Article by Julie Waecther, special to Adams State
Someone with Kole Kelley’s college achievements was bound to become an honored alumnus of Adams State University.
He earned 2016 Business Graduate of the Year and Agribusiness Graduate of the Year. Completing a B.S. in business administration with an agricultural business emphasis and a minor in ecnomics, he also made the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference’s 2015 All-Academic Football Honor Roll.
Amanda Sparks ‘24 said, “These early accomplishments foreshadowed Kole’s future career, defined by discipline, leadership, and service.” She was one of four who nominated Kelley for Adams State’s 2026 Exceptional New Alumnus Award, which he will receive at the Homecoming Awards Luncheon, Friday, September 18. Visit Homecoming for reservations or more information.
Kelley recently became director and senior attorney of the Mountain States Legal Foundation’s Center for American Prosperity & Energy (CAPE). His work at CAPE focuses on protecting the right to use and develop America’s natural resources responsibly. Prior to joining CAPE, Kelley as an associate attorney at Fennemore Craig P.C. in Denver, advising clients in the agriculture, natural resource, water, mining, oil and gas, and advanced energy industries on complex farm and ranch management, employment, real property, title, survey, mineral, and regulatory matters. During his time at Fennemore, Kelley was named Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch® in America in Energy Law, Natural Resources Law, and Real Estate Law. Earlier in his career, he worked at Moye White LLP, Jewell Jimmerson Natural Resources Law, and Burns Figa & Will, P.C.
In 2019, Kelley earned a Juris Doctor degree and certificate in constitutional rights and remedies from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law. During this time, he published several articles on water law while serving in progressive editorial roles for the University’s Water Law Review, becoming the editor-in-chief for Volume 22.
Regarding the impact of Colorado’s current drought on agriculture, Kelley said, “I’m optimistic that Colorado will find a way through this. As a state, we have a long history of our best minds coming together to find solutions that help protect and promote the Colorado way of life.”
Kelley credits former football coach Marty Heaton ’82, with recruiting him to Adams State. “He taught me a lot about being a person of character and instilled the necessary discipline that life demands.” His primary mentor was Zena Buser, Ph.D., professor of business/agribusiness & economics and assistant director of the School of Business.
“Dr. Buser really pushed me while I was at Adams. She truly believed in me and the potential she saw and worked with me to open doors on and off campus. Without her, I don’t think I’d have accomplished half of what I have. I feel very fortunate that she was tasked to be my advisor from day one. She changed my life and set me on the path I’m on,” Kelley said.
“Kole Kelley was an exceptional student of academics, as well as of life,” Dr. Buser recalled. “When he connected economics, law, and the agriculture industry, he saw how his work could benefit individuals, the industry, and society overall. Kole has continued to grow in his profession and career, approaching his next steps with the same intensity, discipline, preparation, and purpose that he became known for as a student and competitor during his Adams State days. He is a man of goals and determined action, which has continued to define his professional life.
Last year, the Denver Business Journal recognized Kelley as a Leader in Agriculture, citing his contributions to the agricultural community statewide, after previously selecting him as a 2021 “Who’s Who in Agriculture” honoree.
Kelley grew up on his family farm in the San Luis Valley. His love of agriculture led him to showing livestock at the San Luis Valley Fair and Colorado State Fair. “At one point I showed every species – sheep, goats, steers, pigs. But I was most competitive with hogs. They are one species that can really undergo massive change with proper feeding and care. It is a true reward of attention to detail and effort. I love this so much, and I wanted a way to stay involved.”
Kelley was a high school junior when his father, Mike Kelley, passed away. The following year, he launched MPK Showpigs in Alamosa, naming it in honor of his late father. He and his mother, Nikol Kelley ’91, continue to operate MPK Showpigs to provide high-quality show pigs to San Luis Valley youth at below cost.
“Our goal is not to get rich, but to make sure people have the experience that I was fortunate enough to have. There is a uniqueness to individuals who grow up in barns, in the way they approach life. That was my father’s belief, and we carry that on with MPK Showpigs. I feel fortunate to be involved in the broader show pig world and to help kids.”
Another of Kelley’s nominators, Samuel Bilderbeck, noted, “He focuses on critical legal work that directly impacts the agricultural backbone of Colorado. In a region where agriculture is not just an industry but a way of life, Kole’s work carries meaningful, tangible impact. I have seen firsthand the level of integrity, thoughtfulness, and strategic insight he brings.”
Currently, Kelley is the chair and co-board of Governor’s Representative of the Colorado Bar Association Agricultural and Rural Law Section. In addition, he chairs the Colorado Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee and is president of the Douglas County Farm Bureau.
Kelley is active with the Colorado Bar Association Leadership Training Program and was a member of the Action 22 Leadership, Policy, and Governance Academy. He was also one of six Colorado Farm Bureau members selected for its Elite Leadership Academy in 2019.
Kacie Sallee, director of Leadership Development with the Colorado Farm Bureau, also endorsed Kelley for the award, noting he “follows through, ensuring that ideas are not only created, but successfully implemented. His consistent willingness to invest his time, energy, and expertise in the success of others speaks volumes about his leadership and character. His contributions at every level reflect both his strategic mindset and his genuine passion for advancing the agricultural community.”
Nominator, Shannon Hickey, said: “What truly distinguishes Kole is how intentionally he has chosen to give back. His work focuses on developing young leaders, expanding opportunities within the industry, and ensuring that rural voices are represented and supported across the state.”
Adams State Homecoming includes a pep rally and bonfire, Sept. 18, in downtown Alamosa. Saturday the excitement continues with a parade, tailgate party, football and volleyball games, a free carnival and car show.
