“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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Pictured, left to right, 91��� President David Tandberg, Ph.D., Darin Tandberg, scholarship recipients Kamrin McGraw, Trista Simmons, and Annabelle Heineman, 91��� Foundation Board President Joe Martinez, and Adams State Vice President of Advancement Jake Rissler.

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The gathering builds on years of locally led conservation and recreation efforts across the Valley, elevating community-identified priorities for the region’s future.

“The San Luis Valley is one of the most extraordinary places on earth; its water, land, people, and history are irreplaceable,” said Ken Salazar, lifelong son of the San Luis Valley. “What we are doing today is not just preserving what we have, it is building the foundation for the next generation to thrive here. I am grateful to bring these leaders together on this land that has meant everything to my family.”

Visionary leaders celebrated the San Luis Valley’s extraordinary conservation legacy and reflected on potential projects to shape the Valley’s future for generations to come. Previous achievements, including the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, the La Jara Creek project, the Saguache Creek corridor conservation project, and the Rio Grande Natural Area, inspired ideas.

Through facilitated discussion, local leaders and partners prioritized ideas spanning conservation and landscape stewardship, outdoor recreation and public access, climate resilience and water sustainability, cultural heritage and historic preservation, economic development and community vitality, and education and community engagement.

“91è���� is proud to call the San Luis Valley home, and today’s gathering reflects our deep commitment to the people and landscapes that define this place,” said Adams State President David Tandberg, Ph.D. “This conservation work is a model for the nation. As Colorado’s only Rural Anchor Institution, Adams State has both a responsibility and a privilege to bring together leaders who will shape what comes next.”

The gathering recognized a list of potential projects to serve as a roadmap for future partnership, investment, and action across the region and will inform the SLV GO!’s existing Regional Partnership Strategy.

“Great Outdoors Colorado is proud to be a partner in this gathering and in the ongoing work of the San Luis Valley’s conservation and recreation community,” said GOCO Executive Director Jackie Miller. “The bold ideas discussed today come from the people who live in, work in, and care for the Valley. We’re proud to stand alongside local partners to help advance these community-driven efforts toward lasting impact.”

SLVGO Executive Director Mick Daniel agreed: “The San Luis Valley Great Outdoors team has been building toward a moment like this for years. Today’s gathering strengthens the partnerships and shared vision we need to tackle the Valley’s most pressing challenges in conservation and outdoor recreation. The report we produce together will be a powerful tool for future investment and action.”

The San Luis Valley Conservation & Outdoor Legacy Gathering is part of a broader regional effort to ensure the San Luis Valley remains a national model for collaborative conservation. The expected result is a unified long-term vision of community resilience and economic vitality integrating agricultural viability, water stewardship, outdoor recreation, and cultural preservation.

The report is expected to be released later this year.

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Since assuming the presidency, Dr. Tandberg has helped guide Adams State through a period of renewed institutional focus and accomplishment. As Colorado’s first designated Hispanic-Serving Institution and the state’s only designated Rural Anchor Institution, Adams State champions affordability and access as the cornerstone of its identity. President Tandberg is proud of the University’s long history of serving the Valley and underserved and first-generation students.

During his time as president, the University’s collective efforts have resulted in growth in enrollments, expanded community and philanthropic partnerships, launched major capital initiatives, and deepened its commitment to the economic and social vitality of the San Luis Valley.

“The Board of Trustees has full confidence in President Tandberg’s leadership and his deep commitment to Adams State’s mission,” said Board of Trustees Chair Tom Kim. “Over the past three years, he has helped steady this institution, reverse a long enrollment decline, and remind all of us, students, faculty, alumni, and the community, why Adams State matters.”

Over the last four years, President Tandberg led the completion of a five-year strategic plan, an innovative direct admissions policy, and successfully advocated for Adams State with the state and federal legislatures, as well as prestigious foundations and institutions.

“I am humbled and grateful for the Board’s continued trust,” said President Tandberg. “Darin and I returned to Alamosa because of our strong belief in Adams State and who it serves. I am deeply proud of what this team has accomplished, and I am more committed than ever to doing my part in helping ensure Adams State remains an engine of opportunity for the San Luis Valley and beyond. Working among the faculty and staff of this University is one of the greatest honors of my life.”

The contract renewal positions Adams State for continued progress on its strategic priorities, including student success initiatives, capital improvements, endowment growth, and strengthening its role as a rural anchor institution in the San Luis Valley.

Dr. Tandberg first joined Adams State as interim president in July 2022, before being named the 12th president by unanimous Board vote in April 2023. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Adams State in 2002, and received a master’s and a Ph.D. from Penn State University. He previously served as senior vice president of policy research and strategic initiatives at the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association (SHEEO), as a tenured associate professor and co-founder of the Center for Postsecondary Success at Florida State University, and as a special assistant to the Pennsylvania Secretary of Education.

