Alumni Stories

Celebrating National Volunteer Month with Rochelle Maki-Williams (Psych’96; ExecMBA’11)

Anna Tolette — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:18:57 +0000

Celebrating National Volunteer Month with Rochelle Maki-Williams (Psych’96; ExecMBA’11) Anna Tolette Tue, 04/21/2026 - 10:18

April is Buffs Give Back month, a time to celebrate the impact of Forever Buffs who give their time in meaningful ways. For Forever Buff Rochelle Maki-Williams, CU Boulder is where everything began, and where she continues to give back.

Rochelle met her husband, T.H, in the Cheyenne Arapahoe residence hall and built a close-knit group of friends who remain “her people” today. Years later, her connection to CU has come full circle, as her daughters now join in on campus festivities and football games.

She still finds joy in walking around campus and soaking in the nostalgia. And if there’s any doubt about her Buff pride, her black and gold-filled closet says it all.

Rochelle has been part of Denver Forever Buffs since 2011. She served on the advisory board, formally the CU Alumni Advisory Board, now known as the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, and held leadership roles for five years. She also currently serves on the Buffalo Belles board and stays closely connected to CU through game days, events and volunteer efforts.

Her volunteer work has made a lasting impact. Rochelle has shaped key programs, including the Alumni Awards and fundraising efforts for the Forever Buffs Denver Scholarship, both of which she’s especially proud.

“We simplified the application process and opened the nomination window earlier to encourage broader participation,” she said. “It’s a great reminder that small changes can create real, meaningful impact. I’m also incredibly proud of what our chapter has built collectively, raising thousands of dollars in scholarships to support Denver-area high school students on their way to CU Boulder. That one hits close to the heart.”

For Rochelle, giving back wasn’t sparked by a single moment, but a growing sense of gratitude for CU.

“CU had given me so much, and I genuinely wanted to give something back,” she said. “What keeps me coming back is the people. There’s something truly special about Buffs showing up for each other, and my motto says it best: “Buffs look after Buffs.” It’s meaningful, it’s energizing, and honestly, it’s just a lot of fun.”

One moment that stands out came during a volunteer project in partnership with Denver Health.

“A small group of elderly women pulled up and unloaded several boxes of handmade quilts for the Newborns in Need program, now the Hello Little One program,” she said. “It was such a simple, quiet act of kindness and a powerful reminder that impact doesn’t have to be grand to matter. Being part of something that directly supports newborns and their families really stayed with me.”

Forever Buffs volunteers are at the heart of so many programs. Rochelle describes them as dedicated, purposeful and unstoppable.

“Forever Buffs is one of the most welcoming communities you’ll ever walk into. You’ll meet incredible people, feel instantly at home and probably wonder why you waited so long.”

Getting involved starts with a single step. Attend a Forever Buffs event, check out the Forever Buffs Volunteer Hub or join the Forever Buffs Network to discover meaningful ways to connect, give back and make an impact alongside a community that’s ready to welcome you in.

Learn more about Forever Buffs volunteering

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Top 10 outdoor adventures in Boulder

Anna Tolette — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:17:29 +0000

Top 10 outdoor adventures in Boulder Anna Tolette Tue, 04/21/2026 - 10:17

One of the best parts about CU Boulder? Adventure is never far away. Whether you’re back for Homecoming, catching a Buffs game or just soaking up a little campus nostalgia, Boulder makes it easy to get outside, recharge and relive your college adventures.

1. Chautauqua Park

A Boulder classic that never disappoints. Hike the Flatirons, spread out a picnic or just sit back and take in those views that define the city’s iconic backdrop.

2. Farrand Field

Still the heart of campus life. Bring a hammock, toss a frisbee or just claim a patch of grass and enjoy the Flatirons like you did during your college days.

3. CU Rec Center

Game, set, match — with a view. Hit the tennis or pickleball courts, then cool off in the Buff Pool. Check out alumni discounted passes for more information.

4. Boulder Canyon

Big mountain energy, with minimal effort. Take this scenic drive, and if you have extra time, keep going to reach Nederland for a bite to eat.

5. Scott Carpenter Park

Just a short walk or bike ride from campus, this park is perfect for a quick outdoor reset. Slackline, play volleyball or take a dip in the pool for a low-key afternoon.

6. Royal Arch Trail

A true Buff bucket list hike. It’s a challenge, but the iconic arch and sweeping views make every step worth it.

