News Article

Chancellor calls for big ideas in 2026 State of the Campus

Jessica Follett — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 17:33:39 +0000

Chancellor calls for big ideas in 2026 State of the Campus Jessica Follett Thu, 02/12/2026 - 10:33

Chancellor Justin Schwartz delivered his annual State of the Campus address on Feb. 10, highlighting the university’s 150th anniversary and encouraging students, faculty and staff to submit ideas for transforming the future of С�� Boulder’s societal impact.

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Malala Yousafzai to speak at Conference on World Affairs in April

Jessica Follett — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 20:22:12 +0000

Malala Yousafzai to speak at Conference on World Affairs in April Jessica Follett Mon, 01/26/2026 - 13:22

In partnership with the Center for Leadership and the Center for Asian Studies, we’re honored to announce Malala Yousafzai as the closing speaker for the Conference on World Affairs.

From speaking out for girls’ education at just 11 years old to becoming the youngest Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Yousafzai’s courage has helped shape a global movement for education, equality and human rights. Her story—and her ongoing work through Malala Fund—continues to demonstrate the power of one voice to drive meaningful change.

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NOLS + University of Colorado + American Rivers Partnership

Jessica Follett — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 22:49:09 +0000

NOLS + University of Colorado + American Rivers Partnership Jessica Follett Thu, 01/22/2026 - 15:49

This past summer, twelve University of Colorado Boulder students left the classroom for a week on Utah’s Green River. The River Conservation Leadership Expedition—organized by С�� Boulder’s Center for Leadership in partnership with American Rivers and NOLS—combined backcountry training with lessons in environmental leadership.

Over the course of the trip, students practiced paddling and river safety skills, but the focus extended beyond technical training. Through daily leadership rotations and structured discussions, they examined how water rights, climate change, and Indigenous perspectives are shaping the future of conservation in the American West.

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14 Students Recognized as С�� Boulder's Graduating Leaders of the Year

Jessica Follett — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 17:29:10 +0000

14 Students Recognized as С�� Boulder's Graduating Leaders of the Year Jessica Follett Tue, 01/20/2026 - 10:29

The Center for Leadership is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Graduating Leaders of the Year Award, celebrating the outstanding contributions of С�� Boulder’s student leaders. This prestigious award honors individuals who have exemplified the transformative power of leadership education and demonstrated exceptional commitment to their communities.

The С�� Boulder Graduating Leaders of the Year are nominated by their campus leadership programs, and are recognized for their:

Academic excellence and curiosity
Exceptional support for and innovation within campus leadership programs
Outstanding service to the community, either on campus or in the Boulder metro area
Exceptional character and personal resilience
Exemplary embodiment of the Colorado Creed

These exceptional students will be honored at the Spring Leadership Summit on April 2, 2026 and will be recognized with a court-side shoutout during the Men's Basketball game on February 25th. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to this year’s awardees and look forward to recognizing their continued impact on the С�� Boulder community and beyond.

For more details about the award criteria and past recipients, visit the С�� Boulder Graduating Leaders of the Year page.

Melisa Arellano Ramirez is a Political Science and Ethnic Studies major with a minor in Multicultural Leadership from Boulder, Colorado, who defines leadership as inspiring others to pursue shared goals while remaining open to learning. A first-generation Mexican American student, she has demonstrated this philosophy through sustained leadership in the Multicultural Leadership Scholars Program, serving as a peer mentor and the program’s first community-building intern. In these roles, she fostered inclusive spaces and guided difficult conversations, earning recognition for her critical thinking and authenticity. Melisa plans to attend law school and continue advocating for her communities.

Jamison Barcelona is a Chemical Engineering and Engineering Physics major from Thornton, Colorado, who defines leadership as helping others realize and achieve their potential. A McNair Scholar researching polymer physics and quantum field theory, he brings intellectual curiosity and interdisciplinary thinking to his work, with interests spanning philosophy, literature, and ethics. He co-founded and serves as Vice President of the Engineering Leadership and Literature Association, where he uses literature to address ethical gaps in engineering education and foster inclusive community. Jamison leads with empathy, intellectual rigor, and a belief in the transformative power of education.

