Creative Services Manager Haden Gillespie received recognition:
Kick-Ass 72-Hour Film Festival Success:��Haden recently competed in the Kick-Ass 72-hour Film Festival as the team’s camera operator. The short film was nominated for nine awards and took home five major wins, including Best Cinematography, Best Director, Best Score, Best Actor, and Best Short Film. Watch the winning film: .
Regional Emmy Nomination:��Haden was also recently nominated for an Emmy Award for a news story he shot in collaboration with KRDO covering a local non-profit flying veterans in hot air balloons. Watch the featured segment: .

The World Shakespeare Congress invited Director of the Center for Teaching, Innovation, and Research Artemis Preeshl, Ed.D., to present her paper, “Tragic Dames: Consent in Medieval Times” in the seminar, International Shakespeares: Soft Power and National Cultural Identities, on Wednesday, July 22, in Verona, Italy. This paper��is part of the next book in the trilogy on Consent in Shakespeare following the Routledge publication of��Consent in Shakespeare’s Classical Mediterranean:��Women Speak Truth to Power��(2025) and��Consent in Shakespeare:��What Women Do and Don’t Say and Do in Shakespeare’s Mediterranean Comedies and Origin Stories��(2022).

Men’s Wrestling Head Coach Jason Ramstetter received the Colorado Collegiate Coach of the Year at the Colorado Wrestling Hall of Fame Banquet. Aaden Valdez ’26, received the Medal of Courage Award; and wrestling alumni Pat Laughlin ’85 ’93, and Mike Jurny ’92, received Lifetime of Service Awards.

Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs Nick Saenz, Ph.D., joined Dr. Gwen Lockman and Dr. Jared Orsi for a great conversation on the Bill of Rights recorded as part of the Colorado Magazine podcast series “.”

The Department of Sociology attended the 16^th��Annual Sociology Undergraduate Research Conference at Western Colorado University in Gunnison. Four students presented original sociological research:
“Evaluating Latino Student Persistence at a Hispanic-Serving Institution” by senior Michelle Aguirre, chemistry major
“Challenges that Rural Female Law Enforcement Officer Face and the Perceptions from Male Law Enforcement Officers,” by senior Angelica Chacon, sociology major with emphasis in criminology & social work
“Belonging in Prison Education Programs: The Impact of Letter-Writing Exchanges,”��by sophomore Ivy Evanson, sociology major with emphasis in criminology & social work
“Sexual Geographies of Campus Life: An Analysis of Power and Space at 91è����,” by sophomore Jenelle Hernandez, nursing major with a minor in sociology
Associate Professor of Sociology Billy Ulibarri, Ph.D., and sociology students Ivy Evanson and Angelica Chacon traveled to Long Beach, California to present original research at the annual Pacific Sociological Association conference.
Sociology graduate Shawna Johnston ’10, is a��child and adult protection caseworker for��Conjeos��County��and was recently given the Outstanding Child Welfare award from the State of Colorado.

School of Humanities and Social Sciences

On behalf of all the departments within the School Humanities and Social Sciences, including Languages, Literature, and Media Communication; Psychology; Sociology; and History, Anthropology, Philosophy, and Political Science: Happy Retirement and thank you to Elaine “Wenta” Wasinger, administrative assistant III, for your dedication to helping countless students, staff, and faculty. Elaine has been responsible for numerous faculty, staff, and students joining and staying at Adams State. She cheerfully and positively bridges people and communities. We will all miss Elaine, but we are also happy for her.

On behalf of Languages, Literature, and Media Communication, First-Year Writing, and the Writing Studio: Vin Mora and Jasmin Barnes were wonderfully involved in Spring 2026 English 101 classes as student mentors–providing crucial feedback and insights to both students and instructors. Their work is instrumental for student retention and instructor growth.

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A MSCS prepares graduate students to develop advanced technical expertise in the technologies shaping the modern digital economy.

The two-year program will be delivered 100 percent online and equips students with practical skills in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, data analytics, and software engineering. 91��� complete rigorous coursework, applied projects, and collaborative learning experiences that prepare them to design, build, and manage modern computing systems across a wide rand of industries.

Designed for working professionals, interdisciplinary learners, and those interested in exploring a new career, the program welcomes applicants from all academic backgrounds. No prior computer science degree is required.

Visit MS in Computer Science for more information.

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A passion for improv comedy brought Gwen Garger ’22 to Adams State from St. Louis, Mo. But by graduation, Garger had fallen “in love with tech theatre.”

Now the Technical Director for Opera Southwest in Albuquerque, NM, Garger said, “I was drawn to Adams State after watching the Lost & Found Improv Troupe on YouTube. I did a lot of theatre in middle school and improv in high school, so I went to Adams State for performance.”

After a year as Production Coordinator for Musical Theatre Southwest in Albuquerque and a referral from a board director there, Garger landed at the opera company in August, 2024.