7. Lost Gultch Overlook

Sunset here just hits different. Cruise up Flagstaff Mountain, bring some takeout and enjoy one of Boulder’s best sunset spots with dramatic views that never get old.

8. Eldorado Canyon State Park

A short drive west brings you to world-class climbing, hiking and river views. Enjoy the remote, rugged feel, just minutes from downtown Boulder.

9. Boulder Creek

Relax by the creek at Eben G Fine Park or head a bit up the canyon for stunning views alongside the rushing, icy water. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the rope swing for a cold splash and a little adrenaline rush.

10. Mount Sanitas Trail

Short, steep and a little humbling — in the best way. Squeeze in this quick but challenging hike with incredible views.

Top 10 CU Boulder traditions that bring Buffs together

Anna Tolette — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:37:06 +0000

Top 10 CU Boulder traditions that bring Buffs together Anna Tolette Wed, 04/15/2026 - 11:37

Julia MacLean

The University of Colorado Boulder is filled with traditions that define what it means to be a Buff. Whether it’s cheering on Ralphie as she charges across the field or celebrating milestones with fellow Buffs, these traditions bring students and alumni together in unforgettable ways. Here are 10 CU Boulder traditions that capture the spirit, pride and community of campus life.

Ralphie’s iconic run

The Ralphie run started in 1967 and remains one of the most iconic traditions at CU Boulder, featuring Ralphie, the school’s live buffalo mascot and one of the top mascots in the nation. She charges across the field at the start of every home football game and again near the end of halftime, led by a team of student handlers called Ralphie Runners. Her runs are a must-see moment that brings energy and school spirit to every game day.

Conference on World Affairs

The Conference on World Affairs celebrated its 78th year this spring, bringing together global leaders, experts and innovators for a week of engaging conversations on major world issues. Held annually, the event features more than 200 sessions over several days, covering topics from politics and technology to art and culture. It’s free and open to the public, and students get priority seating, making it a unique opportunity to hear diverse perspectives and be part of meaningful, real-world discussions.

Commencement

Commencement marks the culmination of the CU Boulder student experience. Graduates come together with friends, family and the Buffs community to recognize their achievements and reflect on their time on campus. Leading up to commencement, graduating students participate in traditions like Grad Bash, signing The Sink’s graffiti-covered ceiling and connecting at Senior Sunset. These moments create lasting memories as students close this chapter and officially join the Forever Buffs community.

The Coloradan

The Coloradan magazine is the official publication of CU Boulder, created to keep alumni, students and the broader Buffs community connected to the university. Published in print and online, it features stories about notable alumni, campus news, research and culture, all aimed at informing, inspiring and fostering a sense of community among Buffs past and present.

Homecoming

Homecoming is one of the university’s most cherished fall traditions, bringing together the Buffs community for a weekend of school spirit and connection. The celebration features signature events like the Stampede Parade and pep rally, tailgates and a football game at Folsom Field, all designed to celebrate Buff pride and reunite the Forever Buffs community.

CU Night at the Stock Show

CU Night at the National Western Stock Show unites Buffs from across generations to celebrate CU Boulder’s connection to Colorado’s western heritage. Held annually in Denver, it’s a unique opportunity to stay connected to the Buffs community beyond campus. In addition, the Alumni Association hosts CU Night at the Rockies and CU Night at Zoo Lights, creating more opportunities throughout the year to celebrate being a Buff.

BolderBoulder

The BolderBoulder is a Colorado Memorial Day tradition, drawing tens of thousands of runners, walkers and spectators to the streets of Boulder each year. Founded in 1979 as a small community race, it has grown into one of the largest and most celebrated 10Ks in the world, with over 50,000 participants of all ages and abilities. The event is known for its festive atmosphere, featuring live entertainment along the course, and its memorable finish inside Folsom Field.

Alumni Awards

The Alumni Awards are a longstanding tradition that honors outstanding members of the CU Boulder community who have made significant contributions in their fields and communities. Hosted during Alumni Weekend, the event celebrates excellence, leadership and impact. It’s a meaningful opportunity to recognize inspiring alumni while reconnecting with the university and fellow graduates.

Colorado Shakespeare Festival

The Colorado Shakespeare Festival is a beloved summer tradition that brings classic theater to life in an outdoor setting. Held annually since 1958, the festival features professional productions of Shakespeare’s plays and other works, performed under the stars at the historic and newly renovated Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre, as well as in the Roe Green Theatre. Known for its performances with the scenic backdrop of the Flatirons, the festival attracts thousands each year.

