Through the years, our alumni have made numerous contributions in education through their professional positions and involvement with the field. With over five hundred alumni worldwide, we are currently working on establishing an improved information network through our web pages, electronic newsletters, and alumni receptions at national conferences. As always, we welcome any feedback and ideas from our alumni, and encourage you to keep us up to date on your endeavors.
To update your contact information please contact us via email kim.okamoto@colostate.edu or by phone at (970) 491-3593. If you are ever in Colorado or visiting campus please stop in and see us. The Program Director's Office is located in 201 Administration.
Conferences
Thank you to those who visited with us at the recent NASPA and ACPA conferences.
SAHE Recruitment
We rely heavily on our alumni to recommend candidates for the SAHE program. If you know of an upcoming graduate school fair or have a student to whom you would like information sent, please let us know.
Alumni Spotlight
There is no doubt in my mind that the enrolling in the SAHE program helped me develop intellectually, personally, and professionally. Through the program, I was challenged to learn and question theory, explore different functional areas of higher education through practica and my assistantship, and to learn how to make successful life and professional transitions. However, one of the most meaningful components of my SAHE experience was the connections I made with cohort members, SAHE faculty, and administrators from all areas of campus. These are connections that continue to motivate and inspire me to be the best professional and person I can be. It is for those reasons that I truly believe enrolling in the SAHE program was one of the best decisions I could have made for myself.
Karlen N. Suga
Admissions Counselor
Colorado State University
NASPA Asian Pacific Islander Knowledge Community National Co-Chair 2009-2011
Class of 2007
“Reflecting back on my SAHE experience I see very clearly that the program’s experiential nature provided the perfect foundation to launch my career in higher education. It is a well-balanced blend of theory and practice, offering its students ample opportunities for hands-on learning experiences that reinforce their classroom knowledge. The stellar reputation of the program across the CSU campus opens numerous doors for collaborative learning and professional development.
Since graduating I have worked exclusively in academic affairs. I can say without a doubt that the student-centered approach the SAHE program fosters among its students is a highly desirable quality in student services settings within academic units.”
Seth Webb
Senior Coordinator, Study Abroad
Office of International Programs
Colorado State University
Class of 2002
"The SAHE program at Colorado State represents a proud tradition in the student affairs field. As with many graduates, I was initially exposed to the program by SAHE alums that were exceptional practitioners. What I found in Fort Collins were supportive faculty and supervisors, challenging educational experiences, and a close-knit cohort of learners. I do not rely on the specific practical or academic lessons that I learned in the SAHE program, but rather, the lessons learned from the intentional interaction of the two."
Blaine Nickeson
Director of Communications & Campus Relations
Auraria Higher Education Center
Class of 2004
"After over 27 years in the profession, I still find daily ways to use the skills and experiences I acquired at Colorado State. Whether it was classroom learning or practical experiences, the education I received at CSU has always been a critical part of my effectiveness as a practitioner. In addition, the relationships first begun in the program many years ago continue to be invaluable to my career development and enjoyment of this important work. I know the many wonderful positions I've held and the numerous professional involvement opportunities I've been afforded, including being elected NASPA President, would not have been possible without the foundation established by the CSU SAHE program."
Mike Segawa
Dean of Students
University of Puget Sound
Class of 1981
"Entering the SAHE program at Colorado State University is one of my most pivotal life experiences. Supportive and knowledgeable faculty challenged me to learn and grow in meaningful ways. Administrators and practitioners across all areas of campus opened themselves as available resources. My cohort both challenged and supported each other as we learned about ourselves and our profession. Assistantships and practicum experiences provided a venue to apply principles learned in the classroom. Overall, the SAHE program was a great fit for my hands-on and relationship-oriented learning style."
Haley Richards
Academic Advisor
Center for Advising and Student Achievement
Colorado State University
Class of 2005
"The SAHE program at Colorado State University was a defining moment in my career. The courses are grounded in theory yet are taught by practitioners making the curriculum much more applicable to career-minded students. I continue to apply many of the principles of the program to my career and continue to maintain strong relationships with the program and many of the faculty. I believe the SAHE program to be one of the strongest programs in the country for those seeking career based application. I recommend it highly for those seeking such attributes."
Ray Gasser, Ph.D.
Director of University Housing
University of Idaho
Class of 1997
"I believe "linking theory to practice" is one of the characteristics of the SAHE Program which is used by most faculty and students. As we go through the program, we underestimate its meaning and impact on our professional lives. I personally believe that it not just a slogan but rather a development model that made me who am I today.
My SAHE years have provided me with a solid foundation to pursue a worthwhile career. The innovative learning tools and instruction styles of our faculty have improved my academic preparation and polished my teaching abilities. The challenging, stimulating, and practical coursework has enhanced my knowledge of the field and exposed me to different educational systems and operations. I have gained confidence to deal with difficult students and situations by learning and applying student development theories. Last but not least, working with a culturally diverse student population has brushed up my intercultural skills to succeed in a work environment with an international orientation.
There is no doubt that the reputation of the SAHE program is built on a rigorous selection process, active learning inside and outside the classroom, networking opportunities, committed advisers, supervisors, and mentors, and practical training through assistantships. SAHE at CSU is more than just a university education. It is a mini-lab for a successful career path."
Jimmy Karam
Dean of Student Services
University of Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Class of 2003