Alumni Stories

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 ��ý�� 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 ��ý�� 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 ��ý��? 

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 ��ý��’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 ��ý�� 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 University 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 ��ý�� events for every Buff

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

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

Get ready for a year of unforgettable CU ��ý�� 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 ��ý��’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 ��ý��! 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 ��ý��’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 ��ý��’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 ��ý�� 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 ��ý�� 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 @CU��ý��Alumni on Instagram, Facebook and X

Update your information to stay informed

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Reunite with CU ��ý�� during Alumni Weekend

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

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

Keeley Haynes

This spring, CU ��ý�� invites all Forever Buffs to celebrate Alumni Weekend. This year’s event is extra special — CU ��ý�� 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 ��ý��

Alumni Weekend is about more than remembering your campus experience. It’s also about connecting with all ��ý�� 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 University Hill — just like you did as a student. The Buff spirit never fades, so come to reminisce about why ��ý�� 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 ��ý��, 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 ��ý�� 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 ��ý�� 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 ��ý�� 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 ��ý��

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

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

Julia MacLean

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

Stop by one of CU ��ý��’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 ��ý�� dining favorites for a place to start.

Explore ��ý��’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 ��ý��’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 ��ý�� Creek Path.

Visit The Connection, CU ��ý��’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 ��ý��’s indoor pickleball facilities to play a game or two.

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

Check out Alumni Events

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

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Forever Buffs 2025 holiday gift guide

Anna Tolette — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 16:01:58 +0000

Forever Buffs 2025 holiday gift guide Anna Tolette Wed, 11/05/2025 - 09:01

Keeley Haynes

Looking for the perfect holiday gifts for the Forever Buffs in your life? Make gift-giving even more meaningful with our curated holiday gift guide. From stylish CU ��ý�� gear to unique finds from Forever Buffs-owned businesses, we’ve got something for every Buff on your list.

The Sports Buff

CU Athletics tickets

Give the gift every sports Buff will love — tickets to a sporting event at CU ��ý��! You can choose from single ticket options, multiple game packages or season tickets. Share your CU ��ý�� pride and celebrate the Buffs this holiday season.

Score CU Athletics tickets

CU Book Store

What’s better for a Buffs fan than CU ��ý�� gear? The CU Book Store has everything a sports fan needs for game day. Whether you need a foam finger or a Buffs jersey, you’ll find the perfect option. Not only that, but CU ��ý�� alumni receive a 20% discount on one full-priced CU logo item, either in-store or online — just use code “Alumni” at checkout.

Shop CU Book Store

Ashton Jewelry

Have the sports Buff in your life shine their way through every Buffs game day. Ashton Jewelry handcrafts golden buffalo pendants that are sure to stun in the stands. Each piece is made from ethically sourced and recycled metals in a local Colorado studio, making this a sustainable and luxurious gift to show off one’s Buff spirit.

Shop Ashton Jewelry

The Foodie Buff

FlyteCO Tower

Take off this holiday with a trip to FlyteCO Tower. CU alumni Eric Seani (AeroEngr’11; MA’11) and Jason Slingsby (ChemEngr’11) founded the aviation-themed brewery after studying aerospace engineering together. Now, your favorite foodie Buffs can sip on draft brews, chow down on classic bar food and tee up in state-of-the-art golf and sports simulators.

Book a FlyteCO game suite

Cafe Aion

Book a reservation at Cafe Aion to give your foodie Buffs taste buds a trip around the world, while staying right on The Hill. Chef and owner (and CU ��ý�� alum!) Dakota Soifer (EnvDes’03) fuses Mediterranean and French cuisines to bring global flavor to ��ý��. Menus change seasonally to reflect seasonal, fresh ingredients, so there is always an opportunity for Forever Buffs to try something new.

Reserve a table at Cafe Aion

Sauce Leopard

Find this year’s hot gift from Sauce Leopard, a Denver-based hot sauce company created by CU ��ý�� alum Shaun Goodwin (Mktg’13) and featured on Season 18 of the popular YouTube series Hot Ones. Order the official CU Buffs Mango Habanero Sauce to spice up your favorite foodie Buffs’ lives. They will love a gift that supports a fellow Forever Buff and sets their taste buds on fire.

Spice up your kitchen with Sauce Leopard

The Beauty Buff

Syll Botanics

Give the gift of glowing skin with safe and sustainable skincare serums from Syll Botanics. CEO, founder and CU alum Hilary Nalven (MBA’15) creates effective personal care products designed to make mothers feel beautiful in the simplest way possible. Forever Buffs enjoy $20 off full size products and $10 off travel sizes between Nov. 25 and Dec. 7, 2025.

