Great stories begin at Adams State; in the classroom, on the field, in the lab, and in every experience shaping students’ futures. During Adams Gives Week, you have a chance to support the ongoing great stories and ensure Grizzlies of today can continue to create their own.

From September 14 through September 20, alumni and friends will come together to celebrate Adams Gives Week, intentionally held during the 2026 Homecoming celebrations. “It’s a great time to honor our traditions, reconnect with classmates, and rally around the Grizzly spirit that has carried Adams State forward for more than a century,” said Development Officer Kate Martinez.

Even if you can’t make it back to campus during Homecoming, you can still show your support from wherever you are by giving during Adams Gives Week. It’s a simple but meaningful way to reconnect and make a difference.

“Adams Gives Week brings alumni and friends together around something we all care about: the students who are here now and those who will follow,” said Vice President of Advancement Jake Rissler. It’s a chance to celebrate our own Adams State memories by helping today’s students make theirs

Support during Adams Gives Week helps fund scholarships, student programs and the areas across campus donors care about most. Make you contributions to the future of Adams State students.

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LeRoy is a former trustee for Adams State, having served on the university board at three different times. Michelle earned degrees in biology and Spanish from Adams State and later was an assistant professor of Spanish at Adams State. She also served on the board of the 91��� Foundation.

“When Darin and I returned to the Valley with our family, Michelle and LeRoy were among the first to welcome us,” said President David Tandberg, Ph.D. “We value our friendship. The Salazars’ love of their community is evident through their philanthropy and service. Over the last several decades, Adams State has benefitted from their commitment to our mission and the students we serve. It is an honor to present them with the Billy Adams Award, the University’s highest distinction.”

LeRoy said he and Michelle “share the core values that come from our belief in the importance of faith, family, and community. We believe strongly in the value of education. My father always believed that education was the gateway to opportunity. Mom and dad never went to college, but they made sure all eight of their kids did.”

Michelle noted, “Adams State serves an underserved community, so it is critical to all of us for the education of our students. Now we are seeing much more outreach to our 12 valley school districts. We believe in the power of education and Adams State.”

In 2016, LeRoy and his siblings established The Emma and Henry Salazar Memorial Scholarship in honor of their parents and helped create the Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center at Adams State. The center advances the conservation of land, water, and historic and cultural attributes at the headwaters of the Rio Grande in the San Luis Valley. It developed a minor in Water Studies, an interdisciplinary program for students in a range of degree programs.

Last year, the extended Salazar Family received 91è����’s Willis Fassett Jr. Award – Individual in recognition of their support. Also last year, LeRoy and Michelle’s son, Gabe, and his family created two scholarships in their honor: the LeRoy Salazar AgriSTEM Endowment and the Michelle Salazar Language, Arts & Education Endowment.

LeRoy said. “For a time, I felt Adams State was not fulfilling its mission. It had lost much of its connection to K-12 schools, to the farming community, the Hispanic community, and other SLV communities. I believe that has changed,” LeRoy said. “91è���� is on a real positive trajectory now. The enrollment decline has been reversed, and the relations between administration, faculty, staff and with the community have improved. It feels like we are back on track.”

LeRoy and Michelle remain active in farming and their community. The couple met at Colorado State University, where LeRoy earned master’s and bachelor’s degrees in agricultural engineering, and Michelle earned a degree in agronomy.

LeRoy is the fifth generation of his family farming in the San Luis Valley. He co-founded Agro Engineering, Inc., serving as President and CEO from 1982 to 2000. He has been heavily involved in developing strategies for creating a sustainable water supply system in the San Luis Valley. He has served as a member of the Colorado Agricultural Commission and the United Fresh Potato Growers of Colorado and as a director of Citizens for Colorado Water.

For 25 years, LeRoy served on the San Luis Valley Federal Bank Board, retiring as Chairman. He also served on the North Conejos School District Board of Education for 9 years, with several years as its president. In 2018, he received the Statewide Leadership and Service Award from the El Pomar Foundation and directed part of the monetary award to Adams State.

LeRoy also co-founded and continues to work with the Hope for Children Foundation, which supports orphans, abandoned, and severely impoverished children in Mexico.

After her children were all in school, Michelle decided to obtain a teaching certificate and earned degrees in biology and Spanish with a minor in art from Adams State in 1992. She taught science and Spanish in SLV schools, then earned a master’s and Ph.D. in Hispanic linguistics from the University of New Mexico. Her thesis explored language, identity, and academic achievement in the SLV.

In addition to helping on their farm, Michelle volunteers with the Food Bank Network of the San Luis Valley, Hospice del Valle, and the Sisters of Mercy. She has served on the board of the San Luis Valley Immigrant Resource Center for 21 years.

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“It all began with a slight smile and tilt of Ira Richardson’s head as he listened to a smooth-talking young man helping him at the Alamosa JC Penney in the early 1930s,” said Jeff Owsley ’86. “Dr. Richardson listened to Grandpa Hartley’s story and he knew how much a college education would elevate his life. He did everything he could, including co-signing a loan for his tuition and arranging a bed for him to sleep in the basement of the lone Adams State building at the time that would later bear his name. The care he showed had ripple effects through decades and generations. I know it continues to be shown daily all across campus.”