Beauregard Cave is a Computer Science major from Denver, Colorado, who defines leadership as connection—finding common ground and building upward together. They have embodied this philosophy through sustained leadership in the С�� Boulder Learning Assistant Program, progressing from Learning Assistant to Lead LA Mentor while collaborating with faculty, mentoring peers, and advocating for inclusive learning environments. Known for thoughtful listening and intellectual humility, Beauregard also applies their technical skills to develop apps supporting people living with PTSD and c-PTSD. They lead with curiosity, care, and a deep commitment to service-driven impact.

Autumn Christeson is a Leadership and Community Engagement and Sociology major with a minor in German from Denver, Colorado, who defines leadership as a practice rooted in community awareness, inclusivity, and knowing when to step forward or step back. Her academic and leadership work centers on designing learning environments that foster belonging, intersectional identity development, and social‑emotional learning. As an honors thesis student, she explores alternative and experiential learning spaces that increase accessibility and academic self‑efficacy. Across her scholarship, classroom engagement, and global experiences studying and working abroad, Autumn leads with authenticity, care, and a deep commitment to creating spaces where all people can thrive.

Saylee Didolkar is a master’s student in Engineering Management from Akola, Maharashtra, India, who defines leadership as a continuous journey of learning and self-growth grounded in curiosity, humility, and purpose. With a background in software engineering, she brings a people-centered approach to leadership through her roles as President of Administration for the Graduate and Professional Student Government and as a Course Facilitator for the Engineering Management Program. Through this work, she builds community, leads teams, and advances initiatives focused on meaningful, long-term impact. Saylee leads with authenticity, resilience, and a strong commitment to service.

Luke Dry is a Computer Science and Finance Integration major from Highlands Ranch, Colorado, who defines leadership as inspiring and helping others become the best versions of themselves. He exemplifies this philosophy as President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), where he has united student-athletes across teams, launched new programming, and elevated SAAC as a strong voice on campus. Luke also represents С�� Boulder in Big 12 SAAC and has contributed to university leadership through service on the athletic director search committee. Through his work with Scripps Leadership & Career Development and community service initiatives, he leads with integrity, empathy, and resilience.

Michael Ellis is a Computer Science major from Colorado Springs, Colorado, who defines leadership as fostering creative, collaborative teams while prioritizing wellbeing and mission success. He exemplifies this philosophy as an Air Force ROTC cadet, serving as Cadet Wing Chief of A-Staff for a 285-cadet organization, where he synchronized senior staff, strengthened communication with cadre, and advised wing leadership on operations. Michael also led community and engagement initiatives that raised nearly $40,000 for cadet programs and expanded officer candidate exposure through partnerships with the U.S. Air Force. He leads with discipline, service, and a strong commitment to helping others thrive.

Sahithi Govardhanam is an Integrative Physiology major with a minor in Korean from Thornton, Colorado, who defines leadership as nurturing inclusive, empathetic spaces where diverse voices can thrive. She has embodied this philosophy through her leadership with New Student & Family Programs as a Journey Leader and Journey Leader Mentor, supporting students and families in their transition to С�� Boulder while co-teaching leadership coursework and strengthening team cohesion. Known for balancing critical thinking with empathy, Sahithi creates welcoming environments where others feel valued and heard. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career in healthcare, bringing compassion and a strong commitment to service.

Sena Kavi is a Business Administration major with emphases in Finance and Business Analytics, a Spanish minor, and a Global Business Certificate from Superior, Colorado, who defines leadership as fostering harmony and positive change through humility and empathy. Sena has made a lasting impact as a Teaching Assistant for the Leeds Scholars Program, Vice President of Engagements for the Leeds Consulting Group, and intern at the Center for Ethics and Social Responsibility. Through mentoring students, leading consulting projects for organizations such as the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee, and advancing ethics-driven business initiatives, Sena leads with integrity and optimism. After graduation, she will join McKinsey & Company in Denver.

