Someone with Kole Kelley’s college achievements was bound to become an honored alumnus of 91è����.

He earned 2016 Business Graduate of the Year and Agribusiness Graduate of the Year. Completing a B.S. in business administration with an agricultural business emphasis and a minor in ecnomics, he also made the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference’s 2015 All-Academic Football Honor Roll.

Amanda Sparks ‘24 said, “These early accomplishments foreshadowed Kole’s future career, defined by discipline, leadership, and service.” She was one of four who nominated Kelley for Adams State’s 2026 Exceptional New Alumnus Award, which he will receive at the Homecoming Awards Luncheon, Friday, September 18. Visit Homecoming for reservations or more information.

Kelley recently became director and senior attorney of the Mountain States Legal Foundation’s Center for American Prosperity & Energy (CAPE). His work at CAPE focuses on protecting the right to use and develop America’s natural resources responsibly. Prior to joining CAPE, Kelley as an associate attorney at Fennemore Craig P.C. in Denver, advising clients in the agriculture, natural resource, water, mining, oil and gas, and advanced energy industries on complex farm and ranch management, employment, real property, title, survey, mineral, and regulatory matters. During his time at Fennemore, Kelley was named Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch^® in America in Energy Law, Natural Resources Law, and Real Estate Law. Earlier in his career, he worked at Moye White LLP, Jewell Jimmerson Natural Resources Law, and Burns Figa & Will, P.C.

In 2019, Kelley earned a Juris Doctor degree and certificate in constitutional rights and remedies from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. During this time, he published several articles on water law while serving in progressive editorial roles for the University’s Water Law Review, becoming the editor-in-chief for Volume 22.

Regarding the impact of Colorado’s current drought on agriculture, Kelley said, “I’m optimistic that Colorado will find a way through this. As a state, we have a long history of our best minds coming together to find solutions that help protect and promote the Colorado way of life.”

Kelley credits former football coach Marty Heaton ’82, with recruiting him to Adams State. “He taught me a lot about being a person of character and instilled the necessary discipline that life demands.” His primary mentor was Zena Buser, Ph.D., professor of business/agribusiness & economics and assistant director of the School of Business.

“Dr. Buser really pushed me while I was at Adams. She truly believed in me and the potential she saw and worked with me to open doors on and off campus. Without her, I don’t think I’d have accomplished half of what I have. I feel very fortunate that she was tasked to be my advisor from day one. She changed my life and set me on the path I’m on,” Kelley said.

“Kole Kelley was an exceptional student of academics, as well as of life,” Dr. Buser recalled. “When he connected economics, law, and the agriculture industry, he saw how his work could benefit individuals, the industry, and society overall. Kole has continued to grow in his profession and career, approaching his next steps with the same intensity, discipline, preparation, and purpose that he became known for as a student and competitor during his Adams State days. He is a man of goals and determined action, which has continued to define his professional life.

Last year, the Denver Business Journal recognized Kelley as a Leader in Agriculture, citing his contributions to the agricultural community statewide, after previously selecting him as a 2021 “Who’s Who in Agriculture” honoree.

Kelley grew up on his family farm in the San Luis Valley. His love of agriculture led him to showing livestock at the San Luis Valley Fair and Colorado State Fair.  “At one point I showed every species – sheep, goats, steers, pigs. But I was most competitive with hogs. They are one species that can really undergo massive change with proper feeding and care. It is a true reward of attention to detail and effort. I love this so much, and I wanted a way to stay involved.”

Kelley was a high school junior when his father, Mike Kelley, passed away. The following year, he launched MPK Showpigs in Alamosa, naming it in honor of his late father. He and his mother, Nikol Kelley ’91, continue to operate MPK Showpigs to provide high-quality show pigs to San Luis Valley youth at below cost.

“Our goal is not to get rich, but to make sure people have the experience that I was fortunate enough to have. There is a uniqueness to individuals who grow up in barns, in the way they approach life. That was my father’s belief, and we carry that on with MPK Showpigs. I feel fortunate to be involved in the broader show pig world and to help kids.”

