Humanities or science major, student athlete, on-campus or online, first-generation, legacy students, these soon to be alumni all share a common thought, Adams State helped them reach their goals and set them on their desired professional paths.
Jacquelin Alvey
Psychology Major
Fowler, Colo.
“As a first generation college graduate, it means a lot to me to change the trend in my family. I feel accomplished not in just where I am at, but where I’m going to go. I had the support of my family and friends trying to achieve this degree, and it made me happy to see how proud everyone has been to see me try to achieve this goal of mine. I feel that I will have more opportunities to pursue a passion that will give me life fulfillment, and that I can feel comfort knowing that I have a support system behind me as I continue on with life.”
Not only was Adams State a financially affordable school, it also provided Jacquelin many opportunities to achieve her academic goal. “I also have had many great experiences here, through my degree, the people I met, and also the people I worked with.”
Jacquelin believes the Psychology Department is one of the best departments on campus and embraces educating the next generation to their fullest ability. The professors are some of the greatest educators she ever met. “They are all very intelligent individuals who are very passionate about the program and sharing their knowledge with their students. They push their students for higher achievement and create an environment that students can truly embrace the pursuit of knowledge.”
Thanks to scholarships, financial aid, and work-study, Jacquelin graduates with no debt in five years. She completed an internship with the SLV Boys & Girls Club and gained skills for the future as a student employee with computing services the last four years. “My current supervisor has been supportive and allowed me to work and earn money while focusing on my studies.” The financial aid staff was always willing to help, especially when she was concerned with school expenses.
In the future, Jacqueline plans to further her education in child development. “I found a passion for working with the youth population.”
“When I think back to when I was a freshman, I would say that I was a completely different person than I am today. I was naïve, and honestly, I would consider myself quite childish. Not that it was a bad thing, but I didn’t really know how to approach many things in life. I was in a new world with wobbly legs. Maybe even a little arrogant about how mature I was, but reality is I was just getting out of a very sheltered lifestyle, and about to meet new people, experience new life challenges, and be humbled in not only my academics, but in my knowledge of the world and how it works. With my education, new companions, and mentors I have been able to see that I am much smaller in a universe that is so big. I have learned to embrace this, and honestly it has helped me take on a wider perspective on life. I feel that I can be more understanding towards others, see multiple approaches towards problems, stay more in tuned with myself and others, and be able to look at my future knowing that unexpected things are going to happen. Which is okay, I can handle it with my new found skills and tools that I have developed being here at Adams State. Today I am more humble and love pursuing knowledge especially in my future profession. I love meeting new people and seeing more perspectives of the world than my own. But most importantly, I find enjoyment in the unpredictability of life.”
Amalia Dorion
Bachelor of Fine Arts
Emphasis in Painting
Minor in English Literature
El Paso, Texas
Cum Laude
Amalia will fly to England soon after graduation to begin her creative marketing internship for Bacardi in London. She has also found success as a running social media influencer on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.
“The Visual Art Department provided me with countless opportunities to grow as a student and as a person. The professors and staff were extremely caring and intelligent, and it was amazing to have such one-on-one from them. I would not have the opportunities available to me post-undergrad without the Art Department.”
After her internship, Amalia will be move to Boston, Mass. to attend graduate school and run cross country and track at Suffolk University.
“My art professors, especially Eugene Schilling (emeritus professor of art), were some of the most incredible teachers, artists, and mentors I could have ever asked for in my life. They provided me with opportunities that have taken me in incredible directions in my life. They pushed every day to become a better artist and person, and taught me that hard work will take you where you want to go in life. I would not have been able to have the incredible jobs, gallery shows, experiences, or several art graduate school acceptances without them. I will always look up to them for the rest of my life and know they will always be there for me for years to come.”
Amalia received many scholarships and worked on campus, including as the social media manager for the Art Department, head editor and chief for the Sandhill Review Art and Literature Magazine, Nielsen Library circulation desk, and as a counselor at the Adams State Cross Country Camp. She is also the social media intern for the longest running track and field publication in the USA, Track and Field News.
