Commencement

5 Reasons to Attend Grad Fair: Prepare, Celebrate and Connect

Anna Tolette — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:37:56 +0000

5 Reasons to Attend Grad Fair: Prepare, Celebrate and Connect Anna Tolette Thu, 04/02/2026 - 10:37

Sara Muderick

Grad Fair is a perfect way to prepare for graduation and look ahead with confidence. Stop by Grad Fair on Monday, April 20, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. in the UMC Glenn Miller Ballroom. This is your one-stop event designed to help graduating students feel prepared, informed and excited for what’s next.

Everything you need, all in one place

Take advantage of having campus resources in one location. Grad Fair connects you directly with representatives from various departments and offices, making it easy to ask questions and gather information without tracking down multiple contacts.

Step into your future with confidence

Grad Fair offers valuable resources in career services, networking and alumni engagement. Whether you’re still job searching, applying to graduate school or simply exploring your options, these resources can support your transition from student to professional and help set you up for success after graduation.

Know your graduation day details

Every department celebrates graduation a little differently, and Grad Fair is the perfect opportunity to learn about specific timelines, ticketing, attire and expectations for your department’s ceremony, so you don’t have to worry about logistics on the big day.

Becoming a Forever Buff

Graduation marks the start of your lifelong connection to С�� Boulder. Grad Fair introduces you to alumni programs, networking opportunities and ways to stay engaged with the campus community. Becoming a Forever Buff means continuing to access resources, events and the community the Alumni Association has to offer.

Celebrate your accomplishments

Grad Fair is a chance to recognize your achievements and set yourself up for success after graduation. Kick off your graduation weekend with excitement and pride while confidently building your path forward as a Forever Buff.

Mark your calendar for Grad Fair

Stop by Grad Fair on Monday, April 20, to explore resources that will support you during and after graduation. This event for graduating students can help you be prepared, informed and ready for commencement.

Traditional

White

Keep the Buff Tradition Going: The Class of 2026 Gift

Anna Tolette — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 18:48:38 +0000

Keep the Buff Tradition Going: The Class of 2026 Gift Anna Tolette Mon, 03/30/2026 - 12:48

Sara Muderick

Your time at С�� Boulder has been defined by unforgettable moments, meaningful friendships and experiences that will stay with you long after graduation. The Class of 2026 senior gift offers a chance to celebrate that journey while paying it forward.

By contributing $20.26, you’re honoring your time at С�� Boulder and helping create opportunities for future Buffs to build their memories and connections. It’s a small way to leave a lasting impact on the place that shaped your college experience.

Family and friends can also make a gift in your honor to celebrate your achievements and support the next generation of Buffs.

🦬 Keeping the tradition alive

Graduating Buffs have been celebrating their legacy and giving back to С�� Boulder for decades. The Class of 1991 contributed to the Norlin Book Endowment, while the Class of 2004 funded the iconic sandstone archway above Farrand Field.

Whether through tangible campus improvements or vital scholarship funding, your contribution helps make С�� Boulder a better place.

🎁 This year’s gift

Since 2013, the senior class gift has been a scholarship created by students, for students. Every contribution to the Seniors Creating Future Buffs Scholarship supports an endowment that helps future generations of Buffs access academic opportunities and engaging campus experiences.

Scholarship recipient, Ashley Jung (Biochem’ 24), said, “The Seniors Creating Future Buffs Scholarship has helped me become a first-generation college graduate and significantly impacted my journey to becoming a future physician. It has given me the opportunity to have the most fulfilling undergraduate experience by lessening the financial barriers that come with college.”

🎉Pick up your donor stole!

On top of the rewarding feeling of helping fellow Buffs, all Senior Gift donors are eligible to wear the Blue Contribution Cord at commencement. To pick up your cord, simply bring your donation email confirmation to the Center for Student Involvement, located on the third floor of the University Memorial Center (UMC) during normal business hours (Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.).

As graduation approaches, join the Class of 2026 senior gift and help keep this special Buff tradition going.

Give to the senior gift today

Support the Class of 2026 senior class gift. Contribute $20.26 to honor your time at С�� Boulder and help create opportunities for future Buffs through the Seniors Creating Future Buffs Scholarship.

Traditional

White

Class of 2026, Let’s Celebrate! See You at Grad Bash 🎉

Anna Tolette — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 17:16:34 +0000

Class of 2026, Let’s Celebrate! See You at Grad Bash 🎉 Anna Tolette Tue, 03/24/2026 - 11:16

Sara Muderick

Save the date, grads!

Join your classmates on Friday, April 24 for the 2026 Grad Bash — a commencement tradition you don’t want to miss.