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The Adams State School of Education staff and faculty organize the annual event. “I am very proud of the dedication from our team to make this a very special occasion,” said Curtis Garcia, Ph.D., School of Education director. “We are all committed to making the Educators Hall of Fame a priority and I appreciate everyone who works to recognize outstanding educators.”

The following were inducted into the Educators Hall of Fame:

Elementary Educators

Shirley Atencio
Shirley Atencio received her bachelor’s and master’s degree from Adams State in 1978 and 1991. She dedicated 35 years of service to the field of education with the Center School District. Her excellence in the classroom earned her both the Center Teacher of the Year Award and the prestigious San Luis Valley Teacher of the Year recognition. Being bilingual allowed Atencio to bridge cultures and build meaningful relationships with students and families throughout the community. She also coached high school basketball and volleyball, as well as recreational soccer and girls’ softball.

Gregory “James” Cantu
James Cantu received his Adams State bachelor’s degree in 1995. He dedicated 20 years of service to the educational field. After 20 years of teaching for North Conejos School District, Cantu leaves behind a legacy of dedication, compassion, and excellence in education. In 1999 he began his career at Manassa Elementary as a second-grade teacher for two years, and found his passion as a fourth-grade teacher. Throughout his career, Cantu looked forward to going to school each day, finding joy and purpose in teaching students and helping them grow academically, socially, and personally

Mary Hawkins-Morgan
Mary Hawkins-Morgan earned her Master of Arts from Adams State in 1977. She dedicated 31 years of service to the education field. Hawkins-Morgan’s teaching career began at the North Conejos School District in 1974. She also taught in Crownpoint, N.M. with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and at Crownpoint Community School. She retired from CCS in 2014 and taught for two years at Xian International Studies University in Xian, China. Hawkins-Morgan garnered many accomplishments throughout her career including coaching, chairing committees, volunteer work, and co-author of “The Mormons, 100 years in the San Luis Valley 1883-1983.”��

Secondary Educators

Kathryn M. Córdova
Kathryn M. Córdova received her Master of Arts degree from Adams State in 1976 and an Ed.D. from the California Coast University in 2005.�� She served for 40 years in the education profession. Dr. Córdova retired from the Taos Municipal Schools in 1996 after 25 years of service. She also taught part-time at the post- secondary and college levels and served as an administrator at El Valle Technologies with the University of New Mexico in Taos following retirement. Córdova taught a cohort of teachers who received their master’s degree in education with an emphasis in reading. Presently, she continues offering mentorship, presentations, workshops and field schools when possible.

William “Bill” Golsan
Bill Golsan received his Adams State bachelor’s and master’s degrees B.A. in 1990 and 1994. He dedicated 35 years to the education profession. Golsan played football and wrestled for Adams State. He was a four-year starting defensive lineman, a two-time All-Conference selection under Head Coach Jeff Geiser and played in the national championship game in 1988.��He was also a national qualifier heavyweight wrestler on the 1989–1990 National Championship team led by Head Coach Roger Jehlicka. He spent most of three decades teaching English at Ortega Middle School.

Salvatore “Sal” Martorano
Sal Martorano received his Adams State bachelor’s degree in 1974 and earned an master’s degree from Leslie College in 1992. He served 37 years in the field of education.�� Martorano taught in the Alamosa, Colorado Springs, and Longmont School Districts. He was a member of, and served as president, chair, secretary and judge for a variety of music associations. Martorano received the 2014 Outstanding Bandmaster Award, Phi Beta Mu International Band Fraternity; 2015 Colorado Bandmasters Association Hall of fame; and 2015 Gold Star Award, St. Vrain Valley School District; as well as several other recognitions and awards.

Administrators

Denny Fringer
Denny Fringer received his Adams State Bachelor of Arts degree in 1993 and his Master of Arts degree in 2004. He dedicated 33 years of service to education profession and held a wide range of roles including substitute teacher; teacher; coach; bus driver; athletic director; and K-12 principal. Fringer received multiple recognitions, including North Conejos School District Teacher of the Year, Colorado Top Ten Math Teacher of the Year, and runner up for the Colorado CASE Elementary Principal of the Year. He was proud to have contributed to numerous successful school programs and the accolades received.

Fred Garcia
Fred Garcia received his Adams State bachelor’s and master’s degrees in 1984 and 2008. He dedicated 33 years to education. Garcia began his career at Center High School, where he spent 12 years teaching physical education and health and coaching multiple sports. He accepted the position as athletic director and disciplinarian at Center High School. He was honored as the 2002 CHSAA�� 2A��Athletic Director of the Year. During his career, Garcia participated in several professional leadership roles, including serving on the CHSAA Board of Control, acting as Southern Peaks League President for ten years, and contributing to several CHSAA Multiple Tournament Selection Committees and the CHSAA Baseball Advisory Committee. In 2008, Garcia accepted the role of Elementary Principal at Sangre de Cristo School District before retiring from Colorado in 2012.

