Commencement

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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Congratulations and welcome to your Forever Buffs family

Anna Tolette — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:45:41 +0000

Congratulations and welcome to your Forever Buffs family Anna Tolette Tue, 04/21/2026 - 11:45

Congratulations, Class of 2026! 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 380,000 alumni, and ��ӽ紫ý 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 ��ӽ紫ý graduate, you’re instantly connected to more than 380,000 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 CU 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.

🎉 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 2026! We are so excited to be a part of your next adventure!

Stay in Touch with CU

Congratulations, Class of 2026! 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 380,000 alumni, and ��ӽ紫ý will be here to support and celebrate you long after you walk across the stage.

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Your Forever Buff journey starts now: Six ways to engage as a new CU alum

Anna Tolette — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:58:14 +0000

Your Forever Buff journey starts now: Six ways to engage as a new CU alum Anna Tolette Tue, 04/07/2026 - 09:58

Sara Muderick

As you prepare to step into your next chapter, there are countless opportunities to help you stay connected to ��ӽ紫ý.

Here are a few ways to get started:

Update your contact information

Make sure CU has your personal email so you can stay in the loop on all the Forever Buffs opportunities.

Keeping your information up to date ensures you receive the latest news, career resources and invitations to exclusive alumni events.

Year round fun and opportunities for Forever Buffs

Fun Forever Buff events take place year-round, including Buffs Bashes before basketball and football games and Homecoming during football season.

Forever Buffs also gain access to exclusive professional development opportunities like networking events, workshops, alumni panels and career fairs to help ��ӽ紫ý alumni thrive beyond the classroom and gain experience across industries.

ForeverGold: Stay connected, save big

Want exclusive access to CU athletic and social opportunities? Join Forever Gold and get half off as a recent grad.

Benefits include complimentary food and drinks at Buff Bashes, discounts on select Alumni Association events and two complimentary tickets to a designated athletic event each season.

Alumni 35 and younger enjoy a one-time discounted membership fee of $500 — half off the regular price.

Don’t miss this chance to stay connected and register today!

Give back and join the fun

If you love making a positive impact, creating memorable experiences for students and supporting the programs that make ��ӽ紫ý special, the Alumni Volunteer Network is your perfect fit. It’s a fun, meaningful way to stay connected and give back to the CU community.

Whether you’re serving as a race marshal for the annual Nearly Naked Mile or reading scholarship applications, you’ll play a key role in creating unforgettable experiences for future Buffs.

��ӽ紫ý’s networking hub

The Forever Buffs Network is a free online community where you can expand your professional network, access mentorship and explore exclusive networking events and frequent job postings. As a mentee, you can connect with experienced ��ӽ紫ý alumni who provide industry insights, job search tips and professional guidance in your field.

#ForeverBuffs in action

Our social media — @cuboulderalumni — is the perfect place for a dose of nostalgia, updates on alumni events and campus news. As you graduate and start planning your first visit back as a Forever Buff, share your favorite memories with fellow alumni by tagging #ForeverBuffs in your posts!

Don't miss out. Update your contact information

Stay connected to ��ӽ紫ý after graduation. From Homecoming to networking opportunities and volunteering, check out the many opportunities to connect, have fun and give back as a Forever Buff.

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What to expect during Grad Days 2026

Anna Tolette — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 20:08:00 +0000

What to expect during Grad Days 2026 Anna Tolette Mon, 04/06/2026 - 14:08

Class of 2026, it’s time to get excited for graduation! This moment in your life is filled with a mix of bittersweet goodbyes and happy new beginnings. What better way to celebrate than with your fellow grads at all the fun events happening around campus?

Grad Days is a week-long celebration leading up to commencement full of special activities just for graduates.

Make the most of your last days as a ��ӽ紫ý student and attend as many events as you can. It’s the perfect way to say goodbye to your favorite places on campus, reconnect with classmates and create final memories.

🎓 Cap decorating

April 20–24, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. at the CU Book Store.

Add flair to your commencement cap! Stop by and decorate your cap with free craft supplies.

📸 Campus photo opportunities

April 20–23, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Don your cap and gown and head to numerous iconic campus locations to take photos with our inflatable commencement photo frames. Share your photos on social media using #ForeverBuffs.

