Announcements & Deadlines

2 CU 91��Ҹ� honorees receive President's Inclusive Excellence Awards

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 08 May 2026 16:50:10 +0000

2 CU 91��Ҹ� honorees receive President's Inclusive Excellence Awards Megan M Rogers Fri, 05/08/2026 - 10:50

CU 91��Ҹ� graduate student Connor Antonio Diaz and Assistant Dean Patricia Gonzalez were among five systemwide recipients of the CU President’s Inclusive Excellence Awards this year. The annual awards honor individuals and units from across the 91��Ҹ� who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and made significant contributions to building an environment where everyone can thrive.

Connor Antonio Diaz

A fourth-year graduate student in the Department of Geological Sciences, Diaz is striving to increase accessibility in STEM, improve pathways for underrepresented students and integrate inclusivity across educational, research and civic settings. By taking part in community and civic activities, he has learned strategies that inform his teaching and mentoring.

Diaz volunteers for the Denver Special Education Advisory Committee, a Denver Public Schools advisory group dedicated to improving outcomes for students with disabilities through collaborative and intentional community engagement. His activities have included providing technical reviews of policy documents, presenting on research-based recommendations to city and state officials, and contributing to legislation (Colorado House Bill 25-1017) to protect the rights of people with disabilities.

Diaz also volunteers for the Gigi’s Playhouse network of Down Syndrome Achievement Centers, where he helps design STEM teaching modules, trains behavioral therapists in STEM integration and leads family-focused science events.

In his lab activities for an introductory geology course, Diaz implemented multimodal instruction—i.e., introducing concepts using visual, tactile and verbal approaches—to engage students in learning through multiple cognitive pathways, which can be helpful for students with ADHD.

Patricia Gonzalez

The transformative impact of Gonzalez reaches within and far beyond her corner of CU 91��Ҹ�. In her role as assistant dean of the Office for Access and Community Engagement (ACE) in the College of Arts and Sciences, she supports students, faculty and staff. Among her first initiatives after arriving on campus in 2021 was the establishment of the ACE Mentoring Program for staff and faculty, pairing mentors and mentees to support greater understanding of the college and CU 91��Ҹ�.

Gonzalez is intentional about ensuring every member of the college, regardless of title or position, has a voice. She works to elevate the potential she sees in those whose talents might otherwise be overlooked.

As co-founder and co-chair of the JEDI Leaders Community of Practice, Gonzalez helped build a community of over 128 members across CU 91��Ҹ�. The structure and purpose of this engaged network of professionals was informed by Gonzalez’s clear vision of community, shared leadership and transparency. Her ability to cultivate a trusted, supportive environment has empowered JEDI leaders to engage in honest reflection, exchange strategies, learn from one another and build resilience.

Gonzalez also manages the 91��Ҹ� County Latina League Empower Program, providing scholarships and student support, and leads the College of Arts and Sciences Action Plan 2.0 planning committee.

Beyond the college, her collaboration with the CU Police Department resulted in critical changes to police training, while her effort to ensure emergency alerts are delivered in multiple languages led to the improvement of safety and inclusion for thousands of students, faculty and staff. Gonzalez also played a vital role in campuswide efforts to ensure staff members receive parental leave upon hiring, creating parity with faculty and promoting a healthier, more humane work environment for all.

Gonzales holds a Doctor of Education.

CU 91��Ҹ� graduate student Connor Antonio Diaz and Assistant Dean Patricia Gonzalez were among five systemwide recipients of the CU President’s Inclusive Excellence Awards this year.

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Call for nominations: 2027 Regent Awards

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:27:43 +0000

Call for nominations: 2027 Regent Awards Megan M Rogers Fri, 05/08/2026 - 09:27

Each year, the Board of Regents, along with faculty members from each campus, award extraordinary individuals with honorary degrees, university medals and distinguished service awards.

Nomination rules

A person may not nominate themselves.
A current university employee may not be nominated.
A public official currently serving in office may not be nominated.
A public official may be nominated two years after completion of their term of office.
A regent may submit a nomination but must recuse themselves from commenting and voting on the nomination.

An honorary degree is the highest award the 91��Ҹ� can bestow. It is the policy of the regents to award this degree in recognition of outstanding achievement in one or more of the following areas: intellectual contributions, university service, public service and/or philanthropy.

University medals are awarded in recognition of those persons whose achievements and contributions are particularly associated with the university.

Distinguished service awards are awarded in recognition of achievements and contributions particularly associated with the state and/or nation.

The deadline for nominations is Aug. 1. Please visit the regents website for information on the Regent Awards nomination process and to complete the nomination form.

The Board of Regents is now accepting nominations for the 2027 honorary degrees, university medals and distinguished service awards. Deadline is Aug. 1.