Running for Adams State on the women’s cross country and track teams provided Amalia with many opportunities in the running world, from running races to meeting new people to job opportunities. Her work-study and campus employment supervisors helped her gain experience in the publishing, editing, marketing, and content creation world. Through the Cloyde Snook and Hatfield Art Galleries, she connected with amazing artists and grew her resume through gallery exhibitions. Amalia also participated in the student organization, League of the Arts, and served on the Communications Board.
While taking a required painting course with Professor Schilling, Amalia realized she loved art. “I made the drastic major change from the sciences to painting, and have never been so thankful for that change. Along with my growth in the arts, I also grew as an athlete/runner through the XC/track programs. I branched out to take on several jobs over the years, several of which have set me up well for my future and have already lead me to new paths in life and have allowed me to be successful. I cannot express how grateful I am for my time at Adams State, especially my time in the Art Department and my time out running and training on the trails of Alamosa and competing for the running programs here. I know I would not have had these opportunities or growth elsewhere. Thank you, Adams State.”
Natalie Gallegos
Bachelor of Arts: Communications and Media
Minor: Marketing
Abiquiu, NM
Both of Natalie’s parents graduated from Adams State in 1996, and she is happy she followed in their footsteps. “I love being close to my hometown, and I love how small my classes are, so I was given the opportunity for my professors to know me and to end up calling my classmates my friends.”
She will continue at Adams State to work on her MBA and continue playing volleyball. “Each of my professors has been very supportive of me being a student athlete. Not only this, but they ask about how I am and make sure that I am doing well physically and mentally.”
Natalie appreciates her athletic scholarship and receiving the Vice President’s Scholarship. She completed an internship as part of the social media team with the NCAA DII Committee, including running the NCAADII account at the 2023 Track and Field National Championship. Natalie was a student employee with the School of Counselor Education and was a social media coordinator for the Athletics Department. “In 2021, I was a part of the Grizzly Peer Mentor program on campus, as well.”
Natalie is captain for the volleyball team. “My work-study supervisor, Toni Martinez, has always supported my extracurriculars by showing up to my games and being flexible with my ever-changing schedule.” The Athletics Department was also supportive and appreciative of her social media work. “My coaches have all been amazing during my time here, supporting who I am as a person and urging me to become the best version of myself.”
It took Natalie four years to graduate, and with student employment, scholarships, and her parents’ financial support, she graduates with no student loan debt.
“In four years, I developed from a really shy person to someone who now loves meeting new people and making different connections with different people. I have also learned my love for helping others. Being a leader on my volleyball team I have learned that I always want to be the person that my teammates or anyone can turn to if they need help. I think everyone deserves to know that they are special and they are wanted.”
Jonathan Hanel
Bachelor of Science: Wildlife Biology
Environmental Science Minor
Alamosa Colo.
Magna Cum Laude
“I think it is a great achievement for me to be the first person in my family to earn a college degree. It makes me feel proud that I was able to reach this goal and earn a degree like my family has always wanted to.”
Adams State is Jonathan’s hometown university and her appreciates not moving away from my family. “Adams State classes were also quite small and allowed for engaging conversations and discussions with fellow students and professors, which allowed for great connections of friends that will last forever. Finally, it is surrounded by the beautiful San Luis Valley, and I still got to love and enjoy the various outdoor activities that I grew up enjoying.”
Jonathan is a seasonal property technicial with Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) through November. In September he plans to apply for the Colorado district wildlife manager position with the goal of becoming a full-time employee for CPW.
“Both my advisor and major professors ensured I was successful by making connections to always check in and ask how the day was, how homework assignments were going, and whether I understood material in class. They would always talk to me every day in the hallway even if it was for a brief second just to check in and see how things were going, and I think that made it very welcoming and ensured my success in my degree.”
