We prioritize experiential learning, enabling students to engage in hands-on activities, field studies, research, service learning, and internships. These experiences foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and real-world application. Our school integrates the sciences, humanities, and arts to create a vibrant and holistic learning environment.
Our faculty, known for their dedication and expertise, work closely with students in small class settings—providing personalized attention and guidance throughout the student academic journey.
Our school fosters interdisciplinary approaches across arts, humanities, social sciences, and the natural, physical, and health sciences. From Biology and Chemistry to Geosciences and Psychology, our programs equip students with technical proficiency, critical thinking abilities, and practical knowledge for various industries and healthcare careers. Our departments, like Anthropology, English, History, Philosophy, and Sociology, empower students with creative problem-solving, effective communication, and a nuanced understanding of cultural and environmental complexities.
Our students benefit from engaging in fieldwork, internships, and community collaborations. They graduate with a well-rounded education and the confidence to thrive in their chosen fields. They secure positions in industries, research laboratories, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and healthcare, actively contributing to their communities.
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Dean Shultz joins Fort Lewis College as the Dean for the School of Arts and Sciences. She has most recently served as Interim Dean for the Marjorie K Unterberg School of Nursing and Health Studies at Monmouth University (New Jersey) and Chair of the Kinesiology Department at Seattle University (Washington). She has also been Associate Dean, International for the College of Health at Massey University (New Zealand). She received her BA in Exercise Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and earned M.Ed. and Ph.D. degrees from Temple University (Pennsylvania). Dr. Shultz has published over 75 books and articles on the orthopedic complications of childhood obesity, physical activity interventions in vulnerable populations, and STEM education outreach. Her work in community and advocacy includes being Chair of the Steering Committee for the Osteoarthritis Action Alliance (a CDC-supported coalition promoting effective policy solutions for OA) and a board member for Pushing Boundaries (a non-profit organization providing exercise therapy for the paralysis community). Dean Shultz is excited to serve in this leadership role at such a fantastic college. She joins a faculty and staff focused on achieving incredible opportunities for our students and is looking forward to supporting the School of Arts and Sciences in new ways.
Joanie Garcia (Spanish, ’07) explores the practicality of running a creative business while doing the art that brings her joy and a sense of purpose.
Associate Professor of Health Sciences Missy Thompson reflects on the evolution of exercise science at FLC.
Students, staff, and faculty celebrate FLC's new home for the health sciences.
FLC's Health & Human Performance Department investigates nutrition and movement to prevent and mitigate chronic diseases.
Growing up, Gabby James (Biochemistry, ’19) saw few healthcare providers who looked like her. A member of the Diné Tribe, James is striving to change that for future generations. She’s one step closer thanks to a full-ride scholarship to the University of Wisconsin’s Physician’s Assistant program.
The Western Oregon University Board of Trustees appointed Jesse Peters as WOU's 25th president. Peters was at Fort Lewis College for five years, serving as dean of the School of Arts & Sciences and interim provost.
Forest ecologists and biologists, including Professor Julie Korb and Lecturer Michael Remke, say fire serves an irreplaceable role in forest health and fire mitigation in Southwest Colorado’s mixed conifer and ponderosa pine forests.
Dale Garland (Psychology, '82), a teacher at Durango High School, will retire after 31 years of teaching social studies and, according to students, life lessons about mindset and positivity.
Durango Theatreworks productions are ready—toi, toi, toi! “Heathers: The Musical” will be performed on the Theatre Hall's Main Stage from July 6 to 17. Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” will be performed evenings in the outdoor Busby Amphitheater from June 30 to July 10.
Chair & Associate Professor of Geosciences Jon Harvey is optimistic about recent rains arriving in the Southwest, signally what will hopefully be a robust monsoon season for the summer.
Charine Pilar Gonzales (English-Communication, '18) received the Native American Writers Accelerator Grant, a $10,000 award from the Native American Media Alliance that comes with professional support to help recipients develop their television writing craft, pitch their projects, and bolster their careers.
Since graduating from FLC, water rights activist and snowboarder Teal Lehto (Environmental Studies, '20) has worked to preserve waterways in the Southwest with Indigenous teachings in mind. She was recently featured in the REI film "Spirit of the Peaks."
Camela Brown (Biology, '20) was appointed to the ARISE (Advancing Research & Innovation in the STEM Education of Preservice Teachers in High-Need Districts) advisory board. This is a prestigious three-year position where she will provide support and guidance at the national level for high-need school districts.
Rachel Medina (Geology, '13) was elected as mayor of Cortez, Colorado. She first joined the Cortez City Council in April 2020 for a four-year term and will serve as mayor for two years.
Physics & Engineering students and faculty could help unlock one of the longest-standing mysteries of the universe—the detection of the existence of dark matter.
Alumna Natalie Joe (Cellular & Molecular Biology and Chemistry-Biochemistry, '16) was inducted into the Johns Hopkins Bouchet Society.
The diversity statements secular colleges increasingly require of faculty candidates have many similarities to the faith statements long required by religious institutions, writes Professor of Philosophy Justin McBrayer for Inside Higher Ed.
Lisa Campi Walters, professor of Music, and Holly Quist, adjunct professor of Music, were the featured piano soloists in the San Juan Symphony in the Henderson Performing Arts Center at San Juan College.
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