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CU 91��Ҹ� recognized as Colorado's leading college blood donation site

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 07 May 2026 20:47:18 +0000

CU 91��Ҹ� recognized as Colorado's leading college blood donation site Megan M Rogers Thu, 05/07/2026 - 14:47

Members of Staff Council’s Blood Drive and Community Service Committee accepted the Campus Leadership in Giving Award at Vitalant’s annual Lifelines event.

CU 91��Ҹ� has earned statewide recognition as the top college blood donor in Colorado, a distinction that reflects an extraordinary year of impact, leadership and community commitment through its 2025–26 academic year blood drives. Members of Staff Council’s Blood Drive and Community Service Committee accepted the Campus Leadership in Giving Award at Vitalant’s annual Lifelines event on April 29.

In partnership with Vitalant, CU 91��Ҹ� Staff Council played a central role in organizing and hosting four highly successful blood drives throughout the academic year. Together, they mobilized students, faculty and staff to step forward and support a critical community need—ensuring hospitals have access to lifesaving blood supplies.

One of the most meaningful highlights from these efforts was the introduction of 194 first-time blood donors. These individuals represent more than just a single donation; they are the future of Colorado’s blood supply. Many may never have donated without the university's outreach and advocacy, and their continued participation has the potential to save countless lives in the years ahead.

CU 91��Ҹ�’s drives were not only impactful, they were consistently strong. The university collected an average of 52 units per day across the four drives, contributing to an impressive 619 units of red cell and whole blood donations. When including plasma and additional red cell units, the total climbed to 654 units for the year, underscoring the scale and success of the initiative.

Save the date: Blood drives Sept. 22–24

The real measure of this achievement lies in its impact on the community. These donations will help provide lifesaving blood products to an estimated 1,962 individuals across 91��Ҹ� County. Behind that number are real stories: patients undergoing surgery, individuals battling chronic illness, accident victims, and families relying on the availability of safe blood.

This recognition is not just a milestone; it is a testament to the CU 91��Ҹ� community’s deep commitment to service and collective impact. Fueled by the generosity of students, faculty and staff, and supported through its long-standing partnership with Vitalant, the university is well-positioned to build on this momentum and expand its lifesaving impact in the years ahead.

Be sure to mark your calendars for Staff Council’s upcoming blood drives Sept. 22–24.

CU 91��Ҹ� has been recognized by Vitalant as the top college blood donation site in the state of Colorado. Members of Staff Council accepted the Campus Leadership in Giving Award at the annual Lifelines event.

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CU 91��Ҹ� blood drive in 2017 (Bonfils is now Vitalant). Photo by Glenn Asakawa/CU 91��Ҹ�.

BOLDER91��Ҹ� to eliminate plastic water bottles at Folsom Field finish line

Megan M Rogers — Wed, 06 May 2026 15:01:19 +0000

BOLDER91��Ҹ� to eliminate plastic water bottles at Folsom Field finish line Megan M Rogers Wed, 05/06/2026 - 09:01

Planning to run the BOLDER91��Ҹ� this year? Expect something new at the Folsom Field finish line.

The BOLDER91��Ҹ� 10K has announced a major sustainability milestone for the 2026 race, eliminating plastic water bottles at the finish line. The initiative is a collaborative effort with CU 91��Ҹ�.

Beginning with this year’s event, all finish-line hydration will transition to a more environmentally friendly model, designed to reduce waste while maintaining the highest standards of participant care.

To ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, each finisher will receive a commemorative aluminum cup filled with water after crossing the finish line. In addition, multiple refill stations will be conveniently located outside the stadium, allowing participants to easily rehydrate following the race. Participants are encouraged to take advantage of the refill stations and to properly reuse or recycle the aluminum cups following use.

The elimination of plastic water bottles is directly in line with ongoing recycling and composting efforts at Folsom Field. With the founding of Ralphie’s Green Stampede in 2008, Folsom Field became the first zero-waste football stadium in the nation, and sustainability is a priority for all events held at the venue.

The new BOLDER91��Ҹ� initiative aligns with broader efforts across the CU 91��Ҹ� campus and 91��Ҹ� community to reduce single-use plastics and promote environmentally conscious event operations.

“This is an important step forward for the BOLDER91��Ҹ� as we continue to evolve and lead in ways that reflect the values of our community,” said race director Cliff Bosley. “Working alongside CU 91��Ҹ�, we are proud to introduce a solution that reduces our environmental footprint while still prioritizing the health, safety and experience of every participant.”

The initiative is supported by Nike, which will serve as the presenting sponsor of the aluminum cups distributed to participants.

Additional sustainability efforts for the 2026 BOLDER91��Ҹ�

All participant race shirts are made from 100% GRS-certified recycled materials, reducing the environmental impact of race apparel production.
A continued partnership with We Don't Waste to ensure that unused food items from race weekend are redirected to individuals and communities in need of support.

