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Inside Brazil’s Atlantic Forest: Luke Swenk Reflects on Global Seminar Experience

Eileen Brown — Tue, 26 May 2026 19:02:39 +0000

Inside Brazil’s Atlantic Forest: Luke Swenk Reflects on Global Seminar Experience Eileen Brown Tue, 05/26/2026 - 13:02

Luke Swenk (IAFS ’28) shared reflections and photos from his participation in the Global Seminar: Conservation Biology & Practice in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, where students explored conservation efforts across Brazil while working with researchers and local communities. Luke received a Global Grants scholarship to support his education abroad experience.

During the three-week program, hosted by the environmental organization Institute for Ecological Research (IPE), students traveled through several regions of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest to study restoration ecology, biodiversity conservation, and community-based sustainability initiatives.

Early in the program, students stayed at IPE’s headquarters in the Atlantic Forest in São Paulo state, where they participated in lectures and fieldwork. Luke described visiting restoration sites that had once been cattle ranches but are now recovering forest ecosystems. Luke explains that areas cleared away for human development create forest fragments that isolate some animal species since they are not able to leave the forest.

The group also visited a local agroforestry farm, where Luke was struck by the farmers’ knowledge and commitment to sustainable agriculture, working to convince their neighbors to use more sustainable farming practices. He wrote, “They knew every plant, and the different benefits that they provide to humans when consumed.”

As the seminar continued, students traveled to Serra do Mar State Park along Brazil’s coastline, where they camped on the beach and continued to learn about the ecological and cultural dimensions of conservation. While visiting a Guarani mbya Indigenous community, Luke learned that “…the creation of the state park had a negative impact on the community, as traditional activities and livelihood such as fishing were restricted. Today, the small Guarani mbya village we visited is dependent on community-based tourism.”

Students also explored mangrove ecosystems along the Rio Picinguaba and completed a challenging five-hour coastal hike through dense rainforest terrain. The experience offered firsthand exposure to the region’s biodiversity and the physical realities of field research in tropical environments.

In the final week of the program, the group traveled to Morro do Diabo State Park to learn about conservation efforts focused on the endangered Black Lion Tamarin. Students observed how conservationists are working to reconnect isolated forest fragments by creating forest corridors across former cattle ranches. Luke visited a tree nursery where IPE partners with local communities to cultivate native tree species for restoration projects and participated directly in reforestation efforts, planting trees in areas being converted back into forest habitat.

Reflecting on the conclusion of the seminar, Luke wrote, “It was incredible to see people dedicate their lives to protecting the rainforest, and see it come to fruition.”

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Now Hiring: Legal Administrative Assistant at Firm Led by IAFS Alumna

Eileen Brown — Wed, 20 May 2026 14:31:58 +0000

Now Hiring: Legal Administrative Assistant at Firm Led by IAFS Alumna Eileen Brown Wed, 05/20/2026 - 08:31

Curray York & Associates LLC, a boutique immigration law firm in Aurora, Colorado, is seeking an entry-level Legal Administrative Assistant. Managed by IAFS alumna Lisa H. York, the firm offers a great opportunity for someone interested in gaining experience in the legal field and immigration law. The position supports daily office and client service operations in a fast-paced legal environment. Salary range is $40,000–$50,000 annually with benefits included. Please see the full job posting PDF for complete details and application instructions.

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Congrats Grads! IAFS Celebrates the Class of 2026

Eileen Brown — Thu, 14 May 2026 19:55:27 +0000

Congrats Grads! IAFS Celebrates the Class of 2026 Eileen Brown Thu, 05/14/2026 - 13:55

The International Affairs Program celebrated the Class of 2026 on May 2 with a memorable graduation ceremony at the Limelight Hotel, bringing together nearly 700 students, family members, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends to recognize this year’s graduates. Held on a beautiful spring afternoon in Boulder, the ceremony honored the academic achievements, global engagement, and interdisciplinary accomplishments that define the IAFS community.

Earlier that morning, graduates participated in ��ӽ紫ý’s university-wide commencement ceremony at Folsom Field as part of the university’s largest graduating class in history. In total, ��ӽ紫ý awarded more than 10,600 degrees to over 10,000 graduates during the 2026 commencement celebrations, with tens of thousands of family members and guests gathering across campus to celebrate.

The afternoon IAFS ceremony featured commencement speaker Gaea Logan, whose remarks encouraged graduates to continue approaching the world with curiosity, empathy, and a commitment to meaningful engagement across cultures and communities. The ceremony also recognized Graciela Horstman as the recipient of the IAFS Global Engagement and Service Award for her outstanding contributions to the program and broader community.

