Adams State University

Adams State University, a public institution nestled in Colorado, lives by its motto, "Great stories begin here." With a vibrant community of 3,007 students, Adams State has a rich history rooted in a unique mission: to provide essential higher education opportunities, particularly for aspiring teachers in Colorado's remote and rural areas like the picturesque San Luis Valley. This commitment to accessibility and community impact continues to define its spirit.

The university's story began in 1921 as Adams State Normal School, thanks to the persistent efforts of Colorado legislator Billy Adams. For three decades, he championed the cause to ensure that teachers trained locally would serve their own communities. A significant milestone arrived in 1926 with Harriet Dalzell Hester becoming the first graduate, who later served as the school's first librarian and a county superintendent. The institution evolved, changing its name to Adams State College in 1946 to reflect its expanding undergraduate and graduate programs, finally becoming Adams State University in 2012.

Adams State University is known for its foundational strength in teacher education and its broadened academic offerings across various fields. While the university faced a period of scrutiny regarding its online classes, its accreditor, the Higher Learning Commission, fully restored its "Accredited" status in 2018, affirming its commitment to quality education. Under the leadership of President David A. Tandberg, the university continues to uphold its legacy of empowering students to build great stories and make a lasting impact in their chosen professions, especially within the communities it was founded to serve.