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2023-24 Annual Impact Report

Outdoor Pursuits

Outdoor Pursuits has garnered significant donor support this year, reflecting growing interest in supporting students' outdoor experiential learning. While student fees cover OP membership, donor contributions have expanded opportunities and access to OP programs. 

Indigenous Adventure Fund

A generous grant from the Cahuilla Band of Indians Tribe supports FLC's Native students in accessing outdoor activities. Although OP’s trips and programs are affordable, costs can still be a barrier. The Indigenous Adventure Fund removes this obstacle, making outdoor experiences accessible to all. 

Outdoor Pursuits Impact Fund

This fund supports various needs within the OP program, including funding for programs, purchasing necessary supplies, providing scholarships, and addressing emerging needs. It enhances participants' overall experience and opportunities by ensuring essential resources and support are available. 

Give an Adventure Fund / Seek Your Adventure Award

This inclusive fund ensures all Fort Lewis College students can participate in OP programs and trips, ranging from local day excursions to multi-day global adventures. Each semester, students can apply for grants to help cover trip costs. The $1500 Seek Your Adventure Award also supports students in pursuing their dream adventures.

Center for Southwest Studies

CSWS thrives thanks to the generosity of donors who support its mission. Contributions to archives, collections, and educational programs enable FLC students, faculty, and the community to connect with the Southwest's rich cultural heritage, history, art, and traditions.

Janice C. Sheftel Internship Endowment

The newly established Janice C. Sheftel Internship Endowment plays a critical role in bridging academic knowledge and practical experience. It supports emerging Indigenous museum professionals, offering hands-on internships where students collaborate on exhibition planning, educational outreach, and creating interpretive materials that engage the public with the Center’s collections.

Center of Southwest Studies Fellowship

The CSWS Fellowship, funded by Richard Ballentine and Alice and Eric foultz,  supports an emerging professional with opportunities at the Center. Malorie King, a Fort Lewis College alumna and member of the Mescalero Apache People, was selected as the first fellow in December 2023. Malorie’s work at CSWS has been instrumental in exhibition planning, programming, and developing online educational resources.

Enhancing Archives and Collections

Our donors' contributions, including priceless Native art and textiles, have greatly expanded the Center's archives collections. These contributions have enabled the CSWS to offer diverse exhibits and educational programs that connect the community with the rich tapestry of the region’s history.

The generosity of our donors is pivotal in advancing the Center’s mission. Their contributions enable us to provide meaningful educational experiences, support student internships and fellowships, and curate engaging exhibits that connect our community with the rich tapestry of the Southwest.

Cory Pillen
Director of Center for Southwest Studies 

Community Concert Hall

Philanthropic support continues to enhance the programming and operations of the Community Concert Hall (CCH), the premier performing arts center in Southwest Colorado. This year, donations supported diverse talent on stage, updated equipment, and provided for the reupholstering and padding of seats, ensuring a modern and comfortable experience for audiences.