Adams State selected the Owsley Family as the 2026 Family Tree Award recipients. The award will be presented during the Homecoming Luncheon on September 18. Established in 2025, the Family Tree Award recognizes strong family legacy and generations of Adams State graduates.

“The joy of receiving this award is that it totally ties into each of our generations loving Adams State and encouraging our offspring to attend,” said Kathy (Owsley) Soden ’89. Kathy knew Adams State was the right college for her. “As kids, we pretty much grew up on campus. Playing hide and seek, swimming in the indoor swimming pool, participating in sports programs and summer plays.”

Kathy Soden’s familiarity with the campus and faculty made Adams State the obvious choice for college. “I remember how encouraging and thoughtful my professors were through my educational journey. They provided individual support and a community within our education department, so you never felt alone.”

After 30 years with the Rocky Ford School District, Kathy Soden retired. She was inducted into the 2023 Adams State Educators Hall of Fame. “This award meant so much to me because it’s where my career started and ended full circle.”

Her son, Sawyer Soden ’20, appreciated the close connections made while a student. “I had the opportunity to meet some of the greatest like-minded people who became more than just classmates, they became lifelong friends. Being able to know professors on a first-name basis, created an environment where students felt valued, supported, and encouraged to succeed. The connections I made with my professors went beyond the classroom; they provided guidance, mentorship, and a genuine investment in my personal and professional growth.”

A fourth-generation graduate, John Owsley (Jeff Owsley’s son) said Adams State helped him realize his full potential, personally and professionally. “It’s incredibly meaningful to share that connection with my family and know that, for generations, Adams has helped open doors and create opportunities for each of us,” said John Owsley, who served as a student trustee for two years. “Serving on the Board of Trustees gave me a front-row seat to leadership, governance, and how decisions are made within an organization. Now, working in nonprofit fundraising and partnering closely with my own board of directors, I realize just how valuable that experience was. It gave me a level of confidence and understanding that I still rely on today.”

John Owsley was recently accepted to the 2026 cohort for the Denver Chamber of Commerce’s Impact Denver program.

Charles “Chuck” Owsley ’68 said Adams State opened the doors and opportunities for his family. “Adams State means a lot to my family. It has helped us all pursue our career goals.” In 2024, Chuck Owsley, second generation graduate and father to Jeff Owsley, David Owsley, and Kathy Soden, created the Owsley Family Scholarship Endowment, and included Adams State in his estate plan, joining the Billy Adams Society. He is a staunch supporter of Adams State including serving on the Foundation Board, the Alumni Board and the Grizzly Club Board. For the last several decades, he has continued to attend athletic events and donate to his alma mater.

In addition to those in the family who graduated, others reaped benefits from opportunities and programs. “My late wife, Hallie, received almost all of her teacher recertification credits there,” said Jeff Owsley. “Our mom, Becky, was a beloved presence at the college bookstore for six years as an employee, longer than any of us as students.”

For generations, Adams State has been a vital part of the Owsley Family’s lives. As Jeff Owsley said: “From day care and dance recitals, to science fair and swimming lessons. From enjoying art, concerts and plays to cheering sports and attending conferences. From campus employment to serving on boards. And finally, the thousands of campus connected friendships – across generations – for our grandparents, parents, ourselves and our kids. Like an extension of our own family tree.”

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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Associate Professor of Biology David Bertolatus, Ph.D., was accepted into the UNIDOS Leadership Institute, a program of the National Science Foundation designed to enhance collaboration among STEM departments at HSIs nationwide. In August, he traveled to Washington D.C. to attend the in-person kick-off for the institute, which will continue remotely for the rest of the academic year.

