An inclusive approach to DEI

By Cassime Joseph and Regan Foster

Colorado State University Pueblo President Dr. Timothy Mottet is resolute: A new way of looking at diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and issues on campus is on its way. The framework is nothing new, but the multi-pronged approach to issues related to the sensitive topic is nothing short of revolutionary.  

“I am the champion for this,” the president said. “This work has to [proceed] with the president driving it. Otherwise it’s going to get lost.” 

Late in 2021, then-Interim Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Victoria Obregon quietly stepped away from that role. That’s when Dr. Mottet and an administration-fueled team of leaders went to work, drafting a proposal that could see a mix of students, staff and faculty making recommendations to administration on issues that affect the very foundations of equity on campus and in student life. 

Always, while keeping people at the core, Dr. Mottet said. 

“How can you meet all of these needs?” he asked. “We’re a small university. … How can I take the talent I have and use that to optimize outcomes? 

“The leadership team that runs this university, … [is] closer to the students’ lives than you think we are. We all have our version of coming from humble beginnings but because of college we have had the privilege to advance a bit.” — CSU Pueblo President Dr. Timothy Mottet

A new model

To answer that question, the president modified to a model he learned about in graduate school. 

It’s essentially a framework that envisions eight committees, four each dedicated to students and to employees. If the plan holds, each committee would be tasked with tackling one area of research and work and make recommendations to campus administration. 

As he explained the idea, Dr. Mottet sketched a pair of grids, reminiscent of the playground game four square, around which he wrote the key words, policy, programs, equity and inclusion. Where each intersected, a committee would be formed. 

So, if approved, the final committees would look at equity and policy, inclusion and policy, equity and programs, and inclusion and programs, Dr. Mottet said. Two sets of committees will be seated, one to look at these issues as they pertain to students, and one as they are relevant to employees. 

The committees would include input and members from all campus groups, the president said, to ensure that as many stakeholders as possible have a say in the DEI future. 

“This work is not getting cut. This work must get done,” he said. “It’s taking existing people who already do this … and asking them ‘how do we do this work?’” 

A brief history of DEI

For the past few years, the nearly 4,000-student university has had one person dedicated to leading Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts. That was most recently Obregon, but following her semi-retirement, and in the face of bridging a $4.5 million budget gap without cutting staff or services, the university found itself down one director. 

Dr. Mottet said the deficit could be countered through the natural attrition that occurs when people leave the university or retire. It also provided a unique opportunity to take a fresh look at how the diverse campus is addressing DEI issues and needs — hence, the proposed model. 

“I think,” he said, “this is not something new. This is all process. 

“Process has no beginning or ending. We’re not building something, we’re just doing it differently.” 

As a designated Hispanic Serving Institution, the university is home to one of the most diverse student bodies in Colorado, according to the CSU Pueblo Fast Facts webpage 

A key to the proposed program will be ensuring all groups—regardless of age, race, ethnicity or gender identity—are represented in the committees, Dr. Mottet said.

A smile crossed his face, as he explained that many of the faculty and staff understand the challenges that campus students face, up to and including DEI concerns. 

“The leadership team that runs this university, … [is] closer to the students’ lives than you think we are,” he said. “We all have our version of coming from humble beginnings but because of college we have had the privilege to advance a bit. 

“We would not be here if it were not for college. … The leadership team had the same beginnings as many of our students.” 

The post Proposed system would bring innovative partnerships to critical conversation first appeared on CSU-Pueblo Today.

Going Greek

By Hailee Langowski

Hollywood tends to promote the wild party scene of Greek life in some films, which can stereotype the fraternity and sorority experience. It has the potential to cast an unfavorable light on Greek chapters.  

What’s going on around CSU Pueblo’s sororities and fraternities? Are there raging parties on campus or volunteer opportunities? Where can one even find this information?

The Student Engagement and Leadership Office at the Occhiato Student Center (OSC Room 102) headquarters what information on Greek life exists. COVID and graduating seniors have caused certain Greek clubs to become inactive, according to Fabian Sigala Orozco.

The university recently announced the addition of the Omicron Pi chapter of the historically Black Greek letter fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi. And the Alpha Psi Lambda Co-ed Fraternity – Alpha Zeta Chapter is one of the active fraternities on campus. This is a co-educational fraternity that welcomes all individuals and gender identities. 

Faith Valdez, an Alpha Psi Lambda member, learned about the organization through CSU Pueblo’s club involvement fair for students. She signed up, Alpha Psi Lambda reached out and together, they moved forward with the recruiting process. Valdez explained that members learn about the fraternity’s history and form bonds with other individuals in the chapter. 

