Alumni Stories

From baseball to biomechanics: Most memorable CU Boulder classes

Anna Tolette — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 22:10:03 +0000

From baseball to biomechanics: Most memorable CU Boulder classes Anna Tolette Wed, 02/04/2026 - 15:10

Sara Muderick

Every Buff has had that class — the one that blew their mind, changed their path or simply made school more fun. We asked: What CU class do you still think about today? And you delivered!

From exploring American culture through the lens of baseball to examining the complexities of the human condition, generations of Buffs chimed in with the classes that made a lasting impact. Somewhere between lecture halls, late-night study sessions and those “aha” moments, students gained new ideas and perspectives that helped shape who they are today.

Across the years and life experiences, Buffs still find themselves looking back on their CU Boulder classes.

Deviance in Society: A campus legend

Across the board, Forever Buffs fondly recalled Deviance in Society, taught by Dr. Patti Adler. The course explored how deviance is socially constructed, how individuals come to adopt a deviant identity and cope with associated stigma, and how deviant acts, lifestyles, relationships and careers are socially organized.

Alumni described it as unforgettable and often the most talked-about class on campus. Sean Makulowich, a 2006 fine art graduate, shared that it was one of his most thought-provoking classes. And Christine Lazette, who graduated in 2000, said: “Such a fascinating class and done so well by Patti. Loved it!”

Emily Rydin, a 2007 English major, remembered just how coveted the course was, adding: “This was such a great class and so hard to get into! I remember all my friends bragging when they finally got into it!”

America Through Baseball: History meets home plate

Another CU Boulder classic course, America Through Baseball, had alumni reminiscing about how it blended history, culture and America’s pastime in unexpected ways. One alum reflected on the class with Professor Tom Zeiler as a valuable and enjoyable break from their regular classes.

Stephen Reamy, from the class of 2006, joked that he tried every single semester to get into the class. Another alum backed him up by adding that their course attendance was perfect, proof that some courses were simply worth the wait.

General Chemistry I: A Nobel introduction to science

Some classes left their marks because of the extraordinary people who taught them.

Debbie Payne Hurst, class of 1994, recalled General Chemistry I with Thomas Cech shortly after he won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry. “I was in awe of the fact that my entry level chem class was being taught by a Nobel Prize winner,” she shared.

Ecology and Design: Learning in nature’s classroom

One particularly resonant Colorado class was Snow Hydrology, fondly remembered by Adam Dodge, an environmental studies major from the class of 1998, and Evan Tooley, a 2020 economics major.

Another standout was Ecology and Design. Stephen Hofmeir, a 1996 graduate, recalled a self-guided field trip along Boulder Creek as his first assignment, calling it “a great way to learn about ecology in one of nature’s masterpieces.”

Biomechanics: When class changes your career

Biomechanics also proved transformative. Jim Fuchs, a 2002 mechanical engineering graduate, credits the course with changing the direction of his career. “This course opened my eyes to the Med Tech field and fascinated me to think of the body as a machine,” he said.

Michelle Klaren, a 2002 CU Boulder graduate who continued her education at the CU Anschutz Medical Campus and is now an orthopedic specialist physical therapist, echoed that sentiment. She recalled how her Biomechanics class even paused for the Olympic torch relay in 2002. Not only was that historic moment memorable, but she still uses the lessons from the course daily to help patients understand how their bodies move.

Astronomy: A lifetime of looking up

Finally, some classes left alumni looking up at the world around them. Astronomy stood out as a lifelong companion for many Forever Buffs. RJ Griscom, who graduated in 1979, reflected that more than 50 years later: “No matter where I am in the world, seeing something familiar in the night sky reminds me where I am on the planet, and that I am home.”

Whether you graduated decades ago or will graduate this spring, CU Boulder classes last a lifetime. Thanks to incredible instructors, fellow Buffs and unforgettable classroom experiences, these courses continue to shape how we think, work and see the world long after we leave CU Boulder.

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Cassidy Davis (StComm’23)

Anna Tolette — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 17:31:45 +0000

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Cassidy Davis (StComm’23) Anna Tolette Tue, 02/03/2026 - 10:31

From Folsom Field to Lumen Field, Forever Buff Cassidy Davis (StComm’23) has built a career from historic football seasons and meaningful mentorship relationships.

