ALAMOSA — The Adams State University Board of Trustees (BOT) unanimously selected Duane Bussey, Class of 1982, as chair at its August meeting. He assumed responsibilities during the session.
San Luis Valley native LeRoy Salazar was elected vice chair for the board. His duties also began Aug. 11.
Michele Lueck completed her service as BOT chair but will remain with the Board through Dec. 31, when her term ends.
“Adams State is fortunate to have so many dedicated professionals serve on our Board of Trustees,” President David Tandberg said. “Chair Bussey and Vice Chair Salazar continue to dedicate their expertise for the university, and we are all extremely grateful for their commitment.”
Bussey worked at San Luis Valley Federal Bank for 39 years, retiring in 2021 as president-CEO. He has been involved with Adams State in a variety of ways over the years. He served as president of the Alumni Association, the Grizzly Club Board, and the Adams State Foundation. He resigned his position on the Foundation after 20-plus years of service upon his appointment as a trustee.
A fifth-generation farmer, Salazar currently manages the family farm which raises seed potatoes, barley, and other crops. This is his third term on the board of trustees. He served from 2003 for three years and again from 2010 until 2016. Salazar received his bachelor’s and master’s in agricultural engineering from Colorado State University. He co-founded and served as president and CEO of Agro Engineering, Inc., from 1982 to 2000.
For complete bios on Bussey and Salazar, visit adams.edu/trustees.
