Research Excellence

A mother’s perseverance inspires generosity and transforms student lives

Anna Tolette — Fri, 01 May 2026 15:35:22 +0000

A mother’s perseverance inspires generosity and transforms student lives Anna Tolette Fri, 05/01/2026 - 09:35

April Driver

Jeremy May, Yvonne Kristy

Yvonne Kristy arrived at a small liberal arts college in Minnesota in 1965, full of excitement for her future. But college quickly became overwhelming as she navigated social anxiety alongside the social and academic demands of college life. Unable to find the support she needed, she left during her first year, pausing her academic journey.

What could have been the end of her story became the start of something far more powerful.

Moving to Boulder to continue her education at the �Թ�� of Colorado, she learned to balance coursework with the realities of adulthood, and 15 years later, earned her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology at CU Boulder. In the years between, she built a life defined by persistence. She raised two sons in Boulder as a single mother, working multiple jobs and relying on public assistance when needed, all while holding fast to her belief that education mattered.

Her sons were watching.

They saw the late nights, sacrifices and unwavering commitment to building a better life. That example would come full circle decades later in the form of a gift that not only honors Kristy’s journey but also ensures students facing similar challenges have the support to redefine what’s possible in their education and lives.

Honoring a mother’s determination and resilience

Kristy went on to earn her master’s degree in social work from the �Թ�� of Denver. Then she began her career at CU as a systems analyst in the early days of computer technology, eventually overseeing computer labs across campus. Her son, Jeremy May, drew inspiration from her determination and ability to use her intelligence to achieve meaningful outcomes.

He carried forward her belief in the power of education, graduating from CU Boulder’s Leeds School of Business, an experience he says changed the trajectory of his life. Like his mother, he worked his way through college, relying also on Pell grants and student loans.

“She was able to create an environment that allowed me and my brother to be successful even in really difficult situations, and we knew how much she valued education,” May said.

In 2023, May honored his mother with a gift to CU Boulder, creating the Yvonne Kristy Endowed Chair at the Renée Crown Wellness Institute. The position advances the Crown Institute’s innovation and impact through scholarly work focused on compassion, mindfulness, altruism and the greater good.

The investment reflects May’s values while addressing the very challenges that once made his mother’s college experience so difficult.

Sona Dimidjian, director of the Renée Crown Wellness Institute, Yvonne Kristy, Jeremy May

A full-circle moment through research

Professor Joanna Arch was named the first recipient of the Yvonne Kristy Endowed Chair in 2023. As chair, she led the development of the OASIS study in collaboration with graduate and undergraduate students, which focuses on reducing social isolation and disconnection among CU Boulder students.

Social anxiety is one of the most common challenges faced by undergraduate students, with more than a third experiencing an anxiety disorder. Socially anxious students are more likely to fail classes and drop out of college.

The OASIS study creates research-based, co-designed programs to help students address social anxiety and build meaningful connections at CU and beyond. In the initial study, 140 students participated in self-compassion and social anxiety workshops, where they connected through shared experience.

Six student participants helped co-design the next phase of the program, expanding it into a three-session model to deepen its impact. As the study has evolved, it has produced tangible outcomes, like students speaking with professors, raising their hands in class, attending office hours and forming new friendships, all of which strengthen their sense of belonging.

“It has been an incredibly creative and uplifting process to work with students and see social anxiety improving,” said Arch. “It’s powerful to see students moving forward in their lives in ways that help them get the most out of their college experience.”

Students echo that impact. “The OASIS study has been an unexpected yet wildly rewarding experience,” said Charlie Misraje, a CU Boulder student and OASIS project research assistant and co-facilitator. “Since joining OASIS, I’ve gained co-facilitation skills, invaluable knowledge and even friendships. I can confidently say that the experience has shaped who I am today.”

After the first year of the study, Arch shared the initial findings with Kristy and May. Both found them deeply moving. Kristy reflected with her son that this type of support would have made a meaningful difference in her college experience.

“Seeing the results was hugely impactful for my mom,” May said. “The connection has been life-fulfilling for both of us. It’s a beautiful, full-circle moment.”

The OASIS study will continue through the 2026–27 academic year, with the hope of securing the funding needed to continue advancing the science and to scale access across CU Boulder and to other universities.

