen’s conservative views

Closing the series, a RussianBritish satirist, author and co-host of the Triggernometry podcast Konstantin Kisin, known for his sharp wit and insightful commentary on political and cultural issues, delved deeper into discussions around free speech, censorship and modern social discourse. •

Bret Stephens

Konstantin Kisin

Thanks to a $1.6 million Opportunity Now Seed Grant from the Colorado Department of Education, CMU Tech and Marillac Health announced a partnership program for working adults to further their dentistry education after regular work hours. Offering night and weekend classes at the Marillac Clinic, students will have the opportunity to access state-of-the-art technology, a network through Western Colorado Dental Society and be able to further their personal and career development.

CMU Tech’s Vice President for Technical Education & Workforce Development, Brigitte Sündermann joined the Western Colorado Dental Society’s bi-annual conference to share the news with local stakeholders on April 26. The sentiment shared by attendees was unanimously in agreement — the western slope needs more dental assistants. To be able to confidently share that CMU Tech is and will continue to fulfill the needs of industry gaps is something that Sündermann is not unfamiliar with. CMU and CMU Tech work continuously to evaluate, listen and adapt to changing workforce needs. The Marillac Clinic broke ground July 22. •

UNIVERSITY JOURNAL

CMU receives $1.6 Million for After-Hours Dental Hygienist Program with Marillac Health

CMU’s Eighth Annual Day of Giving Breaks Records On April 10, CMU celebrated its 99th birthday with its eighth annual Day of Giving — raising a record-breaking $213,897 from 1,490 donors. The funds will directly support students, faculty and programs. Challenge funds of $20,000 were awarded to groups excelling in donor engagement.

Day of Giving April 10

#celebrate99 Happy 99th Birthday, Colorado Mesa University!

Timberline Bank introduced the Timberline Shark Bank challenge, where students had 60 seconds to present to the judges why their campaign deserved funding. Timberline Bank awarded $7,500 in total.

“The event was fun, competitive and successful,” said Foundation Chief Operating Officer and Director of Annual Giving Tina Kleespies. “It’s gratifying to observe the generosity of our donors throughout the Day of Giving as campaigns raise funds for their worthy causes. Thank you for participating and making a difference.” •

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Challenge winners included Engineers Without Borders who earned $500 for raising the most money between 12–1pm.

The Physician Assistant Program’s “Stop the Bleed” campaign received $500 for highest student donor participation and the baseball team received $500 for most student donor involvement in athletics. The football team won $3,000 from High Country Beverage for having the most donors and the most money raised in athletics, totaling $83,000 from 474 donors.

Commerce Trust provided $7,500 in challenge funds. Engineers Without Borders earned $2,500 for raising the most money and $2,000 for the largest single gift.

The Study Abroad in Cordoba campaign was awarded $2,500 for most donors and the Physician Assistant Program’s “Stop the Bleed” campaign won $500 for generating the most donors in the final hour.

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Honoring Ann J. Sanders with Naming of Dance Studio in Moss Performing Arts Center Colorado Mesa University proudly dedicated the dance studio in the Moss Performing Arts Center to the founder of its dance program, Professor Emerita Ann J. Sanders. This recognition pays tribute to Sanders' pioneering contributions to the university's arts and cultural landscape.

Since the program’s inception in the early 1970s until her retirement in 2005, Sanders was instrumental in developing its evolution and success. What started in Professor Emerita Ann J. Sanders the kinesiology department, Saunders decided to integrate the program with the theatre department in the 1990s — ultimately establishing CMU's first bachelor’s degree in dance.

The 2009 renovation of the Moss Performing Arts Center featured a state-of-the-art dance studio on its third floor and showcased CMU's commitment to excellence in performing arts education. With panoramic views of the Grand Valley, the studio offers an inspiring environment for artistic expression and growth.

The decision to honor Ann J. Sanders by naming the studio was made by the CMU Board of Trustees last April 5 in recognition of her enduring impact on the university community and the dance community at large. •

CMU Percussion Ensemble’s International Performance at Edeta Festival in Spain The 15-member CMU Percussion Ensemble was honored to be invited to perform in the Edeta Arts Percussion Festival last July. The festival took place in Valencia, Spain, with performances in the Valencia region, including the UNESCO City of Music, Llíria. The ensemble was one of eight traveling from the United States.

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The ensemble performed a full-length feature concert at Valencia Conservatory and a piece in a gala concert in Alicante, Spain. Director Darin Kamstra, DMA, composed a work for the percussion ensemble specifically for these performances, entitled Colorado River. In addition, the ensemble performed as part of the

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world premiere performance of a composition

by Fulbright-Hays Fellow Michael Udow in Llíria entitled The Twelve Labors of Hercules.

In addition to the performances, students had the opportunity to do some sight-seeing and participated in a Flamenco workshop. Trips like these are an important aspect of student musicians' education as they train for the realities of being a touring percussionist — including performing on instruments that are different from the ones they usually perform.

Students were also exposed to ensembles playing in styles new to their ears, expanding their points of view and igniting their imaginations. •

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BY AMBER WHISMAN

E

xciting changes are underway for CMU students and alumni as Career Services and the Alumni Association have merged to form the new Alumni Engagement and Career Services Office. The office serves as a hub to support both students and alumni throughout the different stages of their careers.

The newly combined office aims to enhance the support network available to students and alumni. By combining resources, the office will offer comprehensive services like job placement assistance, networking events and various alumni-focused engagement activities.

Overseeing this change is Sean Rubalcaba, who was recently hired as the executive director of alumni engagement and career services.

Rubalcaba brings a unique blend of personal and professional experience to this role, which makes him an ideal leader for the new office.

“We want to provide career tools and opportunities for students looking for their first job, or alumni that want to search the job market after being in a career for a number of years,” said Rubalcaba.

During his time as a student at CMU, Rubalcaba played football for the Mavericks, where the team won two Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Championships. His experience as a student-athlete instilled in

him a deep understanding of the importance of teamwork, discipline and perseverance.

After earning his Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in management in 2016, he utilized his degree by working with local businesses in the Grand Valley. This work led to Rubalcaba’s selection by the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce to join the Mesa County Leadership Program, solidifying his strengths in leadership and community engagement.

Rubalcaba’s education, his experience as a student-athlete as well as past work and volunteer roles have seamlessly prepared him for this new position, and he looks forward to the future. His vision for the Alumni Engagement and Career Services Office is to create a seamless transition from student life to professional life — ensuring that CMU graduates have the tools and network they need to succeed in their careers.

“My time at CMU was unforgettable, and if I can help others have a similar experience, I want to help in any way I can,” said Rubalcaba. “I am excited to rejoin Colorado Mesa University.

This will be a new adventure.

I look forward to it.”

FALL 2024

Right: Sean Rubalcaba, executive director of alumni engagement and career services

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ACCESSIBLE ARTISTRY Collaboration at CMU Tech empowers filmmaker with cerebral palsy

BY AMBER WHISMAN AND HALEY HAHN

C

ollaboration and innovation are alive at CMU Tech — helping fulfill the dream of a determined filmmaking student Cleo Wayt, who has cerebral palsy.

Wayt’s story is one of resilience and the transformative power of technology.

Wayt has always held a special place in her heart for the art of filmmaking, which was sparked

by Disney classics. This appreciation led her to pursue a degree in digital filmmaking with a focus on writing and directing, as well as a technical certificate in production design elements from CMU Tech.

Recognizing Wayt’s passion and the potential for technology to bridge accessibility gaps, CMU Tech Instructor of Digital Filmmaking Josh Meuwly initiated a project bridging multiple departments to create custom equipment tailored to her unique needs.

Partnering with Meuwly were Mike Mahoney, instructor of computer-aided design (CAD), and Frank Cardoza, machining technology lab and safety technician. Mahoney designed a 3D-printed rod to mount a camera onto Wayt’s electric wheelchair, while Cardoza crafted a piece of aluminum to ensure the weight of the camera and gimbal would be secure on a stable platform.

configuration used a RED Cinema Camera with their RED control app and the DJI Ronin RS-3 Gimbal using RavenEye Image Transmission Technology with the DJI Ronin app.

Central to the project’s success was the integration of cutting-edge technology, enabling Wayt to exert complete control over the camera functions and movements wirelessly from her iPad. This feature enhanced Wayt’s independence and opened doors to more possibilities.

“The most rewarding aspect has been witnessing Cleo’s creativity and technical skills flourish,” said Meuwly. “Seeing her confidence grow as she masters these tools and pushes the boundaries of her craft has been incredibly fulfilling.”

Meuwly is currently mentoring Wayt and her classmate Levi Kramer as she co-directs a documentary through CMU Tech’s film program.

The documentary, The Wonderfully Unique Life of Cleo Wayt, captures her life story and experiences.

As Wayt co-directs her documentary, she aims to convey a powerful message of hope and perseverance.

“No matter how unreal your dreams might seem, you can still chase them through my documentary,” said Wayt.

The most rewarding aspect has been witnessing Cleo’s creativity and technical skills flourish.

Josh Meuwly, CMU Tech Instructor of Digital Filmmaking

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“Having this adapted camera mount allows me the freedom to express myself creatively without constraints. It’s an empowering experience that has redefined what’s possible for me as a filmmaker,” said Wayt.

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Individuals in the Digital Filmmaking Program tested various cameras and configurations to find the right combination for Wayt. The final

CMU Tech Digital Filmmaking student Cleo Wayt’s filmmaking abilities are expanded with the RED Cinema Camera mounted to her wheelchair.

Clockwise from above: CMU Tech Digital Filmmaking student Cleo Wayt; Instructor of Digital Filmmaking Josh Meuwly; Instructor of Computer-Aided Design Mike Mahoney; Lab and Safety Technician for Manufacturing Technology Frank Cardoza.

Looking to the future, Wayt hopes to attend CMU’s Animation, Film, Photography and Motion Design four-year program after graduating from CMU Tech and dreams of one day directing a live-action version of Tangled. She hopes her journey serves as inspiration for aspiring filmmakers with disabilities, encouraging them to pursue their dreams.

“My advice for filmmakers with disabilities is to not give up,” Wayt emphasized.

Wayt’s experience at CMU Tech is not just about overcoming obstacles, it’s about redefining what’s possible in the world of filmmaking.

“I’d like to emphasize the importance of continued support for accessibility in all creative fields. It’s crucial that institutions, educators and industry professionals work together to provide resources and creative opportunities for all aspiring filmmakers,” said Meuwly.

As Wayt continues to break barriers, her journey demonstrates that with enough determination, innovation and collaborative support, there are no limits to what can be achieved. •

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Heartbeat

of

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owwows have always been a significant cultural gathering for Native American communities.

Several modern-day powwows are an opportunity for Indigenous people from all tribal backgrounds to come together, share experiences, reflect on time-honored traditions and educate future generations.