Jonathan appreciates his scholarships, because they allow him to focus on school and not worry about the cost. For all four years, he received the Porters Scholarship and the Douglas Thomas Scholarship, along with the Vice President’s Merit Scholarship and Outcalt Scholarship. “I am beyond grateful and appreciative of all the financial help I received. Words can’t say enough of how thankful I am to not have any student debt.”
Jonathan was also a biology lab teacher assistant for three years and a student ambassador for two years. He worked with CPW for three years as a seasonal property technician over the summers.
He appreciates all the offices and departments across campus. “Financial aid was a huge help in talking over my plans with me each year and discussing costs of everything. People on campus would always direct me to the right office or person to talk to, if I had any questions.”
It took Jonathan four years to graduate and earn his bachelor’s and minor degree in science.
“I think I changed a lot over the four years from a freshman to a senior. I think I became better at time management and became very goal oriented over the years. I changed a lot of my mentality, as well, focusing on the important things in life, realizing and being appreciative of the small things and small accomplishments, as well.”
Jennifer (Oliver) Heckman
Bachelor of Fine Art
Emphasis in graphic design
Colorado Springs, Colo.
Cum Laude
“Being the first in my family to earn a college degree holds immense significance for me, especially for being an artist. It represents breaking barriers and defying the odds. It’s a testament to the hard work and sacrifices of my family, who have supported me every step of the way. This achievement is not just about personal success; it’s about opening doors for future generations in my family who will follow after me. It’s about proving that with determination and support, anything is possible regardless of what you want to do.”
Oliver gained much knowledge and life experience while a student, especially in the Art Department, with professors who challenged her as a creative thinker, pushed her out of her comfort zone, and tested and built her strength as an artist.
One of Oliver’s major long-term goals is to care for herself physically and mentally. “No one talks about how fast you can lose yourself in school and how fast academics can consume you. You can’t be an academic weapon if you don’t take time to take care of yourself.”
Oliver came in with art experience, and appreciates her major professors helping her see beyond her self-imposed limitations. “I learned to always outdo myself every single time, and to push my creativity to a new level because of my professors challenging me.” She is also thankful for the sociology and psychology professors who provided her with knowledge to help build her thesis for her senior BFA Exhibition.
Student Support Services assisted Oliver with her academic career from day one. She was a resident assistant, an art assistant, and a library assistant. Oliver also received several scholarships and was a member of the League of Arts. She graduates in four years and although she has some debt, feels fortunate it is not overwhelming.
“The best way to describe my experience was hard. I was a transfer/non-traditional college student. It took very long days and nights of work to be noticed to get scholarships, to make friends, to make connections, and as well to gain confidence as a student. But because of all that hard work, I spent I found those who supported me and helped me gain my footing, I know to walk with stride as a senior and be that person for residents to help gain their footing here at Adam State.”
Joylyn Kinnie
Bachelor of Arts: Elementary Education
Emphasis: Culturally & Linguistically Diverse
Holyoke, Colo.
Magna Cum Laude
“I am very happy I chose Adams State. They have been very understanding and patient with me as I have worked my way through my online classes.”
Joylyn began teaching fourth grade at Holyoke Elementary as a teacher of record in August, 2023. She began “My professors and advisors have been very supportive of my success. They are willing to answer any questions I have and have always encouraged me to do better.”
Joylyn says it took 27 years to earn her bachelor’s, having earned an associates degree in 1999.
“The biggest difference for me has been technology. I started out as a freshman without any internet, to now, with all my schooling online. These last three years I feel my confidence in myself has grown.”
Alexandria J. Miles
Bachelor of Science: Exercise Science
Brighton, Colo.
Magna Cum Laude
Alexandria is the first in her family to earn a college degree. “It means a lot to me to make my family proud, and show my parents that all the sacrifices they made for me to get where I am today paid off.” Her parents showed Alexandria what hard work looked like, and she describes them as positive and influential people who led by example. “It also means a lot to be able to be another example of this for my younger brothers, one who is a sophomore in college and the other a senior in high school, and encourage them to get college degrees.”