Garger admits to experiencing “imposter syndrome” at first, but said, “I’ve been learning how to navigate this business. In my experience so far, it’s unfortunate there are not a lot of female-bodied or young technical directors out there, some people may not be so trusting of me at first, but it’s easier when they realize my capabilities.”

Those capabilities include creativity, problem solving, technical expertise, engineering, and logistical know-how.

“I pretty much learned everything about technical theatre from David Gerke at Adams State. He taught me computer-aided drafting and how to use Vectorworks, which is the most common application for tech theatre and scenic drafting. I use it almost every day,” Garger said, also noting the influences of faculty Jenna Nielsen, George McConnell, and Drew Richardson.

John Taylor, Ph.D., Director of the School of Visual and Performing Arts and Theatre Department Chair, is not surprised at Garger’s success. “Gwen had an incredibly successful four years at Adams State, acting in multiple productions and tackling many tech and design assignments.��From the classroom to the final curtain at Adams State, Gwen’s artistry,��passion, and leadership set the standard for what it means to be a student-artist.”

Garger said a college highpoint was attending a five-day workshop at The Second City in Chicago, “the most influential and prolific comedy empire in the world,” with alumni including John Belushi, Gilda Radner, and other superstars. “This was an incredible experience for a student in a small mountain town.

“The theatre department definitely prepared me for this profession. They gave us autonomy to make decisions and run the department. I know how to manage my crew constructively, because I held these various positions in college. I’ve worked in stage lighting, sewing/costuming, props, carpentry, and scenic painting,” Garger said.

In addition to creating sets for the opera company, Garger’s 12,000 square-foot, high-production scene shop builds contracted sets for opera and theatre companies across the country. This past fall, the group was prepping five different sets at once. Garger often travels to deliver and install sets.

As Technical Director, Garger oversees a dozen employees and up to 25 sub-contractors. “I do a lot of hiring, communicating, and contracting.” Sometimes working 80-hour weeks, Garger nevertheless said, “I do love my job; more every day.”

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Addison Coombs
Bachelor of Arts
Elementary Education
Emphasis in Social Studies
La Jara, Colo.
Magna Cum Laude

Addison follows in the steps of several family members who earned their degree from Adams State, including her parents, three of her four grandparents, many aunts and uncles, and two older brothers; her sister plans to graduate from Adams State, too.

Adams State was the perfect fit for Addison, allowing her to stay close to her small hometown while earning a college degree. “I loved being able to work in schools and with people I already knew, which made the whole experience feel comfortable and meaningful. Overall, Adams State gave me the right mix of community, opportunity, and support. I’m really grateful I was able to earn my degree so close to home.” She was named an Outstanding Graduate by the School of Education.

Currently, Addison teaches kindergarten and plans to continue teaching and growing in her role as an educator. “I really love being in the classroom, and I want to keep building my skills and confidence as I gain more experience.” Eventually, Addison will pursue a master’s degree to become an even stronger educator for her students.

Addison appreciates the guidance and mentorship from her professors. “My advisor helped me map out the best path to graduation, answered every question I had, and made sure I felt prepared for my licensing exams.”

Her professors consistently checked in, offered quick and meaningful feedback on assignments, and were always willing to work with her schedule. They supported Addison’s placement at a school close to home, which made balancing work and coursework much more manageable. “Their flexibility, encouragement, and practical guidance gave me strategies I now use daily in my classroom and helped me feel confident and ready to teach.”

During her senior year she worked as a Teacher of Record, an alternative license that allows students to begin teaching in the classroom while completing their degree. This replaced her traditional student teaching and provided Addison valuable real‑world experience. It also helped financially, as she earned a full salary while finishing her degree. “Being in my own classroom, managing everything from lesson planning to family communication, helped me grow quickly and feel much more prepared for my first official year of teaching.”

Taking concurrent enrollment classes in high school, helped Addison complete a bachelor’s degree in three years and graduate debt free. Her tuition and fees were covered through scholarships and support available to San Luis Valley students. Supportive financial aid staff guided her through all the processes.

When her schedule allowed, Addison participated in the Educators of Tomorrow Club, connecting with professors and education majors.

“I grew up around educators, but I didn’t fully understand everything that teaching involves until I entered the program and started experiencing it for myself.” Through coursework, fieldwork, and hands-on experience, Addison learned about instruction, classroom management, and the everyday realities of working with young learners.

“I also grew a lot in my confidence—at the beginning, everything felt new and a little overwhelming, but over time I learned how to trust myself, make decisions, and handle challenges in the classroom. I can see how much I’ve changed, not just in my skills but in the way I carry myself as a teacher. My excitement for teaching has only grown stronger, and I feel ready for whatever comes next.”

Lieke Hoogsteen
Bachelor of Science
Cellular and Molecular Biology
Bachelor of Science
Biochemistry
Nijmegen, Netherlands
Summa Cum Laude

A NCAA DII National Indoor Track & Field Champion, as a team member and as an individual, Lieke is grateful to have been a part of exceptional cross country and track and field teams. “I loved the small class sizes and relationships I built with my classmates as well as my professors. Lieke plans on pursuing a master’s degree at Adams State and going to medical school. She was named an Outstanding Graduate by the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

Her professors’ flexibility helped her be successful academically and athletically. “I also felt like they truly cared about me in class, as well as outside of class, and showed me support for all my goals.”