Shop Syll Botanics

Highland Essentials

Ensure your beauty Buff never has a bad hair day with Highland Essentials. ��ý�� natives and CU ��ý�� alumni Boone Whiteside (StComm’18) and Ben Medalie (StComm’18) started the award-winning Highland brand to create earth-conscious haircare products that improve scalp and hair health.

Shop Highland Essentials

Haven ��ý��

Located in the heart of Pearl Street, Haven Boutique offers anything a beauty Buff could possibly desire. From designer clothing to makeup and home decor, local owner Michelle DeHaven effortlessly curates chic and stylish collections, which will always keep your Forever Buff looking their best.

Shop Haven ��ý��

The Cozy Buff

Ozo Coffee

Keep the ��ý�� buzz alive with a subscription to Ozo’s locally roasted coffee. With four shops located in ��ý��, Ozo Coffee perfectly encapsulates the energy of your cozy Buff’s favorite college town.

Brew a cup of Ozo Coffee

Hug Your Friendz

Warm up your cozy Buff with a comfy sweatset from Hug Your Friendz. After struggling with his mental health during his freshman year of college, current CU ��ý�� senior Chris Magee founded Hug Your Friendz to encourage people to check in with their loved ones and chase their ambitions. Cozy Buffs will lounge in style while spreading a positive message.

Rep Hug Your Friendz

Books by CU Buffs

Choose books by a CU ��ý�� alum to give to your favorite Buffs this holiday season. Explore books for every age and interest, from research topics to heartwarming fiction. Check out our list below, then purchase books from your favorite bookseller.

Browse books by CU ��ý�� alumni

The Adventure Buff

Roaming Buffs

Elevate your gift-giving with a Roaming Buffs trip. You can share your love for adventure by booking a trip for the new year. From domestic travel to special events, like The Masters or The Kentucky Derby, to international explorations across the globe, you can choose from a wide selection of trips at different activity levels.

Explore upcoming Roaming Buffs trips

Cooking Studio Taos

Let your Adventure Buff eat around the world with Cooking Studio Taos. CU alum Valerie Maher (Bus’94) and her husband, Chris, invite students and Forever Buffs to join them for food and cultural immersion in countries like Greece, Morocco and France.

Book a Cooking Studio Taos culinary excursion

Hilton Hotels

Revisit your favorite college town with a relaxing stay at the Hilton Garden Inn ��ý�� and Embassy Suites by ��ý��. At the Hilton Garden, wind down at the spa after hiking the Flatirons and savor late-night room service after a night on Pearl Street. Stay active at the Embassy with a year-round rooftop pool and two-story fitness center. Forever Buffs receive 15% off their stay.

Book your stay

The Office Buff

Bluebird Gift Collective

Celebrate your office team with custom merchandise made by Bluebird Gift Collective to promote community and show off your brand. CU alum Hannah Vuoto (PolSci’12) co-founded Bluebird to make corporate gifting a form of strategic appreciation. Forever Buffs receive 10% off their first orders.

Design your corporate merchandise

Out Of Office Events

Host an unforgettable corporate holiday party with Out Of Office Events. Founded in Denver by Logan Lakos (Comm’19), a CU alum, Out Of Office Events plans fun and unique team bonding events your team is sure to love. Choose from culinary and drinking tours, team-building Olympics and an Amazing Race-style scavenger hunt. Forever Buffs get $100 off their private events.

Plan your Out of Office experience

Footers Catering

Show your appreciation for your office team with a delicious catering event. Footers Catering is award-winning, Denver-based and led by CU alum Colbért Callen (Jour’05). Their exceptional service and fresh ingredients elevate corporate event meals, which will leave your team feeling delighted and appreciated.

Book your catered corporate event

The Community Buff

Fiske Planetarium

Celebrate the space Buffs in your life with a gift membership to Fiske Planetarium. Members receive discounted event tickets, free admission to member-only events and other perks. Memberships are good for one year, with options for students, individuals, families and extended families.

Shop Fiske Planetarium memberships

CU Presents

Give the gift of a live performance on the CU ��ý�� campus with a CU Presents gift certificate. You can purchase the gift certificate online, and it will be sent directly to the recipient’s email address. The recipient can choose from musical, theater or dance performances.

Purchase a CU Presents gift certificate

Forever Buffs Wall Calendar

Ensure your community Buff never misses a CU ��ý�� event with the 2026 Forever Buffs Wall Calendar. Flip through fun CU throwback photos, learn CU history facts and stay up to date on alumni events with special QR code features. Forever Buffs also gain access to exclusive discounts for events like Homecoming and Alumni Weekend.