Adams State created a perfect environment for Alexandria to learn. “I got to know my professors and classmates very well, and had opportunities that I would not have received anywhere else.”
Alexandria will continue at Adams State, pursuing a Master of Science in kinesiology to become certified as a personal trainer and exercise physiologist via the ACSM.
“My major professors and advisors provided a hands-on and interactive learning environment. They created a space in which I always felt comfortable asking questions and creating a line of communication with them. This helped me to feel more competent in my classes and build confidence in myself as a student, but also as a future professional.”
Alexandria received academic and athletic scholarships and worked held work-study jobs in the Athletic Training Room as a sports medicine aid and at the Rex Activity Center. She also volunteered with the Larry Holder Exercise and Cancer Survivorship Program.
She finished her bachelor’s degree in 3.5 years with little student loan debt. Alexandria is also captain of the Women’s Soccer Team.
“Freshman me would be so proud of senior me. I came to college wondering if I would make it in the kinesiology program, and questioning whether I was smart enough to major in Exercise Science and pursue the career I had always dreamed of. Now, I am graduating with honors and as being recognized as an Outstanding Graduate. I am so much more confident in my knowledge and my abilities than I was when I first started. I have matured so much, and I will forever be grateful to Adams State for helping get to the place that I am in today.”
Isaac Anthony Sisneros
Bachelor of Arts: Theatre
Monte Vista, Colo.
For Isaac’s senior thesis, they wrote, directed, and produced an original screenplay, “Knocking on the Devil’s Door,” about their experiences as a young adult and growing up in Monte Vista. “My major professors instilled the confidence in me that I can do good work and I received a lot of helpful advice and made good friends from being part of the theatre program.”
Being the first in the family to earn a college degree means a lot. “Being able to start a new journey in my life in a time where I was lost. Going to college has showed me where I belong and ways to continue down the path I choose three-and-a-half years ago.”
Isaac appreciates Adams State’s affordability and accessibility, compared to other colleges. “I mostly happy I was able to learn from Dr. Taylor, Dr. McConnell, Prof. Nielsen, and to an extent former technical director, David Gerke.”
Isaac plans to work this summer and save up for a move to Denver. “I plan on continuing to make and be a part of theatre and art in general. I hope that begins this summer with reproducing my senior thesis “Knocking on the Devil’s Door” at the Church Project in Monte Vista.”
Theatre work-study and scholarships helped Isaac financially, and they finished a degree in four years. “I am a completely different person from freshman year. “For good and for worse. I figured out my life path, took on new ideologies, and really opened my mind to any and all possibilities when it comes to the shared human experience.”
Meredith Walker
Bachelor of Science: Kinesiology
Sports and Recreation Management
Brighton, Colo.
Cum Laude
“I was not the first in my family to earn a college degree, but it is very important to me that I was able to earn this degree. It is an amazing accomplishment. When I came to Adams State, I did not know what I wanted to do in the future. While being here I learned what my passion was and what goals I had for my future. I have also been able to experience things that I couldn’t at any other university.”
Meredith plans to work in professional sports after college. “My advisor, Professor Aaron Tuioti-Mariner, helped me in many ways. He gave me meaningful experiences and supported me like family would. I learned a lot from him in and outside of the classroom. He always set me up to be successful in my future. The professors at Adams are very committed to helping their students succeed.”
Meredith received the Vice President’s Merit Scholarship, and had a work-study jobs in the Student Success Center and the athletic training room. “The connections I made always supported me and gave me positive vibes when I needed it. The people here gave me a comfortable space to grow in and people I could rely on. There are always people who want to be your friend and be there for you.”
She receives her bachelor’s degree after three years with little student loan debt. Meredith was a captain of the cheer team, and executive director of the Grizzly Sports Alliance Club.
“As a freshman I did not know what I wanted my career to be. I was able to make friends and connections while being here and a couple years later, I now know what I want to do and what my career interests are. I have gained many experiences and skills relating to my field and have met many people along the way. I have also grown into an adult that is ready to enter the professional world.”
