Alumni Stories

10 Boulder dining favorites: From $.99 mimosas to Michelin stars

Anna Tolette — Fri, 22 May 2026 15:47:40 +0000

10 Boulder dining favorites: From $.99 mimosas to Michelin stars Anna Tolette Fri, 05/22/2026 - 09:47

Julia MacLean

Boulder’s food scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From budget-friendly bites near campus to globally inspired dishes and laid-back spots brimming with local character, there's something here for every craving and occasion. Here are 10 standout restaurants that showcase the best of what Boulder has to offer.

1. The Sink

One of Boulder’s most iconic restaurants, The Sink is known for its graffiti-covered walls, delicious burgers, which it claims are the “best in Boulder,” and quirky charm. A local favorite since 1923, it’s a must-visit for anyone craving great food and a true taste of Boulder history.

2. The Buff

The Buff is a beloved Boulder brunch spot just minutes from the ��ӽ紫ý campus, known for its hearty breakfasts, house-made green chili and cozy, welcoming vibe. Family-owned since 1995, it's famous for generous portions, 99-cent mimosas and dishes like the Saddlebags pancakes.

3. Frasca Food and Wine

If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, this Michelin-starred restaurant recently won the prestigious 2025 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant. Known for its Northern Italian cuisine, Frasca Food and Wine is consistently excellent with exceptional hospitality.

4. Avanti

Avanti Boulder is a stylish food hall with multiple distinct restaurants offering diverse cuisine from pizza to arepas, all under one roof. With rooftop views of the Flatirons, two full bars and a lively, communal vibe, it's perfect for groups, dates or solo diners seeking variety and atmosphere.

5. Japango

If you’re in the mood for top-notch sushi and a vibrant atmosphere, Japango is a Pearl Street standout. With its creative rolls, patio seating and friendly service, it’s perfect for everything from a casual night out to a special date.

6. Gemini

Inspired by Barcelona and San Sebastián, Gemini’s seasonal menu features tapas and larger dishes made with sustainably sourced Colorado ingredients. With a great selection of Spanish wines, craft cocktails and local brews, Gemini combines quality food and a warm atmosphere.

7. Dushanbe Teahouse

The only authentic Persian teahouse in the Western Hemisphere, the Dushanbe Teahouse was handcrafted by Tajik artisans, then disassembled, shipped and reassembled along Boulder Creek. Guests enjoy global cuisine sourced from the teahouse’s own Three Leaf Farm, along with refined afternoon tea services with over 100 teas to choose from.

8. Bartaco

Bartaco offers freshly made, flavorful tacos and small plates in a fun, coastal-inspired setting with outdoor seating. With fresh ingredients, great cocktails and easy app-based ordering, it’s perfect for a casual meal or lively night in downtown Boulder.

9. The Corner

Located on The Hill, The Corner is an affordable, go-to spot near campus known for its fresh, all-natural menu with options like breakfast burritos, paleo bowls, burgers and salads. With fast, friendly service, generous portions and a sunny patio, it’s a favorite for students and locals alike.

10. Freddie’s Hot Dog Stand

If you’re looking for extremely casual and affordable, this iconic hot dog stand is located at the corner of Broadway and Pearl. Open daily and late on weekends, Freddie’s serves up Vienna Beef hot dogs, pork brats, Polish sausages, turkey and veggie dogs, plus nitrate-free elk and buffalo brats.

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Forever Buffs Impact Story: Asaiah Gifford (MechEng’26)

Anna Tolette — Tue, 19 May 2026 21:11:45 +0000

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Asaiah Gifford (MechEng’26) Anna Tolette Tue, 05/19/2026 - 15:11

Among the record number of ��ӽ紫ý degrees conferred during the 2026 Commencement ceremony are countless stories of impact. Characterized by leadership and multidisciplinary perspectives, the next generation of Forever Buffs is carving unique paths and forging new ways to get there.

Asaiah Gifford (MechEng’26) left a legacy in engineering through her interdisciplinary path, which combined her technical interests with a global perspective. In addition to her BS in mechanical engineering, her minors in Spanish and global engineering have shaped a unique perspective on global leadership. She also left her mark on on-campus organizations, including Engineers Without Borders and serves as the outgoing president of the Alpha Kappa Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

What’s next for Asaiah? She’ll be pursuing a master’s degree in mechanical engineering this fall, following an internship with the rocket manufacturing company United Launch Alliance this summer.