Nearly Naked Mile

The Nearly Naked Mile is one of CU Boulder’s most unusual traditions, combining fun with philanthropy. Hosted annually by The Herd, the event invites students to donate clothing to local nonprofits before stripping down to undergarments and running a one-mile course through campus. What might seem like a lighthearted, unconventional race is rooted in giving back, collecting hundreds and often thousands of clothing items for organizations supporting children and families in need.

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Heather Nuanes Tabano (Ebio’08)

Anna Tolette — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:21:37 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Heather Nuanes Tabano (Ebio’08) Anna Tolette Fri, 04/10/2026 - 09:21

Sara Muderick

Heather Nuanes Tabano, a 2008 graduate in ecology and evolutionary biology, continues to carry forward the same sense of excitement in her volunteer work with CU Boulder that defined her first day as a Buff. Whether fostering connections through the Alumni Association and Forever Buffs Latinx or simply reflecting under the trees at Norlin Quad, Heather’s CU journey continues to shape both who she is and how she shows up for others.

What’s your favorite CU memory?

I have so many great memories of my time at CU Boulder, but the first day on campus will always stick with me. I remember feeling so much hope and excitement for the future.

Who or what inspires you?

My North Star is my son, Luca. He inspires me everyday. He pushes me to find answers to questions I don’t yet know and understand complex issues so I can help explain the world to him. He motivates me to be better and to do more.

Why do you volunteer?

I volunteer my time and effort because it not only makes me feel good but also helps strengthen my community. Everyone has something to offer, whether it’s talent, knowledge or simply their time, and those contributions help make more good things possible.

What is your favorite way to volunteer for CU Boulder?

My favorite way to volunteer for CU Boulder is through the Alumni Association and Forever Buffs Latinx. It’s an awesome experience to connect with other groups to plan and promote Homecoming and Alumni Weekend events. We’ve also had the opportunity to support our future alumni — current students — through a variety of campus initiatives. Helping with the Latiné Buff Meetup this year was especially memorable; seeing such a strong sense of support and community on campus was truly heartwarming.

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Laura Bruns (EnvSt’99, MA’05)

Anna Tolette — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:28:23 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Laura Bruns (EnvSt’99, MA’05) Anna Tolette Mon, 03/23/2026 - 10:28

Sara Muderick

Laura Bruns (EnvSt’99, MA’05) knows that Buff pride doesn’t end at graduation. Through her volunteer work, Laura helps keep CU Boulder’s alumni community strong while giving back to a place that means so much to her. Whether welcoming new graduates or supporting alumni initiatives, she believes even small acts of service can make a long-lasting, meaningful impact.

As a member of the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, Laura works alongside a group of dedicated volunteers who represent CU Boulder’s diverse alumni community and encourage engagement among Forever Buffs. The board strives to be an inclusive and representative voice for alumni, expanding the reach and impact of the Forever Buffs community.

Laura is also a Forever Buffs Denver board member, where she helps the local group plan Game Watches and other engaging and innovative events. She also helps fundraise for the Forever Buffs Denver Scholarship Fund each year.

Read on to learn more about Laura’s contributions to CU Boulder and why giving back remains such a rewarding part of her Forever Buffs journey.

What’s your favorite CU Boulder memory?

I will never forget the first time I saw snow dusted on the Flatirons with the sun shining brightly in the sky. Growing up in the Midwest, cold and sunny simply do not go together, so the moment felt unbelievable. In my first 18 years of life, I had never felt simultaneously cold and happy. There was snow on the ground, the air was crisp and the sun was shining. It was such a wild phenomenon, and it is one that will forever keep me in the state of Colorado.

Who or what inspires you?

Every two years, I am immensely inspired by the Olympics, especially the athletes whose journeys include training through war-torn infrastructure or overcoming profound personal loss. Hearing their stories and watching them compete on the world’s biggest athletic stage always puts things into perspective for me. While they certainly possess incredible physical talent, what truly sets them apart is their mental fortitude.

Why do you volunteer?

It is important to me to try to make a positive difference in the world whenever I can, even if that difference is small. Volunteering is incredibly fulfilling, and in a world that can sometimes feel out of control, it reminds me that there are still meaningful ways to contribute and make things just a little bit better.