Lieke, a member of the Women’s Cross Country and Track and Field teams, received several scholarships and worked as a tutor for STEM classes and as a teaching assistant for biology and chemistry laboratories.

“I made connections with coaches, students and professors that I will have for the rest of my life. If I ever need anything, these are people I can reach out to!”

Lieke earned two bachelor’s degrees in five years and graduated with very little debt. She was involved with the chemistry club, Adams Atoms, attending chemistry conferences and socializing outside of class.

“I came in as a freshman feeling intimidated by my teammates, feeling unsure about the direction my life was taking and quite honestly feeling lonely most of the time. Now, I’m leaving Adams State as a DII National Champion. I am enjoying the path that I’m walking and who I am walking it with.”��

Maggie McCleskey
Bachelor of Science
Cellular and Molecular Biology
Louisville, Colo.
Summa Cum Laude

“I love the Adams community, said Maggie, a member of the 91è���� Women’s Cross Country and Track and Field teams.

“Not only was I able to work hard and learn during my time here, but I also felt encouraged to continue challenging myself by my professors, coaches, classmates, and teammates. My confidence has grown over these past four years. I am excited to pursue new challenges.”

Maggie was named an Outstanding Graduate by the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

Maggie will continue running and plans to attend graduate school, with the ultimate goal of earning a doctorate degree.

Through her professors, Maggie realized a passion for biology and developed an overall confidence in the sciences. “I value the time they spent helping me understand complex concepts and look forward to using the knowledge and experience I’ve gained at this university in future lab and academic settings.”

Maggie received several scholarships and graduated with no debt in four years. She was a member of the chemistry and biology clubs. “I enjoyed participating in these clubs and connecting with fellow students who share my love for biology and the sciences in general.”

A member of the 2024 DII Women’s Cross Country Championship team, Maggie’s coaches helped her chase goals outside of academics. “Coach Martin and his assistant coaches created a program that chases excellence on and off the racecourse and created a team with a strong sense of community and family. I loved being a part of the cross country and track and field teams. It helped me to grow both as an athlete and as a person.”

Maggie became much more confident over the course of her academic career. “I do not know exactly what will come next, but with the skills and perseverance Adams State has taught me, I look forward to chasing new goals and tackling new challenges.”

Travis R. McKinzie
Bachelor of Arts
Psychology
Bachelor of Science
Business Administration/General Business
Walsenburg, Colo.
Cum Laude

As a dual major, Travis gained unique perspectives from professors and classmates across two distinct but interrelated fields. “Attending Adams for the last 10 semesters has been an amazing experience I will cherish for the rest of my life.” He plans to pursue a graduate degree in cognitive science, an interdisciplinary field related to his interests in psychology, technology, and philosophy of mind. He was named an Outstanding Graduate by the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.

“Adams State has offered me an unprecedented opportunity to develop as an individual across a variety of dimensions. I was a wrestler for five years and gained a real sense of what it means to dedicate oneself to a team effort and toward development of skills, resilience, and a meaningful pursuit of personal goals.

“I simply want to find a sustainable level of peace and well-being as I pursue projects that I am wholly invested in.”

Gina Mitchell, Ph.D., professor of psychology, advisor for Psi Chi Club, helped Travis and all members organize and host events and accompanied them to psychology conferences. Travis’ advisor, AJ Webb, D.H.S., assistant professor NTT of management, mentored him during an internship that became the subject of his 2026 Student Scholar Days presentation. “These two, alongside a long list of other professors helped reshape my worldview, my perspective on human behavior, and challenged me to become a more well informed, ethically minded citizen.”

Travis received multiple scholarships and participated in internships. He held a work-study job in Computing Services. “Big shoutout to Jeremy Jaramillo (manager of campus AV) and Brittany Raines (manager of support services) for being amazing bosses who worked with me for years in putting together a manageable work study schedule while taking on a full undergraduate course schedule and wrestling career.”

Connections Travis made with teammates, new friends, classmates, coaches, supervisors, staff, faculty, local residents, and businesspeople of the San Luis Valley, supported his success. “I always felt I could lean on others if the activities of my life became overwhelming. My worst experiences over the last five years came as a result of self-isolation, where for many complicated reasons I stopped fostering and creating connections with the communities that were always there for me.”

Travis graduated in five years with two degrees with a reasonable amount of debt.

The most important aspect of his growth is in education and humility. “I certainly know more about myself, the world, and the methodology that scientists, philosophers, and other academics employ to discover and explain the mechanisms of worldly phenomena. The fruits of my efforts are found in my ever-growing curiosity, and a sense of gratitude for the lucky circumstances of my life. I thank all people involved in the process of encouraging me to be more open minded, humble, and grateful during my time at Adams State!”