Grad Bash is a free, end-of-year sendoff packed with food, music, photos and prizes. It’s the perfect way to soak up your final days at С�� Boulder and celebrate everything you’ve accomplished.

Here’s what’s waiting for you:

🍻 Free food + drinks

Come hungry and grab a drink! Stop by Grad Bash for some great bites while hanging out with fellow grads and enjoying the rest of the festivities.

📸 Photo booth

Snap some photos to remember your С�� Boulder days and show off your Buff pride.

🥳 All your people in one place

Every member of the Class of 2026 is invited — and you can bring a plus one! Grad Bash is the perfect way to get everyone together, hang out with friends and celebrate as a class.

🦬 Your first step as a Forever Buff

As you transition from student to alum, you’ll get the inside scoop on alumni perks — from exclusive events and career mentorship opportunities to Buff-only discounts. It’s not just a party; it’s the start of your Forever Buffs Journey.

🎁 Free grad gift

Register for Grad Bash and receive a free gift from the Alumni Association — a keepsake to celebrate your graduation and mark the moment.

Make the most of your last week as a С�� student!

Round up your friends and register. The Class of 2026 deserves a proper sendoff. 🦬🎉

Register now for Grad Bash on Friday, April 24. Join your classmates at a free graduation celebration featuring prizes, music, photo ops, food and drinks. Don’t miss this commencement tradition.

Traditional

White

Your Ultimate 2026 Commencement Guide

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

Your Ultimate 2026 Commencement Guide Anna Tolette Mon, 03/23/2026 - 10:23

Sara Muderick

No need to stress, grads! Here is the ultimate 2026 commencement guide to help you live in the moment and celebrate your graduation at С�� Boulder.

The weeks leading up to graduation are packed with fun events, cherished Buff traditions and countless opportunities to celebrate your accomplishments before the big day on May 2.

As you savor your final moments as a student and prepare to step into your new role as a Forever Buff, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of commencement.

Grad Bash

Kick off the celebration at Grad Bash on the Koenig Alumni Center lawn on Friday, April 24, 4–7 p.m.! Join your fellow graduates for a day packed with live entertainment, delicious food and drinks, and exciting prizes. Celebrate all that you’ve accomplished and savor your final week as a С�� Boulder student alongside fellow Buffs.

Grad Days

Don’t miss out on Grad Days April 20–24. Mark your calendar for a week of celebration!

Cap decorating at the С�� Bookstore: April 20–24 | 9 a.m.–6 p.m.

Campus photo opportunities at various campus locations: April 20–23 | 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Grad Fair at the UMC Glenn Miller Ballroom: April 20 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Grab and go doughnuts at the Engineering Center Herbst Plaza: April 20 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Career Services Farewell Bash at Center for Community, room S440: April 21 | 12:30–3:30 p.m.

Late Night Breakfast at the UMC Glenn Miller Ballroom: April 22 | 7–9 p.m.

Senior Sunset at Chautauqua Dining Hall: April 22 | 7–10 p.m.

Grad Bash at Koenig Alumni Center: April 24 | 4–7 p.m.

Don’t miss all the exciting opportunities С�� Boulder has in store to celebrate soon-to-be Forever Buffs.

Academic recognition ceremonies

In addition to the main commencement ceremony, С�� colleges, schools, departments and programs host smaller recognition ceremonies. These intimate events allow students to celebrate their achievements alongside peers, faculty and loved ones.

Cultural and affinity commencement celebrations

Many campus organizations host cultural and affinity celebrations each May to honor graduates’ personal and academic achievements. These events offer meaningful spaces to celebrate your journey and connect with communities that have shaped your С�� Boulder experience.

Asian American and Pacific Islander BBQ

Black Graduation

First-Generation Graduate Celebration

Golden Buffalo Marching Band Graduation

Latinx Graduation

Lavender Graduation

Military Honor Cord Ceremony

Native and Indigenous Graduation

Graduation regalia

Join generations of Buffs in wearing traditional graduation attire. Check out the С�� Bookstore and make sure you’re ready to walk the stage in style.

Stoles: Sash-like garments highlighting your affiliations, achievements or college or school representation. Many graduates purchase degree stoles at the С�� Book Store to wear on graduation day.

Cords: Rope-like strands worn around the neck, each color combination representing a specific achievement.

Confirm your cords and stoles with your department or student organizations and wear them proudly!

Senior Class Gift

Leave your mark on С�� Boulder by contributing to the Class of 2026 Senior Gift. This student-created scholarship tradition helps future Buffs enjoy the same incredible С�� Boulder experience as you. Celebrate the Class of 2026 and support future Buffs with a $20.26 gift.