“At the Crown Institute, our science begins with what’s whole in people — not what’s broken,” said Sona Dimidjian, director of the Renée Crown Wellness Institute. “We don’t overlook inherent capacities; we see and strengthen them. It gives me hope and confidence to see this approach guiding impactful and innovative studies like OASIS in which young people are learning and supporting one another.”

A legacy of excellence and impact

Kristy’s determination and curiosity have continued throughout her life. She became a member of Mensa, a global organization whose members have IQs in the top 2% of the population. She also pursued her passion for travel, visiting 96 countries and learning about cultures around the world.

At the same time, May’s education positioned him to give back in meaningful ways. He is the founder and CEO of Paralel Technologies and previously served as president of ALPS Fund Services and ALPS Distributors. His commitment to CU Boulder includes serving as an advisory board member for the Crown Institute and having served 18 years on the CU Foundation Board of Directors, the last two as chair.

“My mom is smart, strong and courageous,” said May. “With these qualities and sheer will and determination, she built a remarkable life, and she did it her way.”

Kristy’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the enduring influence of a mother’s example. Through May’s generosity, her legacy now extends far beyond her own journey, helping CU Boulder students find connection, overcome challenges and thrive.

CU Boulder alum, Jeremy May, honored his mother with a transformative gift to fund research to help students overcome social anxiety, build connection and thrive, creating a powerful legacy of compassion and impact.

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Buffs All In: A record-breaking month of giving

Anna Tolette — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 20:18:39 +0000

Buffs All In: A record-breaking month of giving Anna Tolette Tue, 04/28/2026 - 14:18

April Driver

In March, the �Թ�� of Colorado Boulder celebrated Buffs All In, a month dedicated to generosity and collective giving. The campaign culminated on March 31 with giving day events across campus. The results were record-breaking, with Buffs’ generosity driving the highest number of donors and dollars since Buffs All In began in 2023.

Collective giving in action

Results show that 2,725 donors contributed an impressive $1,538,280, to support students, spark groundbreaking discoveries, advance sustainability and power initiatives that make a lasting impact on campus and in the community.

Challenge gifts led the way, inspiring other Buffs to give. Together, donors helped unlock $458,500 in challenge funds, amplifying the impact of each contribution. These gifts encouraged broader participation and demonstrated the power of collective giving.

On-campus Buffs showed their generosity

Buffs All In is about more than just dollars raised. It is about fostering a culture of generosity and community. Throughout March, students, faculty and staff celebrated philanthropy through weekly events that highlighted donor impact, including CU Boulder’s Chip and Ralphie mascot programs.

The Herd Leadership Council hosted these events to educate the campus community about how philanthropy shapes the CU Boulder experience. More than 1,300 students learned about programs supported by donor generosity and gave back by writing thank-you notes to donors.

Impact through action, together

Buffs All In 2026 was a tremendous success, made possible by the generosity and action of Buffs on campus and across the world. Thank you for supporting philanthropy at CU Boulder and making a difference.

Make a difference today. Give now!

This March, Buffs All In showed the power of collective generosity with a record-breaking $1.5 million raised by almost 3,000 Buffs to empower students, fuel discovery and strengthen impact.

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New endowed professorship in space policy and law to expand frontiers of global collaboration

Anna Tolette — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 19:20:45 +0000

New endowed professorship in space policy and law to expand frontiers of global collaboration Anna Tolette Tue, 06/24/2025 - 13:20

Emily Wirtz

$2.5 million investment will support teaching, research in cutting-edge field

Through a generous investment in the future of space governance, CU Boulder donors Dale and Patricia Hatfield have given $2.5 million to establish the Hatfield Endowed Professorship in Space Policy & Law.

Underscoring the university’s commitment to leadership in this fast-evolving field, the professorship will drive teaching and research on space policy and law, with broad implications for national security, global communications, navigation, weather forecasting and international collaboration.

This interdisciplinary position will rotate every two years between the College of Engineering and Applied Science, the Leeds Schools of Business and Silicon Flatirons, supporting faculty whose teaching and research advance this work. Professor Marcus J. Holzinger of aerospace engineering sciences is the inaugural Hatfield Endowed Professor, bringing expertise in space policy, domain awareness, development and strategy.