Kelsey Romero
Bachelor of Arts
Interdisciplinary Studies
Emphasis in Agricultural Biology
Agribusiness Minor
GIS Certificate
Alamosa, Colo.
Cum Laude

“This journey wasn’t perfect or easy, but it was real. Being recognized as an Outstanding Graduate is something I never imagined for myself, and it’s hard to fully explain what that means. To me, it feels like proof that growth is possible and that second chances matter. As a mom, more than anything, I hope my kids see this one day and understand something simple but important…that no matter where you find yourself in life, you can keep going, you can grow, and you can become more than the circumstances you started in.”

She was named an Outstanding Graduate by the School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

Kelsey gave college a chance after her mom completed her Adams State nursing degree in 2015. Her brother, Dain, is part of the first Adams State/CSU mechanical engineering cohort, also graduating this spring. “It’s not something I ever imagined for our family, and being able to share this moment together means everything to me.”

Adams State’s small class sizes and supportive environment helped Kelsey thrive. “My professors knew me, supported me, and truly cared about where I was going. There were times I doubted myself, and they kept pushing me forward. Adams State didn’t just give me a degree, it gave me confidence, direction, and people who believed in me when I needed it most. It also gave me the opportunity to show my kids what it looks like to keep going, even when things aren’t easy.”

Kelsey will pursue a master’s degree in precision agriculture, with a focus on water and conservation. “I am also open to the idea of a Ph.D. down the road.” Long-term, she wants to work directly with producers and be a part of real solutions, especially when it comes to water in places like the San Luis Valley. “This work feels personal to me, not just something I want to study, but something I want to be a part of.”

Advisors and professors were mentors, supporters, who kept Kelsey grounded when she needed it most. “They encouraged me to take opportunities I didn’t feel ready for, supported me through struggles, and understood that I was balancing more than just school. They helped guide my decisions and gave me structure when I didn’t have it figured out yet. Most importantly, they believed in me before I fully believed in myself, and that changed everything.”

The opportunity to become a USDA NextGen Scholar changed Kelsey’s life. “It allowed me to go to school without constantly worrying about how I was going to afford it.” Through the program, Kelsey had internships with the Rio Grande Water Conservation District and the San Luis Valley Research Center. “Those experiences helped me find what I actually care about and gave me real, hands-on experience that shaped my future.”

Working with producers, conservation staff, and researchers provided Kelsey with real-world experience. “It helped me understand the challenges people are facing and where I fit into all of it. Those connections gave me confidence and helped me realize I belong in this space.”

Kelsey graduates in four-and-a-half years with little debt, thanks to the NextGen Scholarship. Her involvement in the Agribusiness Club provided opportunity to travel, meet people in the industry, and build connections that have already helped move her career forward.

“As a freshman, I was honestly lost. I didn’t have direction, and I wasn’t even sure I could finish college. There were parts of my life that I was still trying to figure out, and at times, just showing up felt like an accomplishment. I was also a mom, trying to balance everything at once. There were nights I studied after my kids went to sleep, and moments when they asked me to play or spend time together, and I had to say, “not right now.” That part was one of the hardest parts of this journey, knowing I was working toward something bigger, but feeling the weight of what it took to get there.

“Over time, I found what I was passionate about and surrounded myself with people who believed in me, and slowly, I started to believe in myself too. I learned how to keep going even when things felt uncertain, and how to build something steady out of a life that didn’t always feel that way.”

Corrie Sue Williams
Bachelor of Arts
Psychology
Enterprise, Utah
Summa Cum Laude

“I truly enjoyed the people and culture of Adams State.” Corrie is looking forward to marrying Andrew Weakley this summer. She will continue at Adams State, pursuing a master’s in clinical mental health, and as a member of the women’s wrestling team. “I hope to use my degrees to become a mental health counselor for teenagers or children.” She was named an Outstanding Graduate by the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.

From day one, Corrie knew the faculty, especially her psychology professors, genuinely cared about her. “They are incredibly invested in each student, their success, and their wellbeing. My relationship with my professors gave me the support to succeed. They were always in my corner to listen, work with me, and cheer me on.

“I would not have made it through the past two years without my coach, Kyle Sand. His constant support, nudging, and encouragement has provided me a space to learn, fail, and grow. I am a better athlete and person because of his influence on my life.”

As a work-study in the Adams State Police Department, Corrie connected with Victoria Miranda, administrative assistant, and all the officers. “I am so grateful for the light, humor, and the positive impact they left in my life.”

The staff in the Athletic Department, including Athletic Director Katelyn Smith and Skye Higens, events and facilities manager, genuinely care about the students. “I love that I could talk with them about anything and they would listen and support me.”

A transfer student, Corrie graduated in two years with reasonable debt for an out-of-state student. She received scholarships and internships and was a member of the Psychology and Psi Chi Clubs.

“I overcame challenges I could never prepare for, including some I didn’t believe I would make it through. I have the wonderful people around me to thank for encouraging me to continue. My self-efficacy and strength grow with each challenge I overcome. A quote I love describes this growth: ‘My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive.’ – Maya Angelou. As a freshman, my goal was survival, but over the last four years, I found greater meaning and purpose in my life. I am chasing dreams and pursuing excellence and thriving along the way.”