Alpha Psi Lambda members take part in recruitment weeks, which take place at the start of each semester to spread the word about the fraternity. Members are also encouraged to participate in their chapter’s paint and study nights or informational meetings.  

The fraternity provides opportunities for new and current members to form friendships through events like trips, according to Valdez. The chapter recently met with members and alumni on a cabin trip to Idaho Springs. They’ve also gotten together for off-campus activities like bowling.

“We accept all different types of people; all races, backgrounds and ethnicities.” — Faith Valdez, Alpha Psi Lambda fraternity member

Making an impact

Valdez mentioned that the fraternity aims to undertake at least one fundraising and community service project each year. 

Volunteer opportunities, such as Rake Up Pueblo, are available to members of the Greek chapter.  The Senior Resource Development Agency hosts Rake Up Pueblo during the fall season, where seniors in Southern Colorado who cannot rake their lawns or pay for yard care can receive these services free from volunteers. 

Alpha Psi Lambda has also raised funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America in the past. The most recent fundraiser, according to Valdez, was a supply drive which was a success, especially with cleaning materials during the pandemic. 

According to the CSU Pueblo website, Alpha Psi Lambda is a co-educational, Latino-oriented Greek letter intercollegiate fraternity. It was the first Greek letter organization in the United States for Latino college students. 

Although the fraternity is Latino-oriented, Valdez stated that everyone is welcome. 

“We accept all different types of people; all races, backgrounds and ethnicities.”

Across the state

How are other Colorado college campuses handling Greek life? Haley Wiedeman, the assistant student life director at Colorado Mesa University (CMU), oversees the Greek organizations. 

She said the Greek Council has recently experienced a significant drop in leadership, and the community was largely dormant for the past two years due to COVID. 

CMU’s purpose in reviving fraternity and sorority life on campus is to facilitate that group and host a community-wide Greek Week. It brings together the campus community and the Grand Junction community. 

 “It is pretty important for us to engage in the local community as well,” Weideman said. 

Independent financing supports CMU’s fraternities and sororities. All national organizations distribute budgets through various initiatives, she said.

Fraternities with higher GPAs, for example, might be eligible for more financing. Or, a sorority that contributes a certain number of hours to philanthropy and receives funding from its national governing organization.

Wiedeman said there needs to be a shift in attitude toward Greek life, from negative to positive.

“They are a person; they are not their predecessor’s past,” she said. “Trying to encourage them, uplift them and knowing they are doing things because they want good to come out of their efforts in their community.”

Alpha Psi Lambda’s Valdez said CSU Pueblo’s Greek community needs to have a more vibrant social media presence to help recruit more members. She believes that the fraternity’s Facebook page, Alpha Psi Lambda-Colorado State University-Pueblo, should be promoted to reach a larger audience. 

“Getting a shout-out or a share from the university page, in general, would really bring a lot of attention. Some people follow us, but they are mostly alumni and active members,” said Valdez. 

Alpha Psi Lambda’s enrollment is closed for this semester; however, if anyone wants to join, the chapter does have an open list for next semester. Those on the list will be contacted at the beginning of the 2022 Fall semester. 

** See related content: Fraternity and Sorority Life Council hosts Greek Olympics on campus **

The post Small-but-mighty Greek letter programs bring vibrant, philanthropic engagement to campuses first appeared on CSU-Pueblo Today.

Eagles soar in Denver

By Brandon Samora

Listen now: Sports Editor Brandon Samora talks with state titleholders and brothers Sebastian and Xander Freeman for the “Press Box” podcast, exclusively for our news partners Rev. 89.5 FM

Pueblo East High School came home from Ball Arena as the class 4A 2022 State Champion Wrestling team. 

The Eagles had a command season as a team, led by some dominant individual seasons from a few of their state champions. LJ Herburger (113 pounds), Weston Dalton (145), Sebastian Freeman (152) and Xavier Freeman (220) all had a chance to top the podium on Saturday.

Herburger came first on Saturday and ran into what might be the biggest mountain in all of 4A wrestling. Jackzen Rairdon hails from Thompson Valley and is one of the best wrestling prospects that the state has ever seen. Rairdon had never lost a high school match in high school, making him 72-0. Herburger fell to Rairdon in a heartbreaker finish to a fantastic season for Herburger.

Weston Dalton won an individual title in the 2019-20 season in the 120 weight class. As a freshman, the narrative had already begun for the soon-to-be “Four Timer” here in Pueblo. The last – and only – to accomplish that, is East alum Andy Garcia. Moving up to 132 in 2021, Dalton came up short with a second-place finish. 