Purchase a 2026 Forever Buffs Wall Calendar

The Last-Minute Buff

CU ��ý�� Alumni Association

Give the gift of generosity with a donation to the CU ��ý�� Alumni Association to support student scholarships. Making a $50 donation qualifies you to purchase a CU license plate, which is available in Colorado, Texas and Maryland.

Donate to support scholarships

Denver Pub Crawl

Plan a private pub crawl for a special Buff in your life. Co-created by CU ��ý�� alum Logan Lakos (Comm‘19), the Denver Pub Crawl is the first and only international-style pub crawl company. Your Buff will receive a private host, complimentary drinks and discounted drink specials, VIP access to each venue, waived covers and skip-the-line benefits — giving your Forever Buff the perfect night out. Forever Buffs also receive a 10% discount on all bookings.

Book a Denver Pub Crawl

Chipotle Gift Card

It is Christmas Eve, and you still don’t have a gift for your favorite Buff? Don’t fret! You can never go wrong with giving the classic gift of a Chipotle gift card. Plus, Chipotle’s former CEO and founder Steve Ells (Art’88) is a CU alum.

Purchase a Chipotle e-gift card

The Forever Buffs Network connects Buff-owned businesses to the Buffs community. Whether you own a business or want to support fellow alumni, join today!

Join the Forever Buffs Network

Looking for the perfect holiday gift for the Forever Buffs in your life? Make gift-giving easy with our curated holiday gift guide highlighting Buffs-owned businesses and campus connections. It’s got something for every Buff on your list.

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Reconnect with CU ��ý�� through the Golden Anniversary Club

Anna Tolette — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 15:51:19 +0000

Reconnect with CU ��ý�� through the Golden Anniversary Club Anna Tolette Wed, 11/05/2025 - 08:51

Keeley Haynes

The memories made at CU ��ý�� stick with students and alumni for a lifetime and deserve to be remembered. Travel back to the prime of your Buffs experience with the Golden Anniversary Club.

The Golden Anniversary Club (GAC) is an honorary alumni group that celebrates Forever Buffs who graduated from CU ��ý�� 51+ years ago. Each year, the class that reaches the 51-year milestone is automatically inducted into the club, meaning the GAC network and community are ever-growing.

Celebrate at Alumni Weekend

GAC members are invited to annual reunions each spring during Alumni Weekend. No matter what milestone you are celebrating, all GAC members are welcome to enjoy exclusive campus tours, recognition ceremonies and private lunches catered by local ��ý�� favorites, such as The Sink.

Reunite with CU ��ý��’s community

GAC reunions allow members to reflect on how CU ��ý�� shaped them into the people they are today. Reminisce about your favorite classes, professors, clubs and campus memories. Reconnect with familiar faces, meet new friends and recognize the accomplishments you have made since you left campus.

GAC members are not only connected through reunions. They can also connect through the digital Brightcrowd Book. Once entered in the GAC system, members can view other club members and reach out to their fellow classmates and reunion attendees to rekindle old friendships and maintain new ones.

The Golden Anniversary Club is the perfect way to honor CU ��ý��’s history and the place you hold in it. The personal and professional journey you started on campus connects you to the Buffs of yesterday, today and tomorrow. Return to your stampede and remember what it means to be a Buff.

Celebrate lifelong CU ��ý�� memories with the Golden Anniversary Club, which honors alumni 51+ years post-graduation through reunions, connections and community.

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CU Spotlight: Homecoming Spirit Chair Kate Jordan Little

Anna Tolette — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 15:37:42 +0000

CU Spotlight: Homecoming Spirit Chair Kate Jordan Little Anna Tolette Wed, 10/08/2025 - 09:37

Kate Jordan Little is a fourth-generation Buff, making her the 23rd member of her family to attend CU ��ý��. A junior from Denver, Colorado, she is pursuing a dual major in management and entrepreneurship and marketing, with a minor in leadership. Her academic distinction sets her apart. She is a U.S. Presidential Scholar and a Boettcher Scholar, complemented by her involvement in the President’s Leadership Class and the Leeds Scholars Program.

Beyond academics, Kate’s commitment extends to campus engagement, including her roles as the New Member Educator and former Foundation Ambassador for Chi Omega, as well as being active in CU Sports Information and competing with Club CU Swimming and Diving. Little currently serves as the Homecoming Coalition Spirit Chair for CU Student Government and is excited for all that is in store for the upcoming Homecoming festivities.

What does CU ��ý�� Homecoming mean to you?

Homecoming means so much to me because it celebrates family and tradition.

