It’s affordable. It’s diverse. It serves a region that includes first-generation, underserved students, and non-traditional students. And as Adams State University stands on the cusp of its 100th anniversary, Board of Trustee Pam Bricker couldn’t be prouder.
She sees the core mission of the University as an actual practice. As the oldest Hispanic Serving Institute in Colorado, ASU has been in the business of serving historically underserved, diverse, and first-generation students for a long time. And in this unprecedented era of a global pandemic, Bricker has seen how the University moved to accommodate all those students, virtually. And keeping Adams State a strong community within an even stronger community.
“As a trustee, I have been impressed with the educational excellence provided, but even more with the unique culture of creating relationships, community, and a place that sincerely cares about individual students and their success,” Bricker says.
“I believe Adams State is an economic driver for Alamosa and our surrounding region.,” Bricker says. “The support of strong community partnerships and pride in the school is evident on many levels.”
Having been an educator and school administrator, Bricker understands Adams State fills a need in the region that larger institutions can’t by being affordable and by offering a diverse student body and curriculum that includes degree programs that are as competitive as any other institution, large or small.
One of the great aspects at Adams State is connection, she says. “Students know their professors on a personal level, they build relationships with other students, faculty, staff, and community, and they feel connected.”
Bricker was reappointed to the board for another four years. “Serving as a trustee has been very fulfilling, and having a varied background, I can view things from different perspectives.” As a retired educator and administrator, she is passionate about education from PreK to life-long learning.
A third-generation Colorado native, Bricker has lived in the San Luis Valley since 1975. As the owner of family-run Three Barrel Brewing Company, she values the economic benefits of having a local University. As a former Rio Grande County Commissioner, Bricker sees Adams State as an essential path to growth in the Valley and broader region.
And of course, there is a family connection. “On a personal level, I am proud that my son is a 2000 ASU graduate, and now his son, my grandson, is a junior at ASU.”