“CU 91��Ҹ� is proud to partner with the BOLDER91��Ҹ�, one of our community’s most iconic events, to bring a shared commitment to sustainability into action,” said CU 91��Ҹ� Chancellor Justin Schwartz.

“This initiative reflects how we approach sustainability at CU 91��Ҹ�: through collaboration, innovation and strong partnerships across our community. Together, we’re helping deliver solutions that reduce environmental impact while enhancing the experience for participants and demonstrating how campus and community can come together to drive meaningful change.”

The BOLDER91��Ҹ�, the third largest race in the United States and the largest 10K in the world, annually welcomes more than 50,000 participants to 91��Ҹ� on Memorial Day. The race finishes inside Folsom Field, where 40,000 spectators celebrate runners as they complete the race.

Get more information about the 2026 BOLDER91��Ҹ�.

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Record number of graduates celebrated at 2026 Commencement Ceremony

Greg B Swenson — Sat, 02 May 2026 13:37:03 +0000

Record number of graduates celebrated at 2026 Commencement Ceremony Greg B Swenson Sat, 05/02/2026 - 07:37

CU 91��Ҹ� conferred a record 10,613 degrees—earned by 10,198 graduates—during the commencement ceremony on May 2, where an estimated 40,000 graduates, family members and friends celebrated under a crystal clear blue sky.

More than 165 faculty from colleges, schools and departments across campus also turned out to wish the graduates well at the ceremony.

After introductory remarks from commencement marshal Leigh Holman, Chancellor Justin Schwartz introduced commencement speaker Kristin Davis, best known for her role as Charlotte York in the HBO series “Sex and the City” and its revival “And Just Like That…”

“Take this moment in,” Davis said to the graduates. “You have formed powerful bonds through your experience here at this beautiful university at the feet of the Rocky Mountains. You have worked hard. I’m pretty sure you have played hard, as well. Know that you are ready for the next chapter.”

Schwartz then conferred degrees to the fall 2025 graduates and spring and summer 2026 candidates: 7,980 undergraduate degrees, 1,763 master's degrees, 481 doctoral degrees, 193 law degrees and 196 MBAs.

“My deepest hope for you is that your growth does not stop today,” Schwartz said. “The world ahead will keep changing, and the choices you make to keep learning and adapting will shape your path forward. And how you grow will ultimately determine how the world itself changes.”

Watch the video recording

Read the speech transcripts

Senior Class Council Director Ally Young concluded the ceremony by challenging her fellow graduates:

"Find balance in tradition and change-making," Young said. "There’s no Google Maps to guide us toward our destinations post-graduation. So—open your eyes and chart the map for yourself. Class of 2026—thank you and Sko Buffs."

During the ceremony, ROTC members, veterans, the 2026 Hazel Barnes Prize winner, the Chancellor Recognition Award recipients (students who received straight A's throughout their entire college career) and honorary doctorate degree recipients were all honored.

Dozens of spring recognition ceremonies across CU 91��Ҹ�’s colleges, schools, departments and programs will continue throughout the weekend, featuring distinguished alumni speakers including astronaut Sarah Gillis; Beryl Stafford, founder and owner of Bobo’s Oat Bars; and Grammy Award–winning bass vocalist Wei Wu.

Commencement day in photos

Click images to enlarge. Photos by Glenn Asakawa, Casey Cass, Derek Marckel (CU 91��Ҹ�/CU Athletics).

What the Class of 2026 wants you to know

Read words of wisdom from some of the many talented and innovative students who are graduating and starting on their next adventures. As they become Forever Buffs, they leave their inspirational legacies—with advice and reflection—for those who follow.

Discover the 2026 outstanding graduates

In tandem with the 2026 Commencement Ceremony, the university community is celebrating the outstanding graduates from across campus.

Read more commencement stories

CU 91��Ҹ� conferred 10,613 degrees—earned by 10,198 graduates—during the commencement ceremony, where an estimated 40,000 graduates, family members, friends and faculty members celebrated under a crystal clear blue sky.

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Distinguished Professor Lee Niswander wins Hazel Barnes Prize

Megan M Rogers — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:27:26 +0000

Distinguished Professor Lee Niswander wins Hazel Barnes Prize Megan M Rogers Wed, 04/29/2026 - 11:27

Bradley Worrell

Lee Niswander, distinguished professor in the CU 91��Ҹ� Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, has been awarded the 2026 Hazel Barnes Prize.

Established in 1991 by former Chancellor James Corbridge to honor the late Hazel Barnes, CU 91��Ҹ� professor of philosophy from 1953 to 1986, the $20,000 Hazel Barnes Prize celebrates the enriching interrelationship between teaching and research. It is the largest and most prestigious award funded by the university.

“Professor Niswander exemplifies the very best of CU 91��Ҹ� through groundbreaking research and a deep commitment to teaching and mentorship,” said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. “Her scholarly impact, departmental leadership and dedication to students reflect both the spirit of the Hazel Barnes Prize and the values Hazel Barnes herself championed. We are proud to honor Dr. Lee Niswander for her lasting contributions to our university and to her field.”