Learning the power of Buff connections early, Cassidy began her journey as an intern with CU Athletics, where she took full advantage of opportunities to learn from CU staff, faculty and alumni mentors. Today, she’s a corporate partnerships coordinator with the Seattle Seahawks, contributing to the organization during its landmark 50th anniversary season.

Along the way, Cassidy discovered just how small the sports world can be with the help of a few familiar faces, and just how far the Forever Buffs network reaches.

Read on to find out more about Cassidy’s road to the Super Bowl LX.

What shaped your CU Boulder journey?

To work with the incredible team at CU Athletics was the pivotal moment for me in choosing the direction I wanted to take in my career.

My time as a marketing and fan experience intern for CU Athletics was the most impactful experience I was a part of. As one of my first introductions to sports, this role kickstarted my love for the industry and taught me the ins and outs of marketing across multiple teams. Starting this role in 2022 and ending with my graduation, I was able to see the transformation of the school’s program from being a 1-11 football team to welcoming Coach Prime and becoming one of the most talked about collegiate teams in the country.

What has it been like to be a part of the Seattle Seahawks organization during their Super Bowl bound season?

Absolutely unreal. I feel incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to go to the Super Bowl just two years into my career. The team’s success this year has created one of the most exciting work environments I’ve ever been part of. To experience such a historic playoff run during our 50th season is a beautiful story that I’ve had the privilege to help tell alongside my teammates.

As a corporate partnerships coordinator, my job is to help position our partners at the forefront of one of the most anticipated moments in sports. Doing this during such an important anniversary season has shifted my day-to-day role toward building on the legacy of an incredible team — one that will be celebrated and reshared by Hawks fans for years to come.

How has mentorship influenced your career in sports?

To succeed in the sports industry, mentorship is essential to positioning yourself as a competitive applicant. Mentors give you the opportunity to build on your network and can give you advice from the perspective of someone who has once been in your shoes.

Dawn Doty taught me the power of sharing words of encouragement and advice to those who are reaching for their dreams. Her mentorship to me as both my professor and friend during my college career has inspired me to mentor students in my post-graduate career. 

Mike Davies (Jour’94) was a guest speaker in one of my college classes who took the time to personally mentor me through my post-grad application process. He taught me the importance of maintaining connections as I’ve learned that sports is an incredibly small world! From giving me a chance to work my first NFL game in college as a FOX Sports Production Assistant, to connecting me with his network while applying for jobs — we still have the pleasure of working together whenever FOX Sports comes to town for a Hawks game.

Is there a recent sports trend that you’ve found especially interesting, exciting or meaningful? 

I am incredibly excited to see the NFL’s continuous expansion into an international sport. Over the past several years, the Seahawks have been granted marketing rights in New Zealand, Australia and Germany, expanding our fanbase in a way we’ve never seen before.

To see this sport grow across countries is so fun to be a part of as it opens up entirely new opportunities for partnerships and experiences that our fans can be a part of. I’m looking forward to continuing to see this expansion grow to countries who are just now being introduced to the world of football!

Are there any behind-the-scenes insights from your time in the sports industry that Buff fans might find surprising?

Almost always when a team wins a championship, the entire staff receives the same championship ring that players get!

Who is an artist that you would like to see at a future Super Bowl Halftime performance?

I’m a country girl at heart, so I would say either Luke Combs or Morgan Wallen! 

What advice would you share with Forever Buffs in sports and beyond?

If you’re looking to get a start in the sports industry, figure out a way where you can add value! Whether you’re freshly out of college or 10 years into your career, there is always a way you can position yourself as applicable for a role in this industry. Use your experiences as ways to bring new perspectives to a team. You will never achieve your dream job if you don’t try!

From Folsom Field to Lumen Field, Forever Buff Cassidy Davis (StComm’23) has built a career from historic football seasons and meaningful mentorship relationships. Along the way, Cassidy discovered just how small the sports world can be with the help of a few familiar faces, and just how far the Forever Buffs network reaches.

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Forever Buffs Impact Story: Debbie Ley (MCivEngr’02)

Anna Tolette — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 18:49:49 +0000

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Debbie Ley (MCivEngr’02) Anna Tolette Wed, 01/28/2026 - 11:49

From Boulder to global climate action, read on to learn how mentorship fuels a lifelong journey of impact.

Debora “Debbie” Ley (MCivEngr’02) remembers the moment she knew CU Boulder was the right place for her. As a participant in Sandia National Laboratories’ One Year on Campus scholarship program, she visited CU Boulder, met with faculty and felt an immediate sense of connection.

