Pete Gomez, Adams State University College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) Director, was recently appointed as Western Stream Representative on the National HEP/CAMP Association Board of Directors.
"My goal as a representative includes adequately providing representation regarding concerns, needs and best practices on the National HEP/CAMP Association Board of Directors and to disseminate information to programs as necessary," Gomez said.
The Board is comprised of 12 Program Directors representing Central, Western and Eastern areas of the Country. Gomez will represent CAMP within the western migrant stream including Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.
Gomez, an Adams State alumnus ’78, received a M.Ed. from Antioch University in 1981. With experience as a program director, private entrepreneur and adjunct professor for Adams State and Trinidad State Junior College, he began his educational career as a CAMP student in 1974, at Adams State.
"It is an honor to support and represent migrant/seasonal farmworker students through CAMP at this outstanding Hispanic Serving Institution," Gomez added. "Our students are ready, eager and excited about the educational opportunities afforded at the university and through the CAMP program."
In 2014, Adams State was awarded a five-year grant of $2.1 million by the U.S. Department of Education to establish CAMP on campus. According to Gomez, CAMP aims to improve access to and success in higher education for those whose families perform migrant or seasonal agricultural work.
Adams State CAMP serves 30 students per year and is currently completing its second year of student cohorts. "The Adams State faculty and staff demonstrate great commitment toward the success of the CAMP students," Gomez said.
Eligible CAMP students receive assistance in services including counseling, tutoring, skills workshops, financial aid stipends, health services, and housing assistance, during their first year of college.
Throughout the nation, CAMP serves approximately 2,400 migrant participants annually. Overall, nearly three-quarters of all CAMP students graduate with baccalaureate degrees.
The High School Equivalency Program (HEP) and CAMP have existed since 1967 and 1972 respectively. HEP helps students who have dropped out of high school get their High School Equivalency Credential, and serves more than 6,000 students annually.
Gomez is married to Lillian, his wife of 38 years and Adams State Title V director and alumna ’81 ’02. They have two children, Daniel and Celina of Washington, D.C.
Interested students or those with questions are encouraged to contact Gomez at 719-587-8331, or Miguel Chaparro at 719-587-8318.