The IAFS Class of 2026 included:

108 majors
51 minors
18 Global Grant graduates
12 Honors Program graduates

The graduating class also reflected the interdisciplinary nature of international affairs studies at ��ӽ紫ý. One in four IAFS graduates completed double majors, while one in five earned two or more minors alongside their international affairs degree.

As they leave Boulder, IAFS graduates carry forward the global perspective, analytical skills, and collaborative spirit developed through their studies, research, internships, language learning, and international experiences. The program is proud to welcome the Class of 2026 into its growing alumni community and looks forward to seeing the impact they will make around the world.

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2026 Conference on World Affairs Recap

Puttroff, Monty (Exchange) — Wed, 13 May 2026 19:00:00 +0000

2026 Conference on World Affairs Recap Puttroff, Mont… Wed, 05/13/2026 - 13:00

International Affairs Helps Power a Record-Setting 2026 Conference on World Affairs

The 78th annual Conference on World Affairs (CWA) once again brought thousands of students, community members and viewers together for four days of thought-provoking conversation, global dialogue and unforgettable moments at ��ӽ紫ý.

As a proud co-sponsor of the 2026 Conference on World Affairs, the International Affairs Program (IAFS) was excited to help support one of ��ӽ紫ý’s most iconic traditions, an event that has connected students with global leaders, changemakers and new ideas since 1948.

Student Leadership at the Center

IAFS students played a visible leadership role throughout this year’s conference. Student co-chairs Xander Scholpp and Luca Scuriatti helped guide planning efforts and represented the strong student voice that makes CWA unique. They also helped introduce featured guest Malala Yousafzai, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate whose closing conversation was one of the signature moments of the week.

CWA’s collaborative planning model continues to stand out nationally, with students working directly alongside faculty, staff and community leaders to shape programming and recruit speakers.

IAFS Connections Across the Program

The International Affairs community was reflected across multiple high-profile sessions and special guests this year.

Srdja Popovic, a globally recognized activist and longtime supporter of ��ӽ紫ý’s Peace, Conflict and Security (PACS) community, participated in multiple panels during the conference. Popovic has previously engaged with CU students through PACS workshops and classroom conversations, making his return to campus especially meaningful. He was featured on the widely viewed panel “Constitutional Crisis: The Presidency and the Rule of Law,” which became the most-watched panel of the conference.

Another notable connection was the presence of former CU President Sandy Bracken, who also previously served on the IAFS Advisory Board. His participation highlighted the longstanding partnership between university leadership and globally focused programming at ��ӽ紫ý.

By the Numbers: 2026 CWA Impact

This year’s conference showcased remarkable campus and public engagement, including:

150+ speakers, guests and moderators
57 panels and 10 special events
7,900 registrations
7,000 estimated in-person attendees
1,600 ��ӽ紫ý student attendees
20,000+ livestream views, recordings available now

These numbers reflect the continued importance of creating spaces where students can engage directly with today’s most urgent global conversations.

Looking Ahead

The Conference on World Affairs remains one of the most exciting opportunities for ��ӽ紫ý students to connect classroom learning with real-world issues. IAFS is proud to continue supporting the conference and looks forward to even more student leadership, global engagement and meaningful partnerships with CWA in the years ahead.

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From Boulder to Madrid: Karthik Reddy's Global Grants Experience

Puttroff, Monty (Exchange) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 19:00:00 +0000

From Boulder to Madrid: Karthik Reddy's Global Grants Experience Puttroff, Mont… Tue, 04/28/2026 - 13:00

Karthik Reddy, Computer Science + Business + IAFS student, and Global Grant recipient, is spending Spring 2026 in Madrid, Spain through the WorldStrides Spain: Madrid Antonio de Nebrija University program. He has been thoroughly enjoying Madrid through it's architecture, community, and history. Read his experience below!

"I landed in Madrid a month ago. It's hard to believe I'm already a quarter of the way through, but looking back at each day, I've learned and done a surprising amount. Most days have brought a new lesson or challenge - usually both.

The first thing I noticed, and still notice, is the culture of community here. Groups of people sit at tables, talking, at any hour of the day, often for two or three hours, with no sense of rushing. It's rare to see someone working on a laptop at a café. Work here is treated more as a means to an end rather than the other way around, and seeing that contrast up close has been one of the more striking parts of being here.