Inside the work of Lee Niswander

Niswander received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from CU 91��Ҹ�, her master’s degree in biochemistry and genetics from 91��Ҹ� Health Sciences Center (now CU Anschutz) and her doctorate in genetics from Case Western University. She received her postdoctoral degree in developmental biology from the University of California San Francisco.

Since 2017, Niswander has served as professor of molecular, cellular and developmental biology (MCDB) at CU 91��Ҹ�. She was the chair of MCDB from 2017 to 2025.

As head of the Niswander Lab, she and her group investigate mouse 91��Ҹ� of embryonic development to provide insights into fundamental developmental processes, major human birth defects and potential clinical therapies. Her studies have revealed the molecular mechanisms that control formation of the central and peripheral nervous system, as well as lung, limb and neuromuscular development.

Niswander’s current focus is on early brain formation and birth defects that arise when normal brain formation goes awry, like failure of neural tube closure or maintenance of neural progenitor cells, resulting in spina bifida or microcephaly.

The Niswander Lab uses the mouse embryo and human-induced pluripotent stem cells as 91��Ҹ� of human development. The lab’s studies encompass genetics, epigenetics, environmental factors and live imaging to couple molecular insights to cell behaviors. Through collaborative efforts, Niswander Lab researchers are also exploring the genetic causes of neural tube defects in humans.

Niswander is the recipient of multiple awards and honors, including being named a Pew Scholar in Biomedical 91��Ҹ� by the Pew Charitable Trusts and receiving the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers from the U.S. president. Additionally, she was a recipient of the Harland Winfield Mossman Developmental Biologists Award from the American Association of Anatomists in 2002, and she was an investigator of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute from 1997 to 2014.

Niswander was conferred a distinguished professorship by CU President Todd Saliman in 2024.

In 2026, Niswander received an Edwin G. Conklin Medal, which is awarded annually by the Society for Developmental Biology (SDB) to recognize a developmental biologist who has made and is continuing to make extraordinary research contributions to the field and is an excellent mentor, helping train the next generation of outstanding scientists.

In the words of colleagues

In letters supporting Niswander’s nomination for the Hazel Barnes Prize, colleagues noted her many contributions to MCDB and her skills as both a researcher and an instructor.

“(Niswander) embodies the best in teaching, research and scholarship and is wholly deserving of this highest honor,” said Robin Dowell, professor and associate chair of MCDB and the BioFrontiers Institute.

“She is a highly respected vertebrate developmental geneticist who had made major contributions over the years to our understanding of fundamental events in vertebrate embryonic development, including limb and lung development and neural tube closure. What makes her an ideal candidate for the Hazel Barnes Prize is how she integrates her research into her teaching at undergraduate, graduate and post-doctoral levels.”

Tin Tin Su, professor and chair of MCDB, lauded Niswander as a “highly respected developmental geneticist who made major contributions to our understanding of limb and lung development and neural tube closure.”

Su noted Niswander has produced 123 peer-reviewed papers with more than 20,000 citations. Additionally, Su commended Niswander for the 45 graduate and postdoctoral students she trained and for her devoted attention to undergraduate education, including teaching undergraduate classes.

“I am thrilled and honored to receive the Hazel Barnes Prize. I thank MCDB and professors Tin Tin Su and Robin Dowell for the nomination,” Niswander said. “This award represents numerous research discoveries by many students and postdoctoral fellows throughout my career.”

She added that she is pleased that the Hazel Barnes award recognizes her focus on the confluence of teaching and research. One accomplishment she is particularly proud of during her tenure as MCDB chair was the creation of a partnership with Front Range Community College (FRCC) to provide summer research opportunities in CU 91��Ҹ� Life Science labs to support FRCC students transferring to CU 91��Ҹ� to earn a bachelor’s degree.

Niswander concluded, “To all who have contributed to my broader success, I am deeply grateful, and this award is shared with you.”

Distinguished Professor Lee Niswander, whose research seeks to provide insights into fundamental developmental processes, major human birth defects and potential clinical therapies, has received CU 91��Ҹ�'s most prestigious honor for 2026. The Hazel Barnes Prize each year recognizes a faculty member who exemplifies groundbreaking research and a deep commitment to teaching.

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Commencement 2026: Know before you go

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 17:50:34 +0000

Commencement 2026: Know before you go Megan M Rogers Fri, 04/24/2026 - 11:50

The university commencement ceremony is the premier event to recognize the conferral of degrees, celebrate the accomplishments of outstanding graduates and hear the commencement address and congratulatory messages.

This annual tradition officially marks every Buff’s passage into the company of scholars. Buffs graduating in the fall, spring or summer semester are encouraged to participate in the commencement ceremony.