What is your favorite way to volunteer for CU Boulder?

For the past five years, I have served on the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, which has been rewarding in so many ways. One of the more memorable experiences recently was volunteering at Grad Bash. Despite the rainy weather, the event was filled with so much joy and hope. Seeing students celebrate such an exciting milestone made it clear that maybe the kids really are going to be all right.

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Freya Nagy (Psych, Neuro’27)

Anna Tolette — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 20:40:00 +0000

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Freya Nagy (Psych, Neuro’27) Anna Tolette Mon, 03/16/2026 - 14:40

Freya Nagy (Psych, Neuro’27) of Lakewood, Colorado always had her sights set on attending CU Boulder. What she found was a community that quickly felt like home.

While exploring ways to get involved at the Be Involved Fair, Freya found Senior Class Council (SCC), a student-led group dedicated to building connections and celebrating the senior experience. The opportunity to bring students together excitedly stood out.

Now serving as the senior gift manager for SCC, Freya helps lead fundraising efforts for the Senior Class Gift, including the Seniors Creating Future Buffs scholarship, which supports future CU Boulder students.

This student-contribution led effort reflects a powerful tradition of seniors giving back to support the next generation of Forever Buffs to begin their journey at CU Boulder.

Read on to learn more about Freya, SCC and how their collective action is fostering a lifelong spirit of giving at CU Boulder.

What is your favorite part about being SCC’s senior gift manager?

The people I get to work with are my favorite part of this position. The current director, Aly Young, is one of the most driven, hardworking people I’ve ever met, and it’s genuinely inspiring to get to work alongside her. It’s also incredible to be a part of the scholarship process here at CU. Getting to play even a small role in making college a little more accessible for a future Buff makes the work feel meaningful.

What does philanthropy mean to you?

Philanthropy means giving back to your community and making someone’s life just a little bit better. It can be something as small as holding the door for someone or giving them a compliment on a hard day, or something bigger such as creating and awarding a scholarship that helps ease the financial burden of college.

What advice would you give students or young alumni who want to make an impact but aren’t sure where to start?

You don’t need a big title or a lot of authority to make a meaningful difference. Impact doesn’t start with position; it starts with intention. Sometimes it’s as simple as donating a small amount to one of the many scholarships here at CU, showing up to volunteer at move-in or graduation, or reconnecting with a program that shaped your own experience as a student.

Real change rarely comes from one huge, headline-making gesture. More often, it’s built through a collection of small, consistent contributions of time, energy and resources from numerous individuals. Start with what genuinely matters to you and take one step. From there, the impact naturally grows.

Looking ahead, what kind of legacy of giving do you hope to help build at CU Boulder?

I hope to encourage a community here at CU that’s rooted in collective collaboration and fosters a genuine sense of belonging for all students. To me, being a Buff isn’t just a four-year experience; it’s a lifelong identity. If we can create a culture where students feel supported, seen, and invested in, they’ll carry that with them and want to give back, strengthening what it means to be a Forever Buff.

Once a Buff, Always a Buff — Stay Connected Through the Forever Buffs Network

Anna Tolette — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:31:53 +0000

Once a Buff, Always a Buff — Stay Connected Through the Forever Buffs Network Anna Tolette Thu, 03/12/2026 - 10:31

Sara Muderick

As a CU Boulder alum, your connection to the university doesn’t have to end at graduation. Whether you’re five years into your career, launching a business or considering your next pivot, the Forever Buffs Network is your space to stay engaged, give back and keep growing alongside fellow Buffs.

The Forever Buffs Network is a free online community built on a simple idea: Buffs help Buffs. It’s where alumni across industries, cities and generations connect to exchange advice, open doors and strengthen the CU community.

Whether you’re looking to mentor, seeking guidance or simply hoping to expand your professional circle, here’s how the Forever Buffs Network supports alumni at every stage.

Career growth: For leaders and learners alike

Did you know there’s a job board created specifically for CU alumni?

Navigating career growth doesn’t stop after your first job. Whether you’re stepping into leadership, exploring a new industry or hiring for your organization, the Forever Buffs Network provides access to exclusive job postings and direct connections with fellow alumni in your field.

For those looking to give back, mentorship is one of the most meaningful ways to stay connected. Experienced alumni can share industry insights, leadership lessons and real-world advice with Buffs eager to grow. And if you’re the one seeking guidance? You’ll find alumni who are ready to invest time into your success.