This season, Dalton moved up again to 145 and continued to dominate with a 7-0 championship match finish against Tyler Valdez, from Falcon. Certainly, the four-peat name can carry weight in the wrestling community, but with a chance to go 3 out of 4, Dalton will be one of the brightest names to watch next year.

“It feels pretty good to be able to say I’ve won more state titles than anyone in my family so far. My whole life I’ve wanted to win state like my dad and brother, but now I passed them in a way and I’m very happy and proud of myself.” — Xavier Freeman, East High School senior and two-time Colorado State champion wrestler

A family affair

Sebastian Freeman fell to Ryan Vigil of Broomfield in a close final match, meaning we will have to wait another season to see if there will be a third Freeman state champion at East High School. There have been podium finishes for Freeman, who will have his last shot for state glory next season. 

The Freeman brothers come from a long line of winning wrestlers. The oldest of the Freeman Foursome, Zion, claimed his first state title in the 2018-2019 season for the Eagles where he finished on top as a senior for his first title at East, and for the school’s first team title in that same year. Zion now competes at CSU Pueblo for the Thunderwolves.

Their father, Tony Freeman, was a state champion for the Manzano Monarchs in 1988, as well as being a three-time All-American at CSU Pueblo and a member of the 1991 NAIA National Championship Wrestling team for CSU Pueblo. 

“I have always had a chip on my shoulder when it comes to Pueblo Athletics,” Tony said. “Pueblo East winning a second state championship shows that our first one wasn’t an anomaly. The Steel City doesn’t seem to get the respect it deserves statewide, so whenever we can prove it on the big stage it brings me such pride.” 

Xavier Freeman was the last Eagle up for a title and needed to win to secure the team title for East. Freeman was wall-to-wall in the championship match and, as a reversal in the second period, earned a 5-4 finish and second title. 

“It feels pretty good to be able to say I’ve won more state titles than anyone in my family so far,” he said. “My whole life I’ve wanted to win state like my dad and brother, but now I passed them in a way and I’m very happy and proud of myself.” 

Adding to the glow of the two individual state titles, Xavier finished his high school career with two team state titles and two individual state titles.

The future is bright for the East Eagles, as next season the Eagles will return 9 state qualifiers for next season. 

Doing Pueblo proud

Let’s not forget about our other wrestling powerhouse of Pueblo.

Pueblo County had two wrestlers competing for state titles, and in perfect fashion, no matchups against the Eagles. Zion Mares (106) and Bryce Garcia (170) finished on top of the podium for the County Hornets.

Maires was the clear-cut No. 1 ranked wrestler all season long and the favorite coming into the tournament for the 106-pound title. He dominated in the final match en-route to his first state crown. It was an exciting scenario for County, as Maires will return for his senior season next year and a chance to repeat. 

Bryce Garcia traveled a long road to claim his first state title. He came up short his first two seasons at state for the Hornets, and with the win this year, Garcia finally hit the goal. 

** See related prep sports content: No. 1 South dominates No. 4 Central to remain undefeated. **

The post Nobody stopped the Eagles as East claims its second team title first appeared on CSU-Pueblo Today.

United through mentorship

By Hailee Langowski

Tanya Simental can recite the story from memory. Tommy, a middle school student who suffered from depression and anxiety, was in trouble. Although he had a loving mother and a supportive teaching environment, he didn’t feel comfortable expressing his feelings. When Tommy’s school partnered with the United Way Mentorship program to pair students with mentors, Tommy (whose name, age and school are not being disclosed to protect his identity) registered.

His mother reportedly saw changes in his behavior and attitude within a week. The boy told his mother that, before meeting his mentor and growing the bond, he considered taking his own life. He purportedly imagined what it would be like if he were no longer present.
Everything changed after he met his mentor. He felt like he had a purpose in life and was much happier, Simental, the manager of the United Way of Pueblo County’s Mentoring and Youth Engagement program, said.

The United Way of Pueblo is a non-profit organization that serves Pueblo residents with agency resources. The Middle School Mentoring program pairs nurturing mentors with middle school students in Pueblo.

The relationship becomes so strong and important in both the mentor and mentee’s lives that even after our program ends, middle school ends and with the transition through high school, they stay connected. — Tanya Simental, United Way of Pueblo County Mentoring and Youth Engagement manager

The initiative demonstrates how mentoring has a positive impact on youth. They collaborate with Pueblo School District 60 and Pueblo County School District 70 to identify students who may require more guidance. The schools assist in identifying mentees who would benefit from the program, such as those who come from a single-parent household, are dealing with a recent death in the family, have experienced trauma, have made difficult relationship decisions or have had their grades or attendance fluctuate. 

