Celebrate

Meet the newest employees of the year

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 14:25:05 +0000

Meet the newest employees of the year Megan M Rogers Fri, 01/23/2026 - 07:25

Chancellor Justin Schwartz is honored to announce the recipients of the 2025 Employee of the Year Award. This distinguished annual award celebrates staff for their outstanding contributions to CU ��ý��. Nominated by their colleagues, these individuals were selected for their extraordinary service, support of campus priorities and going above and beyond their defined job duties to make a meaningful difference.

This year’s winners were selected from an amazing pool of nominees and truly reflect the best of CU. Congratulations to the 2025 award recipients: Stew Elliot, Sara McDonald, Dragan Mejic and Teresa De Jesus Torres.

The chancellor will recognize this year’s winners at an awards ceremony and reception in January.

Stew Elliott

Stew Elliott is the university’s director for Veteran and Military Affairs (VMA). Under Elliott's leadership, the VMA has seen tremendous transformation in the support provided to student veterans. During his tenure, more than $2.5 million in scholarship funds has been raised, and the VMA has seen student veteran enrollment increase from 400 to roughly 1,600.

In his role, Elliott leads a team that interacts with government agencies as well as partners across campus. From the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to CU Athletics, he has created a work environment that fosters collaboration and has strengthened the honoring of veterans.

Elliott has introduced resources such as in-house academic advising and a recognized veteran bridge program for STEM fields in addition to professional tutoring—all of which have improved student retention and performance. Beyond his formal duties, he actively mentors ROTC leadership, works with donors and plans successful fundraising events.

As shared in his nomination: “Stewart Elliott has truly been instrumental in developing one of the best veterans programs in the nation here at CU ��ý��. Student veterans regularly tell staff in our office that they chose to attend CU based on the excellent reputation of the VMA office.”

Elliott's unwavering commitment and sense of purpose have made the VMA office a model program recognized for fostering inclusivity and excellence among student veterans and the broader CU community.

Sara McDonald

Sara McDonald serves as the senior director of operations in the School of Education. In her role, she has navigated multiple transitions; worked alongside numerous deans, faculty, staff and students but always with unwavering reliability.

McDonald is known for her deep institutional knowledge of the university and is considered a go-to resource for colleagues not only in the School of Education but across the broader campus. She seamlessly manages a wide range of responsibilities including technological support, building operations, event coordination and administrative oversight, but her contributions extend well beyond her formal responsibilities.

McDonald actively mentors staff and students, supports campus initiatives and creates a culture of community and belonging. During her tenure, she has helped to organize events like A Queer Endeavor; the Teacher of Color and Allies Summit; and the Children’s Book Festival to support educators, students and families. Through her everyday work, McDonald has earned the trust and respect of her colleagues.

One nominator shared the following: “Her work reflects the university’s mission, and priorities of campus success through resources, student-centeredness, supportive environments, sustainability and more. Sara leads with heart, humility, lived experiences and a deep understanding of how to navigate university.”

Dragan Mejic

Dragan Mejic is the instrument shop supervisor for the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering in the College of Engineering and Applied Science. Mejic has played a key role in designing, repairing and improving experimental modules, and his precision welding and assembly skills are evident throughout his work on numerous laboratory projects. His machining skills have facilitated the creation of valuable research equipment and have directly impacted the success of student and faculty research.

By reviving such projects as the Engineering Excellent Fund (EEF) initiative, Mejic has helped to expand teaching capacity and foster an environment of hands-on learning. He leads with integrity and is relied upon by both students and faculty for his expertise and supportive nature.

Outside of his assigned duties, Mejic is deeply involved in advocating for state employees’ rights and benefits and volunteers with the Secure PERA coalition. As a volunteer, he works closely with lawmakers to improve and support legislation aimed at protecting the state pension system. He has testified on important bills, written op-eds and engaged directly with the PERA executive team to address concerns.