Find your people: Wherever life takes you

The Buff community spans far beyond Boulder.

Through regional groups like Forever Buffs New York and Forever Buffs Washington D.C., alumni stay connected across the country. Whether you’ve relocated for work, family or a new adventure, there’s likely a network of Buffs nearby.

There are plenty of opportunities for Buffs to connect through hobbies, professions, sports and even through your CU college. Love cheering on the Buffs at Folsom Field? Join Forever Buffs Football Fans. Whether you graduated from the College of Engineering and Applied Science or the College of Communication, Media, Design and Information, there’s a Forever Buffs network for you.

Support Buff-owned businesses

Forever Buffs Business Directory makes it easy to connect with and support Buff businesses.

Discover Buff-owned restaurants, retail shops, startups and professional services — whether you’re hiring a consultant, seeking a new service provider or simply looking to shop local. For alumni business owners, the directory also serves as a valuable networking tool to build partnerships and grow within the Buff community.

Stay informed with Buff’s Buzz

By joining the Forever Buffs Network, you’ll have access to the monthly email newsletter Buff’s Buzz with exciting news and updates about CU Boulder and the Forever Buffs Community. Get notified about alumni game watches for CU Athletics, learn about students excelling on campus and enjoy seasonally inspired content.

Join the Forever Buffs Network

It’s never too late to reconnect, mentor, grow or give back.

Join more than 19,000 alumni who are building careers, strengthening communities and supporting one another through the Forever Buffs Network. Expand your professional reach, make an impact as a mentor or find guidance as you navigate your next chapter.

Because being a Buff isn’t just four years — it’s a lifelong community.

Join the Forever Buffs Network

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Here’s What CU Boulder �鶹��Ժ Say about Philanthropy at CU Boulder: A Q&A Roundtable with Student Leaders

Anna Tolette — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:22:13 +0000

Here’s What CU Boulder �鶹��Ժ Say about Philanthropy at CU Boulder: A Q&A Roundtable with Student Leaders Anna Tolette Thu, 03/12/2026 - 10:22

Pike on a Bike, The White Line and the Fight for Pedestrian Safety

March is Buffs All In when CU Boulder celebrates the impact we can achieve through collective giving. At its heart, philanthropy is about people coming together and supporting causes that are meaningful to them.

Philanthropy builds a community of support where students are part of something bigger together. It is in action all around CU Boulder, fostering Buff pride and making our campus a better place.

To demonstrate the power of collective action and giving back, we asked different philanthropic student leaders to share their stories of impact and the ways they are building CU Boulder’s culture of giving — one action, one donation and one event at a time.

CU �鶹��Ժ featured in Philanthropy Q&A:

Ari Hadel (Eco, PoliSci’28), Vice President of Community Relations of Pi Beta Phi

Andres Bustindui (MechEng’27), Member of Herd Leadership Council and Pi Kappa Alpha

Rachel Gaydos (SLHSci’26), Co-President of CU Special Olympics

Clementine Cerai (Soc’26), Vice President of CU Special Olympics

Sierra Dunlap (MCDBio’28), President of Circle K International at CU

Natalia Matthews (StratComm’28), President of Letters of Love at CU and Pi Beta Phi member

How did you get involved in your current position?

Bustindui: “I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself on campus. I’ve always been drawn to leadership and initiative, and when I saw the opportunity to contribute, I stepped up. I believe that if you care about your community, you don’t wait for someone else to act. You take responsibility and help make it happen.”

Gaydos: "I have been involved with Special Olympics for nearly a decade. When I transferred to CU Boulder, I made it my mission to create a Special Olympics program. I helped get this club off the ground, but it could not be where it is today without students and community members continuously showing up and dedicating their time to the success and wellbeing of the club. "

Matthews: “I got involved by reaching out to the head of the non-profit to see if Letters of Love was still affiliated at CU. After learning it wasn’t, I took the initiative this past fall to contact campus organizations like CUSG and CSI to follow the steps to complete the reinstatement process. Eventually, I was able to complete the entire reinstatement process to proudly make Letters of Love a recognized student organization at CU Boulder again.”

CU Special Olympics club

What does philanthropy mean to you?

Hadel: “Philanthropy is about giving back to causes that have personal significance but also allows people to learn from and become more aware of prevalent issues that affect the people in our communities.”