A volunteer mentor meets with their mentee once a week for about an hour at school, often during the student’s lunch break. Mentors must be 21 years old or older, have no criminal history or record and commit to mentoring for at least one academic school year. 

New mentors are usually matched with incoming sixth-graders in the program. The one-year commitment allows possibilities for the mentor to stay with the mentee throughout middle school.

“The relationship becomes so strong and important in both the mentor and mentee’s lives,” Simental explained, “that even after our program ends, middle school ends and with the transition through high school, they stay connected.”

Mentors that are dedicated and consistent are needed for the program. The United Way doesn’t want to pair a mentor who decides the program isn’t right. Patience is essential as the mentor-mentee connection develops. Mentors must be comfortable with technology, a good listener, responsive to the mentee’s needs and willing to learn and grow.

Daniel Minich is a United Way mentor and the Digital Donor Engagement coordinator at CSU Pueblo. When his mentee confesses his middle school struggles, Minich emphasizes the importance of listening. He also reveals that they almost always play chess when they meet.

“He chose chess, and I knew nothing about it. He’s teaching me how to play!” Minich said. They are not necessarily doing schoolwork, but they are spending time together. 

“I have the opportunity to help my mentee come into his own skin and realize even though middle school sucks, it’s not the rest of your life,” Minich added. They can bond over shared experiences and teach one other new skills.

What are the steps to becoming a mentor? A background check, two interviews, a review of personal references and a two-hour mentor orientation course. The United Way hires a mentoring consultant to train and equip the adults for mentorship training. Throughout the year, mentors can participate in ongoing educational opportunities related to communication, suicide prevention, improving listening skills and motivational interviewing through programs such as Mentor National and Mentor Colorado. 

Mentors can become engrossed in their own lives, but mentoring forces them to step back and listen to their perspectives, dreams, hopes and goals, Simental said.

Another mentor in the program is Dr. Heidi Reynolds-Stenson, assistant professor in the Department of Sociology, Criminology and Anthropology at CSU Pueblo. When they first met, her mentee was in sixth grade, and she is now in eighth. Reynolds-Senson discusses how mentoring helps her balance her personal and professional lives. 

“Even in the busiest of weeks, taking that moment out of my day to go and meet with my mentee is always, not just a positive experience for her, but for me too.” Reynolds-Stenson believes it is beneficial for her to take a break from the stresses of life to walk and talk with her mentee.

Lend a hand: To learn more about the United Way’s middle school mentorship program, visit www.pueblounitedway.org/mentor for information and a mentor application, or contact Tanya Simental. Phone number: 719-225-8580, option 6 or email: mentor@pueblounitedway.org

What role can CSU Pueblo play in the United Way Mentorship program? According to Simental, the campus can take two actions: First, to urge CSU Pueblo faculty and staff to consider being mentors. Many mentors at the college are professors or are in positions of leadership. Seminal stated that she’d like to see leadership embrace and encourage more employees and executives to volunteer in this unique and effective way.

Second, CSU Pueblo students are also encouraged to take on a mentor role. College students, understandably, may not have the time, but spreading the word is just as important. Students at CSU Pueblo are likely to have been mentored by someone else, so they may be aware of the positive, powerful and supportive people they could recommend as a mentor. A connection is constantly waiting to be made.
All humans must have a social connection; we can suffer mentally and even physically if we don’t have that, Simental said. 

“It’s beautiful we can put together an environment where those connections can be made,” she said.

The post Program pairs caring adults with kids in need of extra support first appeared on CSU-Pueblo Today.

Mentor, advocate and ‘beloved man’

By  Cassime Joseph and Regan Foster

Colorado State University leaders were remembering one of their own Wednesday for his passion, advocacy and commitment to higher education.

CSU System Chancellor Emeritus Joe Blake died Tuesday in Fort Collins. He was 86.

“He was a friend of CSU Pueblo. He was a friend of the City of Pueblo,” said CSU Pueblo President Dr. Timothy Mottet. “He was always supportive and he offered me great advice.”

Mottet described Blake as a mentor, advocate and “beloved man” with a great sense of humor.

“He was smart, caring,” Dr. Mottet said. “He believed in higher education and the whole mission of higher education. He reminded us about the importance of doing the work of higher education.”

“He was there to offer supportive advice for me. He listened and he listened incredibly well.”
— CSU Pueblo President Dr. Timothy Mottet

“Joe was the first full-time chancellor of our system,” Chancellor Tony Frank said in a statement. He further called Blake: “a tireless advocate for education and one of the staunchest champions of our students and scholars.