Outstanding Post-graduates
Graduating Spring 2024
Jerica L Gonzalez
Master in Arts: School Counseling
Alamosa, Colo.
“I am a wife and mother of three beautiful children. My journey to a graduate degree has not been easy. However, with the support of my family, a deep need to pursue my dreams, and an even deeper need to set an example for my own children, and the children I work with, has pushed me to succeed in my goals.”
She heard wonderful stories about the School of Counselor Education, and was encourage by others to earn her master’s degree. “All the professors and faculty are supportive and knowledgeable. Even if I did not take a class with a professor, I felt confident I could ask for help.”
Her family encouraged Jerica’s dreams and goals. “It seems that each time I set a new goal, it gets a little bigger and they are always right there with me. My husband is my best friend and I couldn’t have done this without him. My kids are my biggest cheerleaders.”
Jerica is the school counselor at Center Consolidated Schools. Due to the shortage of education staff, the Colorado Department of Education authorized an Emergency Special Service Provider Licensure. “I was able to work under a temporary license while enrolled in the program; this allowed for a paid internship experience. So many pieces aligned when I entered the program and I am truly so grateful. I plan to continue working at the same school district. I love the school and community.”
Misti Gossett-Thrower
Ph.D.: Counselor Education and Supervision
“Making the decision to obtain a doctorate degree provokes one to think deeply about the balance between the realities of everyday life and the pursuit of a lifelong dream. Perhaps, this is why I waited 20 years in between my master’s degree and doctoral program. However, after conversations with my family and knowing I was ready for a new level of career development, the timing seemed perfect for me.”
The online program provided Misti the flexibility to continue working full time. However, she chose Adams State because of the level of professionalism, the care of professors, and the well-rounded plan of study. “I also appreciated the cohort model where students from across the county (and world) could share experiences through laughter, tears, celebrations, and connections.”
The professors’ knowledge, skills, and dedication to the program and labs gave provide the opportunity to learn from their expertise, and allowed the doctoral students to demonstrate their own knowledge and leadership in the field.
“I appreciate their belief in me. I remember when I first started the program, our department chair stated that this experience would change us personally and professionally. Having been a school counselor for over 20 years, I was skeptical. But, wow, did I grow! I now see the infinite possibilities of research, development and improvement in my field. I am also incredibly honored to now have the skills to teach other students in counseling, thus allowing this field to grow exponentially. I am excited to continue as a school counselor while also teaching at university level.”
Misti has a deep sense of gratitude for her friends and family and their love and support, including those who passed on, yet still continue to impact her journey. “My grandmother, Irene Suazo, was born in Alamosa and suffered many hardships throughout her life in attempts to support her family. I am proud to return to Alamosa to earn this doctoral degree in honor of all she sacrificed for us. I am also deeply grateful for Larry and Jeanette Thrower, my husband’s parents (and mine as well), who financially supported me for this degree. While they are not here to see me walk across the stage, I carry their love with me in each step. We are all part of a village that allows doctoral students to thrive. Thank you to my village.”
Luke Lee
Ph.D.: Counselor Education and Supervision
Mukilteo, Washington
After working in the field, Luke wanted to find a doctoral program that would prepare him to become a counselor educator. “Teaching was always something I felt strongly about, so it was important for me to find a good fit as a student. Adams stood out as a place where I could learn and develop my skills in teaching, supervision and research. The instructors at Adams have been thoughtful, creative, and dedicated in their approach and I feel that I have learned so much from them over these years. Adams has always felt like a community to which I was welcomed.”
Solomon Moore
Ph.D.: Counselor Education and Supervision
Wichita, Kansas
Solomon chose to pursue his doctorate at Adams State because of the online program’s flexibility aaffordability, as well as the strong faculty support. “My professors facilitated my growth, both professionally and personally. They guided me in becoming a competent counselor educator and researcher. Specifically, Dr. Laura Bruneau, Dr. Courtney Allen-Pavlak, Dr. Sandra Gavin, Dr. Penny Sanders, Dr. Angel Knoverek, and Dr. Neil Rigsbee were instrumental in my academic success.”