“As humanity ventures beyond our planet, space law and policy have emerged as a new frontier, offering vast opportunities to shape the future of space exploration and utilization,” Dale Hatfield said. “The realm of space beckons a new generation to establish the legal and policy frame that will govern our cosmic endeavors.”

Building on strengths for greater impact

The Ann & H.J. Smead Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences building

With this position, CU Boulder will help address the legal and policy challenges of space activities — advancing critical knowledge and preparing the next generation of leaders in outer space governance.

The university already boasts strengths in aerospace engineering, public policy and international law, with powerful research and industry partnerships across these areas. The addition of a dedicated, endowed professorship — along with the new Colorado Space Policy Center — will unify and elevate these efforts, helping to attract and retain top researchers, as well as distinguish the campus as a leader in outer space governance.

As the first appointment to the Hatfield Endowed Professorship, Holzinger will use his policy research — combining astrodynamics and geopolitics — to build a future in space that’s based on democratic norms.

“The Third Space Age presents a choice: Will we build a future in space guided by proven values and foresight, or will we extend old conflicts into this new arena?” said Holzinger. “Space is already deeply integrated into our global society, but traditional approaches to preventing conflict don’t meet our emerging needs in this complex environment. My research confronts these emerging challenges directly.

“By combining the physics of space with the dynamics of international strategy, we are charting new frameworks. The objective is to craft fresh views on deterrence and cooperation, establishing norms for responsible conduct that will safeguard our expanding human enterprise, on Earth and beyond.”

In addition to direct funding for the holder of the professorship, the endowment will fund research, course development, conference attendance and related efforts that strengthen the university’s work in space policy and law.

This flexible funding model will give Holzinger and future holders the tools they need to explore big ideas and offer students valuable learning opportunities.

“The Hatfield Endowed Professorship will directly facilitate my research,” Holzinger said. “It will enable and encourage engagement in national and international policy debates and facilitate network-building with key decision-makers essential for shaping sound space strategy.”

Furthermore, the rotating structure of the position is specifically designed to encourage collaboration across engineering, law and business — mirroring the real-world intersections shaping today’s space landscape.

The power of philanthropy

Dale and Pat Hatfield

Dale Hatfield, a pioneer in telecommunications policy, is known for his leadership in both government and academia. He began his career as chief of the Office of Plans and Policy at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in Washington, D.C., before moving to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. He then founded a Boulder-based consulting firm before rejoining the FCC as chief technologist, eventually serving as chief of the Office of Engineering and Technology. He now serves as a distinguished advisor at Silicon Flatirons and an adjunct professor at CU Boulder.

Dale and his wife, Patricia, have supported the university for years, including an endowed professorship and scholarship fund for the ATLAS Institute, scholarships for the Lattice Scholars program and support for Colorado Law. Their latest investment exemplifies how private philanthropy can catalyze new areas of research, teaching and discovery.

By establishing this endowed professorship, the Hatfields are making a commitment to a future defined by innovation, cooperation and responsible exploration — where a new generation of space leaders can make their mark.

Dale summed it up by saying, “As Horace Greeley once urged pioneers to ‘go West,’ today we encourage young visionaries to go into space policy and law, to explore and to find the legal and policy landscapes of our new frontier beyond Earth.”

Donate to Hatfield Endowed Professorship Fund

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Record-Breaking Buffs All In Tops $1M

Laura Duncan — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 15:53:07 +0000

Record-Breaking Buffs All In Tops $1M Laura Duncan Mon, 03/10/2025 - 09:53

March 6 marked the third Buffs All In, CU Boulder’s annual giving day — and Buffs everywhere showed up in a big way. Donations exceeded $1 million, almost doubling last year’s total.

By the numbers

Preliminary results show that 2,499 donors raised an impressive $1,082,362, directly funding student success, research, athletics, emergency assistance and many other critical needs.

Challenge gifts made an impact

The day gained momentum thanks to generous challenge gifts, inspiring even more Buffs to contribute and make every dollar go further.

Athletics led the charge with an anonymous donor’s $200,000 challenge gift. To unlock it, 200 donors needed to give to Buff Club funds — and Buffs rose to the challenge!