“He was also a model of grace, goodwill and good humor, whose love of language, passion for ideas and commitment to this state and its people were unsurpassed,” Frank continued. “We are grateful to have had Joe on our team and he remains in our hearts.”

Blake, a native of Denver, earned his bachelor’s degree from Dartmouth College and completed his post-graduate work at the University of Colorado Law School.

According to his profile in the Colorado Business Hall of Fame, he was “a passionate community advocate and leader” who served on a wide variety of boards and commissions. Some of those include The Denver Foundation, Denver Scholarship Foundation, Denver Police Foundation, Colorado Baseball Commission, Colorado Housing and Finance Authority, Denver Area Boy Scouts, Metro Denver Sports Commission and the Denver South Platte River Commission.

He helped create the community of Highlands Ranch and worked to bring Major League Baseball to Colorado, according to the hall of fame biography.

In 2006, then-Gov. Bill Owens appointed Blake to serve on the Colorado State University Board of Governors. He was named the systems first full-time chancellor in 2009, a post he held until 2011.

He continued on as chancellor emeritus and was a highly successful fundraiser and advocate for campus programs and scholarships until his death.

Dr. Mottet said Blake was always eager and willing to meet and hear updates on happenings, needs and developments from Pueblo.

“He wanted to know what’s going on, what’s happening and what’s not happening,” he said. “He was there to offer supportive advice for me. He listened and he listened incredibly well.

“He [was] a beloved man. … He will be missed.”

The post Retired CSU System chancellor Joe Blake dies at 86 first appeared on CSU-Pueblo Today.

Born to swim

By Brandon Samora
The Today

Katy Zimmerman has been swimming for as long as she can remember. Since age 6, she has had the passion and the drive to pull her childhood dreams into her reality.

Zimmerman hails from Cypress, Texas, and called the community northeast of Houston home her entire life. She was all in on her goal of becoming the best swimmer she could be.

“Swimming has always been my stress reliever,” the sophomore said. “It’s been my outlet as long as I can remember.

“I never did any other sports because I’m not a land animal.”

As a member of the Cypress Creek High School swim and dive team, Zimmerman earned All-Texas 6A honors in 2019 and held a spot on the All-Texas District 5 All-Academic Team all four years of her high school career. A committed student-athlete, she had a decision to make when it came to continuing her swimming career. Signing day came and went, and she signed her letter of intent to swim collegiately for CSU-Pueblo.

College is hard. Moving to a new and unknown place is hard. Zimmerman made the 14-hour drive and arrived in Pueblo. Pueblo and Colorado natives may take our unpredictable climate for granted year in and year out, but adjusting to the Colorado climate is not for the faint of heart.

“I remember coming out of practice one night and realizing that my wet hair was frozen solid,” the distance swimmer said. “Everyone told me it was normal, I couldn’t wrap my head around it.”

But with new places come new experiences, and it was her teammates who got her through tough times. Pressure, anxiety and adrenaline were always present, and for students trying to accomplish lifelong goals, some challenges can seem insurmountable.

“I never did any other sports because I’m not a land animal.”

But, there is one word that can describe the start of Zimmerman’s career at CSU-Pueblo: confident. In her first event as a Thunderwolf, she took home three first-place finishes in the 200-yard Freestyle, 500-yard Freestyle and 1000-yard freestyle. In a 2020-21 season shortened by the pandemic, Zimmerman managed to crush it at the RMAC Championships. With only three meets to prepare, the then-freshman recorded 52 points total to lead her team, with a top-10 finish in all of her individual events and two top-four finishes.

The 2021-22 season has been nothing short of dominant for Katy Zimmerman. Her sophomore year has been filled with multiple first-place finishes every meet, including five firsts at the Colorado College Classic a week ago. This is what great athletes expect out of themselves, and the hard work is certainly paying off.

“Have faith in what people tell you. It’s always hard to live up to that and to hold yourself accountable,” she said. “Don’t have any regrets either. Do what’s right for you and prove everyone wrong.”

Up next for the sophomore are the RMAC Championships, next week Zimmerman will be competing in four individual and likely a few relay events, in the hopes to come home as an RMAC Champion.

** See related content: From CSU Pueblo student to country star **
** Meet your 2021 Homecoming queen **

The post Sophomore Zimmerman a dominate force in pool, classroom first appeared on CSU-Pueblo Today.

By Bill Redmond-Palmer

Dr. Ruth DePalma is the longest serving faculty member of the School of Nursing for CSU Pueblo. 

DePalma currently serves as the undergraduate nursing program coordinator and associate professor teaching global public health and pediatric nursing, among others, and she coordinates all the clinical practicum for the program. She has received several awards, including most recently receiving the 2020-21 CSU Pueblo University Excellence in Service Award and the 2021 CSU Pueblo College of Health, Education, and Nursing Excellence in Service Award.