As one nominator wrote: “Colleagues across all levels know Dragan as reliable, approachable and unfailingly positive. He supports co-workers with good humor and humility, lifts department morale by solving problems without complaint, and has become a trusted partner for faculty, staff and students alike.”

Teresa De Jesus Torres

Teresa De Jesus Torres serves as a custodian in Housing Facilities Services (HFS). Torres is highly respected by her colleagues for her dedication, commitment and unwavering work ethic. She effectively manages her workload while remaining available to support her team and often volunteers to support other teams during staff shortages. She continually fosters an environment that is both positive and inclusive.

An active team player and leader, Torres listens, collaborates and resolves conflicts to keep her team productive and focused. She welcomes and trains new employees and works to make sure they feel integrated and heard while at CU ��ý��. Her outstanding customer service is frequently recognized by students.

As one nominator wrote: “Teresa consistently leads by example. She is a role model to her peers and, not only do they listen to her feedback, they incorporate it into their daily tasks. Teresa’s reliability has become something our entire team depends on, and her hard work consistently results in outcomes that exceed expectations.”

Torres' leadership ensures all spaces are safe and welcoming for those who come to campus.

Stew Elliot, Sara McDonald, Dragan Mejic and Teresa De Jesus Torres are CU ��ý��'s employees of the year for 2025. Read about their inspirational contributions and leadership.

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CU ��ý�� student selected as Schwarzman Scholar

Emma Holst — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 16:38:54 +0000

CU ��ý�� student selected as Schwarzman Scholar Emma Holst Tue, 01/20/2026 - 09:38

Camden Dempsey

CU ��ý�� student Camden Dempsey is one of 150 students selected for the prestigious Schwarzman Scholars graduate fellowship program. Dempsey, who graduated with a bachelor’s in finance and marketing last year and is now pursuing a master’s in real estate, was selected from a pool of over 5,800 candidates worldwide, the highest number of applicants in its 11-year history.

Schwarzman Scholars supports up to 200 Scholars annually from around the world for a one-year master’s in global affairs at Beijing’s Tsinghua University. Scholars chosen for this highly selective program will live in Beijing for a year of study and cultural immersion.

As a double Buff, Boettcher Scholar and Leeds Scholar, Dempsey is proud to represent CU ��ý�� in Beijing. “Choosing CU was the best decision of my life,” Dempsey said. “I truly bleed black and gold.”

Dempsey also extends gratitude to the Office of Top Scholarships. His advice for a student who might be interested in applying for a scholarship program is to “chase purpose, meaning and what genuinely aligns with your ambitions.”

Learn more about Dempsey, his academic achievements and why he pursues each new opportunity with positivity.

How did you choose CU ��ý�� for your studies?

The Boettcher Scholarship and the opportunity to play football at CU initially brought me to Leeds, along with my family connection. Both of my parents are double Buffs, and my family has had season tickets since 1967, so CU has always felt like home.

Over the course of your academic career, you have been the recipient of several honors and achievements. What is the driving factor behind your success?

Curiosity, accountability and taking full advantage of every opportunity. Once something catches my interest, I go all in. Being surrounded by strong mentors, teammates and peers has created a high bar for my own performance.

Football taught me discipline, consistency and how to perform under pressure. It also taught me that talent means nothing without preparation and follow-through. Lastly, I’ve learned the value of saying yes, meeting new people and building genuine relationships in the ��ý�� community. You never know what opportunity will show up next.

How did your interest in Chinese culture originate? What are you hoping to experience during your year in Beijing?

My interest in China began in 2015 when I took my first trip to Shanghai and Beijing and became fascinated by the language, culture and history. Before COVID, my family and I traveled to China more than 10 times, partially connected to my Eagle Scout project and partially for exploration. I even applied and was accepted to NYU Shanghai in high school.

Over time, I became deeply interested in how China’s economic transformation intersects with culture, entrepreneurship and global development. While other opportunities pulled my attention for a few years, I always knew I wanted to return to this passion.