Two federally recognized tribes in Colorado — the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and the Southern Ute Indian Tribe — have continued to preserve their ancestral traditions and heritage by introducing the Grand Mesa Powwow.

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“We want to bring our culture back to Mesa County. We want people to know who we are now and who we were then,”said Monique Terpstra, executive director of the Western Slope Native American Resource Center (WSNARC).

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The inaugural Grand Mesa Powwow transformed the atmosphere of CMU’s Brownson Arena with vibrant energy and a colorful display of Native pride. Hosted by WSNARC and Colorado Mesa University’s

Inaugural Grand Mesa Powwow Shines Spotlight on Native American Culture BY AMBER WHISMAN Native American Student Association (NASA), the threeday event drew participants from as far as Canada and Montana.

again. It made me feel happy and gave me that extra motivation and push to

The Grammy Award-winning Black Lodge Singers from the Blackfoot Nation served as host drum — their rhythmic beats echoed throughout the arena.

The Grand Mesa Powwow was a competition-style powwow with over $25,000 in prize money awarded to the best dancers, drummers and drum crew.

Attendees from over 10 tribes participated.

CMU NASA President Sadie Kelley danced for Women’s Fancy Shawl, a dance she’s participated in since she was a child. Women’s Fancy Shawl is elegant, smooth and meant to resemble a butterfly in flight.

Dancers must keep on beat with the drum while incorporating fast footwork, spins and hops.

“This powwow was the third powwow I have danced in since COVID and moving away for college. It was great to dance

finish off my last semester,” said Kelley.

Powwow participants wore intricate regalia, which is commonly decorated with elements of elaborate beadwork on leather or fabric appliqué.

Kelley has made her own regalia since childhood. The regalia she wore for Women’s Fancy

Shawl was her first fully beaded set, designed with geometrics and family designs to represent different parts of her multi-tribal identity, which includes Oneida, Muscogee Creek, Kiowa, Comanche, Shoshone-Paiute and Cherokee.

“I wanted to incorporate as much as I could in my beadwork. Each person’s beadwork tells a different story — what tribe they are, where they come from and their personal stories,” said Kelley.

Kelley spoke passionately about the significance of the powwow and said that for her, the powwow was a great opportunity to introduce people to Native culture, meet relatives and feel closer to home while away at college.

“I got to bring my teammates and coach from the Women’s Golf Team to their first-ever powwow and let them experience a culture they have never experienced before. I also got to meet relatives on my Kiowa side. It was great to connect with them and have a sense of home while being away from my community,” said Kelley.

and Ouray Reservation. CMU’s central location and proximity to the historical Ute Council Tree, the original meeting ground for Ute tribes, made the campus an ideal gathering place. The collaboration includes CMU’s Native American Student Association, which ensures tribal voices and traditions are respected and integrated into the campus community.

There are plans for the Grand Mesa Powwow to become an annual event. Kelley hopes community members know they’re welcomed and encouraged to attend future powwows.

“Anyone is welcome to go because it’s a great learning opportunity. Everyone should educate themselves and attend to learn the history of the Indigenous people that occupy the land and surrounding areas.

They’re still here, thriving and living just like everyone else,” said Kelley.

The Grand Mesa Powwow was a representation of resilience and a vibrant reminder of the heritage that continues to thrive in Native American communities across the nation. It marked the beginning of an annual tradition, which reaffirms the enduring presence and cultural richness of Native American communities in Colorado. •

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The choice to hold the powwow on the CMU campus highlights a continuous partnership between CMU and the Ute Tribes. This partnership was strengthened during last October’s Tri-Ute meeting, where three Ute tribes convened including the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, Southern Ute Indian Tribe and the Ute Indian Tribe of the Unitah

Sadie Kelley, Native American Student Association president

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A new era for civic leadership thanks to the Aspinall Foundation

BY DAVID LUDLAM

I

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n a foundation merger signed into action from the desk of the late Congressman Wayne Aspinall, CMU President John Marshall and Board of Trustees Chair Tim Fry announced that the Aspinall Foundation will join the Colorado Mesa University Foundation — doubling the endowment for scholarships aimed at students pursuing careers in public service.

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For years, the Aspinall Foundation has been instrumental in providing scholarships to CMU students, which fosters a legacy of leadership and commitment to public policy that benefits communities and the nation. The new endowment balance of $1.5 million not only amplifies the financial support for students, but also promises to expand programs and opportunities that encourage civic engagement.

This merger is a testament to Aspinall’s impact on western policy and land management.

On Aspinall’s birthday, April 3, Tomlinson Library served as a gathering place for celebration.

Surrounded by a collection of Aspinall’s memorabilia, President Marshall, members of the Aspinall and CMU Foundation’s boards and CMU students acknowledged the combined funds as a testament to trust, shared visions and values.

Marshall. “Beyond the obvious benefits of growing the size of the scholarship endowment, the work our organizations have done together in developing this partnership will provide a multitude of new opportunities to engage our community in ways that honor Wayne Aspinall’s legacy and challenge us all to engage civilly with one another.”

Distinguished speakers emphasized the importance of investing in future leaders who are poised to navigate and shape the future. The event signified a monumental step in supporting the next generation of civic leaders, who with this added financial support, can better tackle the waves of education and propel themselves into their careers feeling well-equipped.

In addition to the merger, the Aspinall Foundation Board announced the 2024 scholarship recipients: Wayne N. Aspinall Scholarship recipient Brooke Erickson, Charles Traylor Scholarship recipient Liban Shongolo and Aspinall Scholarship recipients Vicki Tromburg, Melissa Kindt and Nicholas Williams. •

“Few individuals in the history of western Colorado have made more of an impact than former Congressman Wayne Aspinall,” said President

Above, left to right: Vice President of Development and CEO of CMU Foundation Robin Brown, CMU President John Marshall and Wayne Aspinall Foundation Chairman Robert Traylor.

Service on Tap

CMU Engineers Without Borders club members help revive a rural Amazonian community’s water system

BY KELSEY COLEMAN

T

he Amazon River — one of the longest river systems in the world — is the life source of South America, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the far west side of the continent. There are over 1,000 river and stream systems that branch from the main source which fuel and sustain hundreds of communities. This water is used for cleaning, growing food and hydrating life, so it is essential that the resource is available and usable to even the most remote and rural regions.

At the start of the 2024 spring semester, a group of Colorado Mesa University students visited a village on the Napo River, a lesser-known tributary of the Amazon River, in Ecuador, South America.

Home to just under 250 people, Runashitu is a rural community, where water is essential in everything they do. Only their water system needed significant improvements to be usable and residents were unsure how best to fix it.

The year prior, CMU students traveled to Runashitu to uncover innovative ways to filter debris from the water intake, provide storage to meet usage needs and discover a solution to help maintain pressure within the pipes. That initial research trip was a success, but it was up to a new team of Engineers Without Boarders (EWB) club members to implement. Seven EWB students and two professional mentors took a plane from the high desert to the Amazon rainforest to engineer solutions.

Among the group was Tucker Wiltse, an electrical and computer engineering major and the president of the Engineers Without Borders Club at the time. According to Wiltse, the water system was originally constructed in the 1990s, but the transfer of responsibility to the community didn’t include a plan for ongoing maintenance. Without upkeep, the system fell apart.

Michelle Mellenthin, PHD, Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and allow sediments to go straight in, catch in the concrete tank which would get bacteria ridden and that would just go straight into the community,” said Wiltse.

He said tape and sticks were used to patch holes in the pipes and that the water flow was constantly clogging.

Alongside Wilste, the EWB crew was made up of students Andrew McGuan, Kaleb Coleman, Robert Marquez, Ron Koch, Ryan Foresythe and Athena Branch, as well as Mesa County Development Engineer Teddy Martinez and Professional Chief Engineer David Hartman. In collaboration with members of the local community, the group worked from sunrise to sundown driven by the knowledge that their efforts would not only reverse the clogging issues and bring clean water but also open new possibilities for growth and health in Runashitu.

To get the system working again, the group added a wedge wire screen to help with clogging.

They added another tank to support routine maintenance and provided translated documents to help guide future upkeep. Chlorine tablets were provided for added purification and about two dozen taps were placed within the community.

After nearly two-weeks — the implementation of solutions was complete.

CMU Assistant Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Michelle Mellenthin, PhD, and EWB club advisor said for many of the students (continued on next page)

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“The way the intake worked at the head of the stream, it comes from a spring that spills into a damn that went straight into the pipes, and it would clog with leaves and sticks and rocks and it wouldn’t filter. It would do the opposite of filter

So many student projects just sit on a shelf, but these students worked hard on a project that has the ability to help transform a community.”

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it was their first experience traveling outside of the country. For them, seeing their engineering efforts in action for the betterment of others was a life experience they’ll never forget.

“So many student projects just sit on a shelf, but these students worked hard on a project that has the ability to help transform a community,” said Mellenthin. “Clean water delivered straight from the tap is something that can be easily taken for granted here, and we don’t always think about how different our lives would be if we did not have that luxury. This opportunity to travel to Ecuador really opened students’ eyes to how so many people in our world live and it motivates them to be socially responsible engineers.”

Mellenthin added that this most recent trip marked the beginning of a meaningful relationship between the students and the community leaders.

So much so that the students stay in regular contact with the community through WhatsApp.

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“Going there and seeing the people so happy and so excited and knowing their quality of life is going to increase and that they are going to have more potential to live a better life, it’s surreal,” said Wilste. “I often find myself doing things for the sake of doing things. This was absolutely a life changing experience.”

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Mellenthin and the donors that make trips like this possible believe these experiences and

engineering projects help build a better world.

The benefits of these projects go beyond tangible impacts — students gain hands-on experience tackling real-world challenges, appreciating diverse cultures and honing teamwork skills that will serve them throughout their careers. Perhaps most importantly, they return from these experiences with a deepened belief in their power to serve as a model figure within the world they want to create.

“I love it when students come back from these trips because you can see it via the light in their eyes that they truly believe in their own ability to create positive change in the world. The EWB experience is more than just volunteer projects — it’s lifechanging opportunities for the students and the communities they partner with,” she added.

“I just want to help people. I just want to do something to make the net good of the world slightly better, in any capacity,” said Wilste.

Water is essential in every corner of the world, from the rivers that sustain us to the projects that strengthen humanity. Just as the Nile and Amazon rivers serve as lifelines for millions, the efforts of these CMU students now flow into the lives of the Runashitu community, bringing not just clean water but hope and opportunity. Through their work, they’ve demonstrated that whether it’s in the Amazon or the high deserts of Colorado, the power to change lives is in their hands — one drop at a time. •

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spurs of the moment CMU Women’s Rodeo crowns the program’s first national champion

BY DENNIS TAYLOR

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s the greatest season in school history unfolded, members of Colorado Mesa University’s Women’s Rodeo Team sometimes felt as if they were living an impossible dream.