“It was the people and the environment,” Ley said. “The experience of meeting faculty and the culture of support made a lasting impression.”

That sense of belonging, fostered by an early mentor who guided her through her first year, became the foundation for a career rooted in service, collaboration and global impact.

Today, Ley coordinates the update of the Nationally Determined Contribution 3.0 and the National Climate Change Action Plan for the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources of Guatemala. Since graduating from CU Boulder, her work has focused on rural electrification projects and reducing energy poverty in rural Central America and Mexico.

Since 2006, she has also served as a professional partner with Engineers without Borders, the organization founded by CU Boulder’s Professor Bernard Amadei.

In recent years, her focus has centered on the science-policy-practitioner interface, examining how these scientific assessments can be used at the local level and how local action can inform policy and research.

“What I find meaningful is how these scientific processes can inform policy processes while also improving action in communities,” Ley said. “[That includes] supporting most vulnerable and marginalized populations, for example, people with disabilities and how even inclusive climate action can leave people behind.”

Looking back, Ley credits CU Boulder for shaping her approach to teamwork, community and community engagement in the classroom and beyond.

Debbie Ley and her horse, Shogui

What we learned in class had real applicability in local communities, and there was a culture at CU Boulder of helping each other,” said Ley. “Even after graduation, we’ve maintained bonds, friendships and have continued to work together.”

She also found a home away from home in the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers/Latinos in Science and Engineering (SHPE/MAES).

Throughout her academic and professional career, mentorship has remained central to her growth. Ley points to several mentors at CU Boulder and Sandia National Laboratories for helping shape her path.

“Thanks to Dr. Frank Figueroa, Max Harcourt, Jan Kreider, Michael Brande Muehl and Paul Klimas,” said Ley. “I’m a better engineer and scientist, and I so appreciate them mentoring me.”

From learning to manage challenges, navigate difficult situations and build trust with rural communities, Ley says mentorship taught her the value of listening and character, ultimately shaping her leadership.

“They shared empathy, trustworthiness and the ability to inspire, helping me believe in myself.”

Mentorships’ lasting impact has also inspired her commitment to mentoring others.

“I’ve had — and still have — great mentors who have helped shape me and guide me,” Ley said. “I strongly believe the mentoring scheme is something we can all benefit from. I want my mentees to take away advice, guidance and confidence. In some cases, I’ve been lucky, and these mentors became good friends.”

For those seeking mentorship at any stage in their journey, Ley encourages them to look for people who are honest, approachable and strong listeners.

“Make sure your mentor knows how to inspire and empower you. My mentors have been my role models,” she said.

Looking for guidance or ready to give back? Find your match on the Forever Buffs Network.

Explore Mentorship on FBN

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Buff love stories 60 years in the making

Anna Tolette — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 20:19:42 +0000

Buff love stories 60 years in the making Anna Tolette Fri, 01/16/2026 - 13:19

April Driver

College is often the launch of lifelong friendships and unforgettable stories. For one remarkable group of CU Boulder alumni, campus life became the starting point for connections that would shape the rest of their lives.

In the fall of 1965, this group arrived at CU Boulder ready to begin their college adventure and discovered friendships new and old where their stories unfolded.

More than 60 years later, those connections remain strong. Despite careers, families and the miles between them, they’ve never lost touch. Today, they host monthly Zoom calls, swapping stories from their college days and celebrating the lives they’ve built.

“Communication is the secret to staying in relationships,” Mike Ringenberg said.

Within this close-knit group are four enduring Buffs love stories, each unique and shaped by CU Boulder.

Barbara and Dale Anderson: A full-circle love story

Dale and Barbara first met in their high school marching band in Arvada, Colorado, where Barbara’s initial impression of Dale was that he was “kind of goofy” — a trait she later came to adore. They began dating during the winter of their senior year, though their relationship had pauses in those early years.

Unexpectedly, they both chose to attend CU Boulder, reigniting their relationship. Living in the same residence hall, they frequently shared meals. When Dale helped charter the Alpha Kappa Lambda (AKL) fraternity alongside close friends, it created a community that would shape their lives long after graduation.

By junior year, Dale proposed. Barbara, wanting to be sure, took a break and spent a semester at sea through Chapman College. “When the ship docked in New York, Dale was waiting for me,” Barbara said. “He proposed again, and I said yes.”