What led you to study mechanical engineering at ��ӽ紫ý?

I knew I wanted to study engineering, and I initially started in aerospace. When I was a freshman, study abroad opportunities in that major were limited, so I switched into mechanical.

[Mechanical engineering] allowed me to study abroad in Spain, Singapore and Rwanda, but also because of the incredible faculty and staff and the uniquely awesome coursework, like building a drill-powered bike in Component Design.

How has studying Spanish and global engineering shaped your perspectives?

One of the greatest gifts of being a student at CU is that it has allowed me to both seek out and create opportunities to serve and learn from communities, both locally and abroad. While completing my minors in Spanish and global engineering, I engaged in coursework that expanded my worldview. I learned about Spanish-speaking cultures across categories ranging from food to politics to film and media and explored global ways of thinking through the Herbst and Engineering Leadership programs.

This laid the foundation for my experiences abroad, such as my work on the Engineers Without Borders Guatemala team, traveling to rural Guatemala to monitor the water distribution aerial crossing we had previously implemented. On that trip, I learned firsthand that effective cross-cultural collaboration requires not just technical expertise but also a commitment to navigating complex organizational challenges and maintaining trust with the communities we serve.

I also completed a global seminar in Rwanda with the Engineering Leadership Program, which gave me the opportunity to collaborate directly with students at African Leadership University, to develop a platform that could cultivate cross-continental collaboration, reimagining what a ‘connected world’ really means.

How did you decide what you wanted your post-grad chapter to be and at what point of your journey?

I didn’t plan my post-grad path super early at all. I decided to start taking courses for the BAM program in my senior year, and I plan to stick with it next year. I always thought that a graduate degree required research, but the flexibility of the MS Professional through the mechanical engineering program made it enticing to me.

I connected with the internship opportunity I have this summer at one of the campus career fairs in the fall. Every opportunity I’ve taken has taught me something new about myself and my interests (or lack thereof), and now I’ve got another year to keep exploring and figure out what I’d like to do after graduating again next May.

What ��ӽ紫ý experiences have best prepared you for your next chapter?

At CU, I participated in a wide array of social and professional organizations, from serving as the student-signer for New Era Colorado and as president of my sorority chapter to serving as a student researcher and much more. Engaging with this wide variety of networks and opportunities has also allowed me to explore fields ranging from aerospace to global and biomedical engineering and has equipped me with an amazing perspective on the value of a multidisciplinary engineer and person, which will inevitably manifest as I move forward.

What legacy would you like to leave behind?

I hope that future CU engineers and students see paths like mine and feel that it’s feasible for them to pursue multiple interests, especially those that seem disconnected. I am so glad that I said yes to the opportunities CU offered me, even though they didn’t all seem to lend themselves directly to my academic or professional future.

I am also excited about the future of National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) organizations on campus and the increased connections among Black students through membership, which encourages them to serve their communities.

What advice would you give to current ��ӽ紫ý students?

Build relationships with people who invest in you and be purposeful about investing in yourself. If you see a gap or feel like there’s a community you don’t see on campus, know that it probably exists but needs to be poured into.

As a student, there may be opportunities you see that feel out of reach or too far away from the path that has been suggested to you. But by choosing to pursue the things (not limited to just one) that are important to you, you can find the professors, mentors and peers who will work with you to help you find or create the path you are trying to take.

What does being a Forever Buff mean to you?

I’m so excited to be a CU alumna and to serve as a resource for future Buffs and the CU community as I advance in my career. I want to inspire and motivate younger students to pursue their passions just like the alumni who inspired me. I’m also excited to connect with other Forever Buffs in the alumni network as I move to new places around the country and the world.

Connect with more inspiring graduates from the Class of 2026 on the Forever Buffs Network:

Join FBN

Support the next generation of ��ӽ紫ý Engineers:

Give to Engineering

Characterized by leadership and multidisciplinary perspectives, the next generation of Forever Buffs is carving unique paths and forging new ways to get there. Asaiah Gifford (MechEng’26) left a legacy in engineering through her interdisciplinary path, which combined her technical interests with a global perspective.

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Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Colonel Rebecca Lange (PolSci’00)

Anna Tolette — Mon, 18 May 2026 20:42:39 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Colonel Rebecca Lange (PolSci’00) Anna Tolette Mon, 05/18/2026 - 14:42

Keeley Haynes

��ӽ紫ý alumni Ben Donberg, Rebecca Lange, Brock Lange and Emily Gebo.