Coming off a record-breaking 2023 season, the 2024 season was a display of dominating resilience. For seven weeks straight, Maverick horsewomen ranked first nationally, winning crucial rodeos against top competitors from rival states like Oklahoma, Wyoming and Texas.

An accumulation of success awarded the team their second consecutive championship in the Rocky Mountain Region, but the work was not done yet.

As the season ended, the CMU Women’s Rodeo competitors knew they had one last obstacle ahead, the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR). Five teammates, four cowgirls included, and their coaches pulled their own horses from Grand Junction to Casper, Wyoming, for an epic display of courage and confidence. Among the group, CMU Rodeo’s first national champion in program history.

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“It was such a surreal moment — unbelievable in a way,” said McKenna Clingman, a senior from Laramie, Wyoming, referencing when she rode her

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CMU Rodeo Head Coach Branden Edwards, McKenna Clingman, Justise Jones, Isabelle Yama, Wylee Mitchell and Assistant Rodeo Coach Tia Joe Edwards. Facing page: McKenna Clingman

horse, Snoozy, to a first-place finish in Goat Tying at the CNFR. Practices, long drives and day-of warmup laps were spent envisioning the exact moment Clingman would be crowned champion.

“It was heart-pumping. I couldn’t breathe. It was one of the most emotional, adrenaline-filled moments of my life,” said Clingman, referencing the moment she saw her time flash on the big screen in front of a crowd of thousands, witnessing her name climb to the top of the rankings.

“In the Goat Tying event, there is no single title out there that holds more weight than the College National Finals,” said Rodeo Head Coach Branden Edwards. “For McKenna, this was like winning the Super Bowl.”

Clingman also competed in Breakaway Roping at nationals, where she was joined by teammates Wylee Mitchell (Barrel Racing), Justise Jones (Goat Tying, Breakaway Roping) and Isabelle Yama (Barrel Racing).

A career of firsts for many, and a season of greats for most, all cowgirls walked away from CNFR with their hats held high.

Record Setting Success Clingman won Rocky Mountain Region crowns in both Goat Tying and All-Around (a category for competitors that accumulate points from all three racing categories: goat tying, barrel racing and breakaway roping).

Clingman’s point accumulation helped CMU to outscore the nearest rival, Utah Valley University, by almost 1,000 points, garnering the team’s regional title for the second year in a row.

Mitchell, CMU’s sophomore co-captain from Pioche, Nevada, won the regional buckle in Barrel Racing. Her second-string steed, Gus, was voted “Horse of the Year” in the region, after stepping in for Michelle’s favored horse, Jack, who was injured early in the season.

Jones, a junior from High River, Alberta, Canada, was the regional runner-up in All-Around and Goat Tying, and placed fifth in Breakaway Roping.

Yama, a junior from Nephi, Utah, took sixth regionally in Barrel Racing.

“Magical definitely is a good word to describe our year,” said Mitchell. “Our team had a phenomenal season last year — the best our program had ever seen — but this one was off the charts,” she said.

“We felt confident that we were going to be on top of our region again, but being ranked number one in the nation for seven weeks was surreal.”

Magical, surreal and amazing are all appropriate descriptions, but the word Edwards highlighted the most was “predictable.”

Considering last year’s team had a breakthrough season when they won the school’s first-ever Rocky Mountain Region crown, sending the same four qualifiers to the College Finals Rodeo was a testament to Edward’s praise for the group of women.

“Not only did we have a boatload of talent, but these girls work their butts off,” he said. “There was never any question in my mind that they would show up prepared and turn some heads.”

The veteran coach is optimistic that his 2025 squad is likely to compete for another regional crown, despite saying farewell to six seniors: Clingman, Taylor Davis, Hope Bondurant, Taylor Walters, Elizabeth Smith, Aleah Mazurek, and Yama, a junior who graduated one year early.

“I’m very sure that Justise and Wylee are going to continue to elevate to a higher level, and we’ve got some sophomores and freshmen who are likely to give us some solid performances,” he said. “We definitely have a chance to be a national qualifier for the third year in a row.” •

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CMU Table Tennis Club is helping serve up solutions for cognitive diseases BY KARI WILLIAMS

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olorado Mesa University is fostering breakthrough strides in neurology exploration through table tennis, in collaboration with NeuroPong™, and an intricate web of participants that all tie back to CMU’s Table Tennis Club Team.

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NeuroPong is a UC Healthapproved program that utilizes table tennis as a prescribed benefit for people with neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s, Dementia, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Alzheimer’s. Patients affected by these cognitive disorders experience loss of muscle control and sensation. The small, sharp and stimulated movements generated during a game of table tennis help with neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to rewire itself.

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There are currently five NeuroPong chapters in Colorado, one of which can be found in the Grand Valley. Grand Junction’s chapter founder, Mike Guthrie, learned of the sport’s benefits firsthand, having been diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

A disease so constricting and discouraging led Guthrie to lose his sense of purpose.

Researching ways to combat his symptoms, Guthrie picked up a table tennis paddle, soon becoming inspired by its positive effects. He created a table tennis group to share the benefits, and the group later evolved into the NeuroPong chapter it is today.

Yoko Wilcox, CMU table tennis assistant coach and volunteer, said she helped Guthrie learn new skills, such as body positioning for wrist movement, as he took on the new hobby.

She witnessed his growth and development of skills during practices at the Bookcliff Activity Center where practices and tournaments are often held.

“Eventually he was good enough to be in a tournament, so he decided to participate in the senior tournament in St. George, Utah,” Wilcox said. “He won two silver medals, one for singles and one for doubles.”

CMU Table Tennis Head Coach Mike Meens built a relationship with Guthrie and Wilcox through

CMU Table Tennis Club: Head Coach Mike Meens (left), Jacob Trowbridge (left), Assistant Coach Yoko Wilcox (center)

their shared love of the game.

The group understood there was an opportunity to join forces to help raise money and spread awareness about the benefits of table tennis for people with neuro-diseases.

In April, Parkinson’s Awareness Month, NeuroPong and the CMU Table Tennis Club collaborated on a tournament-style fundraiser, which raised $1,300.

There is an intricate web of relationships between CMU Table Tennis and NeuroPong, but Coach Meens pointed out one of the most impactful relationships. Jacob Trowbridge, a cellular, molecular and developmental biology major with dreams of becoming

a doctor, became inspired by the stories and connections made through the game.

“He was very interested in NeuroPong and Parkinson’s and how all that fit,” Meens said.

“Even before deciding to do a tournament, Jacob was coming over once a week and hitting with Parkinson’s players.”

... the happiness that people show after practicing for a time is truly awesome to watch and to be a part of.” jacob Trowbridge, cellular, molecular and developmental biology major

Wilcox and Trowbridge traveled to Ft. Collins to receive training on how to coach players who have Parkinson’s. While Trowbridge can’t say that table tennis is the root factor, Trowbridge said he has seen improvement among the players.

Trowbridge has worked with multiple players, helping them develop new skills. He has worked with one player in particular who was only focused on hitting with his

forehand. Now, he can hit backhand and forehand. The same player was more reserved and only said a few words when they first started working together, and now shows more facial expressions.

“I don’t think I can 100% say coming to NeuroPong twice a week contributed, but the happiness that people show after practicing for a time is truly awesome to watch and to be a part of,” Trowbridge said.

As someone who intends to go into the medical field, Trowbridge said interacting with players who have Parkinson’s has given him a chance to see how they act outside of the hospital.

“It’s definitely a whole different experience,” Trowbridge said. “For me, it’s been truly, genuinely amazing to know them in a deeper sense than just a patient. But I think I’ve been so grateful for learning the wisdom of how to treat people in a more genuine sense.”

The partnership between CMU and NeuroPong exemplifies how innovative approaches and community collaboration can create newfound benefits.

Through their shared passion for table tennis, individuals like Guthrie, Wilcox, Meens and Trowbridge are not only participating in research advancement, but also fostering a Human Scale University that enhances the quality of life for those with neurodegenerative diseases. •

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CMU is transforming perceptions in higher education, resulting in a staggering 35% increase in freshman enrollment

BY HALEY HAHN

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olorado Mesa University is offering students an education that is truly divergent, demonstrating a college degree is more than a piece of paper — at CMU it’s an opportunity for a better life.

As a result, CMU welcomed the largest freshman class in its history on August 19. The 35% freshman enrollment growth comes at a time when higher education, in Colorado and nationally, faces significant headwinds.

Enrollment rates across the nation have yet to match pre-pandemic heights as Generation Z

voices their concerns about the value of a degree. CMU, however, has experienced the opposite, growing the campus community by substantial amounts.

For CMU President John Marshall, there’s a clear reason for the university’s success: that CMU is a Human Scale University. CMU is a place where everyone is working to make campus, “a model of the world we want to create.” This message is attracting one of the most higher-educationhesitant generations in history.

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The CMU Promise covers students’ tuition whose families live in Colorado and make $70,000 or less.

Radical Affordability One of the top barriers to higher education is affordability. Because of this, many students and parents question if the investment is worth the price tag, resulting in widespread decisions to skip out on advanced education. To help alleviate financial burdens and encourage students to still pursue a degree, many Colorado colleges launched aid efforts known as “Promise Programs”. CMU offered the CMU Promise, guaranteeing to cover tuition for students living in 22 western Colorado counties whose families earn $65,000 or less. However, in 2023 CMU channeled the value of power and launched a promise that set the university apart.

President Marshall based the CMU Promise on the university’s mission by offering two additional tenants of the promise — the opportunity for a better life and a commitment to teach students how to think, not what to believe.

Facing the Future with First Principles In 2022, CMU’s campus community returned to the drawing board to redefine what matters most in higher education and at CMU. Students, faculty and staff agreed on and boldly adopted the foundational values of love, dignity, courage, humility, resilience, curiosity and power.

The result has been an emboldened university culture that has unapologetically advocated for free speech and expression, returned to the fundamental purpose of education — an opportunity for a better life — and has relentlessly pursued a commitment to radical affordability.

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With compass-like core values, the campus has worked to modernize operations, progressed recruitment strategies, taken on a fresh approach to marketing and communications and has introduced new and revamped academic programs to reflect a Human Scale University, among many other strategies.

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Evolving and transforming from the inside out was just the beginning — what came after serves as a testament to the entire community’s buy-in.

To spread awareness of the CMU Promise pillars, President Marshall set out on the road for the CMU Rural Promise Tour. He visited high schools across rural Colorado, including Cedaredge, Delta, North Fork, Olathe, Nucla, Naturita, Eagle Valley, Rifle and Meeker high schools to deliver the message.

The response was immediate, followed by baccalaureate enrollment increases of 17% in Garfield County, 27% in Montrose County and an impressive 68% in Delta County, demonstrating the powerful impact of a university President taking time to visit and engage with students.

