UCSM’s Annual Wine Tasting Fundraiser

02 Dec UCSM’s Annual Wine Tasting Fundraiser

University Centers of the San Miguel is the Regional Center for the Colorado Northwestern Community College (CNCC). It also partners with Colorado Mesa University (CMU), Prescott College, Western State Colorado University, Fort Lewis College, and Northern Arizona University. Since its inception in 2005, UCSM is the only higher education organization in the area that can operate like a community college, at the same time offering support for graduate level degrees. In that capacity, UCSM has provided educational services to over 2000 adult students in the San Miguel River watershed and surrounding communities, a geographical area that includes San Miguel and the west end of Montrose counties. Specifically its mission is to provide accredited classes, workforce development, sustainable studies, and college counseling to the region.

Begin the holiday season by raising a glass to UCSM at its annual Food & Wine Pairing Event at the Hotel Telluride. The event takes place Friday, December 6, 6 – 9 p.m.

Want to know about UCSM? Details are as follows.

UCSM’s Telluride Summer College creates a destination hub for a certificate in Sustainable Practices from CMU and includes the international Permaculture Design Certificate.

Among the skill-based classes it offers: Computer Applications, Second Languages, Business and Finance

All of UCSM’s accredited courses are also available for non-credit to support life-long learning, community and economic development. Specific cultural topics for life-long learners offered through UCSM: Creative Writing, Languages, Eastern Philosophy, Wellness, Computer Skills, Business, Sustainability, Humanities.

“About 1/3 of our students are 60 years or older,” explains UCSM’s executive director Jeannie Stewart. “Continuing to learn adds to longevity and a healthy lifestyle, while training students in 21st-century skills.  In that way, we help make Telluride an attractive second home or retirement location. On the ‘Best Retirement Community ” ratings systems, life-long learning is one of the top categories.”

UCSM’s Workforce Skill-based classes are popular and necessary because of an increasing demand for skills development in an increasingly competitive work environment.

“Through increased skills, local businesses, government agencies, institutions and non-profits benefit from a more effective staff and better practices, adding to the local economy,” continues Stewart. “UCSM also provides proctoring services to those who wish to continue their online secondary education while still working in our local communities.”

The University Centers of the San Miguel (UCSM) 2013 fundraising event is one more learning opportunity – and lots of fun. While supporting higher education, food stations with a variety of wines allow participants to learn how a variety of different and distinct flavors interact with different wines.

The silent auction is a perfect opportunity to purchase unique local holiday gifts. Many exclusive items, services, and festival passes were donated by local businesses, including a five- night stay in a luxury 3-bedroom home in Acapulco, Mexico.

“We thank the Hotel Telluride, Mountainfilm, Fairmont Heritage Place, Jagged Edge, Telluride Truffle, The Jazz Festival, Telluride Sports,and many others for their generosity” concludes Stewart. “And what a great way to holiday shop for distinctive gifts while supporting higher education in the region through UCSM.”

With any questions and to purchase tickets, call Jeannie at UCSM at 970-369-525