They married before their senior year and navigated the uncertainty of the Vietnam era and Dale’s ROTC commitment. Ultimately spared deployment, the couple built a life together grounded in education and service: Barbara as an elementary school teacher, and Dale as a high school communications teacher and principal — eventually at Arvada West High School, where their story began.

“It was a sweet finish,” Dale recalls.

Married for more than 57 years, Barbara and Dale have raised two children, remained in Colorado and stayed closely connected to their CU friends. For them, CU Boulder wasn’t just a campus — it was the starting point for a lifetime of love, friendship and purpose.

Dale and Barbara in college

Dale and Barbara now

LuAnn and Mike Ringenberg: Love that found its way home

LuAnn and Mike met in the Kittredge Dining Hall, where they joined a group of mutual friends for meals. LuAnn had arrived with her friend Barbara, who was dating Dale, Mike’s roommate.

“We dated off and on after that,” said LuAnn. “We even talked about marriage during our sophomore year.”

Life had other plans. LuAnn’s parents wanted her to wait to marry and instead see the world. She traveled through Europe and dated other people. “When I returned, I went to Mike’s work and told him I wanted to get back together,” she said. The rest is history.

LuAnn earned her math degree in 1969, but Mike’s education was delayed by the Vietnam War. He served in the Air National Guard and later completed his psychology degree.

The couple married in 1971 and built a life deeply rooted in Colorado, raising two children and welcoming three grandchildren, two of whom now attend CU Boulder. Loyal Buffs through and through, Mike and LuAnn continue to audit classes, attend sporting events and travel with fellow alumni. Mike was also a charter member of AKL and still enjoys connecting with his fraternity brothers. From Roaming Buffs trips to Alumni Weekend, CU Boulder remains a constant backdrop to their shared adventures.

What started as a college romance has grown into more than 55 years of marriage, friendship and devotion. Their love — for each other, their friends and the university — continues to deepen.

LuAnn and Mike in college

LuAnn and Mike now

Linda and Dan Morris: From CU roots to a life of service

Dan and Linda’s story began long before CU Boulder, but it was on campus where their bond truly deepened. Both graduated from Arvada West High School and arrived at CU in August of 1965. While they had known each other since junior high, college gave them the space to grow closer.

“That transition from high school to CU marked the start of a new and formative chapter in our lives,” Dan said.

Dan became a charter member of AKL fraternity, joining his friends in building a home for students who valued connection and community. Those friendships would prove to be lasting.

After graduation, Dan and Linda embarked on a remarkable journey of service, joining the Peace Corps in 1969. Linda served in Western Samoa and Dan in Ghana. When they returned, their CU friendships remained strong.

In 1972, Dan and Linda officially became a couple. They married soon after and built careers centered on giving back. Linda worked for the Colorado Department of Agriculture, and Dan worked as a teacher, administrator and education technology leader.

Today, they live in Broomfield, Colorado, near their daughter — a CU Colorado Springs nursing graduate — and two grandchildren. From football games to alumni gatherings and now regular AKL Zoom calls, CU remains woven into their lives.

“CU has been a constant thread throughout our family’s story and across multiple generations,” Dan shared.

Dan and Linda in college, on the right

Dan and Linda now

Alice and Roger Cain: From a fraternity party to 57 years of love

Roger and Alice met in 1968 at a Voodoo-themed fraternity party. Roger, a busy chemical engineering student and AKL member, was set up by a fraternity brother who had met Alice in geology class. At midnight, playful “marriage ceremonies” took place. Roger and Alice ended their first date with their first “wedding photo.”

Their connection grew quickly. “In my senior year, I gave Alice my fraternity pin,” Roger said.

They soon married and moved into married student housing. Roger graduated with a degree in chemical engineering and began his career with 3M in Minnesota, where they started their family. Their daughter and son both went on to college, with their son following in his parents’ footsteps at CU.

After a decade in Minnesota, they returned to Colorado and settled in Loveland. Roger worked for Hewlett-Packard, while Alice pursued interior design, teaching and eventually kitchen and cabinet design — she even designed and managed the construction of their home. “She’s a woman of many talents,” Roger said.

Now retired and celebrating 57 years of marriage, the couple enjoys RV adventures and long-distance travel, including a month in New England and a 9,500-mile journey to Alaska.