Another of Kelley’s nominators, Samuel Bilderbeck, noted, “He focuses on critical legal work that directly impacts the agricultural backbone of Colorado. In a region where agriculture is not just an industry but a way of life, Kole’s work carries meaningful, tangible impact.  I have seen firsthand the level of integrity, thoughtfulness, and strategic insight he brings.”

Currently, Kelley is the chair and co-board of Governor’s Representative of the Colorado Bar Association Agricultural and Rural Law Section. In addition, he chairs the Colorado Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee and is president of the Douglas County Farm Bureau.

Kelley is active with the Colorado Bar Association Leadership Training Program and was a member of the Action 22 Leadership, Policy, and Governance Academy. He was also one of six Colorado Farm Bureau members selected for its Elite Leadership Academy in 2019.

Kacie Sallee, director of Leadership Development with the Colorado Farm Bureau, also endorsed Kelley for the award, noting he “follows through, ensuring that ideas are not only created, but successfully implemented. His consistent willingness to invest his time, energy, and expertise in the success of others speaks volumes about his leadership and character. His contributions at every level reflect both his strategic mindset and his genuine passion for advancing the agricultural community.”

Nominator, Shannon Hickey, said: “What truly distinguishes Kole is how intentionally he has chosen to give back. His work focuses on developing young leaders, expanding opportunities within the industry, and ensuring that rural voices are represented and supported across the state.”

Adams State Homecoming includes a pep rally and bonfire, Sept. 18, in downtown Alamosa. Saturday the excitement continues with a parade, tailgate party, football and volleyball games, a free carnival and car show.

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The Denver Foundation recently awarded 91è���� a grant of nearly a half million dollars via the Colorado Health Access Fund to develop new programs to expand the region’s behavioral health work force, according to Amanda Hill, Ph.D., assistant vice president for Graduate Studies.

The two-year, $487,981 grant will support development of two new academic programs: a 15-credit undergraduate Behavioral Health Assistant I certificate and an online, 36-credit master’s of social work (MSW).

“With this grant, we will create new pathways into entry-level positions in behavioral health and social work to meet rural workforce demand in the San Luis Valley and across Colorado. There is also a need for master’s level clinicians in social work,” Dr. Hill explained. She added there is a greater need for behavioral health care in rural areas in general, and that the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment recognized a shortage of behavioral health care professionals in all six San Luis Valley counties.

Adams State will shortly hire a faculty member to develop MSW coursework and facilitate the program’s accreditation process, with the goal of launching the program in the fall of 2028. That Program Director will form an advisory committee and hire an MSW field director to oversee clinical placements.

91è���� who complete the undergraduate certificate can then apply those credits to a Bachelor of Arts in psychology or sociology. With that preparation, students may pursue an MSW or a master’s in counselor education, qualifying them to become a licensed professional counselor. The goal is to offer the certificate program beginning in the fall of 2027.

Established in 2014 with an anonymous $40 million gift, the Colorado Health Access Fund is a field-of-interest fund managed by The Denver Foundation. The fund is dedicated to improving health outcomes for underserved Coloradans. For the last 100 years, The Denver Foundation has built connections, facilitated collaboration, and funded community initiatives with the goal of building a stronger, thriving Metro Denver, Colorado, and beyond.

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91è���� was founded as a teacher’s college, so it’s more than fitting that almost 100 years later the 2026 Outstanding Alumnus is an accomplished and respected educator. Brian Domina ’07 will accept the honor at the Homecoming Awards Luncheon, Friday, September 18. Visit Homecoming for reservations or more information.

For the last 27 years, Domina has taught at Central High School in Pueblo, Colo., and was twice named Pueblo City Schools Teacher of the Year, in 2012-13 and in 2025-26.