Curtis Wilson
Curt Wilson received Adams State bachelor’s degree in 1990; a master’s from Grand Canyon University in 2000, and an administrative license from the University of Denver in 2004. Wilson spent 31 years with the North Conejos School District. He taught, coached multiple sports served as Centauri High School Principal and for the last nine years was the superintendent. He received the 2014 Colorado National High School Principal of the Year; was President the Colorado High School Activities Association, CHSAA, from 2012-2014; was a finalist for Disney Teacher of the Year and a two-time finalist for Colorado Superintendent of the Year; as well as receiving many other honors and recognitions.

Post-Secondary

Teresa “Teri” McCartney
Teri McCartney received her Adams State bachelor’s and master’s degrees in 1987 and 1992. She earned her Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico in 1999. She spent 39 years, and counting, in education. McCartney started as an English teacher at Monte Vista High School, which led to an interest in counseling. She spent a year as a middle school counselor before accepting the position as the Adams State Counseling Center director. After receiving her Ph.D., she joined the faculty with the Adams State School of Counselor Education. She retired from full-time position in 2014 and continues as an adjunct with the school.

Larry Mortensen
Larry Mortensen received his Adams State bachelor’s and master’s degrees in 1988 and 1993. He dedicated 37 years to the education profession. Mortensen served in numerous roles including Sanford High School teacher, Adams State Head Coach for Men’s Basketball, Adams State Athletic Director, and adjunct professor with the Adams State School of Business. He was inducted into the 2022 Adams State Athletic Hall of Fame; received the 2019 RMAC Meritorious Service Awards; 2015 CHSCA Benefactor Award; 2007 RMAC Basketball Coach of the Year; as well as other recognitions.

Dr. Garcia and the School of Education appreciate the Educators Hall of Fame committee members including:��Stephanie Hensley, Ph.D., ’93 & ’00, Adams State Alumni Relations Director Megan Maldonado, Ted Morrison ’69, School of Education Program Coordinator/Student Advisor Acacia Nadeau-Lara, ’23, and Curt Wilson ’90.

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The transition ensures continued service to Adams State students, faculty, staff, and the broader Grizzly community with minimal disruption. Store manager Jon Meidinger will remain in his role, providing continuity for shoppers and campus partners.

“We are excited to begin serving Adams State,” said Cody Miller, Director of Operations for Campus Book Team. “Our goal is simple: provide outstanding customer service, expand affordable course material options, and create a campus store experience that serves the entire university community.”

Campus Book Team’s mission centers on supporting student success through access to affordable course materials. 91è���� will continue to have access to a broad range of options including new, used, rental, digital, Inclusive Access, and Open Educational Resources (OER) where available.

“Access to affordable course materials is directly tied to student success and degree completion,” said 91è���� Provost Margaret Doell, M.F.A.. “Campus Book Team’s commitment to expanding affordable options, including support for our Grizzly Readiness program, aligns with our academic mission and our responsibility to our students.”

Along with supporting the Adams State’s Grizzly Readiness program, the new operator also plans to expand rental opportunities and additional affordable textbook options to help reduce overall course material costs.

Faculty will benefit from an enhanced textbook adoption platform designed to simplify course material selection and identify the most affordable options for students.

The on-campus store will continue to carry a wide selection of officially licensed Grizzly apparel, gifts, school supplies, technology accessories, and convenience items. The store will also work closely with campus departments and student organizations to provide custom Grizzly-branded apparel and promotional items.

A new online campus store will give students, faculty, staff, alumni, and families a convenient shopping option in addition to the in-person experience.

“The campus store is more than a place to buy textbooks, it’s a gathering point for Grizzly pride and community,” said Vice President for Student Affairs Savala DeVoge, Ed.D. “We’re confident the Campus Book Team will be a strong partner.”

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The first week of June, Assistant Director Upward Bound & Upward Bound Math and Science Program Manuelito Casias, Director of Prison Education Program Bethany Martinez, and Professor of Theatre Jenna Neilsen, M.F.A., completed a semester long program with a week of in-person conference/training with the American Association of Colleges & Universities (AAC&U) New Leadership Academy as members of their inaugural Hispanic Serving Institution focused cohort. The conference included information about becoming leaders at an institution like Adams State and connecting with colleagues across the region.

Financial Aid Advisor Jessica Simon attended the week-long Rocky Mountain Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (RMASFAA) Institute, in Wichita, Kan., learning the finer points of the industry at the themed event.

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