This fall, I’ll be studying in Beijing as part of the Schwarzman Scholars program at Tsinghua University alongside students from around the world. I’m excited to deepen my Mandarin, immerse myself in the culture and better understand how business, policy and innovation operate inside China. I’m especially interested in how emerging markets develop, how capital shapes cities and how cross-cultural leadership works in practice. And yes, I am extremely excited about the food.

Is there anyone in particular you would like to thank or acknowledge in your achievement?

I’m incredibly grateful to the Boettcher Foundation for believing in me and investing in my education. I also want to thank the faculty, professors and mentors at Leeds and the Deming Center who challenged me to think bigger and become the best version of myself, specifically Beverly Karns, Brad Werner, Michael Jennings, Shaun Davies and Deborah Viles.

I’m thankful for Coach Prime, Rick George, my coaches and my amazing teammates for their support throughout my college career. Balancing Division I athletics with academics teaches you a lot, and they’ve been a defining part of my experience. And finally, my mom, dad, amazing sister and friends who have supported me every step of the way.

What’s next for you?

In the short term, I plan to travel and ski more now that football no longer dominates my schedule. After completing my master’s degree, I’ll prepare for an incredible year in Beijing with the Schwarzman Scholars program studying global affairs and leadership.

Long term, I hope to work at the intersection of real estate, technology, global markets and diplomacy, with a focus on cross-border innovation. More than anything, I’m excited to keep learning, building and meeting people who challenge how I think about the world.

CU ��ý�� student Camden Dempsey is one of 150 students selected for the prestigious Schwarzman Scholars graduate fellowship program.

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CU ��ý�� earns platinum status for 'bicycle-friendly university'

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 21:44:43 +0000

CU ��ý�� earns platinum status for 'bicycle-friendly university' Megan M Rogers Thu, 01/15/2026 - 14:44

Big news for Buffs who love to ride: CU ��ý�� has been awarded platinum status as a Bicycle Friendly University by the League of American Bicyclists. This is the highest honor in the program and recognizes our campus as one of the best places in the country to bike.

The league’s latest round of awards celebrates universities that are stepping up: listening to feedback, investing in infrastructure and building partnerships to make biking safer, easier and more accessible for everyone. And that’s exactly what CU has been doing.

CU ��ý�� is now one of only 10 platinum-level schools in the entire country out of 204 participating universities. That makes this achievement truly exceptional and hard to earn.

By the numbers

CU ��ý�� has more than 7,000 bike parking spaces across campus, making it easy for riders to find a spot and keep rolling.
On a typical day, thousands of bikes travel through campus—so many that bikes outnumber cars in most areas of campus!
Each year, the Environmental Center's Bicycle Program refurbishes around 100 abandoned or impounded bikes for re-use by students.

From miles of bike paths and secure parking to repair stations and education programs, CU ��ý�� has worked hard to make biking a core part of campus life. Efforts include:

Better infrastructure: Dedicated bike lanes, covered and secured bike parking, improved traffic crossings and more bike racks
Community support: Safety campaigns, events, trainings and partnerships with local organizations
Convenience: Buff Bike programs, free ��ý�� BCycle use and on-campus bicycle maintenance stations

Why does this matter?

Biking helps reduce carbon emissions, promotes health and keeps our campus moving. Earning platinum status shows that CU ��ý�� is leading the way in sustainable transportation.

“This award reflects our campus commitment to sustainability and mobility,” said Brandon Smith, assistant director for sustainable transportation at CU ��ý��. “Biking is not just a transportation option; it’s part of our culture and our vision for a greener future.”

Being recognized as a Platinum Bicycle Friendly University is a powerful example of how CU ��ý�� turns sustainability values into real-world action.

“Transportation is one of the biggest drivers of emissions, so shifting trips toward biking and transit is critical to meeting our climate goals and improving quality of life,” said Andrew Mayock, vice chancellor for sustainability at CU ��ý��.

