[8] The university also came into the national spotlight when it placed president Beverlee McClure on leave after employees lodged complaints about her "caustic behavior".

Campus edifices for the performing arts include the Adams State University Theater (erected in 2001), the Music Building (which underwent major renovations in 2011) and the Leon Memorial Concert Hall.

The Rex Activity Center for student recreation includes weights, exercise bikes, rock climbing wall, and racquet ball courts.

Plachy Hall includes the gym and indoor pool and field house as part of the Athletics Department.

[12] The main cafeteria, La Mesa Dining Hall, in the Student Union Building is newly renovated.

The Adams State Grizzlies compete in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) at the NCAA Division II level.

Grizzly teams compete in men's baseball, basketball, cross country, football, lacrosse, soccer, swimming, track and field, and wrestling; and women's  basketball, cross country, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming, track and field, and volleyball.