The Sink

Make sure to leave your mark at The Sink, a beloved Hill landmark where С�� Boulder grads have been signing the walls for years. On May 2, don your cap and gown, gather your friends and add your signature to this time-honored tradition.

Congratulations, Class of 2026!

These next few weeks are filled with unforgettable events, beloved С�� traditions, and countless ways to celebrate your achievements. Cherish your final moments as a С�� Boulder student and get ready to step confidently into your next chapter as a Forever Buff!

Update your contact information to stay connected

These programs are open to all С�� Boulder students and do not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex age, disability, creed, religion, veteran status, marital status, political affiliation, political philosophy, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression in accordance with state, federal, and Regent law.

Here’s your 2026 commencement guide to help you navigate graduation. Learn about key events and special moments. Plus, you’ll find other tips to ensure a smooth and fun graduation experience.

Off

Traditional

White

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What does philanthropy mean to you?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Celebrate your way: Don't miss your Cultural Commencement Celebrations

Anna Tolette — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 20:00:04 +0000

Celebrate your way: Don't miss your Cultural Commencement Celebrations Anna Tolette Mon, 03/16/2026 - 14:00

Julia MacLean

As your С�� Boulder graduation approaches, you don’t want to overlook the cultural and affinity commencement celebrations. These events are open to everyone and honor a wide range of personal, academic and community accomplishments — giving space to reflect with the people and identities that helped shape your experience.

A celebration that honors you

Cultural and affinity celebrations are more than just another event on the schedule. They create spaces where your personal story matters — your traditions, your community networks and the unique path you’ve walked at С�� Boulder. Find events to celebrate the friends and communities you care about.

2026 Cultural Commencement and Affinity Celebrations:

Asian American and Pacific Islander BBQ

Black Graduation

First Generation Graduation

Golden Buffalo Marching Band Graduation

Latinx Graduation

Lavender Graduation

Military Honor Cord Ceremony

Native and Indigenous Graduation

Whether you want to wear a stole that represents your cultural identity, mark your accomplishments in a community of peers or simply be surrounded by those who have walked similar paths, registering for your cultural and affinity celebration ensures you get a moment designed with you in mind.

Connect with your community in your own way

Commencement is a deeply meaningful campus-wide milestone that celebrates the entire graduating class. Cultural commencement celebrations offer a more personal stage — one where friends, families and mentors gather specifically to honor you and your community. These celebrations foster connection, recognition and a sense of belonging.

It’s also a chance to pick up special stoles, cords and academic dress that showcase your affiliations, all symbols that tell your story during commencement.

Why this matters

Registering isn’t just about attending one more event. It’s about joining a tradition that celebrates identity, resilience and community impact. These ceremonies invite you to stand proudly as yourself, surrounded by peers who shared part of your journey on С�� Boulder’s campus. They become memories you’ll revisit long after graduation.

Cultural commencement celebrations offer a space to be seen, heard and honored in a way that’s true to your experience. And they’re only available if you register.

Act now

Registration is now open for cultural and affinity commencement celebrations. Mark your calendar. Sign up early. Invite your people. These celebrations are a powerful, meaningful capstone to your С�� Boulder story — and one that deserves a place in your commencement experience.

Register now for Cultural and Affinity Commencement Celebrations to be part of these meaningful graduation traditions. Everyone is welcome to celebrate the accomplishments and the communities that supported you along the way.

Traditional

White

Your Forever Buffs journey starts now: Stay connected

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

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

Julia MacLean

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

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

Here’s why staying in the loop matters:

1️⃣ You’re invited!

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

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

2️⃣ Level up your career

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

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

3️⃣ Exclusive benefits and Buffs perks

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

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

4️⃣ Stay in the know

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

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

5️⃣ Keep the Buffs bond strong

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

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

Update your information

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

Alumni welcome communications

Event registration reminders

Alumni newsletters and updates

Post-graduation resources and benefits

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

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

Update your information ➡️

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

Off

Traditional

White

Kickstart your next chapter with the Forever Buffs Network

Anna Tolette — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 23:04:14 +0000

Kickstart your next chapter with the Forever Buffs Network Anna Tolette Thu, 03/05/2026 - 16:04

Sara Muderick

Graduation marks one of your biggest milestones and the start of your next chapter. As you step beyond С�� Boulder, you don’t have to navigate the transition alone. The Forever Buffs Network helps you stay connected, build your career and find guidance for what comes next.

