During the 2022-23 academic year, we are highlighting one Colorado State University student or alum from each of Colorado’s 64 counties. The Centennial State’s land grant university has a connection to the diverse lands and people from the counties of Moffat to Baca, Montezuma to Sedgwick and everywhere in between.

Robin Young

Major: Master of Agriculture in Extension Education (2018 graduate)

Why did you choose CSU: Because I work for CSU and I value CSU as a land grant institution. (Editor’s Note: Young is the the Extension Director and Natural Resources/Ag Agent in Archuleta County)

Favorite thing about CSU: The people! Students, faculty and staff are wonderful.

Clubs/organizations in college: Since I was an online student, I didn’t get to join any clubs, but I am a part of the Colorado County Agents Association – one of the best professional organizations out there!

Scholarships/awards in college: I was awarded the Alton Scofield award in 2020, a highlight of my career.

Favorite achievement: I was able to maintain a 3.5 GPA while my son was graduating and I was caretaking for my mother. It was a difficult time, but I dedicated myself to my education and graduating with at least a 3.5 GPA.

Career goals: To continue as the Archuleta County CSU Extension director. I have also committed to being the Extension lead on the wolf reintroduction for Colorado. It’s been a pinnacle in my career.

Quirky fact(s): I sang in a show choir when I was in junior high school. My vocal range is so large, I can sing soprano to bass (mostly).

Favorite instructor(s)/class: Jennifer Bousselot – Rooftop Gardens. Jen is a treasure for CSU! Her vast knowledge is incredible, her attitude is energetic, and her ability to create enthusiasm for her students is amazing!  I would really recommend any of her classes and PLEASE go see the rooftop garden at Spur. She and her team did a wonderful job!

I’d like to thank: My advisor, Nancy Irlbeck. She is no longer at CSU, but she was a huge help and support when I was going through some really difficult times when attending school.

Favorite NOCO food and hangouts: Avogadro’s! Fun people and music!

Favorite CSU tradition: Ag Day! With its deep roots in Colorado rich agricultural history, it honors our past, present and future of agriculture.

What do you tell people from Archuleta County about CSU: CSU is a friendly campus, the education is top notch, and the Extension program is outstanding!

What should people know about Archuleta County: Archuleta County is home to the Guinness World Record’s certified, world’s deepest geothermal hot spring aquifer. At a depth of over 1,002 feet, the mother spring is a natural wonder and a fabulous natural resource for the town of Pagosa Springs.

Biggest adversity you’ve overcome at CSU: Sometimes you get really bad leadership that impose change for the sake of change. Our unity has shown me that even in the face of adversity, we can look for the positive in any situation. We are resilient!

Role/influence of CSU Extension in Archuleta County: The Extension program is AWESOME in my county – OK, I’m a little biased.