Alumni Spotlight: Arianna Valdez ’23

Pedaling Toward Purpose: How MSU Denver Shaped a Health and Wellness Leader

When Arianna Valdez ’11 arrived at MSU Denver, she came as a softball player first. A scholarship gave her the chance to continue competing in the sport she loved while earning a degree, an opportunity that would ultimately shape her identity as a first‑generation student, athlete and future health professional.

“I chose MSU Denver because of softball,” she said. “But that opportunity opened the door to a university experience that shaped me both personally and professionally.”

Growing Through Challenge and Community

Balancing academics and athletics demanded discipline, responsibility and resilience. Valdez found support in her teammates, coaches, professors and mentors, forming a network that helped her navigate the pressures of being a first‑generation student-athlete.

One class, specifically, Traditional Chinese Medicine with James Larcus, left a lasting impression. Live acupuncture demonstrations and discussions of alternative healing practices expanded her understanding of wellness and helped her manage her own athletic injuries.

“It opened my mind to new healing methods,” she said. “His passion for the subject had an impact on me.”

Outside the classroom, she immersed herself in campus life, attending volleyball and basketball games and cheering on fellow Roadrunners. When academics became challenging, the Athletic Department and Tutoring Center helped her succeed in demanding courses like anatomy, chemistry and clinical pathophysiology.

Discovering a Calling in Holistic Health

Valdez entered college with plans to become a nurse. But everything shifted when she took her first health and wellness coaching class.

“I discovered how much I loved the preventive and holistic side of healthcare,” she said. “Supporting people in reaching their goals and building healthier habits truly resonated with me.”

She changed her academic path, majoring in Integrative Health Care with a minor in Pre‑Health Care. The combination allowed her to explore diverse healing practices, understand the human body from multiple perspectives and prepare for a career centered on empowerment and well‑being.

Returning to the Field—This Time as a Coach

After graduating in 2023, Valdez was invited to stay on staff as an assistant softball coach for MSU Denver. Coaching deepened her leadership skills and reminded her how influential athletics had been in her own life.

She credits Coach Van with shaping her into the leader she is today.

“She pushed me out of my comfort zone and challenged me in ways that helped me grow,” Valdez said. “Her mentorship taught me discipline, accountability and confidence.”

Those lessons now guide her work with young people.

A Career Rooted in Equity and Empowerment

In June 2024, Valdez joined Mile High 360 as the High School Health and Wellness Coordinator. The organization supports Denver Public Schools’ Hispanic, first‑generation students, many of whom remind her of her own journey. In this role, she creates and leads holistic health and wellness programs, teaches about physical and mental well-being, and mentors high school and pos-secondary partnerships.

“Being able to mentor students and help them build confidence has been incredibly fulfilling,” she said. “My role allows me to combine everything I care about: athletics, health and wellness, mentorship and helping young people succeed.”

Cycling, Overnight Trips and Life‑Changing Experiences

One of the most unique aspects of her job is Mile High 360’s cycling program. Valdez leads group rides of 15–20 students and volunteers, tackling routes of 25 miles or more with over 1,000 feet of elevation.

“It’s tough, but incredibly rewarding,” she said. “The resilience we build together makes every ride memorable.”

Overnight trips add another layer of connection. Whether exploring college campuses, diving deeper into wellness topics or simply sharing meals and new experiences, these trips strengthen relationships and create space for meaningful conversations.

“The students bring so much personality and excitement,” she said. “It’s rewarding to watch them grow and discover new opportunities.”

Preparing for the Next Big Challenge

Right now, Valdez is focused on preparing her students and their families for the 2026 Steamboat Race, a 54‑mile ride with more than 4,000 feet of elevation.

Training begins with indoor cycling in the winter, followed by outdoor rides in the spring.

“There’s no better feeling than seeing families cross the finish line,” she said. “Helping them realize they can do things they once thought were unreachable is incredible.”

Staying Connected to the Roadrunner Community

Valdez continues to work sporting events through the MSU Denver Athletic Department and enjoys returning to campus to watch teams compete and reconnect with coaches and administrators.

Her message to alumni and students is grounded in resilience and self‑advocacy.

“Work hard and give 110% in everything you do,” she said. “Use your resources, ask for help and advocate for yourself. Build connections and surround yourself with people who challenge and support you.”

As a first‑generation Latina woman, she knows the power of community, mentorship and perseverance.

“Your dedication and willingness to learn are your strongest tools,” she said. “Embrace challenges and keep pushing toward your goals.”