The Forever Buffs Network is built on a simple idea: Buffs help Buffs. Whether you’re looking for mentorship, exploring career paths or staying connected to the С�� Boulder community, the network is here to help you take the next step.

Career launch and mentorship

Did you know there’s a job board just for С�� alumni? Starting your career can be overwhelming and full of new challenges, but the Forever Buffs Network makes it easier.

Connect directly with fellow Forever Buffs in your field for career advice, industry insights and understanding what path is right for you. The Forever Buffs Network also offers invaluable mentorship opportunities, pairing those seeking guidance with experienced Forever Buff professionals eager to support your growth.

Find your community

Wherever postgrad life takes you, there are Forever Buffs communities waiting to connect with you. With chapters all across the country — like Forever Buffs New York and Forever Buffs Washington D.C. — you can easily find fellow С�� alumni and build connections in your area.

Buffs can connect in many ways, from shared hobbies and professions to sports and С�� colleges. Whether you’re graduating from the College of Engineering and Applied Science or the College of Communication, Media, Design and Information, there’s a Forever Buffs community waiting for you.

Support Buff-owned Businesses

The Forever Buffs Business Directory makes it easy to support alumni-owned businesses and discover exclusive offerings. Featuring a wide range of Buff-owned and operated businesses, the directory includes everything from local restaurants and retail shops to professional services.

For entrepreneurial Buffs, the Business Directory is also a valuable networking tool. Connect with alumni who have launched businesses of their own to share insights and grow your professional community.

Whether you’re grabbing lunch on Pearl Street or hiring a consultant for your company, the Forever Buffs Business Directory helps you find and support fellow Buffs.

Stay informed with Buff’s Buzz

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

Even after graduation, Buff’s Buzz helps you stay connected to the С�� community.

Join the Forever Buffs Network before you graduate!

And the best part? You don’t have to wait until graduation to join the Forever Buffs Network. Start now and take advantage of everything it has to offer. Jumpstart your career, get involved in Forever Buffs communities and begin building connections that last a lifetime.

Join more than 19,000 fellow Buffs in the Forever Buffs Network, because once a Buff, always a Buff.

Join the Forever Buffs Network

Discover how the Forever Buffs Network connects you to mentorship, jobs and alumni communities ready to help you navigate your next steps after graduation.

Off

Traditional

White

Congratulations and welcome to your Forever Buffs family

Anna Tolette — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 17:45:41 +0000

Congratulations and welcome to your Forever Buffs family Anna Tolette Wed, 04/30/2025 - 11:45

Sophia McKeown

Congratulations, Class of 2025! Your big moment is finally here, and we couldn’t be prouder of everything you’ve accomplished.

While preparing for graduation and soaking up your final moments on campus, remember that graduation isn’t goodbye. As a Forever Buff, you’re now part of a robust global network of more than 300,000 alumni, and С�� Boulder will be here to support and celebrate you long after you walk across the stage.

Here’s a look at the benefits waiting for you as you step into life as an alum.

🌎 A global network of Forever Buffs

As a С�� Boulder graduate, you’re instantly connected to more than 300,000 alumni across the globe. This powerful network is here to help you grow personally and professionally. Whether you’re moving to a new city or exploring your next big opportunity, the Buff community is always within reach and ready to help you stay connected.

💼 Free career support

Even after you’ve graduated, you can continue to get career support as a С�� alum. New graduates receive free career advising for one year after graduation and then two free appointments every year for life. This benefit ensures that you have continued access to guidance, resources and professional development support wherever your journey takes you.

🦬 Local meetups around the world

No matter where you roam, you’re never far from fellow Buffs. Forever Buffs chapters are volunteer-led communities located across the country and around the world that keep the С�� Boulder spirit alive. These regional groups host a wide range of events like Buffs watch parties, brewery meetups and ski days, all designed to help you stay connected and build new friendships with С�� alumni in your area.

🎉 Signature events to celebrate and reconnect

The fun events don’t end with commencement. Forever Buffs are invited to attend exclusive events like Homecoming, Buffs Bashes, alumni panels and career networking fairs. Whether you’re an avid Buffs sports fan or interested in professional growth, there’s something for everyone. These events are a great way to stay involved, build your network and celebrate what it means to be a Buff, long after graduation.

📫 Exclusive Forever Buffs Network perks

Your Forever Buff status comes with more than just memories. You’ll get access to the Forever Buffs Network, an online hub for job listings, alumni communities and mentorship opportunities. For even more benefits, you can join ForeverGold at half the regular cost as a new grad, unlocking VIP perks like free drink tickets, complimentary tickets to athletic events and special discounts just for Buffs. Sign up now!