Want to learn more about the Bicycle Friendly University program? Check out the full list of awardees at bikeleague.org.

Big news for Buffs who love to ride: CU ��ý�� has been awarded platinum status as a Bicycle Friendly University by the League of American Bicyclists. This is the highest honor in the program and recognizes the campus as one of the best places in the country to bike.

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CU ��ý�� receives prestigious community engagement honor

Megan M Rogers — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 19:06:21 +0000

CU ��ý�� receives prestigious community engagement honor Megan M Rogers Mon, 01/12/2026 - 12:06

The American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching announced today that CU ��ý�� has received the 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement, an honor shared by only 277 institutions nationwide.

"As Colorado's flagship public university, this recognition affirms CU ��ý��’s deep commitment to working hand-in-hand with our communities across the state to create meaningful impact," said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. "It reflects years of intentional collaboration to integrate community engagement into our mission, enriching scholarship, preparing engaged citizens and addressing critical societal challenges.

“I’d like to express my gratitude to the application committee, co-chaired by Katie Kleinhesselink and Alicia Adelman, for their dedication and hard work in earning this prestigious recognition. I’d also like to thank David Meens, director of public and community-engaged scholarship in the office of Outreach and Community Engagement, and his team for their longstanding leadership in this area,” Schwartz said.

Why this matters

Community engagement connects the knowledge and resources of higher education with public and private partners. Rooted in principles of reciprocity and mutual benefit, such partnerships advance research and creative work, enrich learning, foster civic responsibility, tackle societal challenges and serve the public good.

Highlights from the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching acceptance notice:

This accomplishment is especially noteworthy amid significant federal policy and funding shifts shaping the future of higher education.
Applications in this cycle demonstrated how campuses nationwide are deepening partnerships, leveraging community assets and addressing urgent societal challenges, work CU ��ý�� has advanced with clarity and distinction.
CU ��ý��’s application documented excellent alignment among campus mission, culture, leadership, resources and practices that support dynamic and noteworthy community engagement.

"Serving as the new host for the Carnegie Elective Classification for Sustainability and now earning this classification for community engagement positions CU ��ý�� at the forefront of advancing higher education’s role in serving the public good," said Schwartz. "We are proud to lead efforts that strengthen democratic values, foster civic responsibility and create solutions for the most pressing issues of our time."

About the classification

The classification is awarded following a process of self-study by each institution.
The classification has been the leading framework for institutional assessment and recognition of community engagement in United States higher education for the past 21 years with classification cycles in 2006, 2008, 2010, 2015, 2020, 2024 and now 2026.
This classification remains valid until 2032, at which time CU ��ý�� must apply for reclassification to maintain its status.

CU ��ý�� has earned the 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement, a distinction reflecting the university's commitment to working with communities across the state and beyond.

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Evan Thomas wins International Water Association career award

Megan M Rogers — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 14:26:01 +0000

Evan Thomas wins International Water Association career award Megan M Rogers Mon, 12/22/2025 - 07:26

College of Engineering and Applied Science

Evan Thomas, a professor and director of the Mortenson Center in Global Engineering & Resilience, has been awarded a career honor from the International Water Association for work that has reshaped how safe drinking water is delivered in some of the world's most vulnerable regions.

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Several of CU ��ý��'s own featured on 'highly cited researchers' list

Megan M Rogers — Mon, 24 Nov 2025 18:40:04 +0000

Several of CU ��ý��'s own featured on 'highly cited researchers' list Megan M Rogers Mon, 11/24/2025 - 11:40

Clarivate's list of highly cited researchers again includes a number CU ��ý�� faculty who are demonstrating "broad and significant influence in their fields." See who's on the list.

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Applause goes to music student who won Ekstrand competition

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 19:41:37 +0000

Applause goes to music student who won Ekstrand competition Megan M Rogers Thu, 11/20/2025 - 12:41

College of Music

The College of Music is celebrating the winner and the semifinalists in the annual graduate student performance competition honoring former Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Bruce Ekstrand.

