DURANGO, Colo. — For many students at Fort Lewis College, the journey to earning a degree is about more than coursework—it’s about finding a supportive community, passionate mentors, and opportunities that help them grow personally and professionally.
Students like Carmen Hall, Devyn Valandra, Daniella Masha, and Calen Utterback have discovered that FLC is more than just a place to study—it’s a place where ideas are nurtured, confidence is built, and dreams take shape.
Finding belonging at FLC
For Hall, that realization came when she joined FLC in Spring 2024 as a non-traditional economics student. She quickly found inspiration in the college’s commitment to reconciliation and strategic planning. “I think [the strategic plan] has the ability to create social change and cultural waves throughout the nation and especially in higher education, which I think is so important and also very attractive to young people,” she said.
That strong commitment to a sense of belonging at FLC also played a key role in Utterback’s decision to stay at Fort Lewis College. “After the second semester, and I would say freshman year, it was the social aspect for sure that kept me from leaving,” he said. “If I hadn’t had that, I don’t think I’m the type of person that could just roll with the punches after that. It would be unbearable.”
From near and far, students find their way
Masha, arriving as an international student, initially questioned whether she belonged. “I actually felt I didn’t belong, because Durango, it’s not a very diverse town, so I kind of felt like an imposter,” she admitted. But she quickly discovered a welcoming and supportive community. “Students here are very friendly and welcoming, so it kind of felt like, ‘okay, I know I’m not from here, but I can fit in.’”
Ever since the idea for his coffee company, Wakȟályapí Coffee, began percolating back in high school, Valandra has continued to grow his vision throughout his studies in the Katz School of Business where he developed a sense of purpose through his studies. “I think just being determined and dedicated to all the years and work I’ve done here has definitely kept me here. I’ve had a lot of struggles, too. I’ve had to learn to change my way of thinking about my experiences and environment and what I’m going through. And that’s how I’m able to continue persevering,” he said.
Faculty support shapes student success
Faculty mentorship has played a crucial role in shaping their experiences. Hall credits Elizabeth Cartier, associate professor of management, Michael Valdez, professor of management and Nathaniel Peach, associate professor of economics, for supporting her entrepreneurial ambitions. “Basically, everyone in the business school is so supportive of me, and they’re all in on my startup ventures,” she said.
Meanwhile, Valandra has found guidance from professors Valdez and Carma Claw, assistant professor of Management, who have helped him integrate business knowledge with his Indigenous identity. “They have helped me a lot, not only with the small business side but also learning all these skills and applying them to my life, my Native American and Indigenous Studies minor, and how to apply that to business and the world of ethics,” he said.
For Masha, Matthew Klema, assistant professor of Physics & Engineering, provided hands-on research opportunities and academic guidance that solidified her decision to pursue engineering. “He’s really been supportive in terms of bringing opportunities to you, involving you,” she said. “I met him in Engineering 104, and he considered me for his research projects. He always inquires about us, how we’re doing in class, ready to help hands-on.”
When faced with struggles in his first year, Utterback turned to his older brother for advice, who encouraged him to seek out resources rather than leave school. “I was talking to my brother again. He’s kind of the first person that I come to with those decisions. And he told me, ‘what are you even going to do if you go back home? You’re not going to build any more value in your life at all if you quit.’”
That conversation led him to reach out to professors, like professor of History Michael Fry, for help and connect with the Counseling Center for additional support. Through those relationships, he built confidence in his abilities. “Dr. Fry, he said, ‘you have all these resources. You’re just not really giving any effort. You’re not trying.’ And he helped me realize how I could turn it around,” Utterback said. “And he also gave me extra chances when I needed them... like when I retook an exam—I had no idea I could do that good.”
Involvement in campus life strengthens connections
Beyond faculty support, each student found ways to engage in campus life that strengthened their commitment to staying at Fort Lewis College. Hall’s involvement in Student Government introduced her to another mentor, Ruth Alminas, associate professor of Political Science. “She’s just so intelligent and dedicated to social justice work. She inspires me the most,” she shared. Hall is now looking ahead to ways she can make an impact on campus, from launching a fashion club to advocating for affordable housing solutions.
Valandra, as president of the American Indigenous Business Leaders (AIBL), has built deep connections with other student leaders. “As the president of AIBL, I’m working with other student organizations. I’m meeting them, networking with them, seeing them often. It definitely has allowed me to connect with people on a deeper level, create friendships and just relationships with classmates in general. The culture of this place definitely brings us together,” he said.
Masha has experienced encouragement in unexpected places, even outside of school. A local bank representative who helped her set up an account took a personal interest in her goals. “Every time I end up in the bank, he’s always encouraging me,” she said. “He’s telling me if you ever feel like you’re going to give up on this dream of yours, come to me. I’ll talk to you. I’ll give you the encouragement.”
Each of these students has faced different challenges, but all have found the encouragement and support they need to succeed. Whether through mentorship, student organizations, or entrepreneurial initiatives, Fort Lewis College provides students with opportunities that help them shape their futures.