Here’s what you need to know to soak it all in and celebrate.

Ceremony details

The commencement ceremony will begin at 8:30 a.m. MDT on Saturday, May 2, at Folsom Field & Stadium. No tickets or registration are required for guests of the graduating students.

Arrival and parking

Take a look at our commencement map and parking and on-campus transportation information ahead of time. Guests should plan to arrive early. Parking is free on campus during all commencement celebrations but is limited.

The stadium gates will open at 7 a.m. It is recommended that guests are seated by 8:15 a.m. to watch the student processional into the stadium.

Visit the Mobility and Transportation Resources page for information on ADA accessible transportation resources, wheelchair assistance and accessible seating at the ceremony.

Student line-up and procession

Where to be

7–8 a.m. Gather on Norlin Quad. Refreshments will be available for graduating students. Graduate students will line up near the Norlin steps. Undergraduates will line up in front of Woodbury and Old Main.
8 a.m. Procession departs from Norlin Quad.
8–8:45 a.m. Students follow the procession to Folsom Field, pass through security and take seats.

From Norlin Quad to Folsom Field

For the procession, undergraduates will follow the standard bearers Silver, Gold and Black and enter the stadium through gates 14 or 18 on the north end. You will walk in a single-file line with your fellow graduates. Once you enter the stadium, make sure you are lined up with others and follow the directions of the commencement marshals in the yellow stoles.

Folsom Field policies

Everyone entering Folsom Field will pass through a security screening before entering the stadium. The Folsom Field clear bag policy will be strictly enforced. Please keep personal items to a minimum.

No bottles or containers, flags on poles or sticks, unapproved signs or banners, artificial noisemakers, inflatable balls, balloons or other prohibited items will be allowed in the stadium. Learn more about the permitted and prohibited items.

The Folsom Field seating map (PDF) can be found here.

The ceremony will begin as soon as all students are seated and will last approximately 90 minutes. Please stay seated for the recessional of the platform party.

Stay informed

Here’s where to go for any last-minute updates:

Commencement website
Recognition ceremonies page
CU 91��Ҹ�’s social media channels: X, Instagram, Facebook
CU 91��Ҹ� Alerts
Commencement map

Graduating students: Day-of information

Please review this information so you know what to expect and how to prepare for the big day.

Construction impacts

Construction activities will have partial traffic impacts beginning on Folsom Street near Colorado Avenue related to the university's chilled water line project. During commencement and related activities May 1–3, traffic will be reduced to a single shared lane on Folsom Street with turn lanes temporarily combined. Equipment staging may be present, but clear signage and traffic control will help guide attendees and participants. Any temporary changes to parking or access will be communicated well in advance.

Conduct, inclement weather and safety

To ensure a safe and fun commencement for all, graduates will be expected to abide by the Student Code of Conduct. Disruptions to the ceremony will not be permitted. Use these tips to understand what to do in case of a weather delay, evacuation or emergency.

Families and guests can opt into CU 91��Ҹ� Alerts messaging by texting “CUGRAD” to 67283. Guest subscribers will automatically be unsubscribed after commencement week. Message and data rates may apply. Text messages are sent on an as-needed basis.
In the event of a weather delay or evacuation, listen carefully and follow any instructions provided audibly and on screens throughout the stadium. Commencement marshals and police officers will be available to assist those who need extra help.
Call CU Police Department’s non-emergency line at 303-492-6666 for activities that violate campus use policies but do not pose an immediate threat to life or safety.
Call 911 if someone is experiencing a medical emergency, is unresponsive, is engaged in a crime or is displaying behavior that is a threat to themselves or others.
CU 91��Ҹ� is committed to continuously improving our violence prevention and education efforts to meet the needs of the campus community. We encourage a campuswide culture of reporting through the Don’t Ignore It website. Anonymous tips can also be reported through CU 91��Ҹ� Safe2Tell.

Commencement vs. recognition ceremonies

The university commencement ceremony is the campuswide ceremony at Folsom Field. All students from all colleges and schools are invited to participate.

Recognition ceremonies are celebrations of individual student achievement—hosted by colleges, schools, departments and other programs. Graduating students' names are read, and diploma covers are presented as they cross the stage.

How to watch virtually

Can’t make it to the commencement ceremony? A livestream of the event will be available starting at 8:30 a.m. on the commencement homepage. The livestream will have captions in English and Spanish. The ceremony will be recorded and available for viewing after the ceremony.

Share the moment: #ForeverBuffs

Celebrating on social media? Tag your posts with #ForeverBuffs so we can celebrate with you!

At commencement, keep an eye out for the QR code on the stadium jumbotron inviting graduates and guests to upload photos from the procession and inside the stadium for a chance to be featured!

Questions? Chat with a Buff Info liaison by clicking on the chat button lower right corner of the commencement website.