Col. Rebecca Lange (PolSci’00) embodies what it means to be a Forever Buff.

After commissioning through ��ӽ紫ý’s Air Force ROTC program, she became an intelligence officer within the US Air Force. She served four overseas deployments, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and UN Peacekeeping missions.

But even thousands of miles from campus, the Buff Spirit never left Lange. While deployed in Iraq in 2010, the CU cheerleaders visited the base where she was deployed on a USO Tour. When she heard the CU Fight Song’s opening trumpets, her school pride shined through.

“I was at my desk, heard the Fight Song, grabbed my flag and found the team!” said Lange.

Now, wanting to give back to the institution that made her feel like she belonged, Lange acts as ��ӽ紫ý’s Air Force ROTC commander and Aerospace Studies department chair.

“When I was a captain, the only reason I wanted to be a colonel was to return to ��ӽ紫ý and command the Air Force ROTC unit,” said Lange.

Through her volunteer work with CU’s Air Force ROTC unit, Lange witnesses how CU’s spirit of service trains and professionalizes future lieutenants she feels confident in.

Read on to learn where Lange’s volunteer journey began and how it shaped her into the leader she is today.

What’s your favorite CU memory?

Every day, I appreciate the campus’s beauty. While walking to class as a student, I looked at the Flatirons and thought, I will never take this for granted. Now, as a faculty member, I say the same thing. The view never gets old.

Lange volunteering with Honor Flight, an organization that brings veterans to Washington D.C. to see the war memorials.

Who or what inspires you?

My mom is an extraordinary example. Growing up, I saw her “do good and disappear.”

She would show strangers random acts of kindness and be satisfied that she helped someone who may never know. Her goodwill and humility inspire me to give back and make the world a better place.

Why do you volunteer?

Since 2002, I have volunteered as an advisor for the Forever Buffs Air Force ROTC Detachment 105. I strive to inspire the next generation to say yes to Boulder in hopes that young Americans will further get to know themselves, believe in their capability and make forever friends.

What have you learned about yourself while volunteering through ��ӽ紫ý?

Each volunteer opportunity teaches me how much we can give regardless of how much we have. As a college student, I volunteered with CU Night Ride and the Volunteer Clearing House. I struggled financially at the time, but volunteering brought me peace among chaos. I did not need money to help others and feel fulfilled.

How has your experience serving in the military shaped your willingness to volunteer?

For me, it was the other way around: my love of volunteering led to my military career. After high school, I joined AmeriCorps to serve my country and belong to an organization bigger than myself. We built houses with Habitat for Humanity, tutored in schools, widened trails to the American Disability Act standards, worked with Special Olympics and food banks and much more. It was the change I needed to give back, earn money for college and find out who I was outside of my home. After a year of volunteering, I joined Air Force ROTC to continue a career in service.

Col. Lange with ��ӽ紫ý cheerleaders traveling with USO tour.

Learn more about volunteering through ��ӽ紫ý

Col. Rebecca Lange (PolSci’00) embodies what it means to be a Forever Buff. After commissioning through ��ӽ紫ý’s Air Force ROTC program, she became an intelligence officer within the US Air Force. She served four overseas deployments, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and UN Peacekeeping missions. Read on to learn where Lange’s volunteer journey began and how it shaped her into the leader she is today.

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Celebrating National Volunteer Month with Rochelle Maki-Williams (Psych’96; ExecMBA’11)

Anna Tolette — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:18:57 +0000

Celebrating National Volunteer Month with Rochelle Maki-Williams (Psych’96; ExecMBA’11) Anna Tolette Tue, 04/21/2026 - 10:18

April is Buffs Give Back month, a time to celebrate the impact of Forever Buffs who give their time in meaningful ways. For Forever Buff Rochelle Maki-Williams, ��ӽ紫ý is where everything began, and where she continues to give back.

Rochelle met her husband, T.H, in the Cheyenne Arapahoe residence hall and built a close-knit group of friends who remain “her people” today. Years later, her connection to CU has come full circle, as her daughters now join in on campus festivities and football games.

She still finds joy in walking around campus and soaking in the nostalgia. And if there’s any doubt about her Buff pride, her black and gold-filled closet says it all.