Following the rural tour, President Marshall and firstgeneration CMU student Liban Shongolo took CMU’s unique message to the most urban communities in Aurora and Denver, Colorado, and experienced a similar response. As a result, baccalaureate enrollment from Arapahoe County went up by 25%.

Recognizing the need to extend CMU’s affordability initiative to all Colorado students and families, the CMU Board of Trustees voted unanimously to expand the CMU Promise statewide and increase the income level to $70,000.

The Wait is Over Initiative

CMU Tech: Elevating the Trades

Although affordability is a top concern, financial aid remains the key to higher education accessibility for many prospective attendees. But for high school students and their families, it can be difficult to navigate the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is especially true for firstgeneration students, who make up a large portion of CMU’s student body. This year was especially challenging due to the federal government’s financial aid reforms, which caused widespread delays and disorienting communication.

At a time when students and parents nationwide question the value of a traditional degree, many have turned to associate and certificate technical education (CTE) programs as the solution. Dubbed the “Toolbelt Generation” by the Wall Street Journal, Gen-Z has opted to pursue the trades because the return on investment is fast and measurable — a fact that reigns especially true at CMU Tech.

The FAFSA, which typically opens in October, was still delayed at the start of the year. The federal government sent letters alerting students and parents that financial aid offers were still on hold and likely to be unavailable until as late as summer 2024.

By default, many colleges and universities chose to wait by extending their application deadlines or encouraging students and parents to be patient during a time of uncertainty.

Understanding that financial stress could result in thousands of students opting to skip college, CMU did something bold and innovative, implementing The Wait is Over initiative. This initiative created CMU’s own replication of the federal financial aid calculator. The model was designed to make an educated calculation of what future federal offers would be for each student and allowed CMU to send out aid offers sooner than other Colorado colleges.

True to its value of love, on Valentine’s Day CMU opened its early aid offer portal months before FAFSA was available. When the federal government finally formalized aid packages, CMU guaranteed to uphold estimated offers, regardless of the margins.

Of the nearly 4,000 aid offers sent to incoming and current students, CMU’s calculations were only over on 155 of them.

The unique dual mission at CMU combines traditional four-year and advanced degrees with CMU Tech’s CTE programs, which support both regional and national workforce needs. This additional focus on associate degrees and technical certifications has been crucial in meeting the demand for technical job skills. Like CMU, enrollment at CMU Tech also experienced an unprecedented increase of 40%, prompting university leaders to create new class sections, hire additional faculty members and utilize MavRides — a student-operated club providing free rides to students — to shuttle the influx of attendees between the two campuses.

By attending CMU Tech, students have access to an education that is hands-on, affordable and has almost immediate financial impacts. On top of affordable tuition, many employers are also willing to curb financial barriers through apprenticeship programs, stackable credential compensation guarantees, and loan and tuition reimbursement commitments.

The launch of CMU Tech placed CMU in a position of national leadership. CMU Tech’s exciting growth is a testament to its high responsiveness to workforce needs and widespread conversations about the value of higher education.

The numbers speak for themselves, as half of the incoming freshmen who received an early aid offer enrolled at CMU — contributing to the 35% freshman enrollment increase. The bold decision made by the Board of Trustees and President Marshall provided a sense of security for students. It’s possible that without CMU’s early aid guarantee, many may not have enrolled in college at all.

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Welcoming the Largest Incoming Freshman Class

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While colleges and universities around the nation experienced flat or declining enrollment for 20242025, CMU’s 35% freshman enrollment increase created enviable opportunities. Faced with the opportunity to welcome the largest incoming freshman class in school history, CMU staff leaned on university values and its mission to keep class sizes small and personable, expand dining services, ensure facilities were upkept, technology was capable and the needs of all students were met. Thanks to true Maverick spirit, the campus was ready for the newest Mavily members from day one.

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•

CMU Admissions hosted New Mavs Days, celebrating the newest arrivals with a warm introduction to a campus of belonging.

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CMU Dining encouraged students to share tables and meals with their new Mavily, as well as held the grand opening of Qdoba, one of the students’ most requested dining options.

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IT (Information Technology) issued 150 brand new discounted laptops to first-generation students under the CMU 567 laptop program.

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Residence Life spent the summer preparing housing for 3,000 students living on campus.

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CMU Tech created 51 new course sections to accommodate for the growing interest in the trades.

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CMU Student Services transformed The Point, a campus community and entertainment room, into Arcadia, a blast-to-the-past arcade and gaming space.

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IRIS (Integrated Resources for Information and Solutions) reshaped their website into an accessible resource for self-help solutions available to students needing assistance with financial aid, billing and registration questions.

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Asteria Theatre opened its doors to the community and campus, celebrating the new western Colorado hub for culture, performing arts and the stars.

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CMU leadership finalized the campus Master Plan accounting for future parking and campus infrastructure to accommodate for current needs and future enrollment growth.

Preparing for the Future Making the case for higher education requires an unorthodox mindset and the ability to think big. It demands bold strategies and innovative approaches to address the evolving needs of students and society. Fortunately for CMU, a campus culture driven by Maverick spirit is no stranger to this call-to-action.

Amidst the current state of the academic enrollment environment, CMU has the capacity to grow not just for growth’s sake, but to expand the reach and power of education to those who would not normally have the opportunity or the resources to participate.

Guided by its first principal values, radical affordability efforts and Human Scale University mission, CMU is committed to making education accessible and meaningful to all.

While welcoming the largest freshman class to date is an accomplishment celebrated throughout campus, CMU’s successes reach beyond the numbers. Its dedication to providing affordable education, serving first-generation students and offering the opportunity for a better life is what sets CMU apart from the rest. •

CMU’s blueprint for first-year engineering student success includes building community

BY DENNIS TAYLOR

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athan McNeill, PhD, director of CMU-CU Boulder Engineering Partnership Programs, has addressed a subtle yet crucial gap in the education of prospective and incoming engineering students.

To fuse this gap, McNeill initiated a scholarship program offering students a helpful nudge toward academic success before they begin their journey toward a degree.

The Engineering Summer Bridge Program is a new addition to CMU’s existing Early Start Program, designed to provide first-time, traditional students valuable skills and knowledge to build from before regular classes commence.

pre-calculus course (at CMU or elsewhere) are eligible for a scholarship of up to $1,800 to cover the cost of the class, as well as room and board if attending the class at CMU. The intensive 4 ½-day course, worth one credit, replaces Introduction to Engineering, a 16-week course completed during the fall semester.

For new college students, the benefits are more than academic, McNeill explained.

“We know from research that students who start with a cohort typically do a better job of building community and are more likely to persist,” he said. “This gives us a chance to bring them

This gives us a chance to bring them to school a week early, help them build their community, find resources on campus and get a head start on their academic career.”

Nathan McNeill, PHD, director of cmu-cu Boulder Engineering Parnership Programs to school a week early, help them build their community, find resources on campus and get a head start on their academic career. Helping students feel caught up on day one is a big boost.”

Incoming students participating in the program who achieve a grade of C or better in a

The CMU-CU Boulder partnership enables engineering students to earn an accredited

CU Boulder degree at a more affordable cost, while benefiting from smaller class sizes and personalized instruction at CMU. “They’re in the exact same classrooms, on the same campus, the whole time,” McNeill said.

“I really haven’t seen anything else like that.”

This innovative initiative through the Engineering Summer Bridge Program stands as a beacon of opportunity for incoming engineering students. By addressing the critical gap in calculus readiness while fostering day-one community, McNeill is helping forge a surer path to success. Through programs like these, CMU continues to demonstrate its commitment to offering an opportunity for a better life for all students. •

FALL 2024

“All our engineering programs start with Calculus One. This program, the week before the fall semester begins, is designed to give them a head start,” said McNeill, who cultivated and taught the inaugural class.

PhD, cNeill, U Boulder M n a h U-C grams Nat of CM nership Pro r o t c e t dir Par ering Engine

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HEALING T

hroughout the span of her 33-year nursing career, Lucy Graham, PhD, MPH, RN, has dedicated herself to serving the underserved — from supporting those with HIV and AIDs to ensuring that people experiencing homelessness have access to primary care in a safe and consistent setting.

Currently the CMU Department of Health Sciences director, Graham has spent the last four years facilitating a partnership between CMU, St. Mary’s Regional Hospital (now Intermountain Healthcare) and HomewardBound of the Grand Valley to operate the Pathways Family Wellness Center (PFWC) within the Pathways Family Shelter.

The PFWC took shape in early 2020 when Graham wrote a grant to establish a “nurse-led, behaviorally integrated” clinic. The goal of the clinic: to provide clinical care led by RNs and nurse practitioners rather than doctors, and to be behaviorally integrated ensuring patients receive holistic care that considers all their needs.

From left to right: Melinda Blake, LCSW, Lucy Graham, PhD, and Ona Ridgeway, DNP

UNH OUSED

BY KRISTEN LUMMIS

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“[Nurse-led, behaviorally integrated clinic] is a term that describes the nurse clinician and the behavioral clinician working together to address patient issues such as homelessness, trauma, substance abuse, chronic health conditions and assistance with accessing services such as Medicaid,” explains Graham. “You’re not going to take care of your health if you don’t know where your next meal is coming from or where you’re sleeping that night,” she added.

CMU faculty member Lucy Graham, PhD, serves the underserved

Under the grant, Graham does not provide clinical services but acts as the grant administrator and chief investigator. Ona Ridgway, DNP, a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner, serves as the clinic’s lead provider and has been with the clinic since it was founded.

As an educator at CMU, Graham is especially focused on the available training at the clinic for undergraduate nursing students, graduate nurse practitioners and physician assistant students.

“Without this opportunity, our students have almost no exposure to outpatient care of a very vulnerable population,” said Graham.

“They might see them in an acute care setting, but they don’t really get to see and understand their day-to-day struggles. Really hearing their stories and spending time with patients to understand their needs is a very different experience.”

Working at the clinic also provides students with a valuable opportunity to address their own biases around homelessness, while practicing what Graham calls “compassionate, nonjudgmental care delivery.”

As for health outcomes, Justin McCarthy, MD, a faculty physician at Intermountain Healthcare Family Medicine Residency and a clinic

volunteer and member of the Pathways Family Clinic Advisory Board, sees many benefits.

“Lucy was visionary in pairing an opportunity for a nurse-driven clinic while meeting a dire need in the Grand Valley. Our homeless community lacked access to care outside of basic acute care. The services provided by the Pathways clinic are standard-of-care. We had been settling for far less for many years before this clinic,” said McCarthy.

McCarthy added, “When homeless individuals only have care available through the emergency department it does little good for continuity, managing chronic conditions or building rapport between those individuals and the healthcare industry. Having a clinic of traumainformed, experienced providers has been key in engendering that trust.”

To date, more than 300 CMU students have had hands-on clinical experiences at PFWC. The clinic has averaged more than 700 patient visits a year for the past four years, for a total of over 1,000 unduplicated patients.