Congratulations, Buffs, and please enjoy the celebration!

The commencement ceremony on May 2 is the university's premier event to recognize the conferral of degrees, hear the commencement address and more. Here's what you need to know to soak it all in and celebrate.

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2027 Sundance Film Festival-linked building upgrades slated to begin in May

Megan M Rogers — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:43:22 +0000

2027 Sundance Film Festival-linked building upgrades slated to begin in May Megan M Rogers Wed, 04/22/2026 - 09:43

Work will begin in May to upgrade three iconic campus venues as CU 91��Ҹ� prepares to host the 2027 Sundance Film Festival, along with other world-class events benefitting students for decades to come.

Of the four CU 91��Ҹ� venues selected across 91��Ҹ� and beyond for events and screenings by the Sundance Institute, the Old Main Chapel will not undergo upgrades this year since it will host panels and other events but no film screenings.

Most improvements will be made to the sound and projection systems with some accessibility upgrades at Macky Auditorium, Roe Green Theatre and Muenzinger Auditorium.

“We are making a strategic investment in facility upgrades to provide needed improvements to highly used campus venues, and become a premier site for major cultural events, including CU Presents, the Sundance Film Festival and others,” said Senior Vice Chancellor for Finance, Business and Infrastructure Todd Haggerty.

“Hosting significant cultural events provides a direct benefit to our students and our entire campus community.”

The timeline

Muenzinger Auditorium
Work will begin at Muenzinger in May, since that is the period when the auditorium is most quiet, and is scheduled to be completed before fall term. Learn more.

Macky Auditorium
Work in Macky Auditorium will begin once high school commencement ceremony season has wrapped and will be ready for College of Music ensembles in late summer. Learn more.

Roe Green Theatre
Improvements to Roe Green Theatre are slated to begin in the fall and be wrapped by October. Learn more.

Macky Auditorium

CU 91��Ҹ�'s historic Macky Auditorium, a preeminent cultural and civic gathering place, is getting a cutting-edge Dolby Live sound system, which can toggle between Dolby Atmos for immersive, large-format cinema sound needed for the Sundance Film Festival and live event sound enhancement for other types of performances.

So, if you have a quieter group on stage, say a string quartet, you would “feel you are on the stage with the ensemble,” said Rudy Betancourt, director of the CU 91��Ҹ� Artist Series.

“For musical theater, say you have a scene from ‘Oklahoma!,’ you will be able to hear crickets chirping behind you, birds above you and bees buzzing around you,” Betancourt said. “You are immersed in the scene.”

Speakers will be installed throughout Macky, including around the ceiling, with great care being taken to blend in with the theater’s historic, Gothic features and architecture. Custom-fabricated acoustic panels will be installed to further improve the quality of sound. These materials are removable. A new screen also will be installed.

Additionally, some seats in the front five rows will be removed to make way for a ramp allowing access to the stage. In addition, wheelchair-accessible seats will be installed in the front along with companion seating. ADA-accessible seating also will be added to the balcony.

A “hush box,” the term for the modern-day, digital projection booth, will be installed on the Macky balcony. Betancourt is also excited about lighting improvements.

“If we view the Macky stage as a lab, we are updating what our students can use to be a lot more creative,” Betancourt said. “Giving them access to this technology that is not available at other institutions, gives our students an experiential advantage when they embark on their professional lives.”

Roe Green Theatre

At the Roe Green Theatre, speakers will be added to the ceiling, providing additional acoustic functionality to the Department of Theatre & Dance, among other campus units who use the space. Roe Green Theatre is also getting Dolby Atmos.

The theatre will have a ramp installed for access to the stage, a hush box projection setup and new screen. And, after being on a wishlist for years, the 1980s seats are being fully replaced with state-of-the-art theater seating complete with drink holders. The theater also will get new carpet.

“We're very happy about the festival-related upgrades to the Roe Green Theatre,” said Kevin Rich, chair of the Department of Theatre & Dance. “These renovations will transform our space into a high-quality cinema for the Sundance Film Festival in January, and our students and campus community will benefit from these enhancements throughout the calendar year.”

Muenzinger Auditorium

Since the International Film Series is already successfully held at the 400-seat Muenzinger Auditorium, this venue requires the least amount of updating in order to host Sundance Film Festival screenings.

To create a one-of-a-kind experience, for all screenings in Muenzinger, plans call for speaker arrays along the walls, and a new screen installed in front of its existing location to make room for new speakers behind the screen to accommodate Dolby Atmos immersive sound. Today, the screen is a curved wall covered with special movie screen paint. And speakers have to be physically wheeled into place for each showing, said International Film Series Director Jason Phelps, rostered in Cinema Studies & Moving Image Arts.

Phelps said the improvements will help heighten the experience of seeing films year-round for the more than 3,000 students and community members attending about 60 movies and a handful of panels each semester. Muenzinger also is getting some new accessible seating.

