Christine Anderson, BSN, RN

Clinical Placement Coordinator

719-587-8170

I moved to the San Luis Valley 25 years ago from Virginia. In 1997 I began my nursing journey starting with classes at TSJC with Emergency Medical Technician training. This transitioned into CNA certificate in 1998, and then 2003 with LPN licensure. I’ve worked as a LPN since then. During those LPN years I knew I wanted to get that RN licensure. It took some different routes, but I started the BSN program here Spring 2017 and graduated with my BSN from Adams State University in 2019. I was excited when there was an opportunity to be part of the education of future nurses, Fall of 2019, as the Clinical Placement Coordinator. I’ve been a student here, lived life with family supporting me while in school, and worked as an LPN while getting my BSN. Knowing where you’re coming from as a student allows me to help you get those placements you desire for internship as well as previous clinical experiences leading up to that final placement. Getting your BSN and RN licensure will be one of the hardest things you do, but it will be one of the most rewarding experiences.

Education

  • Bachelors of Science in Nursing BSN – Adams State University

Alice M. Burch, DNP, MSN-Ed, RN

Adjunct Professor

aliceburch@adams.edu
719-587-8131
RH 2-104

A lifelong resident of the SLV, I have only spent 11 years away. I did my pre-requisites for my nursing degree at Adams State and then transferred to University of Colorado in Denver for my BSN RN. I worked in Colorado Springs for two years at Penrose Hospital, and learned that I really enjoyed caring for patients with cancer. I therefore moved to Houston to work at UT M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. I spent 7 years there, but then moved my family back to the Valley and have worked in many aspects of nursing and health care including home care, hospice, clinic nursing and Public Health. Prior to returning to Adams State as a faculty member in 2016, I worked as a School Nurse for 18 years. My specialty is Public Health, particularly of the school aged population.

Education

  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing – University of Colorado (With prerequisite work done at Adams State)
  • Master of Science in Nursing – Chamberlain College of Nursing
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice – Regis University

Kim Chacon, MS, RN

Director of Nursing and Associate Professor

kchacon@adams.edu
719-587-8288
Kim Chacon E-Portfolio

 

Fallon Crowther, MSN-Ed, BSN, RN

Associate Professor

fcrowther@adams.edu
719-587-8114

I am a dedicated nurse educator with a passion for supporting future nurses through current teaching strategies. With a focus on competency-based learning and clinical judgment development, I combine hands-on patient care, classroom teaching, skills labs and simulations to prepare students for real-world nursing. I incorporate strategies into my curriculum to promote accountability and improve critical thinking. I am currently pursuing my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), furthering my knowledge to provide effective nursing education. As a graduate of Adams State University’s School of Nursing, I am fully invested in its success.

Outside of my professional life, I enjoy raising my family with my husband and our four children in the San Luis Valley. You can find me cheering for my kids on the sideline of nearly every sport!

Education

  • Bachelors of Science– Brigham Young University
  • Bachelors of Science on Nursing– Adams State University
  • Masters of Science Nursing– Norwich University

Oluwatoyin Akinlade, MSN-Ed, RN Assistant Professor

Assistant Professor of Nursing

As a nursing faculty member at Adams State University, I am committed to fostering an educational environment that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion. I believe that a diverse learning atmosphere not only enriches the educational experience but also strengthens our community. To achieve this, I strive to integrate varied cultural, social, and individual perspectives into my curriculum through case studies, simulations, and discussions that reflect diverse patient demographics and healthcare disparities. This approach equips my students with the essential skills to provide culturally competent and compassionate care, preparing them for the diverse populations they will serve in their nursing careers.

Equitable access to resources is fundamental to student success, and I recognize that many students face unique challenges, particularly those who are first-generation college attendees, low-income individuals, working students, and student parents. To address these disparities, I offer flexible office hours and advocate for policies that reduce barriers to education. In collaboration with my colleagues, I support the implementation of competency-based learning approaches that meet students at their individual levels while maintaining high academic standards. Creating an inclusive atmosphere is equally important; I work to foster a classroom environment where students feel valued and respected, encouraging them to share their diverse experiences while actively promoting inclusive practices.

Beyond the classroom, my commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion extends to mentorship and community engagement. I support students from underrepresented backgrounds as they navigate their academic journeys, offering guidance and creating opportunities for real-world application of their knowledge through partnerships with community organizations. Additionally, I participate in university initiatives focused on advancing DEI, such as reviewing hiring practices and developing inclusive policies. As a nursing educator, I view the promotion of these principles as a core responsibility, ensuring that my students are prepared to serve with empathy and cultural competence in their future nursing roles.

I am a mom of three boys and I love to dance and sing ( no one wants to listen to my voice though). I also love to cook with my boys and make a little mess. I am reserved and would love to go hiking someday.

Kristina Cook

Administrative Assistant

kmcook@adams.edu
719-587-8171

I started out as an elementary teacher. I’m not a nurse. My experience with nurses are as a patient, a friend, daughter, spouse and/or mother of a patient. My life has been touched by many hands of different nurses. I began working here in December 2014 after 15 years of being teacher. I’ve learned a lot about the nursing field from joining the faculty and staff of this department. I’m proud to work here and be a part of the journey of the students, and supporting our faculty members. I am usually the first point of contact for students, prospective students, and parents. I can answer your questions about the nursing program and requirements, and offer advice and guidance about transfer courses and prerequisites. I can help you with questions regarding the nursing application, application process, and background check information. You can contact me to set up appointments for nursing advising sessions. I am here to help you however I can. Please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Education

  • Bachelor of Arts, Teaching – Adams State University

 

Jamie King, MSN-Ed, RN

Assistant Professor

jamieking@adams.edu
719-587-8190

I was born and raised here in the San Luis Valley and I am the mother of 2 boys. I began my college career here at Adams State University in 2003, but ended up moving out of the Valley before I could finish. I graduated from the Adams State University Nursing Program in 2015 and have been working as a med/surg and surgical nurse since then. I became a clinical instructor for the Adams State Nursing Program in 2018 and found that I loved sharing my passion for the nursing profession with students. I went back to school and Graduated from Capella University in 2019 with a Masters of Science in Nursing. I truly love what I do and I enjoy being able to share that love with the nursing students at Adams State University.

Education

  • Bachelors of Science in Nursing– Adams State University
  • Masters of Science Nursing– Capella University