The class of 1939, Grand Junction High School, enjoyed a session with Tim Foster, the President of Mesa State College on Saturday, June 20. The group of nearly 40 had just toured places in Fruita, including the new Family Health West Hospital. Later, they toured Grand Junction, then Palisade.
While at Mesa State College, they met with Foster,
and listened to a summary of
the progress of the college.
The group had the opportunity to ask questions about the college, its courses and the effect of the economy on the institution.
Foster noted that, for example, the nursing program was able to find jobs for graduates easily, but with one, rather unacceptable wrinkle.
"Since spouses lost their jobs due to the economic downturn, many retired nurses have come back to the job market in Grand Junction,"
he said.
"This has forced nursing graduates to locate elsewhere for jobs. There is a shortage of nurses, but elsewhere in the country."He spoke of the cuts to higher education due to the economy as well, and pointed out how the college is careful to use energy saving means such as closing buildings not in use during the summer months thereby saving on air conditioning and such. Classes are condensed in the buildings
requiring usage.
The class of 1939 remembered that they were the last class in the old Mesa State building, the old white courthouse on Rood and 5th. They also remembered that the college was so poor that the class and their
families assembled wagons and horses to transport the college
furnishings to the new college site, the new Huston Hall on 12th and North. That was the original beginning of the present Mesa State, as we know it today.
The classmates and some accompanying spouses, traveled from many states, including Washington, Texas, Illinois and Utah.
Nearly the same number of graduates had assembled for the
6oth class reunion ten years ago.
What a wealth of history these graduates hold.
Most served in World War II, meeting spouses from other states, and entering into exciting careers.
All have incredible stories which make history come alive.
At present, it is not known if anyone has taken on the task of getting oral historical stories from these graduates or not. This would make some
great listening and the fodder for some great books.
As an example, Adeline (Vangundy) Voils, a musician sang with the Inkspots and other famous groups.
Arthur Gilbert talked abut his being deferred during the war
to work as an engineer on the construction of camps in
California. His work included time on the Santa Marqurietta Dam, Port Hueneme and other
significant dams and structures in California.
Some classmates built up fortunes in the construction industry, some
became engineers, and other professional type career persons. All challenged themselves and their minds and now enjoy their golden years.Many of the graduates were amazingly spry for their 88 years.
Several sported wheel chairs. All were interested in the changes in the Valley and what the future might bring.
The Grand Vista Hotel was the site for a class dinner, which ended the Saturday tours.
The Mesa State Alumni Association, was responsible for this class reunion and all the arrangements for tours and meals. Who knows,
there may be an 80th reunion. Father Time will tell.
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