“This alumni award was a huge and humbling surprise. I don’t need a pat on the back. My gratification comes from kids becoming successful and contributing to society later in life,” Domina said. “My job is more than a paycheck. Payday comes way later for teachers, when you see what your students have done.”

Domina’s wife, Stephanie Burke ‘17, international baccalaureate programme coordinator at Fountain Magnet School in Pueblo, nominated him for the award without his knowledge. “Brian truly represents what this recognition stands for: dedication, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to making a difference. He has poured his heart into this school and community every single day.”

A native of Trinidad, CO, Domina joined the U.S. Army after high school, serving as a mechanized infantryman. He then worked as a technology consultant at Sam’s Club before embarking on a career in education. He earned a B.S. in history education at Colorado State University Pueblo in 2000 and began teaching soon after.

A mentor encouraged him to pursue a master’s degree from Adams State through a Rural Education Assistance Program in which professors traveled to Pueblo a few nights a week to teach the courses locally. He completed his Master of Arts in special education degree from Adams State in 2007.

While acknowledging his was not a straight and narrow career path, Domina said he was inspired by his father, a fifth-grade teacher. “He made a difference. I wanted to do the same thing.” His high school social studies teacher also encouraged him toward the profession.

At Central High School, Domina teaches a variety of courses, including U.S. history, world history, psychology, student government, economics, and keyboarding. He has also dedicated many years to coaching football, girls basketball, and track and field. He taught and coached all three of the couple’s children.

Domina wrote and received a $5,000 technology grant and co-facilitated the Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports Team at Central High School. He continually hones his skills, completing National Institute for School Leadership training program, and attending the DuFour Professional Learning Communities Training Conference.

Burke elaborated on Domina’s commitment: “No matter the subject, his focus is always the same: building relationships with students and helping them believe in themselves. Brian’s impact goes far beyond his classroom. He has organized and led after-school tutoring and academic support programs to make sure students have every opportunity to succeed. He has also mentored more than 20 student teachers and field experience students, helping guide and shape future educators with the same care and commitment he shows his own students.”

Adams State Homecoming includes a pep rally and bonfire, Sept. 18, in downtown Alamosa. Saturday the excitement continues with a parade, tailgate party, football and volleyball games, a free carnival and car show.

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Now is time to for the 2026 Parade, that begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, on the Alamosa Main Street.

The 2026 Homecoming festivities begin Friday, Sept. 18, with an alumni award ceremony at 1 p.m. in the Student Union Building banquet rooms. Award recipients include Brian Domina ‘07, Outstanding Alumnus; Kole Kelley ‘16, Exceptional New Alumnus; and the second annual Family Tree Award, the Hartley Owsley ‘36 Family. Visit adams.edu/alumni/homecoming to RSVP, or call 719-587-8110.

Adams State will make its presence known downtown with the Homecoming Pep Rally, on the corner of Main St. and San Juan Ave., in Alamosa, at 5 p.m. and ending when the last ember dies and the smoke clears from the bonfire. On Saturday, Sept. 19, the Homecoming Parade begins at 10 a.m. in downtown Alamosa; and the Tailgate Party, begins at 10 a.m., in the Football Practice Field, located between Rex Field and Plachy Fieldhouse. A free car show starts at 11 a.m. in the Student Union Building parking lot. The Grizzlies take on South Dakota Mines at 12 p.m. Saturday in Rex Stadium. A free carnival will be held from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. on the North Campus Green. Keep the energy up for the 6 p.m. Volleyball game in Plachy Hall.

Alumni and friends are welcome to attend a Farewell/Community Breakfast from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m., Sunday, Sept. 20, at the Marvel House.

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As Colorado’s water supply faces significant threats, the 91è���� Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center confronts these challenges by training the next generation of water leaders.

Starting this fall semester, Adams State will participate in the Colorado Water Fellows Program, an initiative sponsored by the Colorado Water Center at Colorado State University. This program began at Colorado State and was extended to Colorado Mesa University, Ft. Lewis College, Metro State University, the University of Colorado–Boulder, and the University of Denver in 2024.