Together, donors helped raise $266,500 from challenge gifts, fueling excitement and amplifying each donation’s impact.

Buffs everywhere showed up

Contributions will fuel groundbreaking research at the Leeds School of Business, offer critical assistance for students facing unexpected emergencies through the Student Emergency Fund, and help provide housing, travel and nutrition for 350-plus student athletes. These are just a few ways Buffs All In makes a difference.

From alumni and faculty to parents, staff and friends, Buffs from all corners of the community came together to show their support and reflect the heart of CU Boulder.

Together, we make a difference

Buffs All In is more than a giving day — it’s a celebration of what we can accomplish together. Thank you for making this year’s event one to remember.

Learn more about your impact

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How philanthropy fuels success: Center for African & African American Studies empowers students, drives impact through donor support

Anna Tolette — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 20:56:40 +0000

How philanthropy fuels success: Center for African & African American Studies empowers students, drives impact through donor support Anna Tolette Mon, 02/03/2025 - 13:56

Shamika Klassen, 2023–24 Alice Cleora Reeves Endowed Dissertation Fellow

When Shamika Klassen (PhDInfoSci’24) graduated last year with her PhD in information science, she was the first Black graduate in the decade-long history of the department.

Her significant achievement is part of the growing community of the Center for African & African American Studies (CAAAS), where philanthropic dollars help fund fellowships for students like Klassen, as well as faculty research and community engagement.

On Feb. 1, the center kicked off Black History Month with a celebration of CAAAS Day — its third annual event since Gov. Jared Polis declared the day in 2023. CAAAS Day serves as a moment to honor the history and contributions of African and African American communities, while spotlighting the work of the center itself. The day is also an opportunity to recognize donors to the CAAAS and celebrate the university's continued philanthropic match.

Through music, dance, poetry, food and Africana cultural expressions, this year’s celebration continued the tradition of highlighting the vibrant student, faculty and community involvement that makes the center a vital force at CU Boulder and beyond.

Philanthropic support fuels growth and opportunity

Donor support has been crucial to the success and expansion of the CAAAS since its founding. To support student success, donations help fund student fellowships, research awards and creative work awards.

In 2023–24, philanthropic support directly benefited students like Klassen, the recent information science graduate who was awarded the Alice Cleora Reeves Endowed Dissertation Fellowship.

“I am so grateful to the CAAAS and Dr. Reiland Rabaka for their encouragement and financial support in the final mile of my doctoral program,” said Klassen.

CAAAS Director Reiland Rabaka speaks with CAAAS graduate fellow Reya Roussel at the November 2024 CAAAS Graduate Fellows Conference

Philanthropy also supports faculty fellowships, research initiatives and community engagement programs that help further the center’s mission. In 2023–24, the CAAAS awarded faculty teaching and research awards to scholars in fields such as history, philosophy, ethnic studies and communications — each of whom contributes to a broader understanding of African and African American experiences.

Building a stronger future

Looking ahead, the CAAAS plans to continue expanding its programming and increase opportunities for both students and faculty. For every dollar of philanthropic support raised through June 30, 2026, �Թ�� Justin Schwartz is continuing to match up to $1 million with university funding to help promote the center’s vision and mission.

These funds will help enhance research, community engagement and student services within the CAAAS, reinforcing the center’s role as a hub for community and academic excellence.

“To all who have supported the CAAAS, whether financially or otherwise, thank you for believing in our vision,” said Reiland Rabaka, founder and director of the CAAAS. “Your investment affirms our deep commitment to building community at CU Boulder through research, creative work and cultural programming.”

A space for learning and connection

Attendees at the November 2024 CAAAS Graduate Fellows Conference

Founded in 2021, the CAAAS is dedicated to researching, promoting and preserving knowledge about the histories, cultures and arts of African, African American and African diasporan communities. Through research, visual and performing arts, and student services, the CAAAS helps foster a deep sense of community and belonging on the CU Boulder campus.

“The CAAAS continues to expand as a focal point for campus and community life grounded in the experiences of Africans, African Americans and the African diaspora,” said Rabaka. "We provide culturally relevant student services, public programs, mentorship, leadership training, professional development and advocacy for social change.”

