Article by Julie Waechter, special to Adams State
Colorado Governor Jared Polis appointed two Adams State alumni to the University’s Board of Trustees. Jon Barba, Class of 1996, and Donna Wehe, Classes of 1991 and 2012, were appointed to three-year terms expiring December 31, 2029.
“As a student and then as an alumnus, Jon Barba has been a true supporter of Adams State,” President David Tandberg, Ph.D., said. “As one of the newest members of the Adams State Board of Trustees, I know Jon will be dedicated to the success of Adams State.”
Barba, of Henderson, CO, is a retired lieutenant colonel with the Colorado State Patrol. During his tenure as a captain, he served as Commander of the Colorado State Patrol Training Academy. While earning his degree in Sociology/Criminal Justice at Adams State, Barba was a four-year starter and letterman on the football team.
“Thanks to professors like Dr. Ted McNeilsmith (emeritus professor of sociology), Adams State provided me with the skills and academic background that laid the foundation for a successful career in law enforcement,” Barba said. “Attending Adams State was one of the best decisions I have ever made; those four years hold a very special place in my heart. I have always believed that ‘the big-time is wherever you are,’ and Adams State proved that by affording me the opportunity to receive an outstanding education while participating in NCAA intercollegiate athletics. It was there that I met my wife, Sarah (Class of 1997), and my best friend. I also formed lifelong relationships with mentors such as Dr. Jeff Geiser (emeritus professor of EPLS).”
Barba remains involved in his community through organizations such as the National Western Stock Show and 4-H—the largest U.S. youth development organization.
“Donna Wehe is a strong member of the campus and community, and she always gives 100 percent in all her endeavors,” President Tandberg added. “Her perspective and experience will be a tremendous asset to the Adams State Board of Trustees.”
Wehe, of Alamosa, recently retired as Director of Communication, Public Relations and Marketing at San Luis Valley Health, a position she held for 12 years. Her background includes experience as director of the Small Business Development Center and manager of Valley Educators Credit Union. She holds an M.B.A., Public Administration Emphasis, and a B.A. in secondary education/mathematics from Adams State University, as well as a B.A. from St. Mary’s University.
“As a trustee, I feel that I can continue the collaborative spirit with our community that the current leaders emphasize,” Wehe said. “Adams State, along with agriculture, healthcare, tourism, and SLV businesses are interdependent. Economic development relies on the University’s workforce. The outlook for ASU is positive; even though there are many challenges ahead for higher ed, there are many opportunities as well.”
Wehe also represented SLV Health on the Grizzly Club Board for ten years, in addition to serving several other local non-profit organizations. “My husband and I have been supporters of Adams State for years. We especially love attending the music, theater, luncheons, stargazing, and athletic events.”