His family and friends were also critical to his perseverance and accomplishment of his goal. “There were many moments of, ‘What did I get myself into?’ and feeling too overwhelmed to continue, as I navigated life, work, and school. However, I’m thrilled to say that with my loved ones’ support, I didn’t give up. I persisted.”
Solomon is a professional school counselor and an adjunct instructor. “I will continue to work as a professional school counselor because I absolutely LOVE what I do.”
He will also be joining the Master of Arts in Counseling faculty at Culver-Stockton College (MO) in the fall as the school counseling program chair. “I am super excited for this opportunity. My doctoral degree has opened many new doors for me. I am eternally grateful for my educational experience at Adams.”
Lenecia D. Nickell
Ph.D.: Counselor Education and Supervision
Abilene, Texas
As a mental health clinician, Lenecia’s focus for the last 20 years has been helping individuals through life transitions. The majority of her practice consisted of helping children, adolescents, and emerging adults, beginning as young as three-years-old. As a registered play therapist supervisor, she is committed to helping underserved and marginalized populations. In 2018, Lenecia noticed a growing interest in the mental health of collegiate student athletes. After researching the services available in this unique environment, she decided to return to school to pursue a doctorate in counselor education and supervision at Adams State. The program provided the credentialing and online options that best fit her needs as a full-time professional and business owner. She began studies in the fall of 2020.
“The faculty and staff have been supportive of my interests, especially as I moved into working with a unique population. They encouraged me to grow my initial vision of what it means to be a practicing counselor educator and supervisor into the solid professional philosophy that I have today. My family and friends have been unwavering in their support. They understood that pursuing this degree would help me to move into my dream job, and have celebrated each accomplishment with me.”
While pursuing her doctoral degree, Lenecia found her dream job, director of sports psychology and wellness for the athletics department at the University of Cincinnati. “As the first person to hold this position, I recognize the weight of the responsibility that I have to provide ethical clinical and mental performance services to student-athletes. My education at Adams State has enhanced my skills, heightened my passion, and confirmed my commitment to the profession.”
Erik Padilla
Master of Arts in School Counseling
Fort Lupton, Colo.
Erik realized pursuing a master’s degree can be daunting, especially when considering student loans, the program’s structure, and time away from family. “Also, being a first-generation student can be challenging, but there is beauty, strength, and power in that identity.”
Before enrolling in the counselor education program, Erik worked with law enforcement and child protection agencies investigating cases of child abuse and neglect. “Seeing how many children were impacted by traumatic experiences motivated me to become a school counselor.”
He appreciates his professors for their knowledgeable, investment in students, and for inspiring him. Not only did they provide a great experience in his academic journey, but the coursework allowed Erik to take theory into practice. “This experience gave me the language, tools, and knowledge to challenge my internship site’s counseling program.”
Through his assignments, he realized a low counselor-student ratio impedes meeting first- and second-year high school students’ academic, social, and emotional needs because of the . “Knowing that our counseling program was operating on a reactive rather than proactive approach allowed our district to dig deeper into this issue.”
Many of his assignments built on each other from advocacy, planning, execution, through evaluation, which made them meaningful and transferable to use in conversations and writing a grant proposal, that includes theory and research. “It was humbling and rewarding to know that my coursework in the program aided in securing a Stronger Connection grant totaling $199,990 through Colorado Department of Education to hire an additional school counselor and a budget to enhance our social-emotional development for two years. The exposure and practice I received in the program have been valuable, and my experience has been transformative.”
Erik is completing the program with his wife, Ivon Padilla, who will graduate with a Master of Arts in clinical mental health. “I am ready to help students achieve emotional wellness and academic success and look forward to advocating for improvements in school counseling programs at all levels to meet the needs of each student.”