Rochelle has been part of Denver Forever Buffs since 2011. She served on the advisory board, formally the CU Alumni Advisory Board, now known as the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, and held leadership roles for five years. She also currently serves on the Buffalo Belles board and stays closely connected to CU through game days, events and volunteer efforts.

Her volunteer work has made a lasting impact. Rochelle has shaped key programs, including the Alumni Awards and fundraising efforts for the Forever Buffs Denver Scholarship, both of which she’s especially proud.

“We simplified the application process and opened the nomination window earlier to encourage broader participation,” she said. “It’s a great reminder that small changes can create real, meaningful impact. I’m also incredibly proud of what our chapter has built collectively, raising thousands of dollars in scholarships to support Denver-area high school students on their way to ��ӽ紫ý. That one hits close to the heart.”

For Rochelle, giving back wasn’t sparked by a single moment, but a growing sense of gratitude for CU.

“CU had given me so much, and I genuinely wanted to give something back,” she said. “What keeps me coming back is the people. There’s something truly special about Buffs showing up for each other, and my motto says it best: “Buffs look after Buffs.” It’s meaningful, it’s energizing, and honestly, it’s just a lot of fun.”

One moment that stands out came during a volunteer project in partnership with Denver Health.

“A small group of elderly women pulled up and unloaded several boxes of handmade quilts for the Newborns in Need program, now the Hello Little One program,” she said. “It was such a simple, quiet act of kindness and a powerful reminder that impact doesn’t have to be grand to matter. Being part of something that directly supports newborns and their families really stayed with me.”

Forever Buffs volunteers are at the heart of so many programs. Rochelle describes them as dedicated, purposeful and unstoppable.

“Forever Buffs is one of the most welcoming communities you’ll ever walk into. You’ll meet incredible people, feel instantly at home and probably wonder why you waited so long.”

Getting involved starts with a single step. Attend a Forever Buffs event, check out the Forever Buffs Volunteer Hub or join the Forever Buffs Network to discover meaningful ways to connect, give back and make an impact alongside a community that’s ready to welcome you in.

Learn more about Forever Buffs volunteering

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Top 10 outdoor adventures in Boulder

Anna Tolette — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:17:29 +0000

Top 10 outdoor adventures in Boulder Anna Tolette Tue, 04/21/2026 - 10:17

One of the best parts about ��ӽ紫ý? Adventure is never far away. Whether you’re back for Homecoming, catching a Buffs game or just soaking up a little campus nostalgia, Boulder makes it easy to get outside, recharge and relive your college adventures.

1. Chautauqua Park

A Boulder classic that never disappoints. Hike the Flatirons, spread out a picnic or just sit back and take in those views that define the city’s iconic backdrop.

2. Farrand Field

Still the heart of campus life. Bring a hammock, toss a frisbee or just claim a patch of grass and enjoy the Flatirons like you did during your college days.

3. CU Rec Center

Game, set, match — with a view. Hit the tennis or pickleball courts, then cool off in the Buff Pool. Check out alumni discounted passes for more information.

4. Boulder Canyon

Big mountain energy, with minimal effort. Take this scenic drive, and if you have extra time, keep going to reach Nederland for a bite to eat.

5. Scott Carpenter Park

Just a short walk or bike ride from campus, this park is perfect for a quick outdoor reset. Slackline, play volleyball or take a dip in the pool for a low-key afternoon.

6. Royal Arch Trail

A true Buff bucket list hike. It’s a challenge, but the iconic arch and sweeping views make every step worth it.

7. Lost Gultch Overlook

Sunset here just hits different. Cruise up Flagstaff Mountain, bring some takeout and enjoy one of Boulder’s best sunset spots with dramatic views that never get old.

8. Eldorado Canyon State Park

A short drive west brings you to world-class climbing, hiking and river views. Enjoy the remote, rugged feel, just minutes from downtown Boulder.

9. Boulder Creek

Relax by the creek at Eben G Fine Park or head a bit up the canyon for stunning views alongside the rushing, icy water. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the rope swing for a cold splash and a little adrenaline rush.

10. Mount Sanitas Trail

Short, steep and a little humbling — in the best way. Squeeze in this quick but challenging hike with incredible views.