In my classes, I've been studying the EU and local architecture, and travel has let me apply those lessons directly. Learning about the Schengen area, then crossing borders and observing its effects firsthand, made the material far more concrete. The architecture in Madrid is remarkably intentional: a range of distinct styles that still feel cohesive across the city. Similarly, studying art history before visiting the Reina Sofía and seeing works by Picasso and Dalí gave those pieces more context and weight than they'd have had otherwise.

My first month here has been excellent. I've traveled, explored, and absorbed more than I expected. Looking forward to making the most of the next few months."

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2026 Global Engagement & Service Award Recipient - Graciela Horstman

Eileen Brown — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 19:33:14 +0000

2026 Global Engagement & Service Award Recipient - Graciela Horstman Eileen Brown Tue, 04/21/2026 - 13:33

The International Affairs Program is pleased to announce that Graciela Horstman has been selected as the recipient of the IAFS Global Engagement & Service Award.

This award recognizes outstanding IAFS students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, global engagement, and a sustained commitment to service. Graciela exemplifies these values through her interdisciplinary scholarship, international research experiences, and community-based engagement both locally and abroad.

Throughout her time at ��ӽ紫ý, Graciela has pursued meaningful academic and applied work across global contexts. She has combined rigorous study in International Affairs and Economics with hands-on research experience spanning multiple regions and disciplines, including work on development and energy policy, sustainability, and food systems.

As summarized in her nomination materials:

“Graciela Horstman has pursued meaningful engagement in service, research, and experiential learning in global settings throughout her time at ��ӽ紫ý, and she is already applying the lessons she learned to her next steps post-graduation… Graciela deserves to be recognized for her interdisciplinary scholarship, qualitative and quantitative research, and applied community service, all grounded in a multinational framework.” (Prof. Caroline Conzelman)

Her academic journey includes undergraduate research with CU’s Studio Lab, where she contributed to international development and sustainability projects using both qualitative and quantitative methods; field-based research in Bolivia supported by a UROP grant; and study abroad in Peru as a Global Grant Scholar. Her IAFS Honors Program thesis on food sovereignty and globalization in Bolivia was recognized for its innovative analysis and strong empirical grounding.

In addition to her academic accomplishments, Graciela has demonstrated a strong commitment to community engagement. She has worked with refugee support organizations in Denver, supported food security initiatives, and engaged in sustainable agriculture and permaculture practices that inform her academic interests. Across these experiences, she has consistently connected global learning with meaningful local impact.

Graciela will receive a $1,000 award in recognition of her achievements. Please join us in congratulating Graciela on this well-deserved honor!

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Spring 2026 - IAFS Graduating Senior Spotlight - Lauren Mandziak

Eileen Brown — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Spring 2026 - IAFS Graduating Senior Spotlight - Lauren Mandziak Eileen Brown Sun, 04/05/2026 - 05:00

We asked a few of our graduating seniors to share why they chose to major in International affairs, what their experience at CU was like, and what they plan on doing after graduating. Here is our final spotlight!

Lauren Mandziak - IAFS & PSCI Major, Leader of IAFS Club

What drew you to IAFS, and what kept you here?

I initially planned to major in political science, but after learning about the International Affairs program at CU, I added IAFS within a day. What has kept me here is the community and the well-rounded education that consistently challenged me to grow. Through this program, I have been encouraged to think critically, engage with diverse perspectives, and push beyond my comfort zone. IAFS strengthened my desire to contribute to the global community and gave me confidence that I can meaningfully do so.

What class, project, or experience had the biggest impact on you?

There have been many impactful classes, but the one that stands out most is Politics, History, and Culture of Cuba, taught by Dr. Cohen. This course allowed me to explore Cuba in depth, develop my own research topic, and travel to the country. Through this experience, I deepened my interest in international institutions and development, particularly in the context of developing countries. The travel component was especially meaningful as it helped me grow my Spanish skills, engage with individuals who shared firsthand perspectives, and expand my understanding of global scholarship. It was both academically enriching and personally transformative.

What are your plans after graduation, and how will IAFS shape them?

After graduation, I plan to spend time in the workforce and continue exploring my professional interests. I hope to eventually return to school, whether to pursue a master’s or PhD, or potentially a JD. Regardless of where my path leads, I intend to continue traveling and learning from communities around the world. IAFS has shaped me into a global scholar who values interpersonal connections and recognizes that meaningful learning often occurs outside the classroom. With a focus on Latin America, I am especially eager to travel throughout the region and deepen my understanding of its diverse cultures and political landscapes.