By any measure, the clinic has been a success for patients, students, healthcare providers and the Mesa County community. With grant funding running out, the PFWC is now under the auspices of the Mesa County Health Department. This will ensure its sustainability while maintaining the partnerships with CMU, Intermountain Healthcare’s Family Practice and HomewardBound of the Grand Valley.

“The clinic makes our community healthier and stronger,” said Graham. •

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Above: HomewardBound Pathways Shelter provides 24/7 emergency shelter for families and individuals experiencing homelessness.

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Alumnus transfer student transforms into World Series champion

THE MAVERICK

BY KARI WILLIAMS

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e r e h w e c a l p a to s a n i w g e e b r y l l “ He a e r to e ” l . s b a a w s a s an d I u n o m Iw h u l a w t u om o , ch e r R o t i o p i d g l n l r e a fi -S seb d p ro b a

M

re t ire

any questioned if CMU alumnus Sergio Romo would have what it takes to be a professional baseball player. He had ups and downs during his early days of college baseball, but thanks to the unwavering support of CMU Baseball Head Coach Chris Hanks, Romo was reminded to believe in himself, his dream and his game.

Before transferring to CMU, Romo felt lost and frustrated.

“Being told for a majority of my college career I was too small and didn’t throw hard enough, people just passed over the intangibles. They forgot to say competitive, they forgot to say gritty and grindy,” said Romo.

Hanks saw something others didn’t and was willing to take a risk to ensure Romo found his place.

“When I went to recruit him, we didn’t have any scholarship money available for him,” Hanks said. “So, on the phone, I asked him what we needed to do to help him commit. He said he was going to need all tuition, fees and books paid for. And I said, ‘Done. We’ll do that.’

And when we hung up the phone, I had to go raise about $11,000 for that scholarship.”

“He’s still overall the best competitor I’ve ever coached in 31 years,” Hanks said. “He has a great natural feel for pitching.

His competitive nature on top of all that just adds to it.”

This past spring, Romo returned to campus nearly 20 years later to celebrate his Major League career and retire his professional jersey: number 54. To kick off the celebratory occasion, Romo threw the first pitch at the Friday night game against CSU-Pueblo, signed baseball cards and reflected on his time at CMU. Romo summarized the weekend in one word, blessed.

“Mesa wasn’t the beginning of my blessing environment, but it was the beginning of the longer-lasting lessons and I’m very thankful for that. Here was a place where I was able to really begin to find out who I was, not just as a person, but as a baseball player and a pitcher.”

Romo retired from professional baseball in March 2023 and now is an analyst for NBC Sports Bay Area. In July, Romo, alongside teammates Jeremy Affeldt, Santiago Casilla and Javier López, called the Core Four, were inducted into the San Francisco Giants’ Wall of Fame for their contributions to the team’s World Series successes. •

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Romo, a star pitcher, played for the Mavericks for one year in 2005 and still holds the

single-season records for wins (14), complete games (11) and strikeouts (129). He was a late-round draft pick for the San Francisco Giants in 2005 and made his professional debut three years later.

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Maverick Champions Spr 20 Athletic Season Highlights ing 24

Baseball • RMAC Co-Player of the Year, Rob Sharrar • RMAC Freshman of the Year, Ethan Nunez • RMAC Regular Season Champions • RMAC Tournament Champions • Two All-Americans • Three Academic All-Americans • 10 All-RMAC Selections

Ethan Nunez Freshman

Rob Sharrar Senior

Women’s Lacrosse • One All-American, Kelsey Viger • RMAC Attacker of the Year, Justine Anderson • RMAC Defensive Player of the Year, Kelsey Viger • Nine All-RMAC Selections

Justine Anderson

Kelsey Viger Redshirt Senior

Sophomore

Beach Volleyball

Golf

• One All-American Pair, Hahni Johnson and Amanda Ollinger

• Four All-RMAC Selections (M) • One All-RMAC Selections (W)

Amanda Ollinger THE MAVERICK

Graduate Student

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Hahni Johnson Senior

Tennis • 15 Academic All-PACWest

overall stats

Rodeo • One National Champion, McKenna Clingman, Goat Tying • Six National Championship Qualifiers • One Rocky Mountain Region Team Champion (Women’s Team) • Three Rocky Mountain Region Individual Champions

• 11 Championship Titles • 90 All-RMAC Selections • 18 All-Americans

McKenna Clingman

• Nine Academic All-Americans • Nine Players of the Year

Senior

Josie Coffey Redshirt Junior

Track and Field

Miller Jones

Zace Buckhold Redshirt Junior

• RMAC Field Athlete of the Year, Zace Buckhold • RMAC Freshman of the Year, Miller Jones • South Central Region Athlete of the Year, Josie Coffey • Six All-Americans

Freshman

Cycling

Men’s Lacrosse

• One Paris 2024 Olympics Athlete, Olivia Cummins • 4th Consecutive National Championship Title • Three National Championship Individual Event Titles • Six All-Americans

Olivia Cummins

• One All-American, JJ Brummett • RMAC Regular Season Champions • RMAC Tournament Champions • 11 All-RMAC Selections • One Academic All-American

JJ Brummett

Junior

Junior

Softball

Junior

Myah Arrieta

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Preslee Christe

• RMAC Player of the Year, Myah Arrieta • RMAC Pitcher of the Year, Preslee Christe • RMAC Regular Season Champions • One All-American, Myah Arrieta • Two Academic All-Americans • Seven All-RMAC Selections Junior

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ROOTS OF LOVE The Dahl family tree has three more branches thanks to CMU

BY NATHALIE ALONSO

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or brothers Matthew (Matt) Dahl, ‘03, Tyler Dahl, ’06, and Adam Dahl, ‘13, CMU unlocked more than a college education — all three met their spouses on campus.

Hailing from Rangely, Colorado, the Dahl brothers’ CMU journey started with Matt, the trailblazer.

Matt and Jeanette, ’03, met the first week of freshman year through a mutual friend. Their love story took off running right from the start as they bonded through four years of school and their student government involvement during their senior year. Today, Matt is the city manager for Midvale City, Utah, and Jeanette is a nurse practitioner.

Tyler and Matt overlapped for a year on campus when Matt was a senior and Tyler was a freshman.

As the oldest sibling, Matt’s experience helped pave the way for his younger brothers.

Having an older brother who knew the institution helped Tyler settle into college life.

“The guidance and support was really, really nice,” Tyler said.

Tyler, the Mesa County regional president at Alpine Bank and a member of the CMU Alumni Association Board of Directors, and his wife, Jessica, ’07, a former schoolteacher turned stayat-home mom, first met through roommates both in the CMU Ambassador Program.

Their relationship flourished during their shared time at Tolman Hall, where Tyler, a resident assistant would steal precious moments with Jessica during her hours working the front desk. Today, their three sons keep them busy running around their residence in Grand Junction.

Youngest brother Adam attended Western Colorado Community College, now CMU Tech. He and Danielle’s, ’15, story started on the basketball courts, where a game of pick-up turned into happily ever after.

Today, they live in Carlsbad, New Mexico, with their two

THE MAVERICK

From left to right: Matt and Jeanette; Tyler and Jessica; Adam and Danielle

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daughters. Danielle teaches second grade and Adam is a construction representative for Chevron.

Last year, all six alumni gathered at Tyler and Jessica’s home for Thanksgiving and participated in the Grand Junction 5K Turkey Trot.

“That was really fun to just be back where it all started. We like having that connection to the town and to the school.

It’s something we hope we can continue,” said Danielle.

The connection the Dahl family has to CMU is strong and reflects their shared experiences and deep roots.

“We grew up on the Western slope and we’re all proud to be CMU alums,” said Tyler. •

DISTINGUISHED MAVERICKS Every fall, CMU recognizes outstanding alumni for their Maverick spirit, accomplishments and accolades

BY HALEY HAHN

H

omecoming Weekend, a gathering of Mavericks returning to the CMU campus, is a time-honored tradition signifying community and the deep collegiate ties formed during graduates’ time on campus.

To celebrate the impact of the growing Alumni Association, CMU recognizes former students and student-athletes for their outstanding contributions, accolades and accomplishments pre- and post-graduation.

The Friday before weekend activities commence, two Distinguished Alumni and two Hall of Honorees will stand before their peers for recognition at the Victory Dinner.

The recipients take their place among the dozens of Mavericks that have stood before them.

They will be recognized for the exceptional things they have done to embody CMU’s values of love, dignity, courage, humility, resilience, curiosity and power.

Distinguished Alumni

Hall of Honor

The Alumni Association and Board of Directors are tasked with choosing two alumni most deserving of the award for their community involvement, professional accomplishments and continued association with CMU. The Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest honor the Alumni Association can bestow on an individual. The recipients are richly deserving of this tribute, a tradition that began in 1963, when the first inductee, Warren Broderson, was recognized. Nominations usually come from friends, family or associates of nominees; they can also be self-nominated.

Hall of Honor recipients promote the pillars of a thriving athletic program while upholding CMU’s core values on and off campus.

These honorees represent exceptional athletic accolades, academic record, Maverick character and-or noteworthy post-enrollment achievements.

Student-athletes, coaches and entire teams can receive the honor. Recipients are nominated by coaches, former teammates, weight training staff, team physicians, friends and family.

Following the nomination process, a committee including student-athletes, boosters and community leaders select the Hall of Honorees.

This year’s Distinguished Alumni are Diana Bailey and Les McPherson.

This year’s Hall of Honorees are B.J. Russell and Jordyn Moody. •

These accolades are not just for alumni but benefit future students too. Distinguished Alumni donate their award to an annual scholarship of their choice.

The amount of the scholarship is symbolic — $1,925 — the year CMU was established.

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distinguished alumni

From Student to Teacher Diana Bailey, ‘80 and ‘84, administers knowledge and care, growing from student to nursing educator

BY MADELYNN FELLET

N

orth Platte native and CMU alumna, Diana Bailey, PhD, always aspired to be a nurse. Driven by determination and hard work, her journey began in May 1980 when she completed her associate degree in nursing.

She credits her strong classroom education and rich clinical experiences to her smooth transition from student nurse to registered nurse.

She returned to Mesa College to complete her bachelor’s degree in nursing. Graduating with this degree in 1984 deepened her appreciation for the profession and opened doors to leadership opportunities. During this time, she also met her husband of 42 years in MATH 113, College Algebra.

THE MAVERICK

After 30 years as a registered nurse, Bailey was invited to guest lecture in a pediatrics class at CMU. This opportunity ignited a new passion for teaching.

Chasing this new dream, she earned a master’s degree in nursing education in 2010 and was hired into a full-time, tenure-track position at CMU.

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Adding to her academic accomplishments, Bailey earned a doctorate in education 10 years later. Her extensive life experiences, including 44 years as a registered nurse, set her up for success in her current role

as the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program coordinator and lead clinical faculty in the Leadership Curriculum.