Top 10 ��ӽ紫ý traditions that bring Buffs together

Anna Tolette — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:37:06 +0000

Top 10 ��ӽ紫ý traditions that bring Buffs together Anna Tolette Wed, 04/15/2026 - 11:37

Julia MacLean

The University of Colorado Boulder is filled with traditions that define what it means to be a Buff. Whether it’s cheering on Ralphie as she charges across the field or celebrating milestones with fellow Buffs, these traditions bring students and alumni together in unforgettable ways. Here are 10 ��ӽ紫ý traditions that capture the spirit, pride and community of campus life.

Ralphie’s iconic run

The Ralphie run started in 1967 and remains one of the most iconic traditions at ��ӽ紫ý, featuring Ralphie, the school’s live buffalo mascot and one of the top mascots in the nation. She charges across the field at the start of every home football game and again near the end of halftime, led by a team of student handlers called Ralphie Runners. Her runs are a must-see moment that brings energy and school spirit to every game day.

Conference on World Affairs

The Conference on World Affairs celebrated its 78th year this spring, bringing together global leaders, experts and innovators for a week of engaging conversations on major world issues. Held annually, the event features more than 200 sessions over several days, covering topics from politics and technology to art and culture. It’s free and open to the public, and students get priority seating, making it a unique opportunity to hear diverse perspectives and be part of meaningful, real-world discussions.

Commencement

Commencement marks the culmination of the ��ӽ紫ý student experience. Graduates come together with friends, family and the Buffs community to recognize their achievements and reflect on their time on campus. Leading up to commencement, graduating students participate in traditions like Grad Bash, signing The Sink’s graffiti-covered ceiling and connecting at Senior Sunset. These moments create lasting memories as students close this chapter and officially join the Forever Buffs community.

The Coloradan

The Coloradan magazine is the official publication of ��ӽ紫ý, created to keep alumni, students and the broader Buffs community connected to the university. Published in print and online, it features stories about notable alumni, campus news, research and culture, all aimed at informing, inspiring and fostering a sense of community among Buffs past and present.

Homecoming

Homecoming is one of the university’s most cherished fall traditions, bringing together the Buffs community for a weekend of school spirit and connection. The celebration features signature events like the Stampede Parade and pep rally, tailgates and a football game at Folsom Field, all designed to celebrate Buff pride and reunite the Forever Buffs community.

CU Night at the Stock Show

CU Night at the National Western Stock Show unites Buffs from across generations to celebrate ��ӽ紫ý’s connection to Colorado’s western heritage. Held annually in Denver, it’s a unique opportunity to stay connected to the Buffs community beyond campus. In addition, the Alumni Association hosts CU Night at the Rockies and CU Night at Zoo Lights, creating more opportunities throughout the year to celebrate being a Buff.

BolderBoulder

The BolderBoulder is a Colorado Memorial Day tradition, drawing tens of thousands of runners, walkers and spectators to the streets of Boulder each year. Founded in 1979 as a small community race, it has grown into one of the largest and most celebrated 10Ks in the world, with over 50,000 participants of all ages and abilities. The event is known for its festive atmosphere, featuring live entertainment along the course, and its memorable finish inside Folsom Field.

Alumni Awards

The Alumni Awards are a longstanding tradition that honors outstanding members of the ��ӽ紫ý community who have made significant contributions in their fields and communities. Hosted during Alumni Weekend, the event celebrates excellence, leadership and impact. It’s a meaningful opportunity to recognize inspiring alumni while reconnecting with the university and fellow graduates.

Colorado Shakespeare Festival

The Colorado Shakespeare Festival is a beloved summer tradition that brings classic theater to life in an outdoor setting. Held annually since 1958, the festival features professional productions of Shakespeare’s plays and other works, performed under the stars at the historic and newly renovated Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre, as well as in the Roe Green Theatre. Known for its performances with the scenic backdrop of the Flatirons, the festival attracts thousands each year.

Nearly Naked Mile

The Nearly Naked Mile is one of ��ӽ紫ý’s most unusual traditions, combining fun with philanthropy. Hosted annually by The Herd, the event invites students to donate clothing to local nonprofits before stripping down to undergarments and running a one-mile course through campus. What might seem like a lighthearted, unconventional race is rooted in giving back, collecting hundreds and often thousands of clothing items for organizations supporting children and families in need.