Andrew Marsh is a Strategic Communications major with a Business minor from Highlands Ranch, Colorado, who defines leadership as prioritizing the collective success of the team. He has demonstrated this philosophy as Professional Development Chair for the Herd Leadership Council, where he coordinated a yearlong curriculum, organized high-impact events, and helped launch the Herd’s first “Board in Training” session to strengthen accountability and engagement. Beyond leadership programming, Andrew serves as a Student Facility Manager at the Koenig Alumni Center and as a photographer for С�� Athletics. He leads with professionalism, collaboration, and a strong commitment to community.

Kalen Sieja is a Political Science and Ecology & Evolutionary Biology major with a Leadership minor from Denver, Colorado, who defines leadership as fostering excellence and growth in others through accountability and values-driven authenticity. He exemplifies this philosophy as Co-Curator of TEDxС��, leading a team of 50+ students to produce an annual event for more than 2,000 attendees and create a platform for diverse ideas and voices. Kalen’s passion for civic engagement extends beyond campus through fellowships and internships with organizations and elected officials at the state and federal levels. Across his work, he leads with humility, resilience, and a deep commitment to equity and empowerment.

Sam Thompson is an Economics, Mathematics, and Statistics & Data Science major from Centennial, Colorado, who defines leadership as empowering and uniting people around a shared mission. He has exemplified this philosophy through extensive leadership in the Leeds Consulting Group, serving as Vice President of Operations and later as President, where he expanded signature programs, launched the Rocky Mountain Case Competition, and strengthened the organization’s strategic vision. Sam’s leadership is grounded in mentorship and collaboration, guiding peers in high-impact environments. After graduation, he will return to McKinsey & Company as a Business Analyst, continuing his commitment to building strong, purpose-driven teams.

Camden Sharkey, John Masulit, and Gianna Guido served together as the Tri‑Executives of С�� Student Government, leading with collaboration, care, and a shared commitment to strengthening student voice. Camden is a Dance and Political Science major from Colorado Springs, Colorado; John is an International Affairs and Political Science major from Littleton, Colorado with minors in French and Geography and a certificate in European Union Studies; and Gianna is a Spanish and Political Science major from Lafayette, Colorado. Together, they define leadership as deeply relational—rooted in listening, empathy, and shared responsibility—and guided С�� Student Government through complex initiatives that strengthened transparency, coalition‑building, and collaboration across shared governance. Their collective leadership expanded student access to decision‑making and civic engagement, leaving a legacy of inclusive, values‑driven impact at С�� Boulder.

Tvishi Yendamuri is a Biochemistry major with minors in Biomedical Engineering, Public Health, and Business from Highlands Ranch, Colorado, who defines leadership as bringing out people’s best qualities and leveraging diverse perspectives toward a shared purpose. Guided by a passion for medicine and service, she launched MediVox through the Dalai Lama Fellowship—a multilingual platform that improves access to physical, social, and mental health resources for underserved communities across Colorado. Through this work, Tvishi demonstrates determination, empathy, and a strong commitment to equity in healthcare, creating inclusive environments where collaboration leads to meaningful impact.

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Peace Corps Panel Discussion

Anastasia Gallegos-Roque — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 02:30:00 +0000

Peace Corps Panel Discussion Anastasia Gall… Wed, 11/12/2025 - 19:30

Join for refreshments and a conversation with Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) who are also members of С�� Boulder's Mortenson Center in Global Engineering & Resilience community. They will share how the Peace Corps impacted their lives, including their professional development & career paths.

Location: Sustainability, Energy and Environment Community (SEEC), S372AB

If you cannot make it in person, this is a hybrid session. Be in touch (peacecorps@colorado.edu) if you want to join the conversation by Zoom.