I am a fifth-generation Coloradan, a fourth-generation Buff and the 23rd member of my family to attend CU. My parents, sister, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins have all shared this same journey, and we have each felt the magic of being a Buff in our own way.

My grandfather is remembered through the Zack Jordan Award that honors the CU Football Most Valuable Player each year, and my family has never missed a home game.

Homecoming is a time to gather, celebrate the love and pride we all feel for CU, and carry forward a legacy that has shaped my family for generations. It reminds us that CU is not just where we go to school but part of who we are.

What is your favorite part of your role as Homecoming Spirit Chair?

Kate, pictured with her parents and sister, is the baby on the right!

My favorite part of being the Homecoming Chair is seeing people light up with Buff pride. Helping create the parade and pep rally feels meaningful because I know how much joy those moments bring to students, alumni and families. I think about my family filling the stands and how often we have experienced that same excitement together.

Being Spirit Chair is a way of giving back to a community that has been at the center of my life for as long as I can remember. Whenever I see people laughing, singing the fight song, and cheering together in black and gold, I feel connected to something bigger: a CU family we all belong to.

If you had the attention of every Forever Buff for one minute, how would you convince them to attend Homecoming?

I would tell them that Homecoming is not just about events but about being part of a story stretching across generations. It is laughter with friends, the traditions we pass down and the memories we create together.

When you come back for Homecoming, you are not just celebrating a weekend; you are celebrating the pride, the joy and the love that make CU a family. Every voice in the fight song, every smile in the crowd and every cheer from the stands matters.

We are all Buffs, and Homecoming is our chance to remember that and celebrate it shoulder to shoulder.

What is special about Homecoming this year?

Homecoming 2024

This year feels extra special because it focuses on community and connection.

Whether you are a student experiencing your very first Homecoming, an alum returning to the place that shaped you or a Forever Buff family member who has loved CU for decades, there is a place for you here. The parade, the pep rally and the game bring us all together in one place where generations of Buffs can stand side by side and celebrate what we share.

For me, it is not just about carrying forward my family’s traditions; it is about being part of the bigger CU family and knowing that we are all Buffs.

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Top 8 CU-themed Halloween costumes

Anna Tolette — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 20:14:26 +0000

Top 8 CU-themed Halloween costumes Anna Tolette Fri, 09/26/2025 - 14:14

This Homecoming, Buffs on Tap invites CU ��ý�� alumni to BOO-ze their way through Halloween. And what better way to celebrate than a CU-themed costume contest? Grab your buffalo horns, chill your pint glass and join us from 3 to 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31, at Koenig Alumni Center for a scary good time.

Here are eight costume ideas to conjure your excitement:

Ralphie

They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, so welcome Ralphie VII to the herd by dressing as her! Rock a monochrome brown outfit, then top it with an iconic buffalo headband.

Ralphie Handler

No Ralphie is complete without a handler. Skip the sprinting, but sport a classic black cowboy hat, black button-down shirt, eye-catching belt buckle and blue jeans to channel your inner student-athlete.

Coach Prime

Halloween is Prime Time to wear your flashiest chain, biggest sunglasses and best gameday headset. If you match that with a CU hoodie and hat, you might be stopped on the street for a picture. Don’t forget to give your fans a motivational speech while you’re at it.

Superfan Peggy

Superfan Peggy Coppom never misses a game. Dig in your closet for an oversized CU vintage crewneck, fluffy pom-poms and a gray wig. Bonus points if you wear her signature glasses and a 100th Birthday sash.

Banana Buff

Pay homage to the dedicated students who dress in banana costumes every football game. Wear the silliest banana costume and pair of sunglasses you can find. If you’re lucky, you might just end up on the Jumbotron.

Sleep-Deprived Student

Remember those long nights spent studying in Norlin Library? Sorry to remind you! But for a funny costume, throw on your comfiest sweatpants, mess your hair to make it look like you just rolled out of bed, smudge dark circles under your eyes and tow your old textbooks or a mug of coffee around.

Sporty Buff

Choose your own game plan! Wear your favorite CU jersey and smear on some eye-black to be a football player. Pull that hair into a ponytail, ruffle those pom-poms and practice those high kicks in a classic CU uniform to be a spirit squad member. You could even carry around a custom pair of CU skis while wearing a warm jacket and ski goggles to be one of CU’s nationally ranked student skiers

Brainy Buffs

Dress as your degree! For STEM majors, experiment with wearing a lab coat and carrying a beaker full of a “mysterious potion.” Art majors can draw on a goatee, splatter paint on a black-and-white striped shirt and craft a palette and brush out of paper. A fun money-printed suit would be perfect for business majors. The options are endless!