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Heather Nuanes Tabano (Ebio’08)

Anna Tolette — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:21:37 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Heather Nuanes Tabano (Ebio’08) Anna Tolette Fri, 04/10/2026 - 09:21

Sara Muderick

Heather Nuanes Tabano, a 2008 graduate in ecology and evolutionary biology, continues to carry forward the same sense of excitement in her volunteer work with ��ӽ紫ý that defined her first day as a Buff. Whether fostering connections through the Alumni Association and Forever Buffs Latinx or simply reflecting under the trees at Norlin Quad, Heather’s CU journey continues to shape both who she is and how she shows up for others.

What’s your favorite CU memory?

I have so many great memories of my time at ��ӽ紫ý, but the first day on campus will always stick with me. I remember feeling so much hope and excitement for the future.

Who or what inspires you?

My North Star is my son, Luca. He inspires me everyday. He pushes me to find answers to questions I don’t yet know and understand complex issues so I can help explain the world to him. He motivates me to be better and to do more.

Why do you volunteer?

I volunteer my time and effort because it not only makes me feel good but also helps strengthen my community. Everyone has something to offer, whether it’s talent, knowledge or simply their time, and those contributions help make more good things possible.

What is your favorite way to volunteer for ��ӽ紫ý?

My favorite way to volunteer for ��ӽ紫ý is through the Alumni Association and Forever Buffs Latinx. It’s an awesome experience to connect with other groups to plan and promote Homecoming and Alumni Weekend events. We’ve also had the opportunity to support our future alumni — current students — through a variety of campus initiatives. Helping with the Latiné Buff Meetup this year was especially memorable; seeing such a strong sense of support and community on campus was truly heartwarming.

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Laura Bruns (EnvSt’99, MA’05)

Anna Tolette — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:28:23 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Laura Bruns (EnvSt’99, MA’05) Anna Tolette Mon, 03/23/2026 - 10:28

Sara Muderick

Laura Bruns (EnvSt’99, MA’05) knows that Buff pride doesn’t end at graduation. Through her volunteer work, Laura helps keep ��ӽ紫ý’s alumni community strong while giving back to a place that means so much to her. Whether welcoming new graduates or supporting alumni initiatives, she believes even small acts of service can make a long-lasting, meaningful impact.

As a member of the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, Laura works alongside a group of dedicated volunteers who represent ��ӽ紫ý’s diverse alumni community and encourage engagement among Forever Buffs. The board strives to be an inclusive and representative voice for alumni, expanding the reach and impact of the Forever Buffs community.

Laura is also a Forever Buffs Denver board member, where she helps the local group plan Game Watches and other engaging and innovative events. She also helps fundraise for the Forever Buffs Denver Scholarship Fund each year.

Read on to learn more about Laura’s contributions to ��ӽ紫ý and why giving back remains such a rewarding part of her Forever Buffs journey.

What’s your favorite ��ӽ紫ý memory?

I will never forget the first time I saw snow dusted on the Flatirons with the sun shining brightly in the sky. Growing up in the Midwest, cold and sunny simply do not go together, so the moment felt unbelievable. In my first 18 years of life, I had never felt simultaneously cold and happy. There was snow on the ground, the air was crisp and the sun was shining. It was such a wild phenomenon, and it is one that will forever keep me in the state of Colorado.

Who or what inspires you?

Every two years, I am immensely inspired by the Olympics, especially the athletes whose journeys include training through war-torn infrastructure or overcoming profound personal loss. Hearing their stories and watching them compete on the world’s biggest athletic stage always puts things into perspective for me. While they certainly possess incredible physical talent, what truly sets them apart is their mental fortitude.

Why do you volunteer?

It is important to me to try to make a positive difference in the world whenever I can, even if that difference is small. Volunteering is incredibly fulfilling, and in a world that can sometimes feel out of control, it reminds me that there are still meaningful ways to contribute and make things just a little bit better.

What is your favorite way to volunteer for ��ӽ紫ý?

For the past five years, I have served on the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, which has been rewarding in so many ways. One of the more memorable experiences recently was volunteering at Grad Bash. Despite the rainy weather, the event was filled with so much joy and hope. Seeing students celebrate such an exciting milestone made it clear that maybe the kids really are going to be all right.

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 ��ӽ紫ý. 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 ��ӽ紫ý 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 ��ӽ紫ý.

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

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 CU. 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 CU, 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 ��ӽ紫ý?

I hope to encourage a community here at CU 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.