Post-Graduate

Candice Baughman
Master of Business Administration
Tenino, Washington

Candice explained her story with Adams State is very personal. “I started my MBA while I was still incarcerated. At that time, education was not just about earning another degree. It was about rebuilding my life, finding purpose, and becoming the kind of woman and leader I knew I was capable of being. Adams State gave me that chance at a time when hope and opportunity mattered deeply.” She was named an Outstanding Graduate by the School of Business.

Today, she is a program specialist with Underground Ministries’ One Parish One Prisoner program, supporting congregations across Washington in building reentry accompaniment teams for people coming home from incarceration. She is also the founder of Ed 4 Empowerment and a Reentry Program Specialist with Interaction Transition’s Hope on the Horizon peer mentoring program.

“My work focuses on helping justice-impacted people move toward housing, education, employment, and real community connection.”

Before prison, Candice earned a bachelor’s degree and worked at South Puget Sound Community College, as well as volunteering as a victim advocate for survivors of domestic violence. “After trauma, addiction, unhealthy relationships, and the death of my father, my life unraveled. I ended up sentenced to prison, and for a while I was still stuck in destructive patterns even after I got there.” What changed the direction of her life was education.

“It may sound funny, but accounting changed the tide for me. A woman was frustrated with her accounting homework, and I blurted out, ‘I bet I can help you with it.’” That small moment opened something up in Candice and she enrolled in the business program through Tacoma Community College while incarcerated and later became the professor’s teaching assistant.

“For the first time in a long time, I was not just being punished. I was being trusted. That mattered. Education helped me see myself differently. It gave me confidence, discipline, purpose, and a reason to believe I could build a different future.”

While incarcerated, Candice was involved in leadership opportunities, faith communities, Toastmasters, and student leadership. She became one of the first members of Phi Theta Kappa in a women’s prison, and began to understand that by investing in people, especially people society has written off, transformation is possible. “That is the spirit I carried with me into my MBA program and into the work I do now.”

The professors at Adams State supported Candice by believing in and challenging her and making space for her lived experience in her academic work. “I did not have to separate my education from my purpose. I was able to build projects that connected directly to real problems I care about and the communities I serve.”

One of the biggest examples of that is Hope on the Horizon. What started as a service-learning project through Candice’s graduate work grew into a real peer mentoring program that she now helps run. “It became more than an assignment. It became a model for supporting people before and after release through peer connection, coordination, and dignity. Seeing something begin in the classroom and become a real program serving others has been one of the most meaningful parts of my education.”

Candice’s family, friends, and community have been a huge part of the journey too. “Their support, encouragement, and belief in me helped carry me through the hardest seasons. I did not get here alone.”

Candice recently applied to law school and is waiting to hear back. “That next step feels like a natural continuation of everything this journey has been building toward. The more I work in reentry and advocacy, the more I see that helping individuals matters deeply, but changing systems matters too. I want the tools to advocate on a deeper level, help shape policy, and stand beside people whose voices are too often ignored.”

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“91è���� has been more than a college for our family; it has been part of our story of resilience, opportunity, and generational success,” said Jamela Brown upon her youngest daughter’s recent graduation from 91è����. All three of her children were student athletes and earned bachelor’s degrees in kinesiology.

New grad Destinee Paulk ’26 followed her uncle and two older sisters to Adams State. She played basketball and will continue as a graduate assistant next year as she begins her master’s degree.

“Our family connection to 91è���� began with my brother, Nathen Brown ‘04,” Brown explained. He played football and ran track at Adams State and is now a clinical therapist in San Diego, CA.

Brown’s oldest daughter, Deaijah Paulk ’19, ‘22, played basketball and ran track as an undergraduate, then earned master’s with an emphasis in exercise science. She is now a clinical exercise physiologist in Tampa, FL, and a traveling clinical exercise physiologist.

Jazmin Paulk ’20 played volleyball and basketball at Adams State and then studied occupational therapy at Parker University in Texas. She is now a special education teacher in Green Valley Ranch in Denver. She also serves as a CASA volunteer and coaches a club volleyball team.

“Education has always been important in our family,” said Brown, who teaches in a remote Alaskan village while pursuing her doctorate in educational leadership. She said in 2002 she and her daughters moved to Colorado Springs from San Diego.

“I was starting over and building a safer future for my children. My daughters have grown into resilient overcomers, and I am very proud they and my brother have all been connected to 91è���� as students, athletes, and graduates,” she said. “Their journeys show strength, determination, and the power of education.”

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The memorial will include the 33^rd Annual Joe I. Vigil Cross Country Meet, that morning.