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Peace Corps Career Pathways in Service Panel & Networking

Anastasia Gallegos-Roque — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:09:53 +0000

Peace Corps Career Pathways in Service Panel & Networking Anastasia Gall… Tue, 11/04/2025 - 22:09

The Peace Corps sends Americans with a passion for service abroad on behalf of the United States to work with communities and create lasting change. Volunteers develop sustainable solutions to address challenges in education, health, community economic development, agriculture, the environment and youth development.

Through their Peace Corps experience, volunteers gain a unique cultural understanding and a life-long commitment to service that positions them to succeed in today’s global economy.

Since President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps in 1961, more than 240,000 Americans of all ages have served in over 160 countries worldwide.

As a Volunteer, you immerse yourself in a new experience — building relationships, exchanging cultures and knowledge, and helping transform lives for generations.

Join us for an inspiring panel discussion and networking event featuring City Year, the Peace Corps, and Teach For America (TFA).

Hear firsthand from С�� Boulder alumni, who have degrees from the College of Arts & Sciences, how they turned their passion into purpose through service. Learn how YOU can launch a meaningful career, make a difference, and gain valuable skills after graduation.

Meet recruiters, ask questions, and explore your next adventure! Don’t miss this chance to connect, get inspired, and take the first step toward a career that matters.
- Wednesday, February 4, 2026 3:45pm to 5:30pm. In Eaton Humanities, 135

https://calendar.colorado.edu/event/career-pathways-in-service-panel-networking-8745

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Women Who Make a Difference 2025 Nominations Are Open

Anastasia Gallegos-Roque — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:54:58 +0000

Women Who Make a Difference 2025 Nominations Are Open Anastasia Gall… Mon, 11/03/2025 - 11:54

Since 2000, the Women Who Make a Difference program has honored women who are impacting our С�� Boulder community. Each fall, we accept nominations from the campus community for women to honor and awards are presented at a celebration of the nominees with their nominators.

Each October, The Center (for Cultural Connections & Community) invites С�� Boulder students, staff, and faculty to nominate marvelous women in our community including advocates, colleagues, friends, grandmothers, mothers, storytellers or any woman who has impacted your life in a positive way. While nominators must be affiliated with С�� Boulder, nominees can be members of the wider community. The most fun thing: because the goal of this award is to recognize more women for all their contributions to our campus, the program honors all women who are nominated!*.

The recognition ceremony and reception will be held on the evening of Wednesday, December 3rd. The Center staff will share the time and location privately with honorees and nominators after the call for nominations period closes.

*One woman may be nominated by multiple people or teams of people, AND we limit nominations to one per С�� community member. Women who were honored in 2023 or 2024 are not eligible to be recognized in 2025, and Center staff will contact you if this is the case.

The nomination form for Women Who Make a Difference 2025 is now open and can be found here: /culturalconnections/women-who-make-difference

Nominations must be submitted by Wednesday, November 3rd at 5pm.

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Google Jam Session with YWCA

Anastasia Gallegos-Roque — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:20:40 +0000

Google Jam Session with YWCA Anastasia Gall… Mon, 11/03/2025 - 11:20

YWCA will be having a STEM Session for girls and young women in grades 6 +, including high school and college. The goal is to help girls explore careers in STEM, specifically highlighting the variety of roles available at organizations like Google.

This session, held on Monday, November 17th from 3pm-5pm, will include a Q&A panel with women at Google and a tour of the facilities of the Walnut campus. YWCA will be inviting a wide variety of ages so that girls can connect with others interested in STEM and providing a community mentoring atmosphere.

Registration is available at: https://secure.everyaction.com/D7o2WWqacE-R5g6cbFCG5A2

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Nonnas Film Screening

Anastasia Gallegos-Roque — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 17:21:56 +0000

Nonnas Film Screening Anastasia Gall… Mon, 11/03/2025 - 10:21

Join us for a special screening of Nonnas — ahead of Director Gigi Pritzker's visit to С�� Boulder for the Leo Hill Leadership Speaker Series!

