She is the 2024 Exceptional New Alumna
In just two years since earning her B.A. in political science from Adams State, Courtney Hocking ’22 is making impressive progress toward her goal of working in international relations. She will receive the Adams State 2024 Exceptional New Alumna Award at the Homecoming Banquet on September 27. For tickets or more information, visit Homecoming 2024.
“It’s really no surprise that Courtney is to receive the Exceptional New Alumna Award. She’s earned that honor many times over,” said Hocking’s mentor, L. Mari Centeno, Ph.D., professor of political science. “There are so many reasons to be proud of her. What I am most proud of, though, is that Courtney continues to accomplish it all while maintaining the best of her humanity: a strong commitment to social justice, overwhelming generosity, and a fierce sense of humor. That is no easy task while working in state politics and completing a graduate degree in global politics. Adams State must be incredibly proud to have contributed another outstanding human to the world. What we should probably be most proud of is that she is proud to be one of ours.”
Hocking is a senior legislative aide for fellow Adams State alumnus, Representative Matthew Martinez ‘13, Colorado Representative for District 62. “Courtney has stepped up and flourished as my Chief of Staff,” Representative Martinez said. “She does amazing work. Many of the other aides at the Capital approach her for advice. Courtney is very deserving of the award.”
She is also a year from completing a master’s degree in Global Affairs with an emphasis on global economy and development from University of Oklahoma. She is now working on Martinez’s reelection campaign, as well as on Kamala Harris’ campaign for president.
“I’ve learned so much working with Rep. Martinez. International relations takes a much broader focus, so working with Matt, I have to narrow down to a local level. My passions have taken that lead. I’m really focused on water management and water rights and the Department of Corrections education program.” She was proud to work with Martinez on passage of HB 1037, which gives non-violent offenders reduced sentences for completing a college degree while incarcerated. After she earns her master’s, she hopes to work in the State Department.
“I feel I have an edge in my graduate program because of my education at Adams State. I was a little worried about writing at the graduate level. But my experience as a student of Dr. Centeno more than prepared me for grad school,” she said. “I credit my success to the super-close relationships I developed with my professors.”
Hocking was very active in Model United Nations as an undergraduate; her four-woman Adams State team won the Distinguished Delegation second-place award at the 2021 Annual International Collegiate Model United Nations Conference. She remains in touch with Model U.N. advisor Centeno, as well as with Michael Mumper, Ph.D., professor of political science and coordinator of the master’s program in public administration.
Hocking served as president of AS&F (student government) during her senior year, following a year as vice president, as well as interim Student Trustee. She completed internships in the City of Pueblo Mayor’s Office and Adams State Office of Alumni Relations and was an academic advisor at Adams State prior to taking the position with Martinez.
As an undergraduate, Hocking received several scholarships through the Adams State Foundation, including the Bill and Beth Waters, Stuart Hilwig HGP Honors, Henry & Emma Salazar, and Ralph Outcalt scholarships. She received the Vice-President for Student Affairs Outstanding Leadership Award and the Student Life Leadership Award. She is proud to have finished college debt free.
