Laura Musalem Canahuate
Master of Arts Counseling
Clinical Mental Health
“From the beginning, I felt that Adams State genuinely valued multicultural perspectives and was a place where my lived experiences were seen as assets to the learning environment,” said Laura Musalem Canahuate. She explained that, as an immigrant from the Dominican Republic with Palestinian ancestry, she had always navigated multiple cultural worlds.
“These experiences shaped my understanding of identity, belonging, and the need for culturally competent, compassionate mental health care. I chose this path because I’m passionate about supporting others in exploring who they are—helping them make sense of their past, find clarity in their present, and move confidently into their future.”
She chose Adams State because of its strong reputation for accessibility, inclusion, and commitment to training counselors who serve diverse and often underserved communities.
Throughout her graduate program, Canahuate relied on the support of family and friends. “They stepped in to help carry the emotional weight, offering comfort, encouragement, and practical support during moments of doubt or burnout.”
Faculty were invaluable in their support, as well. “The professors at Adams State went above and beyond to ensure I felt supported, seen, and heard. They didn’t just teach theory; they modeled what it means to truly show up for someone, and their support reminded me that I belonged in this field.”
With her master’s degree in hand, Canahuate now works in a private practice supporting individuals, couples, and families as they navigate identity development, trauma, and personal growth.
“With this degree, I feel more empowered, equipped, and affirmed in my ability to serve clients from diverse backgrounds with compassion and cultural sensitivity. My career will certainly expand from here—opening doors to licensure, private practice, and perhaps even future teaching or supervision roles. But no matter how my role evolves, the heart of my work will remain the same: helping others deepen their understanding of themselves and feel more whole in who they are.”
Elizabeth Isaak
Master of Arts Counseling
School Counseling
Castle Rock, Colo.
Elizabeth Isaak discovered her next career when she returned to the workforce after raising her four children. Working as a secretary in a high school counseling office, she said, “I felt like I belonged. Working with both students and staff in the educational landscape was where I was meant to be. But I knew that I would have to earn a master’s to be able to do what I wanted to do.”
Encouraged by colleagues and her family, she took the plunge into graduate school and is now an elementary school counselor. “I will work in the exact career field I have been prepared for by Adams State University. I look forward to doing what I am meant to do.”
Elizabeth chose Adams State based on the program’s reputation, its reasonable cost, and the flexibility afforded by the online format. “That was the best option for me, since I worked full-time and had four children and a home to manage,” she said. “My family never wavered in their support. They were my ever-present hype squad. I spent countless hours in coffee shops and the library studying, writing papers, and working on projects. They never complained, only continued their support.”
Elizabeth also credits her Adams State professors, particularly Mark Manzanares, Ph.D., professor of counselor education, and Katrina Ruggles, Ph.D., clinical faculty. “They were all so incredibly knowledgeable and challenging, but more importantly, they were compassionate and encouraging. Every time I did reach out, they were very responsive.”
Reflecting on some recent, very difficult personal experiences, Elizabeth said, “I honestly don’t know how I was able to get through it all. I relied on my family and friends even more, and by sheer determination, I made it, still maintaining a 4.0 GPA.”
Evan Linko
Master of Arts Counseling
Clinical Mental Health
Grand Junction, Colo.
Evan Linko, of Grand Junction, Colo., earned an undergraduate degree in journalism from Colorado Mesa University in 2014. He worked as a reporter, as a chef, and in the outdoor industry for nearly a decade. He began to consider a new career in counseling after seeking therapy himself.
“Around the same time, I made a good friend who works as an LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor). My experiences in my own therapy and connecting with another man my age who did the work made me feel very confident I would be good in this profession,” he said. “The Adams program was an easy choice, because it was mostly online and CACREP accredited. I didn’t have to quit my job or move to complete my graduate education.”
Evan was inspired throughout the program by feedback from professors including Mark Manzanares, Ph.D., professor of counselor education; Becky Meidinger, Ph.D., clinical faculty; Ben Wilson, Ph.D., clinical faculty; and Sandra Gavin, Ph.D., assistant professor of counselor education. “These professors, among many others, also emphasized how my own intuition to be warm, supportive, caring, and creative could intertwine with the practical skills and evidence-based interventions they taught. Each one also had their own experiences and insight about effective models, systemic issues, and horror stories to share.” Because his fiancé returned to school at the same time, they provided mutual support for each other. His childhood also influenced his decision.
“My father (a 911 dispatcher) and my late mother (a youth minister and community outreach leader) demonstrated the importance of community connections, and my late grandmother instilled a lifelong love of new experiences that translated well into the foundational ideas of multicultural competency,” Evan explained.