A long road

DePalma received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing as a member of the first graduating class in the baccalaureate program from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. She later earned her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of Florida in Gainesville, and most recently received her doctorate in nursing education from Capella University. 

She began her career as an instructor at the University of Florida College of Nursing and worked in Indiana as an assistant professor at the Purdue University School of Nursing, before taking an assistant professor position teaching in the School of Nursing at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. 

In 1994, she and her husband relocated to Pueblo to take positions in the nursing and engineering departments, respectively, of the then-University of Southern Colorado (now CSU Pueblo).

She began here as an assistant professor, as well as the nursing services coordinator for School District 60. In 2006 she began her additional position as Undergraduate Nursing Program Coordinator.

One of the most interesting parts of DePalma’s work is coordinating what are called “clinicals.” These are hands-on training experiences at hospitals, clinics, schools and other places where students gain real world experience, sometimes working 8- to 12-hour shifts. Part of DePalma’s role is to help support and guide students in overcoming the challenges that pop up.

“Many of the public health issues we grapple with today, have been around for a very long time. Issues that faced Florence Nightingale (in the late 1800s and early 1900s) are much the same as those we deal with today.” 

A family tradition

DePalma’s mother was a physician in industrial medicine, sparking an early interest in caring for others and a passion for history, especially nursing history. That interest helps provide her a stronger perspective on medicine today. 

“Many of the public health issues we grapple with today, have been around for a very long time,” DePalma said. “Issues that faced Florence Nightingale (in the late 1800s and early 1900s) are much the same as those we deal with today.” 

The technology may change, the facilities, but the general concerns and challenges do not. 

Her office houses a collection of uniforms, nursing and medical artifacts, including a popular 20th-century doll called My Buddy. Before the nursing program had child mannequins with which to work, the My Buddy doll stood in during simulations. 

A mission of heart

DePalma has a son who lives with his family in Pueblo, as well as a daughter who lives in Florida. 

Outside of her nursing work, she enjoys singing, and she and her husband are members of the Pueblo Choral Society based at CSU Pueblo. She regularly attends university sporting events, especially those that nursing students are participating in.

She has served in many public service capacities, past and present, primarily in the areas of health and education, including her current service on at least five community health-related boards, councils and committees. That is not counting all her service with CSU Pueblo coordinating events, and working on boards, committees and councils.

More than anything, DePalma emphasized how much she loves her work. 

“I’ve kept at it because I love what I do, and the mission of this university,” she said. “The department faculty and I genuinely care about the students and their success.” 

** Related content: Meet Steve Henson **
** For Prof. Ribadeneria, teaching is a labor of love **
** Varela brings servant’s heart to campus vets, community **

The post To DePalma, nursing program is a work of heart first appeared on CSU-Pueblo Today.

By Brandon Samora
The Today

Thursday was quite possibly one of the best nights of basketball that Pueblo has seen in a decade.

This season’s first matchup between the Central Wildcats and the South Colts did not disappoint. Both teams have an endless list of strengths and not many weaknesses.

But in the matchup of No. 1 South and No. 4 Central, the 17-0 Colts showed why they sit alone at the top. The squad is on track to set the stage for what could be one of the most dominant seasons we’ve seen a Pueblo team have in recent memory. The Colts play with the explosion of an atom bomb, while still demonstrating the have the precision of the most delicate artist. Not only one of the most lethal scoring teams in Colorado, they possess an impenetrable defense that is led by hustle and heart.

In the most anticipated matchup of 2022, the electric excitement fueled the cheering crowds at the Southwest Motors Event Center.

From the tip, the game carried the energy of a championship matchup. South jumped out to an early 14-5 lead, aided by the sharp shooting of senior Jace Bellah. If his name sounds familiar, it may be because he was also the star quarterback for the South football team.

But Central wasn’t going down without a fight. Kadyn Betts got into some early foul trouble, and the weight of the Wildcat offense fell into the highly capable hands of Syris Williams. The senior point guard’s name can sometimes get lost in the shadow of Betts, but Betts’s 6’8” frame can certainly cause a big shadow. Williams is as good off the dribble as anyone in 4A, and he can take control of a ball game quickly.

Foul trouble was the theme of the 1st half. Both teams had multiple players with 2 and 3 fouls. South had the advantage, and went into the break with a 30-15 lead.

The second half carried the name narrative, and yet the game never felt out of reach for the Wildcats.