Understanding the benefit for Adams State students, Salazar Center Director Paul Formisano, Ph.D., contacted faculty at non-participating universities to gauge their interest in joining the program. Working with Colorado Water Center staff, the Colorado Water Fellows Program will now include chapters at eleven Colorado universities and colleges, including the newest additions at Adams State, Colorado School of Mines, CSU-Pueblo, University of Northern Colorado, and Western Colorado University,

The 2026-2027 cohort includes four water fellows who will participate in monthly gatherings with local and state water professionals to learn about the water sector and develop their professional skills. They will also travel to water conferences throughout the state, including the annual Water Fellow gathering at CSU Spur in February 2027, and receive a $1000 stipend. The program will continue during the 2027-2028 and 2028-2029 school years with hopes that additional funding can extend the program for many years into the future.

“Water touches everything, and no one field has all the answers to solving our water challenges,” explains Dr. Formisano. “The Water Fellows Program is open to any major across campus. All that is needed to apply is an interest in water and a commitment to attend the monthly meetings and a few water conferences throughout the year. This is an exceptional opportunity to learn about the water profession and be mentored by those shaping water use throughout Colorado and in the San Luis Valley.”

The Colorado Water Fellows Program is supported by generous funding from the Colorado Water Conservation Board and The Walton Family Foundation.

In addition to the Colorado Water Fellows Program, Adams State will offer its introductory water course this fall: WATR 101. Open to students and community members, the course will introduce participants to the basic principles guiding water development in the American West, particularly in the San Luis Valley. Scholarships are available to support Adams State students interested in taking the water studies minor and community members to cover the audit fees.

For information about the Colorado Water Fellows Program or to register for WATR 101, please contact Dr. Formisano, at pformisano@usd.edu or 719-587-7111.

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91��� received a $262,500 grant from the Reisher Scholars Program at The Denver Foundation as part of a landmark $25 million initiative marking the 25th anniversary of the program. The funds will be directed to Adams State students over the next two academic years.

The grant is part of a statewide investment by the Reisher Scholars Program at The Denver Foundation, recognizing colleges and universities that share a commitment to expanding access, opportunity, and success for Colorado students. Adams State is among a group of current and future Reisher partner institutions across the state to receive anniversary funding.

“Adams State is so grateful for the support by the Reisher Scholars Program,” said Vice President for Advancement Jake Rissler. “We are excited to receive this gift on behalf of current and future students at Adams State, sincere thanks to Sharon, Jack, and the entire Denver Foundation team that makes this happen for students across Colorado and now the San Luis Valley.”

Adams State will be joining the Reisher Scholars Program in Fall of 2027, to support students that typically would not be able to afford higher education on their own. This additional funding will allow Adams State to create cohorts of students that assist each other in realizing their potential through higher education.

“This investment celebrates 25 years of transformative partnerships and positions the Reisher Scholars Program for its next chapter of growth,” said Javier Alberto Soto, president and CEO of The Denver Foundation, which administers the scholarship program. “By putting significant resources directly into the hands of institutions that share our commitment to student success, we are strengthening relationships statewide and opening doors for the next generation of Colorado scholars.”

Visit for more information. Visit Adams State Scholarships or more information.

About the Reisher Scholars Program at The Denver Foundation The Reisher Scholars Program has supported Colorado students for 25 years through partnerships with colleges and universities across the state. Made possible by the Reisher Family Foundation, the program is administered by The Denver Foundation. For 100 years, The Denver Foundation, its generous donors, and community partners have been building a stronger, thriving Denver, Colorado, and beyond. Centered in racial equity, The Denver Foundation prioritizes housing, climate and environment, youth well-being, and economic mobility. Providing more than $1.6B in grants to local nonprofits in its 100-year history.