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Xuedong Liu inducted into National Academy of Inventors

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 21:06:46 +0000

Xuedong Liu inducted into National Academy of Inventors Megan M Rogers Thu, 11/13/2025 - 14:06

Professor Xuedong Liu was inducted into the National Academy of Inventors, recognizing a career of pioneering discoveries and real-world impact. His research on cellular communication has fueled four startups advancing novel treatments for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

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Mathematician Katherine Stange honored by peers

Megan M Rogers — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:58:01 +0000

Mathematician Katherine Stange honored by peers Megan M Rogers Tue, 11/11/2025 - 09:58

Colorado Arts and Sciences Magazine

Katherine Stange was named a fellow by the American Mathematical Society, becoming the second person in the math department to garner AMS recognition.

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CU ��ý�� team wins international poster design competition

Megan M Rogers — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:54:34 +0000

CU ��ý�� team wins international poster design competition Megan M Rogers Tue, 11/11/2025 - 09:54

College of Engineering and Applied Science

A win came for a group of CU ��ý�� chemical and biological engineering undergraduates at the American Institute of Chemical Engineers' international competition in Boston, where the group's poster stood out among 56 teams.

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Celebrate

Meet the newest employees of the year

Stew Elliott

Sara McDonald

Dragan Mejic

Teresa De Jesus Torres

Related Articles

CU ��ý�� student selected as Schwarzman Scholar

How did you choose CU ��ý�� for your studies?

Over the course of your academic career, you have been the recipient of several honors and achievements. What is the driving factor behind your success?

How did your interest in Chinese culture originate? What are you hoping to experience during your year in Beijing?

Is there anyone in particular you would like to thank or acknowledge in your achievement?

What’s next for you?

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CU ��ý�� earns platinum status for 'bicycle-friendly university'

Why does this matter?

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CU ��ý�� receives prestigious community engagement honor

Why this matters

About the classification

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Evan Thomas wins International Water Association career award

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Several of CU ��ý��'s own featured on 'highly cited researchers' list

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Applause goes to music student who won Ekstrand competition

Related Articles

Xuedong Liu inducted into National Academy of Inventors

Related Articles

Mathematician Katherine Stange honored by peers

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CU ��ý�� team wins international poster design competition

Related Articles

Celebrate

Meet the newest employees of the year

Stew Elliott

Sara McDonald

Dragan Mejic

Teresa De Jesus Torres

Related Articles

CU ������ý���� student selected as Schwarzman Scholar

How did you choose CU ������ý���� for your studies?

Over the course of your academic career, you have been the recipient of several honors and achievements. What is the driving factor behind your success?

How did your interest in Chinese culture originate? What are you hoping to experience during your year in Beijing?

Is there anyone in particular you would like to thank or acknowledge in your achievement?

What’s next for you?

Related Articles

CU ������ý���� earns platinum status for 'bicycle-friendly university'

Why does this matter?

Related Articles

CU ������ý���� receives prestigious community engagement honor

Why this matters

About the classification

Related Articles

Evan Thomas wins International Water Association career award

Related Articles

Several of CU ������ý����'s own featured on 'highly cited researchers' list

Related Articles

Applause goes to music student who won Ekstrand competition

Related Articles

Xuedong Liu inducted into National Academy of Inventors

Related Articles

Mathematician Katherine Stange honored by peers

Related Articles

CU ������ý���� team wins international poster design competition

Related Articles

CU ��ý�� student selected as Schwarzman Scholar

How did you choose CU ��ý�� for your studies?

CU ��ý�� earns platinum status for 'bicycle-friendly university'

CU ��ý�� receives prestigious community engagement honor

Several of CU ��ý��'s own featured on 'highly cited researchers' list

CU ��ý�� team wins international poster design competition