“Coming out and seeing a movie in a theater is worth it,” Phelps said. “This helps solidify that mindset. It will be a dramatically different soundscape than what we have now.”

Beyond the physical upgrades, Phelps is excited for the Sundance Film Festival’s arrival in 91��Ҹ�.

“For our department, it’s a huge thing because CU 91��Ҹ� is the only university in the country that can say the largest independent film festival in the U.S. is partially hosted on campus,” Phelps said.

Work will begin in May to upgrade three iconic campus venues as CU 91��Ҹ� prepares to host the 2027 Sundance Film Festival.

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William Penuel, Jun Ye named newest American Academy of Arts & Sciences members

Megan M Rogers — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 14:11:46 +0000

William Penuel, Jun Ye named newest American Academy of Arts & Sciences members Megan M Rogers Wed, 04/22/2026 - 08:11

The prestigious American Academy of Arts & Sciences has announced its newest members, and they include CU 91��Ҹ� affiliates William Penuel and Jun Ye.

Penuel and Ye join 250 other leaders in academia, the arts, industry, journalism, philanthropy, policy, research and science elected in 2026.

The academy, chartered in 1780, was established to recognize accomplished individuals and engage them in addressing the greatest challenges facing the young republic. The first members elected to the academy include President George Washington, who said—in his first annual message to Congress in 1790, “Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.”

“Election to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences is among the highest honors a scholar can receive, and this recognition speaks to CU 91��Ҹ�’s longstanding strength as a center of ideas and discovery,” said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. "The induction of professors William Penuel and Jun Ye adds to our university’s tradition of faculty recognized among the nation’s most distinguished scholars and affirms CU 91��Ҹ�’s role in advancing knowledge at the highest level.”

William Penuel

Penuel is a Distinguished Professor of Learning Sciences and Human Development in the School of Education and the Institute of Cognitive Science and a faculty fellow at the Renée Crown Wellness Institute at CU 91��Ҹ�.

His research examines how curriculum materials, assessments and professional learning experiences can support teachers in creating equitable and engaging STEM learning environments, particularly in science. He also studies how contemplative practices and critical inquiry help educators cultivate compassionate, inclusive learning environments and schools.

A leading scholar in research‑practice partnerships, Penuel investigates how long‑term collaborations between educators and researchers can address systemic inequities related to race, gender and sexual diversity and language.

Across his research, he works in close partnership with educators and education leaders to build and understand classrooms that honor students’ experiences, broaden whose knowledge is valued and connect instruction to learners’ identities and interests. He uses a wide range of research methods, including one he developed with colleagues called design-based implementation research.

Penuel is an elected member of the National Academy of Education and an American Educational 91��Ҹ� Association fellow. He has published two books on research-practice partnerships: “Creating 91��Ҹ�-Practice Partnerships in Education” (co-author; Harvard Education Press) and “Connecting 91��Ҹ� and Practice for Educational Improvement” (co-editor; Routledge). He co-edited “The Foundational Handbook on Improvement 91��Ҹ� in Education” (Rowman & Littlefield).

Last year, he co-authored his most recent book about compassion and dignity as an essential framework for building caring and inclusive schools, “Creating Compassionate Change in School Communities: Leading Together to Address Everyday Suffering in Schools” (Jossey-Bass).

Elected area and field

Class III: Social and Behavioral Sciences
Section 7: Education

Jun Ye

Ye’s election recognizes his extraordinary contributions to physics and quantum science, including pioneering advances in optical atomic clocks, precision measurement and quantum many-body physics.

Ye is a professor of physics at CU 91��Ҹ� and physicist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). He holds the Monroe Endowed Professorship in Physics and is a fellow at JILA. He has revolutionized how scientists measure time, developing quantum technologies that can track the passage of time with never-before-seen accuracy and precision.

Ye leads several quantum research initiatives at JILA. They include the CUbit Quantum Initiative and the Quantum Systems through Entangled Science and Engineering (Q-SEnSE) center funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation.

At JILA, Ye pioneered the design of optical atomic clocks, devices that measure time by tapping the behavior of atoms and electrons. His lab’s clocks would neither gain nor lose a second over billions of years.

Ye and his team have also worked to transform insights into the quantum world into technologies that can improve people’s lives. His lab, for example, built laser-based devices that can analyze samples of human breath, screening people for COVID-19 infections and other health conditions.

He earned his doctorate from CU 91��Ҹ� in 1997, where he trained under Jan Hall, who went on to win a Nobel Prize in 2005. Ye returned to JILA in 1999 and has received numerous awards for his research, including the 2022 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics.

Elected area and field

Class I: Mathematical and Physical Sciences
Section 2: Physics

"Professors Penuel and Ye are emblematic of the world-class faculty at CU 91��Ҹ�, combining research, scholarship, teaching and service in vital institutes with excellence in their disciplines,” said Provost Ann Stevens. “We are honored by their ongoing achievements and their induction into the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, and our students and the rest of the world are beneficiaries of their unique work."

