Jeff Hulbert

How did you discover Western?

We had never heard of Western and were living in Oregon, and my wife was searching for a new job and came across a small school located high in the Rocky Mountains. After seeing pictures of the campus and the Gunnison Valley, and looking into various aspects of Western, we were excited for her to pursue a job here. She eventually was hired as a Sociology Professor at Western, and on her interview visit we fell in love with Gunnison and this school I am now fortunate enough to also be a part of.

What are some of the highlights of your career?

Working with students of all ages has always been a passion of mine. Before coming to Western, I was a high school teacher for 18 years and was fortunate enough to lead students on international trips. Our destinations included France, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Greece and Turkey. While at Western, I continued the tradition of traveling with students but have stayed within the U.S. Through the College Young Life club, I have taken students to a number of Young Life camps, as well as three spring break trips to Utah, California and Oregon.

What most excites you about your field?

Working with people who want to positively impact kids is a privilege. Walking alongside them as they change lives for the better is something that changes daily and never gets old. Education is always evolving, and today’s classrooms are very different than even just a few years ago. It’s fun being part of something that is always changing to meet new demands and needs.

What is your favorite thing about the Gunnison Valley?

I really enjoy all of the outdoor activities available just outside my door. Mountain biking, rock climbing, snowboarding, skiing and whitewater rafting are all passions of mine, and this is the perfect place to enjoy all of them.