Through it all, CU has remained a steady thread, connecting them to lifelong friends and shared memories that began with a blind date and a little Voodoo magic.

Alice and Roger in college

Roger and Alice now

Where forever begins

These are more than love stories. They’re reminders of what makes CU Boulder special.

“CU was not just where all our paths crossed — it was where lifelong friendships were formed, where our relationship deepened and where a community was built that continues to this day,” Dan said.

Decades later, the bonds on campus still bring these alumni together. It’s proof that a Buff connection can last a lifetime. Whether through love, friendship or shared experiences, CU remains where forever begins.

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Scott Snyderman (IntBus’85)

Anna Tolette — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 22:57:53 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Scott Snyderman (IntBus’85) Anna Tolette Thu, 01/08/2026 - 15:57

Keeley Haynes

When recent graduates leave CU Boulder’s campus for the first time, they may feel uncertain about life after college, but Scott Snyderman (IntBus’85) ensures they know they’re not alone.

As the chair of the Forever Buffs New York alumni chapter, Snyderman helps welcome over 500 new Buffs to New York City each year. The volunteer-led chapter organizes football and basketball Game Watches, networking events and mixers in the city, which connect recent graduates to over 8,000 other Forever Buffs in the area. He also coordinates with CU Boulder’s off-campus career exploration and immersion trips, such as the Leeds School of Business’s Wall Street Treks, to expand current students’ New York network. network.

Read more about what drives Snyderman to volunteer and how he keeps the Buff spirit alive.

What’s your favorite CU memory?

A few years ago, I returned to Folsom Field and watched the Buffs beat Nebraska. Seeing us take down the Cornhuskers and celebrating with fellow CU fans in person was something I got to check off my bucket list. I’ll never forget it.

Who or what inspires you?

I like to live by the motto: “Do to others as you want done to you, your friends and your family.” I try to replicate the kindness I’ve been shown in the past and the respect I want my loved ones to be treated with. This helps me be the best person I can be.

Why do you volunteer?

It is all about connecting our Buff family in New York. When Buffs first graduate and arrive in New York, we’re their first impression of the city and post-grad life. You only get one chance to make a first impression, so I volunteer to help ensure NYC Buffs know that they have a community and a support system behind them. I love when a new Buff shows up to an event we are hosting and they find out that there is a whole group of Buffs here. They usually run into a friend or two that they didn't know lived here. That's the magic of being a Buff for life.

What is your favorite way to volunteer for CU Boulder?

We host Buffs Football Game Watches, which are always lots of fun. When 300 to 500 Buffs gather to watch a game, it is just madness. We’re always loud and proud; it’s a great time.

What does being a Forever Buff mean to you?

It means being part of a family. No matter where you are in the world, if you meet a Buff, it’s an immediate connection. You’re instantly met with a familiar Boulder smile and the typical excited “Sko Buffs!” It’s comforting to know we have community everywhere.

Learn more about alumni volunteering

As the chair of the Forever Buffs New York alumni chapter, Snyderman helps welcome over 500 new Buffs to New York City each year. Read more about what drives Snyderman to volunteer and how he keeps the Buff spirit alive.

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Celebrate with your class this Alumni Weekend

Anna Tolette — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 22:36:49 +0000

Celebrate with your class this Alumni Weekend Anna Tolette Thu, 01/08/2026 - 15:36

Keeley Haynes

Alumni Weekend offers an opportunity for you to reconnect with your friends, your past and yourself. The milestone class reunions are your chance to honor your time as a Buff. Join us April 10–13 to commemorate the Classes of 2021, 2001, 2016, 1986, 1976 and the Golden Anniversary Club.

During a special ceremony, alumni celebrating milestone reunions will be individually featured in a celebratory slideshow presented by the Alumni Association, receive a specialty reunion swag item and enjoy lunch catered by The Sink. In addition, alumni will have the opportunity to reminisce about how they and the university have grown since their time on campus.

Reconnect with your past self

Whether you graduated five years ago or 50 years ago, chances are you have changed a lot since commencement. You probably don’t dress the same or listen to the same music you did when you first became a Buff, but that doesn’t mean that person isn’t still a part of you.

Take the time to reflect on where you started, where you’ve gone and how CU shaped you during your reunion. Not only will you hold a newfound appreciation for yourself, but you may also adopt new perspectives on your current life by rediscovering your past passions, interests and values. After all, your time at CU Boulder helped to create the person you are today.

