Colorado Mesa University is a public university in Grand Junction, Colorado. The university's other locations include Bishop Campus, which houses Western Colorado Community College in northwestern Grand Junction, and a regional campus in Montrose, Colorado. Colorado Mesa University grants associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and master's degrees. Previously Mesa State College, the college attained university status in August 2011 and changed its name to Colorado Mesa University. Board of Trustees The Board of Trustees has 13 trustees (11 voting and two non-voting). The voting members are appointed by Colorado's governor and confirmed by the Colorado State Senate and serve staggered terms. The Colorado Mesa University Student Trustee is elected by the student-body and is considered one of the most influential positions in the university and college system. The Senatus Academicus names a member from its ranks to serve as the eleventh member. The Board meets regularly throughout the year and is charged with hiring the president, guiding the mission, and overseeing the budget. Academics Colorado Mesa University offers programs leading to awards in five levels: technical certificates, associate degrees, baccalaureate degrees, master's degrees and professional doctoral degrees. Colorado Mesa University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association. Financial aid During the 2010–11 school year, Colorado Mesa University distributed over $48 million in financial aid to 75% of the student body through scholarships, grants, loans and student employment. The Mesa State Foundation also awarded more than $300,000 in private scholarships to over 300 students. Residence life Colorado Mesa University offers options for students to live on campus. Over 2,000 students live on campus in 11 residential buildings, consisting of traditional rooms, suites and pods, and apartments. Residence halls and apartments are governed by the Residence Hall Association (RHA). The Residence Hall Council (RHC) is an extension of RHA and acts as the governing body for each residence hall. The RHC of each building is composed of an elected executive board and an RHA representative. Notable facilities Houston Hall Houston Hall has the reputation of being the first building on campus. Built in 1940, it is named for the college's first president, Dr. Clifford G. Houston. Before its construction, the college had occupied an abandoned school building (the old Lowell School) in the city's downtown area. During the 2011 expansion and renovation project, delicate care was taken to match the new wing's ornamental brick