Immense pride is newly ignited every May and December during the Pinning Ceremony celebrating her students official welcome into the nursing field.

She also finds joy advising new and current nursing students as they navigate their classes and college life. Her role as a mentor is a reminder that her life has come full circle, from student to teacher.

Her life motto, “it’s a journey, not a race,” serves as a reminder to her and her students that success isn’t imminent and the impact of education relies on enjoying the ride.

When not in the classroom, you can find Bailey spending time with family and friends, wine tasting, gardening or golfing. •

Diana Bailey, PhD Graduation Year: 1980 and 1984

Diana Baily, PhD, in middle

Hometown: North Platte, Nebraska Profession: Associate Professor of Nursing, Registered Nurse Most Impactful Professor: Professor of Nursing Kristy Reuss Favorite Book: Peace Like a River by Leif Enger Favorite Place on Campus: Her office in the Health Sciences Building Life Motto: “It’s a journey, not a race.”

Hobbies: Spending time with family and friends, wine tasting, gardening and golf Accomplishments: Serving more than 44 years as a registered nurse, obtaining a PhD in Nursing Education, earning over five awards in her nursing profession, serving as president of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society in Nursing.

Les McPherson, ‘86, credits CMU’s community to his ability to juggle a career, school and family

BY MADELYNN FELLET

L

es McPherson, ’86, found himself drawn to Grand Junction and the university after the closure of the Colony Oil Shale Project (COSP) impacted the Rifle community’s economy. Amidst the downturn that gripped the area, McPherson found excitement in his new home, reflecting on the COSP closure as a pivotal event that altered his life’s course.

Working full-time at a small accounting firm owned by Don Gulley while balancing fulltime studies, this challenging period offered him incredible opportunities that pushed him to open his own accounting firm.

McPherson regards CMU as the heart of Grand Junction’s community, and feels honored to be part of its legacy. Inspired by the thousands of graduates before and after him, he cherishes his connection to what he describes as a vibrant “village,” “tribe,” “clan” and “herd,” which he is proud to belong to.

During his sophomore year, McPherson married his wife, Theresa, and became a father to two children with a third on the way before graduation.

Since graduating, he has lived within two blocks of campus, witnessing first-hand the extraordinary changes at CMU. While the campus has evolved physically, McPherson appreciates its dedication to students and its preparation for the future.

surreal to know that I have been able to be a part of it.

The CMU that we see today is not physically the same that I experienced in the ‘80s, but it is definitely still the same when you see the dedication that it has to its students. Go Mavs!”

When not running his firm, you can find McPherson spending time with family, reading, camping or golfing. •

“The changes that I have been able to witness with CMU have been off the charts. It seems

Les McPherson Graduation Year: 1986 Hometown: Rifle, Colorado Profession: Certified Public Accountant Most Impactful Professor: Professor of Accounting Edward Boehler and Professor of History Morton Perry Favorite Book: Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy by Eric Metaxas Favorite Place on Campus: Tomlinson Library and Hotel Maverick Life Motto: “Value others before myself.”

Hobbies: Spending time with family, reading, camping and golf Accomplishments: Devoted husband, father and grandfather, 40+ years of coaching youth soccer, serving on multiple non-profit boards, impacting lives globally.

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He credits Professor of Accounting Edward Boehler and Professor of History Morton Perry, as well as fellow students with preparing him for the experiences he would face in his nearly four-decade career. The university’s rigorous academic environment instilled in him a relentless pursuit of solutions

and balanced outcomes — shaping his approach to life’s obstacles.

distinguished alumni

Balancing the Accounts of Life

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Hall of honor

The Leadership Playbook B.J. Russell, ’05, attributes his leadership skills to his time on the field

BY JENNA KRETSCHMAN

L

egacy is the driving force behind Hall of Honoree recipient B.J. Russell, who graduated from Colorado Mesa University — ­ then Mesa State College — in 2005. Russell still holds the all-time football program record in tackles, assisted tackles and most tackles in a single game, which he earned throughout his fouryear letterman and three-year starting career.

that will stay with me my entire life,” Russell said.

Nearly two decades later, Russell now spends his days as a manager for an environmental consulting company, running a family business as a fifthgeneration cattle rancher and raising his three young sons alongside his high school sweetheart. He still holds his collegiate football days close to his heart.

“Playing football at that level was a dream of mine since I was a little kid. It was an experience

B.J. Russell Graduation Year: 2005 Hometown: Loma, Colorado Profession: Western Colorado operations manager at Summit Services Group and owner of his family cattle ranch, Russell Cattle Company.

Inspirational CMU Employee: Coach Joe Ramunno and Defensive Coordinator Clarence Ross Favorite book: Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry Favorite place on campus: Ralph Stoker Stadium Field Life motto: “Be humble and be the last one to quit.”

THE MAVERICK

Hobbies: Fishing, hunting, spending time with his family and being a cowboy

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Accomplishments: Was a four-year letterman, three-year starter and team captain of the football team; is the all-time program leader in tackles (422), assisted tackles (256) and most tackles in a game (28); married his high school sweetheart and is raising three great boys.

Russel’s life motto, “be humble and be the last one to quit,” stems from his time as a team captain and dedicated studentathlete. Being a leader on the field transferred into his professional life after college.

“As someone who manages people, I can tell when someone has been in a team situation like sports. You learn a lot from that experience. I learned how to perform under pressure, work through adversity, be competitive, work as a team and be the one others depend on.”

Russell grew up in Loma, Colorado, and chose CMU for its proximity to family. Today, Russell and his family live just a quarter mile away from his childhood home. Russell’s three young boys, ages 12, 9 and 7, all hope to follow in their father’s footsteps as competitive athletes, and Russell hopes they’ll continue the family legacy as sixth-generation ranchers.

“It’s a life dream,” Russell said.

“It’s that lifestyle that we want to keep for the next generation, for my boys to learn and be part of. I’m trying to keep that legacy going.”

Even when Russell isn’t working, you’ll find him still practicing the cowboy lifestyle, running around with his boys and wife, fishing and hunting. •

Hall of honor

Building Blocks Jordyn Moody, ’15, harnesses the power of play

BY JENNA KRETSCHMAN

H

all of Honoree recipient Jordyn Moody is a former CMU volleyball star who has applied lessons from the court to her current career as a mental health therapist, specializing in play therapy. Inspired by the power of sports psychology and her own experiences, Moody is the definition of a Maverick driven by humility.

During her time on the CMU Women’s Volleyball team, Moody was a four-year starter and two-year captain. She is still the all-time program leader in assists. She graduated from CMU in 2015 with her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a minor in psychology.

With a strong interest in psychology, Moody deeply resonated with the lessons taught by the team’s sports psychologist, Jacob Jones, PhD. “I was fascinated with the mental aspect of the game and how you can change the way you think to transform the way you perform,” Moody said. “That’s something that stuck with me my senior year.”

Inspired by the lessons she learned from Jones, Moody pursued a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Grand Canyon University,

graduating in 2021. Today, Moody works as a play therapist in Denver teaching children and parents how to understand and address emotions and behaviors through play.

“All these lessons that we’re learning from the game, like being competitive and hardworking and resilient, and applying them to what we choose to do with the rest of our life is what’s important,” said Moody.

In the future, she hopes to open her own therapy practice working with parents and young children, or athletes exiting their competitive careers.

Outside work, she enjoys reading books, perfecting her cooking and traveling to foreign countries with her husband. She has moved nine times in the past four years but hopes to settle down in Colorado or near the ocean so she can play beach volleyball. •

Jordyn Moody Graduation Year: 2015 Hometown: Chandler, Arizona Profession: Mental health therapist Inspirational CMU Professor: Associate Professor of Psychology Jacob Jones, PhD, former sports psychologist for the 2014 women’s volleyball team Favorite Book: Brave New World by Aldous Huxley Favorite Campus Spot: Tomlinson Library Life Motto: “Always find time to play, no matter how old you get.”

Hobbies: Reading, cooking, playing beach volleyball and traveling with her husband Accomplishments: Marrying a great life partner, earning a Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling and being the CMU Volleyball all-time program leader in assists.

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TOGETHER,

WE ARE GROWING OUR COMMUNITY

THE MAVERICK

Colorado Mesa University strives to have a hands–on impact and to engage, serve and work in partnership with our local community, our greater Colorado communities and beyond.

Together we can grow educational access and make a positive impact.

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GIVE NOW:

Engage.SupportingCMU.org/Fall24

1. Open your

phone’s camera app

2. Frame the QR code 3. Tap the banner

when prompted

Homecoming 2024:

Spirit of the Maverick October 13–20, 2024 Join us at the foot of the mountains, the banks of the Colorado River, and the convergence of canyons and desert. CMU’s 2024 Homecoming celebrates the unique spirit and culture of western Colorado and its landscapes with the theme Spirit of the Maverick. coloradomesa.edu/homecoming

Save the date

for events all week long · Bonfire · Victory Dinner · Parade · Tailgate · Football game Scan for Homecoming · Rowdy’s birthday events · Golf tournament · Basketball’s Midnight Madness · Spirit contests and more!

shop.coloradomesa.edu/category/homecoming

SPONSORED BY:

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2024

The Who’s Who of Young Alumni awards honor graduates from the last 10 years who are under the age of 40.

These individuals have distinguished themselves through a high-level of professional accomplishments early in their career and have demonstrated a commitment to CMU through volunteering, leadership or community contributions.

Aden Cesmat is a dynamic entrepreneur and community leader. Graduating in 2019 with a bachelor’s in business administration, entrepreneurship, he has excelled in his business ventures. Cesmat founded Air Freshener Marketing, an international air freshener business based in Grand Junction, valued at over $3 million.

His company has secured contracts with the NFL and various college athletic teams positioning it as a leading supplier in the U.S. Cesmat is deeply involved in the CMU community, supporting students at the Maverick Innovation Center and assisting the Ambassador Alumni Chapter with event planning. His commitment to local business

Kayley Kutcher, an accomplished entrepreneur and event manager, graduated in 2019 with a bachelor’s in business administration, hospitality management. She founded Sparked Weddings and Events at 23-years-old. Over the past four years, she built a stellar reputation, earning 5-star reviews and a feature in the exclusive Rocky Mountain Bride magazine.

Kutcher also serves as the CMU Foundation event and engagement manager, organizing events and fundraising initiatives for the Foundation, the President’s Office and CMU Athletics. Her exceptional organizational skills have earned her recognition among university executives and donors.

Kutcher is active in her community and is a member of the Grand Valley Young Alumni Chapter and Young Professionals Network named Young Professional of the Quarter in 2020. Along with volunteering for alumni events and serving as a guest speaker in Hospitality Management classes, she has also volunteered in flood relief efforts and community events, demonstrating her dedication to service.

growth and community service is evident through his hiring practices and volunteer efforts.