Gaydos: “Philanthropy means using your time, skills and voice to create opportunities for others. It’s not just about donating money; it’s about showing up consistently and investing in the people around you. It’s about building relationships within your community.”

Dunlap: “Philanthropy means giving back without the expectation of recognition or a reward in return. It means doing something for the good of your community. Nothing compares to seeing the direct difference you’ve made in someone else’s life, no matter how small the action may seem.”

Matthews: “Philanthropy means utilizing leadership and membership to create a meaningful impact for a greater cause. I’ve seen how small acts of kindness, like writing a letter, can make someone’s day and make them feel truly seen as well as cared for. Philanthropy isn’t just a singular event or requirement to me; it’s a mindset rooted in empathy and collective action.”

Give a Slice, Get a Slice Event, CU Boulder Circle K International Food Drive for Food Bank of the Rockies

What do you see as the impact of philanthropy on CU Boulder as a community?

Bustindui: "Philanthropy strengthens CU by creating unity beyond academics and social groups. It gives students a shared purpose. When organizations rally around a cause, it builds empathy, leadership and accountability. It also shifts the narrative, showing that students aren’t just here to study or socialize, but to contribute and make a difference in Boulder and beyond.”

Ceria: “Philanthropy allows our CU Boulder community to feel more united through the common goal of creating a campus that is accessible to all people. With CU Special Olympics, we create a space where people can connect with others through sports and the common goal of growing as an athlete, being friends to all and building others' confidence on and off the court.”

Dunlap: “It brings people together. CU is a huge campus, and it is easy to feel small, but being involved in something that directly brings the community together makes you feel more connected. It even just provides you with another person to recognize and smile at!”

Matthews: “Philanthropy tremendously strengthens CU Boulder as a community by creating connections across different organizations and communities. When students come together to support a cause they truly care about, it creates an amazing community rooted in shared values rather than competition. It helps remind us as students that we’re part of something much bigger, and when we all come together we can make a big impact.”

What can students do now to get involved or give back?

Bustindui: “Everyone can engage in philanthropy; all they need to do is be willing and take action. �鶹��Ժ can begin by volunteering at events, going to fundraisers or joining service-oriented organizations. To make an impression, you don't need a title. Being present on a regular basis counts.”

Gaydos: “In many ways, showing up is giving back. Your time, energy and consistency are what make programs like CU Special Olympics possible. The connections and sense of belonging our members experience come directly from students who commit to being there for them.”

Dunlap: “Join a philanthropic club! There are so many, and we often attempt to collaborate, so there is definitely something for everyone! Even just showing up once will make a huge difference.”

Join us during March to learn more about how philanthropy impacts campus.

Get Involved in Buffs All In

March is Buffs All In when CU Boulder celebrates the impact we can achieve through collective giving. We asked different philanthropic student leaders to share their stories of impact and the ways they are building CU Boulder’s culture of giving — one action, one donation and one event at a time.

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Your Forever Buffs journey starts now: Stay connected

Laura Duncan — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 20:08:45 +0000

Your Forever Buffs journey starts now: Stay connected Laura Duncan Fri, 03/06/2026 - 13:08

Julia MacLean

The fear of missing out (FOMO) is something many of us feel during life’s biggest transitions, and graduation is definitely one of them. As the Class of 2026 counts down to going from student to alumni, FOMO can look like missing Homecoming, not taking advantage of exclusive alumni benefits or losing touch with the friends and mentors who shaped your time at CU Boulder.

The good news? You can avoid it. As you prepare for 2026 commencement and your next chapter, make sure your contact information is up to date so you don’t miss a single moment or benefit of your Forever Buffs journey!

Here’s why staying in the loop matters:

1️⃣ You’re invited!

The fun doesn’t stop after graduation. Homecoming, Alumni Weekend and special events hosted by your school or college happen throughout the year, and you’re invited to it all!

CU Boulder alumni events are packed with excitement — whether it’s a reunion, networking meetups or even a classic Folsom Field football game. Keep your contact information updated to hear about alumni events. Plus, your five-year reunion will come sooner than you think!

2️⃣ Level up your career

Graduation doesn’t mean goodbye to career support. As a new alum, you still have access to career fairs, networking events, workshops and unlimited career advising during your first year, all through Alumni Career Services.

Staying connected means you’ll receive alumni-specific job opportunities, professional development resources and invitations to networking events, which are all designed to help you succeed beyond campus.