Rekindle old connections

Remember that classmate you lost contact with? Or the friend you adventured with? Your milestone reunion is the time to reconnect.

Exchange old stories from your time as undergrads, catch up on each other’s lives and experience the transformations your classmates have undergone firsthand. Buffs never stray from their stampede, and the familiar faces at Alumni Weekend prove that the connections made at CU Boulder last a lifetime.

Remember CU History

This Alumni Weekend marks CU Boulder’s 150th anniversary. At reunions, remember the progressive developments, historic wins and unforgettable events that reshaped CU during your time as a student.

Recall the monumental appointment of Dr. Mary Frances Berry — the first female and minority chancellor — and the construction of the largest operating pendulum in the western hemisphere in Duane Physics’ Gamow Tower in 1976. Bask in the glory of the 1986 victory against undefeated Nebraska, which broke CU’s 18-year losing streak against the Cornhuskers, or take a trip down memory lane to the time when the Buffs upset Nebraska 62-36 in 2001.

Reflect on the memorable speakers that CU Boulder hosted on campus, such as the Dalai Lama and Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. Refuel your Buff Pride while you think of the Olympians, Grammy-award winners and Ralphies you called your classmates. These past accomplishments will remind you why you’re proud to call yourself a Buff.

As you return to campus this April to celebrate your milestone reunions, may Alumni Weekend remind you that your story at CU is still unfolding. The memories you will revisit, the people you will reconnect with and the history you will remember will not only honor where you have been, but also who you have become.

Join your classmates in celebrating years of tradition, triumph and transformation, and leave campus with the same pride, curiosity and spirit that first made you a Buff.

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Forever Buffs Impact Story: Lily Cox (IntlAf, MediaPd’27)

Anna Tolette — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 21:10:32 +0000

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Lily Cox (IntlAf, MediaPd’27) Anna Tolette Mon, 12/08/2025 - 14:10

As an outreach and social media student assistant at the CU Boulder Basic Needs Center, Lily Cox (IntlAf, MediaPd’27) has shaped her Buff journey around a commitment to making a difference. Her passions in global affairs, media and student support fuel her drive to share meaningful stories and highlight how the CU Boulder community supports students.

Read on to learn more about Lily, the Basic Needs Center and the many ways Forever Buffs can strengthen resources for students today.

What brought you to CU Boulder? 

I wanted to challenge myself by going out of state and experiencing something completely new. I’m originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, but I have family in Colorado, which made the transition manageable and gave me a sense of support while still stepping outside my comfort zone. I also fell in love with CU Boulder’s campus, the access to the outdoors and the opportunities that come with attending a large university.

What are you hoping to do after graduation? 

I’m interested in roles that will allow me to make an impact. I am passionate about global affairs, producing media and storytelling. I would love to start my career abroad — whether that’s through nonprofit work, the Peace Corps or multimedia marketing for an international company.

What is the Basic Needs Center, and what does your role entail?

The Basic Needs Center (BNC) is an on-campus organization that supports students by connecting them with resources related to food, housing and overall well-being. Our mission is to provide essential services for our campus community and advocate systemic change to address barriers to access for basic needs. In my role as a social media and outreach student assistant, I manage the center’s social media presence, sharing information about campus events, programs and available resources. I also help to coordinate and execute our on-campus outreach, including tabling, event planning and building partnerships with student groups to better support students.

Why is the mission of the Basic Needs Center important to you?

Three out of five students experience food or housing insecurity, yet these experiences are often stigmatized and left unaddressed. The CU Boulder community has the resources needed to make sure no Buff ever goes hungry, without shelter or struggles in solitude. The Basic Needs Center plays an essential role in getting those resources in the right hands. 

How can Forever Buffs support the Basic Needs Center? 

There are many ways for Forever Buffs to support the basic needs of current students:

Donate non-perishable food or personal care items to help stock the BNC's Buff Pantry, our on-campus food pantry located in the basement of the �Թ�� Memorial Center.

Volunteer to help run the Buff Pantry and monthly Mobile Food Pantries.

Check out the Amazon Wishlist for Buff Pantry and Emergency Housing needs.

Support the BNC financially with a direct contribution to help support our services.

What does being a Forever Buff mean to you? 

Being a Forever Buff means holding a shared sense of pride in the community that is created on this campus — past, present and future.  