In addition to its academic and research focus, the center hosts annual events such as the Kwanzaa Celebration, Black Graduation and, of course, CAAAS Day. These events foster a strong sense of community while celebrating the culture, history and accomplishments of African, African American and African diasporan students, faculty and alumni at CU Boulder.

Following this year’s CAAAS Day celebration, the entire campus community is invited to reflect on how far the center has come and how far it will go with continued philanthropic backing. For more information about the CAAAS and how to support its work, visit colorado.edu/center/caaas.

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2024–25 CAAAS graduate fellows with CAAAS Director Reiland Rabaka

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2024–25 CAAAS graduate fellows with CAAAS Director Reiland Rabaka

Curci PhD Scholars find community and advance life science research

Anna Tolette — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 17:33:40 +0000

Curci PhD Scholars find community and advance life science research Anna Tolette Tue, 11/19/2024 - 10:33

April Driver

When Norah Nyangau (PhDIntPhys’25) immigrated to the U.S. from Kenya as a child, playing sports helped her navigate cultural and language barriers with her peers. Years later, this early passion sparked a curiosity for rehabilitation and movement — and eventually led her to CU Boulder, where she’s working toward a doctoral degree in integrative physiology as part of the Curci PhD Scholars Program cohort.

The Curci Foundation established the Curci PhD Scholars Program at CU Boulder in 2022. The goal is to bring together and financially support doctoral students from around the world to pursue research and advance life sciences at CU Boulder.

After her initial childhood inspiration, Norah’s interest in rehabilitation grew throughout her education. She became especially interested in how rehabilitation improves the quality of life for individuals with physical disabilities. CU Boulder’s integrative physiology graduate program appealed to her because of its highly innovative and holistic approach to research.

“I knew I wanted to be in a program that fosters rigorous research training and collaborations with local clinical centers,” she said.

Selected to join the Curci PhD Scholars Program in 2023, Norah received a full scholarship to pursue her work and a stipend to cover living expenses. Norah said that the fellowship was a game changer, helping her find a path to continue her education while allowing her to devote more time to research.

She shared that she can now build a solid foundation to support her dissertation work and future career. After completing her PhD, she hopes to work with vulnerable communities to improve the quality of life for individuals with mobility limitations.

“Growing up in a developing country has provided me with the compassion and desire to work within communities that are often disadvantaged and under-resourced,” Norah said. “I hope that in my future career, I can contribute innovative solutions that push the field forward in improving rehabilitation outcomes.”

Connecting research and community

As part of the Curci PhD Scholars Program, students meet monthly to connect and learn from each other. Each month, one scholar shares their research with their peers — and they also take time for a bit of fun.

In October, Negar Rahimi (PhDIntPhys’25), a second-year PhD student from Iran, presented her research on the ability of machine-learning algorithms to evaluate data and make accurate predictions. Her fellow scholars asked questions and shared insights from their own research, which led to an engaging conversation.

After the presentation, the scholars switched gears to carve pumpkins and socialize. The program emphasizes building personal connections and sharing new cultural experiences by infusing fun activities into the monthly meetings.

“From monthly catch-up meetings in which we share our personal and research progresses to celebrating the holidays together, the fellowship has provided a sense of community that has eased the hardships of relocating to a new environment,” Norah said.

PhD program grows international student involvement

In 2022, the Shurl and Kay Curci Foundation made a $1.9 million gift to CU Boulder to support two cohorts of six incoming graduate students for the first two years of their PhD education in molecular, cellular and developmental biology, integrative physiology, biochemistry, or psychology and neuroscience. The Curci PhD Scholars Program covers the cost of attendance, allowing students to focus on their research. After two successful years, a third cohort joined the program this fall. The Curci Foundation has granted a continued commitment of $500,000 annually to add six new scholars to the program.

The program aims to award two-thirds of the scholarships to international students, helping to break down barriers and expand recruitment in the life sciences graduate program for students who usually are not eligible for U.S. scholarships.

Bolstered by the power of philanthropy, scholars like Norah can positively impact CU Boulder and the world through their research while building lasting connections.

“Along with providing the resources to succeed, I am also connected with other scholars who share similar experiences as international students and provide that sense of belonging,” said Norah.

“I am grateful for the support I received as I assimilated to the new environment, which was paramount in establishing a sturdy footing for me to flourish.”

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