ALAMOSA — Preparing for the future may well serve as an accurate description of what the Adams State University Office of Civic Engagement and Career Services seeks to do. Shirley Atencio and Katherine Lewis gave a brief presentation to the Alamosa Rotary Club on Monday on what the role of the office is and the parts that they play in that work.

The Office of Civic Engagement and Career Services is still relatively new for Adams State University having been in place for approximately one year. The office is designed to be a place where students can find resources to be successful and well-rounded individuals. Atencio oversees the civic engagement piece while Lewis is in charge of the career services portion.

Atencio pointed out that the office also seeks to increase students’ civic awareness and help them to see that education is about “more than a degree.” Atencio also pointed out that the future of democratic and civic values is dependent upon students being engaged in the community. The hope is that the office can be a part of equipping students with skills needed for a rapidly changing world.

As part of the Adams State 2020 Strategic Plan, the Office of Civic Engagement and Career Services established goals. Those goals are 1) academic excellence 2) student success 3) community relations.

Other tools that the office provides for students include short and long-term volunteering options, community based/service based learning projects and internships. In addition, a career fair is held at the university along with numerous volunteer efforts including ASU Cares Day.

Lewis noted that the career services portion exists to help provide students with opportunities to improve their learning experience. It also provides a chance for students to find out if their major/career choice is going to be a fit for them. Working with local entities is a way for students to gain hands-on skills.

These tools provide options for local non-profits and businesses to find needed assistance. The office seeks to facilitate possible connections that will help to meet both student and community needs.

Atencio and Lewis are pleased with the results that the office has seen in the short time it has been open. Students have been finding opportunities that they did not know existed in the San Luis Valley. Both look forward to being able to equip even more students while benefitting the community at the same time.