Support the Basic Needs Center

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Get ready for 2026 with CU Boulder events for every Buff

Anna Tolette — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:03:38 +0000

Get ready for 2026 with CU Boulder events for every Buff Anna Tolette Thu, 12/04/2025 - 17:03

Get ready for a year of unforgettable CU Boulder events! Whether you recently graduated or are a seasoned Forever Buff, this year’s lineup is packed with opportunities to celebrate, connect and give back. Mark your calendars! You won’t want to miss what’s in store.

CU Night at the Stock Show: Jan. 23

Saddle up for one of Colorado’s most iconic traditions. The National Western Stock Show has entertained crowds since 1906 with world-class rodeos and livestock showcases. CU Night adds black-and-gold flare to the festivities. Alumni from all four campuses can purchase discounted tickets with all-day access to the stock show grounds and the night’s flagship rodeo event. Plus, a portion of ticket sales benefits student scholarships.

Get Stock Show tickets

Buffs All In: March 31

During Buffs All In, every gift tells a story. CU Boulder’s annual giving day is a chance for Buffs everywhere to come together to support students, programs and initiatives that shape the university. Buffs All In is a powerful way to make a direct impact on the CU community. Every gift, no matter the amount, makes a difference. Let’s show the power of the Buffs community.

Save the date for Buffs All In

Alumni Weekend: April 10–13

It’s time to return to Boulder! Alumni Weekend is your chance to reconnect with classmates, relive favorite campus memories and make new ones. From guided campus tours and scenic hikes at Chautauqua Park to milestone reunions and shared meals, this weekend is all about celebrating what it means to be a Forever Buff. We can’t wait to welcome you back.

Conference on World Affairs: April 13–16

The Conference on World Affairs (CWA) returns with a dynamic lineup of global changemakers, artists, scholars and activists. For over 75 years, the CWA has sparked dialogue on the issues that shape our world. Join in person or via livestream to experience CU Boulder’s commitment to curiosity, collaboration and impact. It’s free and open to the public.

Learn more about CWA

Buffs Give Back: April

Buffs Give Back invites alumni, family and friends to roll up their sleeves and serve their communities through meaningful volunteer projects. Whether you’re leading a local initiative or joining an existing one, this is your chance to make a difference with fellow Buffs. Join the herd in April for a day of service.

Stay informed about Buffs Give Back

Help out at Grad Bash: May

Graduation season kicks off with Grad Bash and is a great way for alumni to get involved through volunteering. Hosted on the lawn of the Koenig Alumni Center, Grad Bash will celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2026 as they prepare to become Forever Buffs. Help welcome the next generation of Buffs into the alumni community by signing up to volunteer at Grad Bash.

Mark your calendar for Grad Bash

Commencement: May 2

Commencement is a time to recognize the hard work and dedication of thousands of Buffs as they prepare for their next chapter after graduation. The day will be filled with speeches, food, music and traditions that honor the achievements of the Class of 2026. You can celebrate the future of CU Boulder’s newest graduates by attending in person at Folsom Field or watching the live stream.

Support new grads

Shakespeare Festival: May 30–Aug. 2

Summer in Boulder wouldn’t be complete without the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, running from May 30 to Aug. 2. This year, the CSF returns to the beloved Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre. From classic tragedies to delightful comedies, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival offers a diverse lineup for every theater enthusiast. Don’t miss the chance to experience world-class performances right on CU’s campus.

Get your tickets now

Other ways to stay connected

The CU Boulder Alumni Association makes it easy to get involved throughout the year. Find ways to connect and celebrate.

🌐 Join the Forever Buffs Network

✉️ Sign up for the volunteer newsletter

💛 Register for ForeverGold

🌎 Travel with Roaming Buffs

💼 Connect with Alumni Career Services

👍 Follow @CUBoulderAlumni on Instagram, Facebook and X

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Reunite with CU Boulder during Alumni Weekend

Anna Tolette — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 21:04:06 +0000

Reunite with CU Boulder during Alumni Weekend Anna Tolette Thu, 12/04/2025 - 14:04

Keeley Haynes

This spring, CU Boulder invites all Forever Buffs to celebrate Alumni Weekend. This year’s event is extra special — CU Boulder is turning 150! Come back to campus to be part of this milestone celebration.

Whether you are a new graduate missing your strolls around Norlin Quad, a parent wanting to share your college days with your family or a professional looking to network with other alumni, this is your weekend to be recognized. Save the date for April 10–13 to return to campus, relive college memories, reconnect with other alumni and remember why you will always be a part of the Buff Family.