🦬 Grad Fair

April 20, 11 a.m. –2 p.m. in the Glenn Miller Ballroom, UMC

Grad Fair connects graduating students with campus resources, academic departments, and everything you need for commencement. Stop by to get your questions answered on ceremonies, logistics and what comes next.

🎉 Career Services Farewell Bash

April 21, 12:30–3:30 p.m. in S440, Center for Community Building

Take a break from finals and celebrate the semester with Career Services. Swing by for free food, CU swag giveaways and a chance to connect with Alumni Career Services. Your lifelong career support starts here.

🌄 Senior Class Council's senior sunset

April 22, 7–10 p.m. at the Chautauqua Dining Hall

Close out your senior year at this year's Senior Sunset event. There will be food, activities and the opportunity to watch a beautiful sunset over the Flatirons with friends. One alcoholic beverage per attendee will be provided for those 21+ with a valid ID. Registration is required.

💃 Grad Bash

April 24, 4–7 p.m. at the Koenig Alumni Center

Finish off Grad Days with the biggest party of the year — Grad Bash! This day is filled with live entertainment, free food and drinks, plenty of photo ops and exciting prizes to take with you after graduation. Grad Bash is a beloved ��ӽ紫ý tradition jam-packed with festivities in recognition of all your accomplishments. Enjoy a memorable evening surrounded by your Buffs family as we celebrate in style! Register for Grad Bash.

🎓 Commencement Ceremony

May 2, 8:30 a.m. at Folsom Field

Whether you’re decorating your cap, enjoying Grad Bash with your friends or taking in a sunset over the Flatirons, cherish this special time and everything it represents as you prepare to step into the next chapter of your life.

Congratulations, Class of 2026 — let’s celebrate!

Update your info to stay informed about campus events

Celebrate with your class during Grad Days, from April 20–24. This week-long celebration is full of traditions and special events to ensure you’re ready for commencement. Don’t miss out on the fun!

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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 ��ӽ紫ý. 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.

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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 ��ӽ紫ý 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 ��ӽ紫ý 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 ��ӽ紫ý 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 ��ӽ紫ý 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 ��ӽ紫ý and help create opportunities for future Buffs through the Seniors Creating Future Buffs Scholarship.

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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 ��ӽ紫ý 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 ��ӽ紫ý 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 CU 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.

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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 ��ӽ紫ý.

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 ��ӽ紫ý 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 CU 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 ��ӽ紫ý has in store to celebrate soon-to-be Forever Buffs.

Academic recognition ceremonies

In addition to the main commencement ceremony, CU 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 ��ӽ紫ý 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 CU 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 CU 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 ��ӽ紫ý by contributing to the Class of 2026 Senior Gift. This student-created scholarship tradition helps future Buffs enjoy the same incredible ��ӽ紫ý 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 ��ӽ紫ý 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 CU traditions, and countless ways to celebrate your achievements. Cherish your final moments as a ��ӽ紫ý 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 ��ӽ紫ý 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.

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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.

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 ��ӽ紫ý 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 ��ӽ紫ý. 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 ��ӽ紫ý’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 ��ӽ紫ý 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.

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Commencement

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

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

How has studying Spanish and global engineering shaped your perspectives?

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

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

What legacy would you like to leave behind?

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

What does being a Forever Buff mean to you?

Related Articles

Congratulations and welcome to your Forever Buffs family

🌎 A global network of Forever Buffs

💼 Free career support

🎉 Signature events to celebrate and reconnect

📫 Exclusive Forever Buffs Network perks

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Your Forever Buff journey starts now: Six ways to engage as a new CU alum

Update your contact information

Year round fun and opportunities for Forever Buffs

ForeverGold: Stay connected, save big

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What to expect during Grad Days 2026

🎓 Cap decorating

📸 Campus photo opportunities

🦬 Grad Fair

🎉 Career Services Farewell Bash

🌄 Senior Class Council's senior sunset

💃 Grad Bash

🎓 Commencement Ceremony

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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

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Keep the Buff Tradition Going: The Class of 2026 Gift

🦬 Keeping the tradition alive

🎁 This year’s gift

🎉Pick up your donor stole!

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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

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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!

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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 ���ӽ紫ý?

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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

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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?

��ӽ紫ý’s networking hub

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