Sarah Sharsmith

Sarah Sharsmith moved from Wellington, CO to Gunnison in 2007 to attend Western State College of Colorado. She pursued a BFA in Art: Printmaking and graduated in May 2012. In 2013, Sarah left Gunnison and lived in other states where she had the privilege of working at different Military Youth Centers teaching her love for art. In 2017, Sarah completed her Masters degree in Early Childhood Education from Arizona State University. In 2018, Sarah moved back to Colorado to reconnect with her best friend (now husband) since elementary school where they both moved back to Gunnison to be closer to her family. Between then and now, Sarah and her husband bought a house, had their first son and began working more on her art and teaches courses at the Gunnison Art Center. In 2022, Sarah accepted a position of Assistant Registrar at Western where she is very happy to be part of the Western Family.

How did you discover Western?

When I was looking at Colleges/Universities to attend in High School, I wanted to go to a small school but also be somewhere fun and beautiful. Western State College was the first one that came up on my college searches, and when I came up here in 2006 to check out the campus, I felt I was already home and couldn’t wait to apply. Once I moved back to Gunnison, I always wanted to work at Western and be part of the Western family.

What most excites you about your field?

I get to help students, staff and faculty with questions that they have. I work with an amazing team at the Office of the Registrar.

What is your favorite thing about the Gunnison Valley?

I love how there is always something to do in Gunnison. You can go outside and enjoy a nice hike, ride your bike or play by the river. You can check out the amazing shops in Gunnison and Crested Butte. Check out the fun festivities around town including Art in the Park during the summer, Farmers Market, etc.