Whatever you wear, we hope to see you at this year’s Buffs on Tap!

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Top 10 facts about Chip, CU ��ý��’s mascot

Anna Tolette — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 18:11:32 +0000

Top 10 facts about Chip, CU ��ý��’s mascot Anna Tolette Fri, 09/05/2025 - 12:11

Julia MacLean

Chip, CU ��ý��’s beloved buffalo mascot, has been entertaining fans at games and campus events since the 1980s. Known for his playful dancing and quick humor, Chip brings energy and spirit wherever he goes.

Here are 10 fun facts about Chip, the heart of every CU ��ý�� celebration:

Chip can be found at CU ��ý�� football, basketball, soccer, volleyball and select lacrosse games, as well as at other community, campus and charity events.

Chip and his friends are trained at summer camp to ensure he performs at the highest quality for CU ��ý��.

Chip is a part of the University of Colorado Spirit Program, which also includes the dance team and cheer team.

In a normal year, Chip makes anywhere from 300 to 400 appearances. You can request him for an appearance by completing the Spirit Appearance Request Form

The head of the Chip costume is a hockey helmet with foam and steel added to create Chip’s likeness. It weighs somewhere between 7 and 8 pounds.

Chip once conducted an orchestra at Macky Auditorium.

Children who join the Chip Kid’s Club can get a special personalized note on their birthdays from the mascot himself.

Chip has won three first-place Universal Cheerleaders Association National Championships. He took home back-to-back wins in 2009 and 2010, and he most recently won in 2020.

Chip’s birthday is in February.

Chip attends football and basketball media days with the other Big 12 Mascots.

Explore ways to get involved with CU ��ý�� Athletics and support the Buffs.

Join the Buff Club

Chip, CU ��ý��’s beloved buffalo mascot, brings energy and pride to events on and off campus. From game days to cheer competitions, he represents Buffs spirit. Check out 10 fun facts about Chip.

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Volunteering brings Buffs together

Anna Tolette — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 21:51:03 +0000

Volunteering brings Buffs together Anna Tolette Mon, 09/01/2025 - 15:51

Volunteering isn’t just about giving back — it’s about growing connections and showing Buffs pride. When you share your time and talent with the CU ��ý�� Alumni Association, you strengthen the Forever Buffs community while opening the door to new relationships, skills and experiences that can benefit you personally and professionally. Whether you live in ��ý�� or across the country, there are meaningful ways to get involved that fit your schedule and interests.

Make memories through one-time opportunities

If you’re looking for a fun, low-commitment way to give back, consider volunteering at CU ��ý�� events like Homecoming, Alumni Weekend or Grad Bash. These one-time opportunities are a great way to reconnect with campus, cheer on the Buffs and meet other alumni while making the event experience even more special.

Bring Buffs together where you live

Volunteering also means creating community for other alumni. Whether hosting a Game Watch, planning a networking mixer or organizing a fun local event, volunteers play a key role in helping Buffs connect across the country. These gatherings spark friendships, build professional networks and keep the CU spirit thriving wherever alumni call home.

Mentor the next generation of Buffs

One of the most meaningful ways to give back is mentoring through the Forever Buffs Network Mentorship Program. You can share career advice with a student, offer insight to a recent grad or connect with another alum in your field. Alumni, faculty, staff and friends are welcome to participate — anyone who joins the Forever Buffs Network can apply. It’s an easy way to make a difference in someone’s journey while gaining fresh connections.

Give back to your community with Buffs Give Back

Each April, alumni around the country come together for Buffs Give Back — a day of service dedicated to making a difference in your local communities. By hosting or joining a project in your area, you can help showcase Forever Buffs’ positive impact. From park cleanups to food bank drives, it’s a powerful way to carry CU’s spirit of service far beyond campus.

What’s in it for you?

No matter how you choose to get involved, volunteering through the Alumni Association offers rewards beyond the experience itself.

Expand your professional network and make meaningful connections.

Gain leadership, communication and event-planning skills that look great on a resume.

Stay connected to the university you love while creating opportunities for future Forever Buffs.

At CU ��ý��, volunteering is flexible, fun and impactful. Whether you give a few hours once a year or take on a bigger role in your alumni community, there’s a place for you.

Join us. Discover how giving back can give back to you. Feel free to reach out with questions to alumnivolunteers@colorado.edu.

Volunteer with CU ��ý�� Alumni Association. From mentoring and service projects to local events and one-time opportunities, volunteering connects Forever Buffs everywhere while building community, friendships and professional networks.

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