The largest lead for the Colts came in the third quarter where they led at one point by 21; the Wildcats struggled to find an offensive foothold. Call it an off night for Kadyn Betts, the junior drove the lane, took 3’s and tried shots across the entire offensive end, and somehow still couldn’t get the ball in the bucket.

Both teams were fighting until the very last whistle. There was never a point in the game, even down 21, where either team let up an inch of effort. This is why these teams are where they are.

Not only do these players represent their schools at the highest caliber, they represent our city for the entire state to see. They change the narrative for Pueblo in prep sports. Pueblo is never seen as the front runner for anything, but that’s not the case for basketball this season. Whether its South or Central, both programs will be in great positions to push for a championship come playoff time.

The post No. 1 South dominates No. 4 Central to remain undefeated first appeared on CSU-Pueblo Today.

A tuition promise for us

By LuEllyn Ruybal

Beginning fall semester of 2022, Colorado State University Pueblo will implement its latest enrollment initiatives — an offer to cover tuition for eligible students whose families earn a gross income of $50,000 or less. 

Dubbed the “Colorado Promise,” this last-dollar scholarship will cover any remaining tuition after all other financial aid is applied to the awarded students. Eligible students must be a Colorado resident with a gross income of $50,000 or less, a full-time and first-time undergraduate student attempting their first bachelor’s degree, and must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by June 1. 

“There are plenty of people who come here who can do the work. Life gets in the way. What they can pay for and tuition is a contributing factor. We want to help eliminate that,” said Chrissy Holliday, vice president of Enrollment Management, Communication and Student Affairs (EMCSA) at CSU Pueblo.

Additionally, CSU Pueblo is offering free on-campus housing for one year to new fall 2022 students who live in Las Animas, Alamosa, Otero, Crowley, Bent, Prowers, Baca, Huerfano, Custer, Costilla, Fremont, Pueblo and El Paso counties. Similar housing grants have been offered in the past, but not to the degree that is being offered for fall 2022. 

“We’ve expanded which counties qualify. We were getting feedback from prospective students in these counties … saying that they live close enough to commute. And then they do it for a semester, but it’s really hard,” Holliday said. “We know a lot of students’ success ends up suffering because of it. If the commute or housing is the one thing standing in the way, what can we do to try to fix that? We haven’t been at full occupancy … so if we can bring students in and give them a bed, let’s do it.” 

The free housing offer applies to the cost of a residence hall triple-room rate for one year — which is valued at $4,950 — and may be applied to the cost of any on-campus housing, regardless if a student chooses to upgrade. This scholarship is awarded to the first 150 eligible students who accept this award and complete the housing application and enrollment deposit by July 1. 

With ads promoting CSU Pueblo’s Colorado Promise, enrollment numbers may start to rise. The University’s marketing team has gone as far as running ads in area movie theaters to promote the enrollment initiative. 

In addition to launching a digital campaign to promote the university and its promise, the university’s marketing team has also begun digitally targeting certain geographic areas of Colorado that may qualify for the housing grant. 

With just under 4,000 currently enrolled students and the university’s goal to bring that number to around 5,500, CSU Pueblo has promised its students a tuition guarantee regardless of enrollment numbers. 

Holliday expects that while enrollment numbers may go up, the student-faculty ratio will remain around 20:1. 

Three years to fruition

While CSU Pueblo may not be the first college in the state to offer tuition coverage, Colorado Promise has been in development for three years. To bring the Colorado Promise to fruition, different funding streams were pulled together internally to re-align the school’s budget.  

More funding may be in the works, as CSU Pueblo is currently speaking to the CSU Pueblo Foundation about possibly helping Colorado Promise’s tuition guarantee. 

“If nothing else, the university has made a commitment that we are covering it. We have realigned other funding that we had institutionally and set aside to say, ‘This is what we’re doing,’” said Holliday. 

Many other projects seem to be in the works with President Timothy Mottet’s “Vision 2028” —  its vision statement to establish CSU Pueblo as the people’s university of the Southwest United States by 2028. 

“It started as a way to re-imagine as a university what we want to do and who we want to be,” Holliday said. “One of those things that came out of that was our vision statement. What does that mean? It means making college possible; making it affordable. We built all these initiatives that we are putting into place. Colorado Promise is one of those things.” 

Another program that Vision 2028 has begun is CSU Pueblo Works, which helps get students paid who have required placements, such as nursing. 

“A lot of times our students have to quit jobs to be able to go do those. And they don’t get paid for it,” she said. “We are a federal experimental site for a program that lets us pay them. We can pay our nursing students for their clinicals. We can pay our teacher ed students for student teaching.” 

** See related content: Scholarship, housing program makes big promise to low-income students **

The post CSU Pueblo unveils Colorado Promise Scholarship first appeared on CSU-Pueblo Today.