Now, he feels fortunate to have been hired full time by Hilltop Family Tree Outpatient Services in Grand Junction, where he completed his practicum. “I plan to complete licensure here and am open to what the future may hold. The team at Family Tree reflects the kind of support and opportunities to learn that I think should be present at any community mental health clinic, and the values of the parent non-profit, Hilltop, are clearly the root of this,” Evan said.
Alexandria Miles
Master of Science
Exercise Science
Brighton, Colo.
Alexandria Miles was named Coordinator of Fitness and Wellness at Adams State University after completing her master’s in exercise science. “This role is allowing me to take what I’ve learned in the classroom and apply it directly to real-world programming, student support, and community health initiatives. It’s an incredibly rewarding position that will continue to shape me professionally and personally.”
From Brighton, CO, she hopes to eventually earn a doctorate in occupational or physical therapy. “I’ve always had a passion for human performance, rehabilitation, and helping others live healthier, more functional lives, and I knew that deepening my academic foundation would be critical in preparing me for that next step. From the very beginning at Adams State, I felt I wasn’t just another student; I was part of a community that genuinely cared about my success.”
Alexandria credits her professors with encouraging her to challenge herself, providing meaningful learning and professional development opportunities, and offering valuable mentorship. “Their belief in my potential gave me the confidence to step into leadership roles and to think more critically and creatively about the future I want to build.”
Alexandria says unwavering support from her parents, brothers, and boyfriend was equally important. “Whether it was late-night study sessions, stressful deadlines, or moments of self-doubt, they were always there to listen, motivate, and remind me why I started this journey. Their belief in me never wavered, and that made all the difference.”
Alison Reece
Master of Arts Counseling
School Counseling
Greeley, Colo.
After earning her master’s degree in school counseling, Alison Reece said, “I finally feel like I’m in the career I was meant for: an elementary school counselor.” The Greeley, Colo., resident added, “This degree has helped me step into a role where I can make a meaningful impact—and it has completely changed the course of my life in the best way.”
Her experience in child welfare inspired her to pursue a master’s and “make a positive difference in the lives of children by supporting their academic, social, and emotional growth in schools.”
Alison said Adams State’s strong reputation, commitment to student success, and flexible schedule made it the perfect fit for her. “All of my professors were incredibly supportive. Those who had the biggest impact on me were Dr. Ben Wilson (clinical faculty), Dr. Karli Iceman (assistant professor of counselor education), Colleen Stabolepszy (clinical faculty), and Dr. Mark Manzanares (professor of counselor education). They guided me with compassion, encouragement, and high expectations that helped me grow both professionally and personally. They were always available for guidance – and truly care about you as a person and future counselor.”
Alison credits her family and friends with helping her stay grounded and motivated. “They offered encouragement, helped me balance responsibilities, and reminded me to celebrate progress along the way. Their belief in me made all the difference, especially when the workload felt overwhelming.”
Landan Schaffert
Master in Arts Counseling
School Counseling
Master in Arts
Clinical Mental Health
Otis, Colo.
Having achieved his goal of earning a 4.0 grade point average in a dual master’s degree in school counseling and clinical mental health counseling, Landan Schaffert is now the school counselor and school-based therapist in his hometown of Otis, Colo. He began teaching math, science, and social studies there in 2015, after graduating summa cum laude from Colorado State University. With two bachelor’s degrees, in political science and agricultural business, he was named one of the nine Shining Stars of his graduating class.
His accomplishments are even more impressive, considering Landan has been legally blind since birth. “Today, I give many motivational speeches in which I share that my parents were told I would ‘never be normal,’ ‘never read or write,’ and ‘never amount to anything.’ I am passionate about empowering others while demonstrating what it looks like to persevere through adversity!”
Through graduate school, Landan relied on audio books and articles and wrote papers using voiceover technology. His parents and siblings provided pivotal support and encouragement.
The tragedy of a student’s suicide inspired Landan to make the transition to school counselor. “He was one of my favorite students, and I was heartbroken and desired a way to help students like him. I had always considered becoming a counselor, and that event put it in my heart to transition from the classroom to the counseling office. Ultimately, I want to help improve mental health on a macro level by reducing adverse childhood experiences.”
His Adams State professors were particularly supportive. “From the standpoint of a student with a disability, I can never recall a single instance where my professors were not accommodating, empathetic, or helpful. They always made me feel truly valued and believed in my ability to approach counseling in a unique but beneficial way for my clients.”
Growing up on his family’s farm and ranch, Landan became a passionate member of FFA, formerly known as Future Farmers of America. As an undergraduate, he served on the Colorado FFA Officer Team and as National FFA Secretary. He also interned on two political campaigns and has presented inspirational keynote addresses for over a decade.
“One day, I hope to run for office and utilize my experiences in the agriculture industry, the classroom, and the counseling office to help shape policies that positively impact each of us.”
