All staff photo - Aug 2023

Our Caring Staff

There’s a reason the Durango Adult Education Center is known as “a caring learning environment.” It’s because our staff personally invests in the success of every student. Our strong culture of excellence and rich diversity offers our students a sense of belonging. Small learning environments also allow us to adapt our programs to the individual needs of our students, fulfilling accomplishments and creating long-lasting relationships.

Some Facts About Our Staff

Our staff has a strong desire to help students take the next steps in achieving personal success. They give every student individualized attention, adapting to the needs of each learner. They are committed, culturally competent and qualified. They also are service-minded, understanding fully that a better education and increased language skills can enhance a person’s quality of life. If you’re interested in getting to know us before enrolling, please pay us a visit. We’re located in The Commons building next to Albertsons.

Susan Hakanson
Susan HakansonExecutive Director
Libby Baumchen
Libby BaumchenProgram Director
Jill Colburn-Bernard
Jill Colburn-BernardHS Equivalency Resource Coordinator
Kirsten Chesney
Kirsten ChesneyCommunications and Outreach Manager
Jenny Mason
Jenny MasonCopywriter
Erika Prescott
Erika PrescottBuilding Manager/Test Proctor
Amy Benson
Amy BensonCareer Advisor/HSE Teacher
Paul Reagan
Paul ReaganESL Teacher/Career Advisor - Cortez
Leslie Sierra
Leslie SierraStudent Services Specialist - Cortez
Remi Majeski
Remi MajeskiESL Teacher/Student Services Specialist
Michelle Hall
Michelle HallESL Lead Teacher
Jessica Wood
Jessica WoodESL Teacher
Buck Blankenship
Buck BlankenshipESL Teacher
Carlos Somers
Carlos SomersESL & Spanish Teacher - Cortez
Mary Mullen
Mary MullenHSE Lead Teacher
Mckenzie Marciante
Mckenzie MarcianteHSE Teacher
Bruce Weinberg
Bruce WeinbergHSE Teacher
Megan Olsen
Megan OlsenHSE Teacher
Janae Jensen
Janae JensenHSE Teacher - Cortez
Carrie Coffin
Carrie CoffinHSE Teacher - Cortez
Chandler Ray Krylowicz
Chandler Ray KrylowiczChildcare Specialist
Aneth Aparicio
Aneth AparicioChildcare Specialist - Cortez