By Noelle Redmond
The Today

Excitement is beginning to buzz throughout CSU Pueblo’s music department, with the upcoming Festival of the Winds program on the rise. In sitting down with Dr. Alan Mills, director of bands and professor of music at CSU Pueblo, it became clear that preparations are already in full swing, with less than a month until the festival.

It’s a unique event, and one that, as Mills recounted, has a lot of moving pieces. It brings more and more band kids from across the country to perform together, and learn from other directors and students.

This year marks the 14th year of the Festival of the Winds, having begun in the Spring of 2009 and expanded over time. Mills arrived at CSU Pueblo the 2008-2009 school year and started the first festival. He could still clearly remember being the only conductor for a student turnout of 110. 

From there, things only began to expand.

Where, in the beginning, only one honor band was present, a second was added the next year due to such a strong turnout. Then down the line three were added. And now, for six strong years, four bands are being offered to the mass number of high school students; two of the bands being symphonics and the other two are wind orchestras. Students are recommended and accepted to attend; however, they must complete an audition to be placed amongst the four bands.

“And what that amounts to is that we are the largest high school honor band event in the state of Colorado,” Mills fondly said.

With the expansion of the festival, CSU Pueblo began outreach to schools nationally. This called on more guest directors and composers to join, as well as growing submission numbers. Mills said 46 schools made 478 recommendations for this year’s festival, resulting in about 360 students being accepted.

This year’s honor band guest directors consist of Dr. Shelby R. Chipman, director of bands Florida A&M University; Dr. Karen Fannin, director of bands University of Nebraska at Omaha; Dr. Sean P. Murray, director of bands University of Alabama at Birmingham; and Dr. Brian T. Wolfe, assistant director of Athletic Bands University of Oklahoma.

As the festival grew over the years, so did the values and philosophies … and, most importantly, the opportunities for students. With the program, students are recommended by their directors to participate in the festival. This empowers directors to hand pick students they believe should get the opportunity to attend.

With that in mind, it fuels the philosophy Mills talked highly of: “There are great students in every school.” 

Another unique side of the festival is the Rocky Mountain Commissioning Project that Mills created in his first year of teaching at CSU Pueblo. Essentially the consortium is used as a way to hire composers to come and write a new piece of music that the university wind ensemble will premiere. This in turn allows festival students the chance to work with and learn from the living composer.

“It’s not just the name on the top of the page, there’s really meaning behind it,” Mills explained.

Participating bands in the festival also get the rights to play the composer’s music for a year. This year they will be performing existing and new pieces by Mark J. Connor from Creve Coeur, Missouri, and by Steve Danyew from Rochester, New York. Each composer will write unique songs for the bands.

​​“Music is a part of the human condition.”
Dr. Alan Mills, CSU Pueblo director of bands

The festival serves as a recruiting tool for not only the music department, but the campus as well. When the high school seniors audition their way into one of the wind orchestra bands, they get an automatic music scholarship to study at CSU Pueblo.

With this also comes the high school students participating in the festival to decide on attending CSU Pueblo and seeing their friends and band members from high school come back through once more. Furthermore, Mills talked of some past music education majors graduating and bringing their future bands back through for the festival.

Looking at this year’s festival, it lends itself to being bigger in some sense and just as richly packed with educational events as other years. For example, due to the unfortunate COVID-19 circumstances, the full festival couldn’t be hosted last year and instead an online solo contest was held, where students submitted digital auditions. As a result, the selected summer finalists are set to perform on stage with their solos for the festival. The soloists will also receive cash prizes.

“Music is a part of the human condition,” Mills said. He said people are unfulfilled without music in their lives, and is more than overjoyed about this year’s festival being in person.

The festival consists of many concerts and performances, all of which are free to the public, with the exception of the final concert, featuring the honor band. All performances throughout the festival will take place in Hoag Hall, except the last one which will take place at Memorial Hall in downtown Pueblo, due to the large band size.

Check it out:
For more information on the Festival of Winds, click here

This year’s concert series will include the Colorado Spring Christian School Wind Ensemble, the United States Air Force Academy Falconaires Jazz Ensemble, the Top of the Hill Band; featuring the participating band directors, the CSU Pueblo Jazz Ensemble, the Pikes Peak Brass Band, the CSU Pueblo Wind Ensemble and the Honor Bands Finalé Concert that features participating high school students.

Needless to say, it’s clear this three-day event will start off with a bang in the coming weeks, as masses of talent come together across the nation to showcase their strengths.

The post 14th annual CSU Pueblo Festival of Winds slated for February first appeared on CSU-Pueblo Today.