Recognized as the Young Professional of the Quarter in 2022 by the Young Professionals Network, Cesmat’s achievements extend beyond his professional life. He and his wife, Brittany, also a CMU alumnus, are proud parents to their son, Nash.

Kianna Colaizzi is a standout professional and community leader.

She graduated in December 2020 with a bachelor’s in business administration and began her career at the Bank of Colorado.

Starting as an intern, she quickly rose through the ranks to become a loan officer, branch manager and eventually market operations manager overseeing all three branches in the Grand Valley.

Colaizzi’s community involvement is equally impressive. She has been an active volunteer leading the Bank of Colorado’s Community Involvement Committee and participating in events like the Desert Cleanup and Habitat for Humanity builds. She completed the Mesa County Leadership Class and represented Colorado at the Colorado Capitol Conference in Washington, D.C. Her achievements have earned her community recognition, being named a Best Slope Next Gen Honoree by the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce. Colaizzi continues to give back to her alma mater by volunteering for the CMU Young Alumni Golf Tournament and serving on its committee.

ALUMNI PULSE

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD of Directors 2024-2025 Jennifer Pacheco, President

Gussie Boyd, President Elect

Jerry Sheetz,

Treasurer/Secretary

Brandon Cummings, Executive At-Large

Troy Nesheim, Past President

Dear Fellow Mavericks, As the newly appointed president of the CMU Alumni Association Board of Directors, I want to extend my gratitude to Troy Nesheim, previous board president. Troy’s dedication and leadership have been instrumental in the continuing growth of our alumni network, and we are grateful for his ongoing commitment to CMU. During Mav Month this October, I invite you to celebrate our shared legacy and the spirit of CMU. Let’s put our Maverick spirit on display and reconnect with fellow alums. And what better way to do this than during homecoming, the highlight of Mav Month? There are plenty of opportunities to show your Maverick pride, from the parade and football game to reunions and the bonfire, there’s something for everyone and I can’t wait to see you out there representing CMU!

Distinguished Alumni recipients, Les McPherson and Diana Bailey, and funding over $24,000 in scholarships from the Alumni Association this past year — it is an exciting time to be a Maverick.

As always, the involvement and support of our alumni network is essential to the continued success of our beloved institution.

Thank you for being a vital part of the Maverick family.

This excitement extends to our current students as well. This fall, a record number of freshmen have started their journey as Mavericks. The enthusiasm and diversity of this new class reflect the growing reputation and appeal of CMU. As alumni, we can take immense pride in this continued growth and success.

Go Mavs!

Jennifer Pacheco, ‘10 President, Colorado Mesa University Alumni Association Board of Directors

Staying true to CMU’s focus of giving students top-notch facilities and opportunities, the new theatre is going to make the performing arts on campus even better and become a cultural hotspot for the whole community.

I look forward to catching up with fellow Mavs at the amazing shows and events happening on the new stage.

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We have a lot to be proud of as alumni. From the opening of a brand-new, state-of-the-art theatre to honoring our esteemed

Deb Bailey Emmylou Blanco Tyler Dahl Mandy DeCino Jennifer Holdren Alex Maher Brittani Martin Les McPherson Kim Raff Heather Root Katie Sweet Stephanie Williams Lindsey Wiltse

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CLASS NOTES: ALUMNI THROUGH THE YEARS FLASHBACK

1926

Grand Junction Junior College Class of 1926 Utilizing a monthly column and social media channels, she tirelessly educates others about current food production challenges.

AGRICULTURE ADVOCATE Janie VanWinkle, ‘93

BY EMILY BENDA GAYLORD Education and ranching go handin-hand for Janie VanWinkle, who intertwines her academic background and beef production knowledge to advocate for her community in the food production industry.

Alongside her husband, Howard, VanWinkle owns and manages VanWinkle Ranch, a bustling operation with 550 head of cattle grazing in Mesa County. Aside from daily operations of running equipment, bookkeeping and working the herd, VanWinkle serves on multiple local agriculture boards.

1970s

THE MAVERICK

Sylvia Talkington, ’70

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Sylvia Talkington is celebrating the first anniversary of her book, Home Is Everywhere — Adventures of An Itinerate Homecare Nurse. Talkington’s nursing career began in critical care, where she became the first Critical Care RN in Colorado. She later

With misinformation and misconceptions circulating about the industry, VanWinkle is a passionate advocate for fellow industry members sharing updates about food security challenges and how responsible land and livestock stewardship is a core practice of business.

“Only two percent of the population is involved in food production for the other 98 percent,” VanWinkle said. “It is critical our local and regional communities understand and reach out to us before making any policy decisions that would impact producers.”

VanWinkle has been a longtime educator, utilizing skills she gained from communications classes at CMU to discuss and connect with others about food production topics. She took courses at CMU in the late 1980s and early 1990s to renew her teaching license and enjoyed getting transitioned to home healthcare helping contribute to national studies and reports. Talkington fondly remembers the impactful speakers and experiences at CMU during the Vietnam War era, which shaped her perspective and career.

to know the other non-traditional students in her teaching courses.

Reflecting on her time at CMU, Vanwinkle attributed the best part of her experience to the relationships she built. Those connections have helped her to become a voice and bridge between producers, policymakers, neighbors and peers.

“My experience at CMU helped me understand the local community and the changes that have occurred over the years,” she said.

In March of 2024, Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce awarded VanWinkle with the Citizen of the Year Award and VanWinkle Ranch with Small Business of the Year, for its agriculture advocacy and community engagement driven by VanWinkle and her family ranch.

“It’s truly a recognition of all the food producers in our area and the work we and they do on the landscapes while improving the health of the land and livestock in our care,” VanWinkle said. •

1990s Donna Hardy, ’90 Donna Hardy has been honored by Dalby, Wendland & Company CPAs and Advisors with an accounting scholarship in her name for the 2024-25 academic year — marking her retirement after four decades of dedication to public accounting.

Hardy’s journey began with a vocational program in accounting and business administration, which led her to join DWC CPAs and Advisors.

She later pursued a bachelor’s degree in accounting from CMU, returning to DWC in 1990. She specialized in industries such as construction, farm and ranch and medical practices.

Her commitment to exceptional client service and community involvement, including roles with the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce and various nonprofits, has left a lasting impact. Hardy’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of accountants.

Hans Schausfus, ’97

“It was something that, from the get-go, I felt very strongly that I wanted to do for my community, for JUCO. I felt very honored to be able to be a part of this,” said Bennett.

MVPs PREFER BRONZE Matt Bennett, ‘10

BY AMBER WHISMAN Many artists aspire to craft a timeless work of art that reaches a wide audience. Matt Bennett accomplished this milestone earlier this year when he was commissioned to design the JUCO World Series Most Valuable Player (MVP) trophy.

Hans Schausfus has made significant contributions to the skiing community and beyond. As a former member of the USSA Ski Team, Schausfus captured numerous medals and played a pivotal role in the development of Powderhorn Ski Area, where he managed operations for over 27 years. His expertise also extended to avalanche instruction while serving on the Colorado Ski Country USA board. Beyond skiing, Schausfus was deeply involved in the Plateau Valley community, serving on various boards and participating in the Volunteer Fire Department. Known for his welcoming nature and love for good conversation, Schausfus has left a lasting impact on everyone he meets. He continues to enjoy operating machinery, dirt bike riding in Utah and spending quality time with his family.

Bennett’s journey began when he decided to pursue a degree in fine arts at CMU. While immersed in the art program, he mastered the craft of bronze work. By the time he graduated with his Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2010, Bennett had laid the foundation for his artistic endeavors.

Todd Hollenbeck, ’98

administration in project management from Jones International University and is a certified Colorado Public Manager.

He is excited about this new role and is committed to serving Mesa County alongside its exceptional team and community partners.

Having lived in Grand Junction since 1993, Bennett’s connection to the community is evident, and a big reason why he said yes to the project.

2000s Christi Mangusso, ’04 Christi Mangusso, a Colorado native from Arvada, has joined the Red Angus Association of America as the membership and receivables specialist.

With 18 years of office management

Bennett’s work is now immortalized in the community, showcasing his artistic talent to a wider audience than ever before.

“I’ve done lots of bronze sculptures over the years but making something that was in such a big spotlight is huge,” Bennett said. “It’s an honor to create something so lasting.”

Reflecting on the enduring impact of his work, Bennett expressed his excitement for the future.

“I look forward to seeing the MVPs of the JUCO World Series holding that trophy up. They’ll be raising it over their heads every year from now on.

That’s the cool thing about all those metal sculptures — they’ll outlive us.”

Bennett’s creation is a significant milestone in his artistic journey, cementing his legacy in both the art world and Grand Junction for years to come. • experience and a Bachelor of Business Administration from CMU, Christi brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. She will be responsible for managing member accounts and ensuring exceptional customer service, which will contribute to the smooth operation and success of the organization. In addition to her professional achievements, Christi volunteers as a 4-H leader and raises livestock with her daughters. Her dedication to both her career and her community shows her commitment to making a positive impact in all areas of her life.

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Todd Hollenbeck, a 1998 CMU graduate with a degree in business administration, will replace Mesa County administrator Pete Baier upon his retirement in early January.

Currently the deputy administrator for Mesa County, Hollenbeck has dedicated 24 years of service to the county. Commissioners Cody Davis and Bobbie Daniel announced Hollenbeck’s selection, praising his extensive experience and strong relationships.

Since 2021, Hollenbeck has overseen over 200 employees across seven departments as deputy administrator.

He holds a master’s degree in business

Since graduation, Bennett has continued to apply his degree in various ways, like founding Bennett Art Studios with his wife, Heather, which they ran and operated for nearly 15 years.

The trophy was crafted in the likeness of the late Kirby Puckett, a notable figure in JUCO and Major League Baseball. The bronze sculpture captures Puckett’s celebratory pose after hitting a home run in the 1991 World Series.

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New Arrivals

What McAdoo most enjoys about his field is crafting a strong narrative.

Reverie Love Slavik was born January 1, 2024, to proud parents Kasie Gilfert-Slavik, ‘20, and Kyle Slavik, ’20. His older brother, Ozzy, was born March 21, 2022.

“You’re building this story that’s creating brand affinity and helping people fall in love with your brand,” he said.

TALES OF A BRAND ADVENTURER Spencer McAdoo, ‘11

BY NATHALIE ALONSO Spencer “Spence” McAdoo’s career as a brand marketer has taken him on many thrilling adventures, leading him into a field he explains he simply “fell into.” From navigating gator-infested waters of Louisiana to trekking across the U.S. in an RV, McAdoo is far from short of stories.

Marli Michelle Mankoff was born February 8, 2024, to proud parents Michael Mankoff, ’12, and Maggie Mankoff, ’13 and ’18.

Carter Heinsma was born May 22, 2024, to proud parents Kylie Heinsma, ‘18, and Tyler Heinsma, ‘19.