Reconnect with campus

During the weekend, you will be able to get a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to be a current CU student. Take an exclusive tour of CU’s Athletics facilities to see where student athletes prepare to fight for victory. Discover the work students are conducting in newly renovated labs and academic buildings, and dine like a student at the C4C. Campus has so much to offer.

Explore Boulder

Alumni Weekend is about more than remembering your campus experience. It’s also about connecting with all Boulder has to offer. From local hikes to favorite dining locations, explore your favorite college spots like The Sink and new favorites like the Limelight Hotel. Experience the beauty of the Flatirons on a scenic hike through Chautauqua Park. Shop, dine and roam around Pearl Street and �Թ�� Hill — just like you did as a student. The Buff spirit never fades, so come to reminisce about why Boulder is such a remarkable college town.

Unite with new and old friends

While elite educational opportunities, endless activity offerings and undeniable natural beauty define CU Boulder, it is the people who make the university special. Reunite with your herd during Alumni Weekend. Milestone reunions will recognize the Class of 2021, 2001, 2016, 1986, 1976 and the Golden Anniversary Club (alumni who graduated 50+ years ago). Notable alumni will be honored at the 96th Annual Alumni Awards. Alumni Weekend is the perfect time to celebrate the bonds, achievements and memories that shape the Buff community.

Attend the Conference of World Affairs

Extend your trip to attend the annual Conference of World Affairs. Hear from innovative global leaders and experts on the world’s most pressing issues. Learn about recent developments in business, politics and media, and the arts. Connect with CU Boulder faculty, staff, students and other alumni through impactful conversations and extensive lecture series. Free and open to all, the conference will inform, inspire and engage the Boulder community from April 13–16.

Mark your calendars and get ready to rejoin your stampede! Alumni Weekend will be a nostalgic experience you do not want to miss.

Special Hotel Offers Available:

To elevate your Alumni Weekend stay, book a room at the Moxy Boulder or Limelight hotels for a discounted rate, while supplies last. Enjoy a stay at the Moxy for $179 per night (plus taxes and fees) if you book before March 9, or at the Limelight for $219 per night (plus taxes and fees) if you book before March 10.

Join us April 10–13 to reconnect with the people and places that make CU feel like home.

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10 Ways to Enjoy Winter in Boulder

Anna Tolette — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 17:13:36 +0000

10 Ways to Enjoy Winter in Boulder Anna Tolette Tue, 11/25/2025 - 10:13

Julia MacLean

If you are local to the Boulder area or visiting this winter, here are ways to enjoy campus and Boulder during the winter months.

Stop by one of CU Boulder’s many on-campus coffee shops. Find the perfect spot to relax and recharge.

Experience a performance with CU Presents. From live theater and dance to classical music and world-class guest artists, a diverse range of performances are offered throughout the winter season.

Enjoy a hearty meal at one of the many nearby restaurants on The Hill or Pearl Street. Check out these 10 Boulder dining favorites for a place to start.

Explore Boulder’s vibrant art scene through local indoor art galleries or the CU Art Museum to admire stunning works of art from both local and national artists. All are open to the public.

Head to CU Boulder’s recreation center or nearby gyms to get your body moving and build some heat.

Experiment with a new home-cooked recipe to relax and try something creative.

Bundle up, enjoy the crisp mountain air, and admire the scenic Flatiron views on a stroll through CU’s beautiful campus or along Boulder Creek Path.

Visit The Connection, CU Boulder’s on-campus bowling center, where it’s $3.50 per game for students and $5 per game for community members.

Cozy up in Norlin Library, CU’s on-campus public library, and get lost in the thousands of books in the Norlin Stacks.

Swing by one of Boulder’s indoor pickleball facilities to play a game or two.

For more resources, events, and ways to stay connected with the CU Boulder community, visit the CU Boulder Alumni Association and explore all the ways to get involved.

Check out Alumni Events

If you are local to the Boulder area or visiting this winter, here are ways to enjoy campus and Boulder during the winter months.

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Reunite with CU Boulder during Alumni Weekend

Reconnect with campus

Explore Boulder

Unite with new and old friends

Attend the Conference of World Affairs

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10 Ways to Enjoy Winter in Boulder

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Is there a recent sports trend that you’ve found especially interesting, exciting or meaningful? 

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