Instructor of Distant Education Ashraf Esmail accomplishments include:
Honors
Presented with an award at the Research Association for Minority Professors Conference
Presented with an award at the Association for Social and Behavioral Scientists Conference
Presented with an award at the Loving Hearts Congenital Heart Walk supporting the Children Heart Foundation
Articles/Book Chapters
Burke, Jessica, Lisa Eargle, and Ashraf Esmail (2026).  Resource Exploitation, Pollution, and Quality of Life in Developing Nations.  In Natural Disasters, the Environment, and  Technological Pathways to Sustainable Recovery.  Edited by Sylvester Udeorah Henrietta Okoro, Ghosh Thinnakkakath, and Anthony Ogbo. Pg. 241-270.  IGI Global
Mavyon, Rouby, Ashraf Esmail, and Hovsep Mavyan (2026).  The Impacts of Mental Health and Physical Injuries Resulting From Abuse: Analyzing Barriers to Healthcare Access for Female Victims of Abuse.  In Policy, Prevention, and Structural Responses to Violence Against Women.  Edited by Perry Lyle, Ghosh Thinnakkakath, and Jyoti Kukreja. Pg 91-116. IGI Global
Esmail, Ashraf and Brandon Hammon (2026).  The Legacy Must Live: HBCUs and the Fight For Generational Hope. In Hope on the Mountain of Fear: Compelling Viewpoints on  Economic Justice and American Democracy. Edited by Bankole Thompson. Pg 75- Pulse Global Publishing
Monroe, Paula and Ashraf Esmail (2026).  Study Analysis of School and Community Collaboration Bridging Community Gaps in Urban School Enrichment Programs Through Qualitative Case Study.  Community Dynamics: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal. 2, 32-40
Presentations
Perry, Kristie, Ashraf Esmail, and Tia Suggs. (2026). Targeted Violence and Terrorism
Prevention Program. Presented at The Association of Social and Behavioral Scientists New Orleans, La.
Esmail, Ashraf, Tia Suggs, Katina Whorton, Raymond Delaney, and Darryl Roberts (2026) Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention Program. The Role of HBCU’s.
Presented at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences Conference. Philadelphia, PA
Delaney, Raymond and Ashraf Esmail (2026). The Role of AI in Restorative Practices:
Impact on the School-To-Prison Pipeline.  Presented at the Research Association for Minority Professors Conference.  New Orleans, La
Esmail, Ashraf, Kriste Perry, and Ashraf Esmail (2026). Resilience and Risk: A Study of Terrorism Threats and Prevention on HCBU Campuses.  Presented at the Research Association for Minority Professors Conference, New Orleans, La.

Assistant Professor of Psychology Chris Kam, Ph.D., had “,” published at the end of July, by the journal Psychological Reports.

Professor of History and Department Chair Richard Loosbrock, Ph.D., was the historical ambassador on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad’s Centennial State Limited for the Colorado 150 on July 31 and August 1. He gave mini-history lectures to all of the cars and mingled with passengers to talk history of Colorado and the SLV. He presented a program at the Saguache County Museum on Railroads, the West, and the San Luis Valley, on August 16.

Clinical Counselor Katy Plumb, two-time alumni, improved her credentialing from an LPCC (licensed professional counselor candidate) to LPC (licensed professional counselor) in July of 2026 and became a nationally certified counselor as well.

Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs Nick Saenz, had the article, “” published by History Colorado.

Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering Kassiopeia Smith, Ph.D., participated in the 2026 UNIDOS Leadership Institute at the University of Puerto Rico–Río Piedras on August 20–21. The Institute is a professional and leadership development program for faculty and staff at Hispanic-Serving Institutions, with an emphasis on shared leadership, collaboration, professional growth, and leading meaningful institutional change. The two-day workshop launched a year-long program that includes leadership coaching and the development of a strategic change project aimed at strengthening STEM education, student success, and institutional capacity.

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(CRT) returns with the show Fully Committed by Becky Mode at the Adams State Theatre SLV Federal Bank Main Stage for three performances September 8, 9, and 10. All shows perform at 7 p.m.

One actor (CRT favorite Graham Ward) takes on 40 characters in this hilarious tour de force about Sam, a struggling actor juggling the chaos of answering the reservation line at one of New York City’s most exclusive restaurants. Over the course of a single chaotic day in the basement reservations office, Sam fields calls from demanding VIPs, entitled socialites, desperate diners, and eccentric celebrities—all while juggling pressure from the temperamental chef, personal drama, and artistic aspirations. Fully Committed was directed by CRT alumnus Matt Zambrano and stars Graham Ward, who has been a performer at CRT since 2012.

“Graham’s performance is a masterclass in storytelling—virtuosic, hilarious, and deeply human,” says Artistic Director Emily Van Fleet. “Watching him bring dozens of wildly distinct characters to life with such precision, heart, and seemingly boundless energy has been one of the great joys of our season, and we couldn’t be more excited to see his work reach a new audience.”

Of Fully Committed and Ward’s performance, OnStage Colorado’s Alex Miller writes, “The actor’s challenge is to pivot instantly from friendly Sam, answering the phone to help patrons, to any of these other characters — and make them all sound distinct. Ward meets that challenge with a colorful palette of personalities, voices, mannerisms and levels of haughtiness. It’s a lot of fun to watch, and with plenty of performances already under his belt, Ward is damn near perfect…”

Tickets are $35 plus some minimal fees per ticket. Adams State offers limited complimentary tickets for university students with a valid student ID. Visit Adams State Theatre for tickets are or visit the Adams State Theatre Box Office beginning August 31. Fully Committed contains strong language and is recommended for ages 16 and up.

About Creede Repertory Theatre

Founded in 1966, Creede Repertory Theatre (CRT) is a professional theatre company located at 9,000 feet of elevation in the historic town of Creede, CO, which offers beautiful mountain views, hiking trails and stunning campsites in a county comprising 97 percent public land. From its Rocky Mountain roots, CRT serves as an artistic home to our rural community and beyond, through the creation of repertory seasons, dynamic educational programs and compelling new works. With deeply rooted values in equity, diversity and inclusion, CRT is committed to being a haven for artistic excellence, belonging, and intrinsic joy.

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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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