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“At a time like this, I reflect on how fortunate we are to personally connect with each other,” said President David Tandberg, Ph.D. “Living and working in a close-knit community magnifies joy in times of celebration, but also intensifies our pain in times of loss. We are fortunate to have been able to be here with Tajaun, to experience his contagious personality, and to see him grow into his potential as a person, student, and player. I will never forget him and his incredible smile. As a community we mourn with our friends and colleagues in the Alamosa School District and the broader San Luis Valley.”

Jamestown, a guard for the men’s basketball team, pursued a Bachelor of Science in business administration.

Jamestown was visiting his hometown of Anchorage, Alaska, at the time of his death. The circumstances surrounding his death are under investigation.

Confidential counseling services are available for students, faculty, and staff. 91è���� may make an appointment by calling the Counseling Center at 719-587-7746, emailing counseling@adams.edu, or visiting the third floor of Richardson Hall, 3-100. Adams State employees are able to access counseling services through the Colorado State Employee Assistance Program (CSEAP) by visiting or calling 303-866-4314. The Colorado Crisis Services is available 24/7 at 988 or text “TALK” to 38255.

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Pictured, standing behind their personal, high-performance body armor, left to right: Adrian Cordova, Jamie Coulson, Davis Gonzales, Shield616 Founder and President Jake Skifstad, Chief Sam Maestas, Nate Rael, and Chasity Winchester.

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Assistant Professor of Nursing Oluwatoyin Akinlade, D.N.P., received a Colorado State University Pueblo School of Nursing D.N.P. Clinical Leadership Award, in recognition for excellence in Scholarship, Leadership, and service.

Clinical Associate Professor of Kinesiology Sara Erdner, Ph.D., as the principal investigator of the research project, awarded a $2,200  grant from our national association, The Association for Applied Sport Psychology. Dr. Erdner was also accepted into the Association for Applied Sport Psychology .

Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center Director Paul Formisano, Ph.D., presented to the Wright-Ingraham Institute’s summer field course at Colorado College’s Baca Campus on July 8 and helped organize the SLV Conservation and Outdoor Legacy convening at Secretary Ken Salazar’s ranch on July 11. He also ran water education activities at the water fests in Conejos and Costilla counties on July 10 and 17 where he taught elementary-aged students about the importance of the Rio Grande River in our community.

Creative Services Manager Haden Gillespie participated as faculty in the Colorado Springs, Colo., , a non-profit organization that specializes in helping young people create documentaries over any topic of their choice. He served as a camera tutor/mentor, teaching the kids (aged 14-18) how to use composition, lighting, and blocking as a way to tell a great story.

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“This is a collaborative effort of the ASU Police Department, students, and community volunteers,” he explained. “This project will provide service 24 hours a day, year-round, as well as on-the-scene crisis intervention to victims of crime in the campus community. It will provide resources, services, and referrals to crime victims and their families.”

Maestas said the VRU is designed to fulfill the Colorado Victims’ Rights Amendment, providing such comprehensive services as:

• Information about victims’ rights and case status
• Crisis intervention
• Help accessing financial compensation, emergency services (medical assistance, transportation)
• Referrals for counseling, legal advocacy, and court support; ongoing client support

Reyna Martinez will be the project’s Coordinator /Trainer, providing on-scene direct services, follow-up services, court accompaniment, and personal advocacy to crime victims. With three  years’ experience as the San Luis Valley’s Victim Services Director, she will help ensure the project meets Victims of Crime Advocate (VOCA) requirements. A Victim Services Tracking Online Data System will facilitate data collection for project evaluation, progress monitoring, and reporting.

The project activities include:

• Coordinating with academic departments (sociology, nursing, psychology, business) to identify interns who wish to serve as volunteer victim advocates
• Coordinating advocates (Coordinator and volunteers) to serve campus victims with direct services and personal advocacy
• Coordinating services to victims to meet basic emergency needs
• Training and professional development of volunteer advocates (students and community members)

Martinez noted the internships “will provide students with multiple opportunities for experiential learning, advocacy skills development, and valuable career experience and guidance.”

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