Adams State University is pleased to announce that San Luis Valley Federal Bank has been recognized as the 2014-15 Grizzly Club Corporate Sponsor of the Year. Opened in 1899, SLV Federal Bank and ASU athletics have established a long lasting relationship.

"Adams State has an amazing athletic history and continues to produce championship teams and quality student-athletes, in the face of very challenging competition." Said SLV Federal Bank President & CEO Duane Bussey. "We appreciate how hard the coaches and athletes work and the fine manner in which they represent our community and university."

According to Bussey the relationship between SLV Federal Bank and ASU athletics precedes his time with the company which dates back to 1982.

Early involvement between the two entities was led by former SLV Federal Bank President Bob Foote and his wife Joyce. As avid Adams State athletic supporters, Bob and Joyce helped to maintain a strong connection with ASU. Their long lasting efforts were later recognized during the athletic department's Grizzly Courtyard project during former Athletic Director Jeff Geiser's tenure. It was with that project that SLV Federal Bank contributed the largest single gift in the form of a $17,000 donation in memory of Bob and Joyce.

The company also played an instrumental role in reestablishing the athletic department's Hall of Fame and initializing the Banker's Classic Basketball tournament.

Personally, as a former ASU basketball student-athlete, Bussey carries several fond athletic memories—both as a spectator and as an athlete. His highlights include watching football's 1988 semifinal game in Alamosa against heavily favored Pittsburgh State, men's cross country's perfect score en route to claiming the 1992 NCAA Division II National Championship, and watching All-American wrestler Herb Stanley during the 1970's.

During his playing career, Bussey recalls Adams State's game against the University of Colorado during the 1979-80 season. It was a game in which Adams State led at halftime but ultimately fell short by only ten points.

Years later the Bussey family tradition with ASU continued as his daughter, Emily, was a member of the volleyball team. Emily currently ranks sixth in program history with 851 kills and seventh in sets played at 366.

"The bank is very proud of its long partnership with ASU and its athletic programs and looks to continue its support long into the future." Bussey added.

On behalf of the Adams State University athletic department and the Grizzly Club, we want to thank SLV Federal Bank for their dedication and commitment to promoting Adams State athletics.
 The 2014-15 Grizzly Club Individual Sponsors of the Year are Chuck and Becky Owsley who have been involved with Adams State athletics since the 1960's. Chuck currently serves on the ASU Foundation Board of Directors in association with his GC involvement.

Chuck and Becky, both Alamosa natives, have witnessed first-hand the evolution of ASU athletics. Chuck, a 1968 Adams State graduate and former golfer, remembers fondly of Darrel Mudra's tenure as the football head coach. Chuck's involvement with Adams State over the years has sparked notable conversations with Kentucky basketball legend Adolf Rupp and former Denver Bronco head coaches John Ralston and Red Miller.

"The sport programs bring so many great students to Alamosa who leave with a great education." Chuck said. "We enjoy all the moments at Adams State. Track & Field and Cross Country championships are certainly highlights. Winning the Sears Directors' Cup Trophy in 1999 was also a big moment to be a part of."

The Owsley family roots are deep in Adams State tradition. It all started when Chuck's father graduated in 1936. Chuck and Becky's children-Jeff, Dave, and Kathy-have also received degrees from Adams State. Currently, Chuck and Becky have two grandchildren attending school at ASU.

"If and when our two grandchildren graduate, our family we have four generations with Adams State diplomas; which I think is rare." Chuck stated.

Now retired, Chuck and Becky spent their careers as the owners of the Curtis Brothers furniture store. The two bought the store from Becky's dad in 1984 after several years of working there.

"I started helping at Christmas time for Becky's dad as a college kid. I went out on a delivery and it seems like it took 42 more years to complete that delivery." Chuck said lightheartedly.

"There are so many great Grizzly Club members and we are honored to be selected for this award." Becky said. "We look forward to attending so many Adams State events this year and supporting all of the students."

In retired life, Chuck enjoys casual yard work along with configuring model airplanes from the World War II era. Meanwhile Becky enjoys spending time with her grandchildren; three of which live in Alamosa.