A native of Alamosa, Coach Vigil, Adams State class of ’53, ’59, held legendary status as the former head of cross-country and track and field at Adams State. Dr. Vigil led the Adams State men’s program from 1965-1993 and won a total of 19 national collegiate championships, including the 1992 NCAA Division II National Cross Country Championship with a perfect score of 15 points. In that span Dr. Vigil guided the program to 87 individual national championships to go along with 425 All-Americans. Coach Vigil not only succeeded at the collegiate level but also at the elite level. After his time with Adams State, he coached Team USA in two Olympic Games and��seven World Cross Country Championships. In that span his athletes won 20 global medals.

Dr. Vigil’s impact on the running committee is one that will stand the test of time. He was one of the four founding fathers of the United States of America Track and Field (USATF) Coaches Education Program. With his help in creating this program, Dr. Vigil helped present running clinics at the high school, collegiate, national, and international level. In all, he presented clinics in 27 countries around the world.

As they become available, details and information will be updated at .

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When David Cody graduated from Alamosa High School in 2023, he headed east to Florida to pursue a degree in engineering. He thought he wanted to start the next chapter of his life far from home.

But, a year later, he decided to return to Colorado to enroll in 91��� in his hometown of Alamosa. A large part of his decision, he said, was the launch of the new Mechanical Engineering Partnership Program between ASU and Colorado State University; it would allow him to get a high-quality mechanical engineering education without having to leave the San Luis Valley.

“I had taken some courses through the program in high school just as it launched and before I left – so I had some familiarity,” he said. “But in addition to wanting to come home, the biggest factor was the affordability of the program. I was able to pay in-state tuition throughout – including the lower overall student tuition at ASU for the first half of the program. That made it an easy decision.”

Cody is one of six students graduating from the program this spring. On May 16, he will receive a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from CSU as part of the first cohort in the rural outreach program, even though he never attended a class at the Fort Collins campus.

A primary goal was to strengthen the pipeline of highly skilled and technically trained workers who are badly needed in the remote San Luis Valley, now and in the future.

There isn’t another engineering program within 100 miles of the area. So, the partnership provides high-achieving students such as Cody a chance to live close to home, which reduces their financial burden, and a clear path to lucrative job opportunities through study of the exact same curriculum and course work offered at CSU.

Adams State provides all lower-division coursework for the first two years of the program, while CSU provides all upper-division coursework for the program. Face-to-face instruction over the final two years comes from CSU mechanical engineering faculty based in Alamosa. Lab space and a modern machine shop for the program are housed in a $1.6 million addition to William Porter Hall at ASU, which was specially built with the program in mind; it enables many hands-on learning opportunities.

Cody is one of six students graduating this spring, and there are 56 students currently enrolled. To date, the program has enrolled 97 students – of which 40 percent are considered low income.

Adams State is a Hispanic-Serving Institution with an overall Hispanic student population of nearly 40 percent; four of the six graduates from the degree program this cycle are Hispanic.

Scott Clayton is a native of the San Luis Valley area who grew up with a talent for science and math disciplines, just like Cody. He serves as the lab support engineer for the degree program – helping to coordinate as a CSU employee on the ground while also offering mentorship to students, technical support in the lab spaces and program development.

He said many students coming from the area care from farming families and are some of the most ingenious he has worked with.

“This program leverages those kinds of foundational skills that transfer easily to the world of engineering while also helping to keep that talent in the Alamosa community and the broader region – including places like Pueblo that are facing similar workforce needs,” he said. “Coming to Fort Collins for school can be overwhelming for young students. This is a fantastic opportunity for those who may be nervous about leaving home but also understand and see the value and are well qualified for an engineering degree from a university as respected as CSU.”

While serving in the Adams State School of STEM, Physics Professor Matt Nehring played a vital role in launching the dual-university program.

“I appreciate the support on every level we received establishing the program, from federal grants to local contractors working to expand Porter Hall,” he said. “We committed to replicating all components of the CSU Mechanical Engineering curriculum here so that students on the Adams State campus had the same educational experiences as their Fort Collins counterparts. Saturday, when that first class crosses the stage to receive their diploma, it makes all the time and effort very worthwhile.”

Cody recently finished an internship and was part of a team that presented their senior design project during the 2026 Engineering Days showcase event at CSU. He said he was proud to be part of the first group from the program to travel and participate in the annual spring rite of passage for CSU engineers.

He said his next stop will be a full-time job as a project engineer at Southland Industries in Cheyenne.

“The program provided me a fantastic experience overall and I really came to appreciate the cohort and community it supported as well,” Cody said. “The class sizes were substantially smaller than you would likely see at large engineering programs, and there was a lot of opportunity for hands-on learning.”

Funding for the addition to William Porter Hall lab addition included federal funding from congressional appropriations supported by U.S. Sens. Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper of Colorado. Additional funding came from Adams State’s institutional funds and the El Centro Sierra Blanca Grant through the Department of Education. Although not used in the construction costs, Colorado State University received $1 million from the federal community project funding supported by U.S. Rep. Joseph Neguse to assist with the mechanical engineering program.

