Our Living-Learning Centers are grounded in the Philosophy that Residential programs should strive to support students in college. In Achieving Educational Excellence (1985), Astin summarized the framework as "small subgroups of students...characterized by a common sense of purpose...that can be used to build a sense of group identity, cohesiveness, and uniqueness that encourage continuity and the integration of diverse curricular and co-curricular experiences."
Communities include academic programming and services such as tutoring, advising, and group study centers.
Indroducing Western State's Living/Learning Centers
*Independent Living: Chipeta and Shavano Apartments
Emphasizes student independence and self- responsibility . Student leaders and professional staff will support independence and self- responsibility in this living environment designed especially for older students.
*First-Year Experience Living/Learning Center: Escalante Complex (Dolores, Colorado, Tomichi, and Crystal Halls)
Escalante Complex is home to the First-Year Experience Living/Learning Center. We are excited to offer an exceptional living opportunity developed especially to help new students transition successfully into the academic learning community of Western State College. Possible activities include: interaction with professors and fellow students, outdoor discovery/adventure trips, campus activities, study groups, peer mentoring, and leadership.
*Community Life: Mears Complex
Emphasizes student involvement and responsibility in their living community. Student leaders and professional staff will work with floor members to establish community standards for behavior and active participation. Involvement and leadership in hall council will present ideal opportunities for students who have an interest in volunteerism, civic engagement and leadership.
*Academic Connections Living/Learning Center: Ute Hall
Ute hall is home to the Academic Connections Living/Learning Center for students interested in: Arts, Science & Environmental Studies, and Wellness
Residence Life in conjunction with the Art, Recreation and Science and environmental Studies Departments designed a community to compliment classroom learning for students interested in exploring the academic areas. Possible activities 
include: interaction with professors and fellow students, student galleries and art shows, study groups, service-learning opportunities, museum trips, forest restoration, and trail clearing.