It will be on Thursday, November 6 in Chem 140 from 7-9pm. Hope to see you there!

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Leo Hill Leadership Speaker Series with Gigi Pritzker

Jessica Follett — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Leo Hill Leadership Speaker Series with Gigi Pritzker Jessica Follett Mon, 10/13/2025 - 00:00

Award-winning producer Gigi Pritzker to speak at С�� Boulder

Pritzker’s talk will delve into the transformative power of bold storytelling—highlighting how film, television, and theater can drive cultural impact, amplify underrepresented voices, and inspire meaningful change.

“As Founder and CEO of Madison Wells, Gigi Pritzker stands among Hollywood’s most influential leaders,” said Chancellor Emeritus Phil DiStefano, who holds the Newton Endowed Chair in Leadership. “С�� Boulder is honored to welcome this visionary producer, whose work has consistently earned recognition at the highest levels. Her insights will be invaluable to our students and community.”

This event marks Pritzker as the ninth speaker in the Leo Hill Leadership Speaker Series, joining past luminaries such as Molly Bloom, David Brooks, Robert Gates and Mae Jemison.

Gigi Pritzker is a trailblazing producer and CEO of Madison Wells, a studio dedicated to bold storytelling that elevates underrepresented voices and challenges convention across film, television and theater.

She began her career with the BBC documentary Bhutan, Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon, inspired by a year living in Nepal as a Stanford anthropology student. In 2001, she founded OddLot Entertainment, later merging it into Madison Wells in 2015. Under her leadership, the company has become a powerhouse in independent production, with projects regularly earning Academy Award and Tony nominations. In 2017, she was awarded an Emmy for Collisions.

Pritzker serves on the Sundance Institute Board of Trustees and is active in numerous philanthropic initiatives. A proud Chicago native, she continues to champion both emerging and established creators.

Her recent work includes:

Nonnas (Netflix #1 Global hit), starring Vince Vaughn and Susan Sarandon
Miss You Love You, with Allison Janney and Andrew Rannells
A documentary on New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern (Magnolia Films, HBO, CNN)
Acclaimed titles like Hell or High Water, Eyes of Tammy Faye, Hadestown, Shucked, Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, and Genius (National Geographic)

The Leo Hill Leadership Speaker Series is made possible by the Quigg and Virginia S. Newton Endowed Chair in Leadership.

Where: Macky Auditorium

When: Nov. 17, 2025 7:30 PM - 8:45 PM

How: Tickets can be purchased online. Students: $3. Faculty and Staff: $10, General Public: $20

Purchase Tickets

Past Leo Hill speakers

Gigi Pritzker, acclaimed producer and CEO of Madison Wells, will visit the University of Colorado Boulder on Monday, Nov. 17, as the featured speaker in the Leo Hill Leadership Speaker Series, hosted by the С�� Center for Leadership.

Pritzker’s talk will delve into the transformative power of bold storytelling—highlighting how film, television, and theater can drive cultural impact, amplify underrepresented voices, and inspire meaningful change.

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News Article

Chancellor calls for big ideas in 2026 State of the Campus

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Malala Yousafzai to speak at Conference on World Affairs in April

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NOLS + University of Colorado + American Rivers Partnership

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14 Students Recognized as С���� Boulder's Graduating Leaders of the Year

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Peace Corps Panel Discussion

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Peace Corps Career Pathways in Service Panel & Networking

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Women Who Make a Difference 2025 Nominations Are Open

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Google Jam Session with YWCA

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Nonnas Film Screening

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Leo Hill Leadership Speaker Series with Gigi Pritzker

Award-winning producer Gigi Pritzker to speak at С���� Boulder

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14 Students Recognized as С�� Boulder's Graduating Leaders of the Year

Award-winning producer Gigi Pritzker to speak at С�� Boulder