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Bruce Springsteen might have been singing about Adams State Football in From Small Things Big Things Come. Current head football coach Levi Galles noted, “Four former Adams State graduates are making significant strides in the profession and have worked their way up the coaching ranks at the highest levels of college football. It is a great example of the long-term impact of the program and the quality of people that have come through Adams State.”

Jason Semore ’05 is Defensive Coordinator at Georgia Tech. Ray Thomas ‘10 started a new position this year as Assistant Director of Football Sports Performance & Director of Speed Development at University of Southern California. JB Hall ’12 coaches the cornerbacks as an assistant coach at Wyoming University, while Taylor Mouser ’13 is the Offensive Coordinator at Penn State University.

Jason Semore

“Jason Semore has built a strong reputation as a defensive coach and recruiter,” Galles said. “Since graduating from Adams State, he has steadily climbed the coaching ladder and is now working at the Power 4 level in the ACC.”

Semore earned a bachelor’s degree in history, government and philosophy, followed by two master’s degrees: in criminal justice in 2007 from University of Phoenix and in educational methods from University of Tulsa in 2012.

As a linebacker at Adams State, he said, “We established a tradition of being one of the best defensive football teams in the entire country from 2001-2005. I played alongside many All Conference and All-American players, and in 2004 we were statistically the #1 defense in all of college football.”

Semore has been defensive coordinater for nine of his 20 collegiate coaching seasons. His teams notched 11 post-season appearances and 3 conference championships. His resume includes time coaching at Southern Miss, Marshall, Valdosta State, Montana, Colorado School of Mines, and Adams State.

“From a coaching standpoint, I have built on the foundation that I learned as a player at Adams State,” Semore said. “My biggest influencer at ASU was my Coach Marty Heaton, our defensive coordinator. Academically, it was Dr. Ed Crowther and Dr. Stuart Hilwig (may they rest in peace). Coach Heaton was a massive influence in my life! He taught me the relationship between the power of the mind and football. He taught me that nothing affects a football player more than his personal identity. He helped shape my identity both as a football player and a man.”

Ray Thomas

Galles said of Thomas, “His journey reflects the persistence and commitment that many Adams State alumni bring to the profession.” He joined USC after five years at Kansas State, where he was head of strength & conditioning. He previously held posts at University of South Florida, after internships at University of Southern Colorado and University of Arkansas.

Thomas worked construction for a while after college, until his wife encouraged him to apply for a coaching job at his high school alma mater in Woodland Park, CO. “That rekindled my fire for football,” he said. “I practiced a whole lot in college but didn’t play a whole lot. That fed my love of training. I work with the team all year, in fact off-season is the busiest. I’m with them year-round, getting them in shape. I build relationships and help them grow, not just in sport, but as men.”

JB Hall

Galles said JB Hall has developed a strong reputation within the Mountain West, leading to his recent move to Wyoming. “His work in recruiting and player development has helped him continue to advance in the profession.” Hall’s new head coach at Wyoming, Jay Sawvel, said, “JB is a versatile coach who is an excellent teacher.”

Hall was a wide receiver at Adams State from 2008 through 2012, serving as a team captain and earning Athletic Director’s Honor Roll recognition. He earned a bachelor’s degree in human performance and physical education.

Prior to joining Wyoming, Hall spent two seasons at Northern Colorado University as special teams coordinator and served as defensive pass game coordinator and safeties coach. He has also coached at Utah Tech, Georgia Tech, Montana University, Sacramento State, and Idaho State. In 2016, Montana’s defense ranked first in the Big Sky in total defense and second in pass defense, as Hall oversaw the secondary.

Taylor Mouser

“Taylor Mouser has quickly become one of the rising young offensive minds in college football,” Galles said. “His progression through the profession reflects both his work ethic and the foundation he built during his time at Adams State.” A defensive lineman in college, he earned bachelor’s degrees in exercise science and sports administration.

Before joining the Nittany Lions, Mouser spent 10 seasons at Iowa State University and was named the 2025 Football Scoop Tight Ends Coach of the Year. He has coached a number of All-Americans and All-Big 12 performers to unprecedented success working with the offense. He started at Iowa as a graduate assistant, then moved to the scouting department. He then took a role as senior quality control for the Cyclone offense in 2019.

In his first season as tight ends coach in 2021, Mouser tutored a pair of All-Big 12 performers in Charlie Kolar and Chase Allen, both now in the NFL. In recent years, Iowa State produced four of the most prolific offenses in Cyclone football history. The Cyclones closed the 2025 season rushing for at least 150 yards in seven-straight games, the longest streak since doing so for eight-straight games from 2008-09.

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When it comes to the numbers, 91è���� Alumnus, Jim Bevan ’84, ’86 is clearly a champion:

• 16 Coach of the Year Awards
• 75 All-Americans
• 6 Olympians
• 13 team titles

But Bevan will tell you that success was won by focusing on the person. He retires this summer after 40 years of coaching at Rice University in Houston, ending his 21^st year as Head Coach of the Division I Rice Owls women’s track & field and cross country teams.