3️⃣ Exclusive benefits and Buffs perks

From free mentorship to alumni discounts and continuing education opportunities, there are real perks to being a Forever Buff. You can join the Forever Buffs Network for exclusive alumni benefits, and Forever Buffs have access to special alumni discounts.

Keeping your contact information current ensures you don’t miss alumni-only offers, early event access and exclusive deals. Check out other Forever Buffs alumni benefits.

4️⃣ Stay in the know

Graduation marks the beginning of your alumni story, and there’s always something happening at CU Boulder worth celebrating.

Through the Coloradan alumni magazine, Forever Buffs Insider alumni newsletter and other special communications, you’ll stay connected to campus milestones, inspiring alumni achievements and the continued evolution of your alma mater. Bragging rights included.

5️⃣ Keep the Buffs bond strong

The hardest part of graduating? Leaving behind the people who made Boulder feel like home. From late-night study sessions to senior sunrise moments, those connections matter.

Staying connected ensures you remain part of the Forever Buffs community long after May 2. Alumni events, reunions and networking meetups keep that bond strong.

Update your information

FOMO is real. Especially during commencement season. But it’s easy to avoid. Updating your contact information ensures you’ll receive:

Alumni welcome communications

Event registration reminders

Alumni newsletters and updates

Post-graduation resources and benefits

Class of 2026, you’ve worked hard for this moment. Don’t miss what comes next.

Update your information today and step confidently into your Forever Buffs journey.

Update your information ➡️

As you prepare for 2026 commencement and embark on your next chapter, update your contact information to stay informed about events, programs and benefits for your Forever Buffs journey.

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Top 10 places to visit in Boulder this spring

Anna Tolette — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 20:58:18 +0000

Top 10 places to visit in Boulder this spring Anna Tolette Tue, 03/03/2026 - 13:58

Sara Muderick

Whether you’re returning for Alumni Weekend, call Boulder home or planning a weekend getaway, there’s no better place to revisit this spring than the University of Colorado Boulder. From campus favorites to new discoveries, here are a few ways to reminisce and reconnect.

1. Folsom Field

Grab your tickets for this year’s AT&T Black & Gold Day, April 11. Rain, snow or shine, you can watch the spring game while you celebrate, kick back and enjoy classic stadium food with fellow Buffs.

2. Colorado Shakespeare Festival

The Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre is back after last year’s renovations, welcoming audiences once again. The Colorado Shakespeare Festival returns to the iconic open-air venue for a season of drama, romance and unforgettable evenings set against the Flatirons.

3. CU Boulder Student Recreation Center

Whether you’re squeezing in a workout, playing pickleball or tennis on the rooftop or taking a dip in the Buff Pool, the Rec Center is a campus staple.

4. Limelight Hotel Boulder and Moxy Boulder

Check out these two fantastic hotels right across from campus. Both are great places to stay for Alumni Weekend with discounted rates. The Limelight Hotel even features a new CU Book Store to grab some fresh Buffs gear.

5. Varsity Lake

Stroll through campus and snap some updated Forever Buff photos at Varsity Lake. It’s the perfect place to sit on a bench, read, enjoy lunch or reconnect with an old friend while soaking up the fresh spring air.

6. The Sink

After a walk around The Hill and a visit to your old college house, stop by this iconic restaurant and see if you can find your name somewhere written on the walls.

7. Hellems Arts and Sciences Building

Stop by the newly reopened Hellems Building, a project two years in the making. Designed with sustainability and student success in mind, the revitalized space reflects CU’s Arts and Sciences commitment to a liberal arts education.

8. Farrand Field

Lay out a towel and enjoy a picnic lunch with the perfect mountain view. And don’t forget a now-and-then photo under the Farrand Field arch.

9. Chautauqua Park

What better way to enjoy Boulder than a trip to Chautauqua? Climb the Second Flatiron, hike to Royal Arch or enjoy lunch at the Chautauqua Dining Hall. Forever Buffs can even join an exclusive Alumni Weekend scenic hike around the park.

10. Pearl Street Mall

Ring in the spring season with a stroll past the tulips on Pearl Street. Revisit an old favorite restaurant or discover somewhere new — it’s the perfect way to wrap up a Boulder weekend.

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Top 10 places to visit in Boulder this spring

1. Folsom Field

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5. Varsity Lake

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7. Hellems Arts and Sciences Building

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