Colorado Water Fellows at Adams State - Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center

The Colorado Water Fellows Program at Adams State University is part of a state-wide initiative to prepare the next generation of water leaders. The Colorado Water Fellows Program began at Colorado State University and is led by the Colorado Water Center. In 2024, the Water Fellows Program was extended to four other universities in Colorado. Adams State is one of the newest chapters to join this exciting program that now has eleven participating universities throughout the state.

The Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center oversees the Adams State chapter. The Salazar Center is a regional leader in water education and plays an active role in partnering with many organizations in the Rio Grande Basin and throughout the state to protect the San Luis Valley’s special natural resources and cultural heritage. Adams State Water Fellows will take advantage of the Salazar Center’s connections with local water professionals and state leaders to receiving mentoring and professional development opportunities to prepare for exciting careers in the water sector.

What Does it Mean to be a Water Fellow?

The Colorado Water Fellows Program prepares the next generation of water leaders by training and connecting undergraduate and graduate students to careers and opportunities in the water field. The emphasis on a holistic, interdisciplinary understanding of water-related issues prepares the Water Fellows to navigate the complexities of the field.

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Benefits of Participating

Receive a $1,000 stipend to participate
Attend select water conferences for FREE
Connect with water experts through in-person monthly meetings
Grow your professional network
Learn about job, internship, scholarship, and other opportunities
Join a connected network of Colorado Water Fellows alumni across the state

Eligibility & Commitment

Adams State students who are sophomores, juniors, seniors, and graduate students from any field of study are invited to apply. Four students will be selected for the 2026-2027 cohort. Fellows will be expected to

Participate in monthly meetings/activities in person
Attend three water conferences throughout the year
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to network with Colorado’s water leaders

Apply Now

For questions, contact Dr. Paul Formisano, Director, Salazar Rio Grande del Norte Center at pformisano@adams.edu.