Once a Buff, Always a Buff — Stay Connected Through the Forever Buffs Network

Anna Tolette — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:31:53 +0000

Once a Buff, Always a Buff — Stay Connected Through the Forever Buffs Network Anna Tolette Thu, 03/12/2026 - 10:31

Sara Muderick

As a ��ӽ紫ý alum, your connection to the university doesn’t have to end at graduation. Whether you’re five years into your career, launching a business or considering your next pivot, the Forever Buffs Network is your space to stay engaged, give back and keep growing alongside fellow Buffs.

The Forever Buffs Network is a free online community built on a simple idea: Buffs help Buffs. It’s where alumni across industries, cities and generations connect to exchange advice, open doors and strengthen the CU community.

Whether you’re looking to mentor, seeking guidance or simply hoping to expand your professional circle, here’s how the Forever Buffs Network supports alumni at every stage.

Career growth: For leaders and learners alike

Did you know there’s a job board created specifically for CU alumni?

Navigating career growth doesn’t stop after your first job. Whether you’re stepping into leadership, exploring a new industry or hiring for your organization, the Forever Buffs Network provides access to exclusive job postings and direct connections with fellow alumni in your field.

For those looking to give back, mentorship is one of the most meaningful ways to stay connected. Experienced alumni can share industry insights, leadership lessons and real-world advice with Buffs eager to grow. And if you’re the one seeking guidance? You’ll find alumni who are ready to invest time into your success.

Find your people: Wherever life takes you

The Buff community spans far beyond Boulder.

Through regional groups like Forever Buffs New York and Forever Buffs Washington D.C., alumni stay connected across the country. Whether you’ve relocated for work, family or a new adventure, there’s likely a network of Buffs nearby.

There are plenty of opportunities for Buffs to connect through hobbies, professions, sports and even through your CU college. Love cheering on the Buffs at Folsom Field? Join Forever Buffs Football Fans. Whether you graduated from the College of Engineering and Applied Science or the College of Communication, Media, Design and Information, there’s a Forever Buffs network for you.

Support Buff-owned businesses

Forever Buffs Business Directory makes it easy to connect with and support Buff businesses.

Discover Buff-owned restaurants, retail shops, startups and professional services — whether you’re hiring a consultant, seeking a new service provider or simply looking to shop local. For alumni business owners, the directory also serves as a valuable networking tool to build partnerships and grow within the Buff community.

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 ��ӽ紫ý and the Forever Buffs Community. Get notified about alumni game watches for CU Athletics, learn about students excelling on campus and enjoy seasonally inspired content.

Join the Forever Buffs Network

It’s never too late to reconnect, mentor, grow or give back.

Join more than 19,000 alumni who are building careers, strengthening communities and supporting one another through the Forever Buffs Network. Expand your professional reach, make an impact as a mentor or find guidance as you navigate your next chapter.

Because being a Buff isn’t just four years — it’s a lifelong community.

Join the Forever Buffs Network

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Alumni Stories

10 Boulder dining favorites: From $.99 mimosas to Michelin stars

1. The Sink

2. The Buff

3. Frasca Food and Wine

4. Avanti

5. Japango

6. Gemini

7. Dushanbe Teahouse

8. Bartaco

9. The Corner

10. Freddie’s Hot Dog Stand

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Top 10 outdoor adventures in Boulder

1. Chautauqua Park

2. Farrand Field

3. CU Rec Center

4. Boulder Canyon

5. Scott Carpenter Park

6. Royal Arch Trail

7. Lost Gultch Overlook

8. Eldorado Canyon State Park

9. Boulder Creek

10. Mount Sanitas Trail

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CU Night at the Stock Show

BolderBoulder

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Once a Buff, Always a Buff — Stay Connected Through the Forever Buffs Network

Career growth: For leaders and learners alike

Find your people: Wherever life takes you

Support Buff-owned businesses

Stay informed with Buff’s Buzz

Join the Forever Buffs Network

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What led you to study mechanical engineering at ��ӽ紫ý?

What ��ӽ紫ý experiences have best prepared you for your next chapter?

What advice would you give to current ��ӽ紫ý students?

What have you learned about yourself while volunteering through ��ӽ紫ý?

Top 10 ��ӽ紫ý traditions that bring Buffs together

What is your favorite way to volunteer for ��ӽ紫ý?

What’s your favorite ��ӽ紫ý memory?

What is your favorite way to volunteer for ��ӽ紫ý?

Looking ahead, what kind of legacy of giving do you hope to help build at ��ӽ紫ý?