The new class joins academy members elected before them, including Benjamin Franklin (elected 1781) and Alexander Hamilton (1791) in the 18th century; Ralph Waldo Emerson (1864), Maria Mitchell (1848) and Charles Darwin (1874) in the 19th; Albert Einstein (1924), Robert Frost (1931), Margaret Mead (1948), Milton Friedman (1959), Martin Luther King, Jr. (1966) and Jacques Derrida (1985) in the 20th century.

This century, members include: Madeleine K. Albright (2001), Antonin Scalia (2003), Jennifer Doudna, who did postdoctoral research under CU 91��Ҹ� Nobel Laureate Tom Cech while a graduate student (2003), Esther Duflo (2009), John Legend (2017), Anna Deavere Smith (2019), Salman Rushdie (2022), Xuedong Huang (2023) and José Andrés (2025).

“We celebrate the achievement of each new member and the collective breadth and depth of their excellence—this is a fitting commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Academy President Laurie Patton. “The founding of the nation and the academy are rooted in the inextricable links between a vibrant democracy, the free pursuit of knowledge, and the expansion of the public good.”

Induction ceremonies for new members will take place in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in October 2026. Learn more about the American Academy of Arts & Sciences and its history.

The prestigious American Academy of Arts & Sciences has announced its newest members, and they include CU 91��Ҹ� affiliates William Penuel and Jun Ye.

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CU 91��Ҹ� announces inaugural Community Belonging Award recipients

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 20:09:35 +0000

CU 91��Ҹ� announces inaugural Community Belonging Award recipients Megan M Rogers Fri, 04/17/2026 - 14:09

CU 91��Ҹ� is proud to announce the first recipients of the Community Belonging Awards, a new campuswide honor recognizing exceptional contributions by students, staff and faculty to fostering belonging within and across CU 91��Ҹ� communities.

The Community Belonging Awards were established this spring at the recommendation of CU Student Government, with the endorsement of the 91��Ҹ� Faculty Assembly, Staff Council and the Graduate and Professional Student Government. The awards celebrate individuals whose actions help others on campus feel seen, valued and supported—whether through teaching, leadership, service, collaboration or quiet, behind-the-scenes care. Together, they reflect a shared commitment to recognizing the meaningful ways belonging is built across campus.

“These awards reflect both who we are and who we are striving to become as a campus,” said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. “The recipients of our first Community Belonging Awards remind us that meaningful change happens when people lead with care and a deep commitment to shared community.”

The four recipients—one undergraduate student, one graduate or professional student, one staff member and one faculty member—were selected for their demonstrated, meaningful impact on fostering belonging within a specific CU 91��Ҹ� community or across campus more broadly. This work has included efforts that strengthen connection and inclusion, advance social justice, or support one or more of CU 91��Ҹ�’s diversity, equity and inclusion goals. Each recipient receives a one-time monetary award of $5,000.

Recipients were selected by four separate committees, one for each award category, representing shared governance groups and campus partners. “We received nominations from students, staff and faculty in departments and offices across the university,” said Senior Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives Ann Schmiesing, who oversaw this year’s process.

“I am deeply inspired by the creativity, generosity and commitment shown by all four inaugural recipients,” Schwartz said. “They are 91��Ҹ� for all of us—showing how powerful individual actions can be in shaping a campus where everyone feels they belong.”

The Community Belonging Awards will be presented annually to recognize and elevate the people whose actions strengthen connection, care and community across CU 91��Ҹ�.

2026 Community Belonging Award recipients

Undergraduate student

Daniel Pagatpatan
College of Engineering and Applied Science, Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering

Daniel creates a culture where every student, whether in a rural high school or a large lecture, feels a genuine sense of acceptance and value.”

Graduate student

Olivia Felton
College of Engineering and Applied Science, Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering

Liv stands out among our graduate student population for her steadfast willingness to serve her community, volunteering her time and creative energies to improve the CU experience for her fellow grad students.”

Staff

Carla Eugene
Assistant Director, Faculty & Staff Assistance Program (FSAP)

Through her work with FSAP and the CU Cultural Collective, Carla has created inclusive spaces where faculty and staff feel seen, supported and connected through shared exploration of mental health, identity and community.”

Faculty

Carmen Pacheco
Scholar in Residence, Director of Food Engineering Graduate Certificate, Design and Food Engineering
College of Engineering and Applied Science, Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering

Through her teaching and leadership, Carmen fosters a sense of belonging by creating inclusive, relatable learning and community spaces where students and colleagues feel welcomed, valued and engaged.”

CU 91��Ҹ� is recognizing four inaugural Community Belonging Award recipients whose actions are strengthening connection, care and community across campus.

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