With all the excitement of graduation, don’t forget to take one simple step to stay connected: update your contact info. It’s the best way to make sure you receive news, event invites, career resources and exclusive alumni perks.

Congratulations, Class of 2025! We are so excited to be a part of your next adventure!

Stay in Touch with С��

Off

Traditional

White

Learn more about 2025 Commencement speaker Emma Coburn

Anna Tolette — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 17:57:21 +0000

Learn more about 2025 Commencement speaker Emma Coburn Anna Tolette Wed, 04/23/2025 - 11:57

Sophia McKeown

In 2012, while she was still an undergraduate at С�� Boulder, runner Emma Coburn competed in her first Olympics. Now, over ten years later, Coburn is returning to her alma mater to deliver the commencement speech for the Class of 2025.

As Chancellor Justin Schwartz shared with С�� Boulder Today, “Emma Coburn is the epitome of a Buff: strong, focused, determined and resilient.”

Here’s more about this year’s commencement speaker:

Coburn grew up in Crested Butte, Colorado, which she claimed was crucial to her athletic development and happiness.

Coburn was the first С�� athlete to win an indoor mile title in track and field.

She won the 2011 and 2013 NCAA steeplechase national championships. Her 2013 title race time was the fifth best in NCAA history.

Coburn has competed at three Olympics: London, Rio and Tokyo.

At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Coburn took home bronze, becoming the first American woman to medal in an Olympic steeplechase event. Her race time also established a new American record at the time.

In 2017, Coburn founded the Elk Run 5K in her hometown, Crested Butte, to raise money for community members battling cancer. Since then, the event has raised over $300,000 for a local charity.

Coburn was one of three С�� alumni to compete in the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Eugene, Oregon. She placed eighth in the world for the women’s steeplechase.

In 2023, she was inducted into the С�� Athletic Hall of Fame.

Coburn is part of a multi-generational Buffs legacy. Her grandfather, William E. Coburn, graduated from С�� in 1949.

Her favorite celebratory meal is a steak burrito with spicy green chili and a margarita from the Rio Grande in Boulder.

As a С�� Boulder alum, three-time Olympian and proud Coloradan, Coburn embodies the spirit of what it means to be a Forever Buff. With deep roots in the Boulder community and a remarkable journey from С�� student to world-class athlete, she brings a powerful message of perseverance, passion and Buffs pride. Don’t miss her at this year’s commencement ceremony as she addresses the next generation of outstanding graduates.

Learn more about commencement.

Off

Traditional

White

Commencement

5 Reasons to Attend Grad Fair: Prepare, Celebrate and Connect

Everything you need, all in one place

Step into your future with confidence

Know your graduation day details

Becoming a Forever Buff

Celebrate your accomplishments

Related Articles

Keep the Buff Tradition Going: The Class of 2026 Gift

🦬 Keeping the tradition alive

🎁 This year’s gift

🎉Pick up your donor stole!

Related Articles

Class of 2026, Let’s Celebrate! See You at Grad Bash 🎉

Here’s what’s waiting for you:

🍻 Free food + drinks

📸 Photo booth

🥳 All your people in one place

🦬 Your first step as a Forever Buff

🎁 Free grad gift

Related Articles

Your Ultimate 2026 Commencement Guide

Grad Bash

Grad Days

Academic recognition ceremonies

Cultural and affinity commencement celebrations

Graduation regalia

Senior Class Gift

The Sink

Congratulations, Class of 2026!

Off

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

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

What does philanthropy mean to you?

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

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

Related Articles

Celebrate your way: Don't miss your Cultural Commencement Celebrations

A celebration that honors you

2026 Cultural Commencement and Affinity Celebrations:

Connect with your community in your own way

Why this matters

Act now

Related Articles

Your Forever Buffs journey starts now: Stay connected

1️⃣ You’re invited!

2️⃣ Level up your career

3️⃣ Exclusive benefits and Buffs perks

4️⃣ Stay in the know

5️⃣ Keep the Buffs bond strong

Update your information

Off

Kickstart your next chapter with the Forever Buffs Network

Career launch and mentorship

Find your community

Support Buff-owned Businesses

Stay informed with Buff’s Buzz

Join the Forever Buffs Network before you graduate!

Off

Congratulations and welcome to your Forever Buffs family

🌎 A global network of Forever Buffs

💼 Free career support

🦬 Local meetups around the world

🎉 Signature events to celebrate and reconnect

📫 Exclusive Forever Buffs Network perks

Off

Learn more about 2025 Commencement speaker Emma Coburn

Off

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