THE MAVERICK

Pat Bahr, ’07

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Pat Bahr currently lives in Fargo, North Dakota, and works as the lead sales leader for Scheels All Sports.

Bahr has been with Scheels for over 12 years, starting at the Sandy, Utah, location before helping open the Colorado Springs, Colorado, location and then leading training for over 30 stores as part of the Scheels Campus North Dakota team. After graduating in 2007, Bahr worked four years at The Daily Sentinel as a prep reporter.

Bahr and his spouse, Justine, married in 2009 and have a 10-year-old son, PJ. The family enjoys traveling and bass fishing in the upper Midwest lakes — Bahr is still a huge Green Bay

Some of the most unforgettable experiences happened during his time as a brand and content manager at the sporting goods chain, Academy Sports + Outdoors, while filming a series titled Traditions with Marty Smith. The video series, hosted

by ESPN reporter Marty Smith, explored the rich college football traditions of the southern United States. Alongside his production team, McAdoo executed outlandish adventures, like training bird dogs in Mississippi, trout fishing the White River in Missouri and kayaking through swampy South Carolina waters. His adventures also involved managing relationships with some of the biggest athletes and influencers in the industry.

Packers fan! Bahr played for Coach Joe Ramunno for four years on the Maverick Football team.

Megan, ’08, and Sean, ’09, Henry Megan and Sean Henry met in a figure drawing class at CMU in 2005, where they were both pursuing degrees in art education. They started dating during the summer, got engaged and married on July 7, 2007. Since then, they have started a local business, Mountain Roots Photography, where

McAdoo, who has long had a passion for the outdoors, chose CMU for its football program. He graduated in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, focused on marketing, finance and sports management. He later earned an MBA from Arizona State University.

Reflecting on his years at CMU, McAdoo recalls the valuable lessons he learned as an undergraduate, particularly from his time on the football field under the guidance of his coaches, including former Head Coach Joe Ramunno. His time at CMU impacted him so much so that he named his son Maverick, a tribute to the formative experiences and lessons that shaped his career and life.

Currently, he, his wife and children are based in Plano, Texas. He applies his expertise as a people leader within Capital One’s automotive brand team, which has allowed him to test, film and review nearly 200 cars.

“You have to have a great game plan, everyone has to buy into it and execute,” McAdoo said of being a brand marketer. “I learned the same lesson from my college coaches and from my time at CMU.”•

they capture special moments in people’s lives and are art teachers for Mesa County Valley School District 51. Sean earned his master’s degree from UNC, and Megan will complete her Master of Art Education from The Art of Education University online this year. They live in downtown Grand Junction with their two cats, Annabelle and Beyoncé. While they love calling Grand Junction home, they also enjoy traveling and exploring the world with their students through international field trips with Education First Tours.

HITCHED

When asked what inspired her to take on a challenge this large, something that even the most dedicated runners would find incredibly daunting, she laughed a bit ruefully.

NO LIMITS Madison Tomlinson, ‘18

BY KRISTEN LUMMIS Madison Tomlinson, ‘18, is a woman on the move. Racking up some serious mileage, her most recent feat is one of local sensation.

In the spring of 2024, Tomlinson accomplished a long-distance run like no other: a loop encompassing the major geographic features of the Grand Valley. Her route took her up and down the Grand Mesa, across the Book Cliffs, through Devil’s Canyon and Rattlesnake Arches, over the Colorado National Monument and ended at the Lunch Loops trailhead.

During her 3-½ day run, she logged a whopping 187.9 miles, which she understandably rounds to 188 miles, and climbed a total elevation gain of more than 28,000 feet. Prepped for any obstacle, her route even included crossing the Colorado River with a pack raft so she could run through the Grand Valley’s stunning red rock canyons.

2010s Robyn Carmine, ’15 and ’23

No stranger to ultrarunning, Tomlinson had already completed the 140-mile Kokopelli Trail, from Loma to Moab and the 160-mile Collegiate Peaks Loop, a Front Range backpacking trail with 33,556 feet in elevation gain.

On her recent “break,” she relocated to Montrose to establish a personal training business and explore trails around her new hometown.

Tomlinson was far from a runner during her time at CMU. She was on the track team at a college in Iowa but decided she “needed to take a break from competitive running.” After transferring to CMU, she focused on her studies and spending time with friends, earning a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science.

Tomlison said there is “no easy answer” to what drives her to run and run and run, before sharing that “I want to live my life to the fullest and experience crazy things and see what I’m capable of as a human being.” •

Brandon Cummings, ’18 After graduating from CMU in 2018 with his bachelor’s degree in sport management, Brandon Cummings became the CMU course materials manager for three years. In July, he accepted an exciting opportunity as the corporate engagement manager at United Way, where he has started leveraging his strong philanthropic nature to foster meaningful partnerships with local businesses and support community initiatives. Despite his busy career, Cummings remains dedicated to volunteering, serving as President of the Grand Valley Young

Grace Wenger, ‘21, and Zach Wenger married on September 15, 2023, in Longmont, Colorado.

Brooke Arietta, ’20, and Erik Knuckles married on June 8, 2024, in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Austin Lorenz, ‘21, and Regan Lorenz, ‘23, married on February 24, 2024, in Cap Cana, Dominican Republic.

Alumni Chapter and as the newest member of the CMU Alumni Board of Directors. Cummings is deeply involved in the community and committed to making a positive impact.

2020s Ashley Troester, ’21 Ashley Troester has made remarkable strides in her musical career. Hailing from Grand Junction, Colorado, she earned her Bachelor of Music from CMU in 2021 and later received her Master of Music in Vocal Performance

FALL 2024

Robyn Carmine is entering her 10th year teaching second grade at Chatfield Elementary. She recently adopted her foster daughter, who is about to turn 11. Carmine values the confidence and community she gained through CMU’s Early Childhood Education Program, which helped her become a better leader in the classroom. She continues to give back to CMU by mentoring student teachers and hopes to one day teach at the college level.

“It’s a huge valley surrounded by public lands. Something is loose in my brain, so I decided ‘I’m gonna try to run around the valley.’ That’s all there was to it,” she said. “It seemed like a crazy feat and something that would be cool to do.”

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Events in the fall of 2022, a year after her graduation.

Today, Roberts manages a team of three employees, all CMU graduates, and facilitates an annual internship program for CMU hospitality students interested in her industry. Her team plans around 15 luxury weddings annually, orchestrating all aspects from initial conceptualization, decor designing and day-of coordination, ensuring all pieces fall perfectly into place.

BLISSFUL MOMENTS Misty Roberts, ‘21

BY JENNA KRETSCHMAN Misty Roberts, the visionary behind luxury event planning company, Blissful Moment Events, always dreamed of starting her own business.

As a freshman at Colorado Mesa University, Roberts planned to major in entrepreneurship but quickly pivoted to hospitality management after learning the program offered event planning curriculum.

“I’ve always been the person in my family who plans the parties and vacations, so when I learned that event planning was a career option, I knew it was right up my alley,” Roberts said.

from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Troester’s versatile talent spans genres from pop to classical.

She has graced stages from San Francisco, California, to Vienna, Austria, as well as a memorable performance with the Vienna Opera.

Troester is not only a performer but also a dedicated educator teaching piano and voice while fostering creativity in her students. In 2023, she relocated to Denver with her two beloved cats, Rocky and Apollo. Her journey is a testament to the power of passion and dedication in the arts.

THE MAVERICK

Cy Shimamura, ’23

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After graduating in 2023, Cy has continued to make significant contributions to the CMU campus

With guidance from CMU’s Career Services and connections within the hospitality club, Roberts secured a pivotal six-month event planning internship. This was followed by her first job as a wedding coordinator for a local wedding planning company, where she honed her craft for two years. Still, a persistent gut feeling pushed her to keep chasing her dream.

“Between my college experience and a couple of years in luxury event planning, I had a lot of connections and knew enough to launch my own business from the ground up, so that’s how it all started,” she said Roberts took the leap, officially launching Blissful Moment

community. Currently, Cy serves as the residence hall area coordinator for Tolman, Orchard and Piñon Halls. His legacy includes becoming the coordinator for the Ho’olokahi Polynesian Alliance, the director of the Cultural Inclusion Council and the student body president. Cy’s leadership roles have left a lasting impact on the campus community, and he attributes much of his personal and professional growth to the seven values and the Human Scale University philosophy he embraced while being a student at CMU. Looking ahead, Cy aspires to run his own company and travel the world playing golf.

In the future, Roberts dreams of expanding the company to offer fullservice destination wedding planning in locations like Mexico and Hawaii, to exercise her hand at ultra-luxe, design-heavy events each year.

Just shy of two years into the business, Blissful Moment Events was nominated for a Daily Sentinel Best of the West Award in the Best Wedding Services category and earned the bronze award.

“I’m most proud of the growth we’ve had in such a short amount of time and the quality of our clients,” Roberts said. “It’s so rewarding to design a wedding and see it come to life.” •

In Memoriam Eric Ballard, ’11; Ted Bina, ’87; Jamie Breidel, ’89; Douglas Britton, ’94; Mary Calkins, ’75; William Claycomb, ’96; Debra Davis, ’76; Rich Emerson, ’67; Trudy French, ’01; Frances Frigetto, ’70; Patricia Kansgen, ’53; Evelyn Kyle, ’85; Karen Lucas, ’73; Louis Martinez, ’78; Bonnie Mease, ’72; Joseph Murrelle, ’15; Carolyn Raymond, ’98; Matt Rissell, ’99; Trenton Turza, ’16; Bob Walsh, ’96; Marcella Wilbur, ‘93

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OCTOBER OCTOBER 10| MONTROSE TIMBERLINE TACO TAILGATE Join us at the CMU Montrose campus for a Homecoming taco tailgate get-together with yard games and free tacos, thanks to our generous Homecoming sponsor, Timberline Bank!

OCTOBER 15–19| HOMECOMING WEEK It’s time for Homecoming! Sponsored by Timberline Bank. Find the full schedule of events at coloradomesa.edu/homecoming

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 2, 16 | FOOTBALL ALUMNI ZONE

Join us at the CMU football alumni zone in the south endzone for every home game this season!

Enjoy a free burger, beer and up-close, non-stop action with your fellow CMU alumni. Sponsored by Shaw Construction.

NOVEMBER 11 | NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON AT ASTERIA THEATRE

Join renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson for an evening exploring the wonders of the universe. Tyson will share his insights on the cosmic perspective, highlighting how

understanding our place in the cosmos can impact our view of life on Earth. Don’t miss this engaging and thought-provoking presentation at the brandnew Asteria Theatre.

FEBRUARY FEBRUARY 1| MAVS TAKE OVER THE MOUNTAIN Help us take over Powderhorn Mountain Resort!

In addition to great skiing and snowboarding at a special discounted rate, CMU will be hosting their collegiate alpine race along with giveaways, live music, a scavenger hunt and much more!