Last year he was inducted into the Texas Track & Field Coaches Association Hall of Fame, having been inducted into the Halls of Fame at both Adams State and Rice in 2017. Also that year, he received the Rice University Elizabeth Gillis Award for Exemplary Service. In 2007, the Conference USA Student-Athlete Advisory Committee presented Bevan with the Coaches’ Choice Award for cross country in recognition of his commitment to fostering student-athlete development and welfare through a positive athletic and��academic atmosphere. His student-athletes at Rice have a perfect graduation rate, and his 2014-15 women’s cross country team boasted the highest GPA (3.76) among qualifying Conference USA teams.

Contemplating his upcoming retirement, Bevan said, “My biggest thing is, I enjoy working with people. And they’re paying me to do that! But what I enjoy the most is working with people day to day, so you can find that in other ways.”

Bevan competed in the long jump and triple jump for Adams State, winning the 1983 RMAC�� triple jump championship, coached by the late Dr. Joe Vigil ’53, ‘59.

“It’s really unbelievable when I think back,” he said. “I didn’t even know about cross-country until college. Then I became immersed in it at Adams, and there was no place that did a better job.”

Bevan earned a bachelor’s in history and physical education and a master’s in HPPE (Human Performance and Physical Education) from Adams State in 1984 and 1986, respectively.

“After I graduated and we came back from nationals, Coach asked me to be his graduate assistant coach. I hadn’t planned on this, but I didn’t want to let him down. We had a really good relationship, so I spent two more years and got my master’s – in Joe Vigil. He took me under his wing,” Bevan recalled, tearing up. “I’ll never know exactly why.”

He credits Vigil with both starting him in coaching and connecting him to Rice. “What is most amazing is, he had the science, as well as the other side, psychology, the human side. It’s rare to find somebody that is a master in both fields,” Bevan said. “He was very sensitive to student needs and how to motivate them. He knew how to read people and be empathetic but was also strong and challenging.”

Bevan explained Vigil used the exemplar method, teaching by example. “That’s the best way of teaching. And he was a great example for me. I was also fortunate at Rice to work with Victor Lopez, who was an amazing coach, as well.” Lopez is known as the “coaches’ coach.”

Both men were adherents of coaching education and pioneered the concept in North America. They also shared the Spanish language. In 1986, Vigil encouraged Lopez to hire Bevan for a new, full-time assistant coaching position at Rice.

“Coach told Victor, ‘You should hire this guy’ – in Spanish. Victor always said, ‘I’m not a coach; I’m a teacher.’ I consider myself a teacher. I was very fortunate to go from one master to the other.”

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The Presser Foundation was established in 1939 under the will of the late Theodore Presser. It is one of the few private foundations in the United States dedicated solely to music education and music philanthropy.

Wankelman is a percussionist currently student teaching in his hometown of Loveland, CO. His primary advisor, Melinda Leoce, D.M., said, “Through his time at Adams State, Collin has demonstrated his passion for music through his participation and leadership,��both within the Music Department and in the community. We already miss his strong contributions to the percussion studio, but we are excited to see what the future holds for him! The Music Department faculty are so proud of Collin and his achievements.”

Wankleman has been an integral component of the music department, performing in multiple ensembles, including percussion, wind band, and jazz, and serving as vice president of the�� Adams State Music Education Society (ASMES.) In addition, Wankleman has been the drummer for the band Ol’ Scratch and has performed with the SLV Big Band, among others.

Wankleman said, “I was both surprised and truly grateful to receive this award. I could not have achieved this without the support of my professors. I would like to specifically recognize Dr. Melinda Leoce, Dr. Matthew Schildt, and Dr. Brooke Miller. Dr. Leoce, my percussion professor, has helped me become not only a better percussionist,��but also a better person. Dr. Schildt, my theory and technology professor, has been a great mentor as I developed throughout the program. Dr. Miller, my music education professor, helped me develop my teaching strategies and refine my approach so that I can be a positive influence in the classroom.”

91è����’s Music Department at is student-focused, a place where community, diversity, and belonging connect with educational opportunity and academic rigor. Music students perform in a diverse offering of ensembles, working one-on-one with dedicated and professionally-active faculty on a daily basis. 91è���� take part in a robust musical offering in state-of-the-art facilities, from numerous practice rooms to acoustically-balanced performance spaces. The department also features a three-room recording studio equipped with high quality��microphones, preamps, software such as Cubase, Wavelab, and Dorico, and software instruments��and plugins from Universal Audio and Native Instruments.

About The Presser Foundation:

The Presser Foundation was established in 1939 under the will of the late Theodore Presser.�� It is one of the few private foundations in the United States dedicated solely to music education and music philanthropy.�� Mr. Presser taught at many undergraduate and graduate music institutions.�� To honor his commitment to music education, undergraduate music programs at selected colleges, universities and independent institutions of higher education are given the opportunity to present the Presser Undergraduate Scholar Award, which recognizes the accomplishments and contribution of a music major in their final year of undergraduate study.

The Foundation is committed to equitable, transparent, and forward-thinking philanthropy. For more information: .

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