What is your favorite memory at CU or in IAFS?

My favorite memory at CU and within IAFS was defending my honors thesis. Completing such an extensive project and engaging closely with faculty gave me both confidence and clarity about my future goals. My all-female committee was particularly inspiring as they encouraged me to take up space as a woman in academia and supported me throughout the process. That experience not only strengthened my academic skills but also left me with one of my most meaningful memories at CU.

If there were an IAFS yearbook, what would your senior quote be?

“You can’t be what you don’t know.” Trevor Noah (Born a Crime)

What is something people might be surprised to learn about you?

I have my second-degree black belt in Hawaiian Kempo (MMA) and am a first generation American!

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Where Are They Now? Sarah Bian (IAFS & Comp Sci, ’25)

Eileen Brown — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 21:54:55 +0000

Where Are They Now? Sarah Bian (IAFS & Comp Sci, ’25) Eileen Brown Sat, 04/04/2026 - 15:54

Please enjoy our “Where Are They Now?” feature, highlighting IAFS alumni and the diverse paths they’ve taken since graduation. Each spotlight shares updates on career, accomplishments, and life after CU - offering our community a chance to celebrate and stay connected with fellow graduates. If you’d like to be featured in a future edition, we’d love to hear from you!

This month, we’re featuring Sarah Bian who graduated in May 2025 with a B.A. in International Affairs, a B.A. in Computer Science, and a minor in Quantum Engineering. Sarah is now launching her career at Blue Origin—where global affairs meets aerospace engineering. Here’s what she had to say:

What are you up to now (role, organization, location)?

I currently work as an Aerospace Software Apps Engineer for Blue Origin on their Engines team in the gorgeous city of Seattle, Washington!

How has your IAFS background shaped your path?

In the aerospace field, we are deeply connected with global issues. Political tensions shape our aerospace policies and international advances in aerospace and defense are always relevant to know. Our work as engineers and scientists touches not only the corners of space, but also the intersections of civil rights and war. My IAFS background greatly informed me of the greater global consequences of my work and always impressed my higherups with my knowledge and experience.

A recent accomplishment or moment you’re proud of?

Recently witnessed my entire company celebrate the launch of our reusable rocket engine aboard New Glenn 2! The biggest reusable Heavy Rocket to land successfully in human history!

One fun fact about life after CU?

After summitting the 14ers in Colorado, I'm setting my sights on climbing the tallest 14er here in Washington state next- Mt Rainier!

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Spring 2026 IAFS Commencement Speaker: Gaea Logan

Eileen Brown — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 19:06:39 +0000

Spring 2026 IAFS Commencement Speaker: Gaea Logan Eileen Brown Fri, 04/03/2026 - 13:06

We are honored to welcome Gaea Logan (LPC-S, CGP) as this year’s IAFS commencement speaker!

A leader at the intersection of mental health, human rights, and global resilience, Gaea is the Founder and Executive Director of the International Center for Mental Health and Human Rights, where she works to expand trauma-informed care and strengthen mental health systems in communities impacted by conflict and displacement. With more than four decades of experience as a licensed professional counselor, certified group psychotherapist, and clinical supervisor, her work reflects the core values of international affairs—bridging disciplines, cultures, and lived experiences to advance human dignity and global well-being.

In addition to her clinical practice in Colorado and Texas, Gaea has led trainings and developed partnerships around the world, including recent efforts supporting mental health infrastructure in Ukraine through the International Institute for Trauma Studies. She has collaborated with humanitarian organizations, universities, and national programs to equip psychologists, psychiatrists, and aid workers with tools to respond to trauma in complex global contexts. A Fellow of the American Group Psychotherapy Association and recipient of the Social Responsibility Award, Gaea’s work is grounded in a deep commitment to compassion, social justice, and the advancement of human rights.

We look forward to the perspective and guidance Gaea will offer our graduates, grounded in a career dedicated to advancing resilience, human rights, and global well-being.

IAFS 2026 Spring Graduation Ceremony

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Spring 2026 - IAFS Graduating Senior Spotlight - Maya Tornerud

Eileen Brown — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:17:20 +0000

Spring 2026 - IAFS Graduating Senior Spotlight - Maya Tornerud Eileen Brown Thu, 04/02/2026 - 09:17

Maya Tornerud - IAFS Major, Certificate in Peace, Conflict and Security Studies, Leader of IAFS Club

What drew you to IAFS, and what kept you here?

I was drawn to IAFS because it let me study global issues through politics, history, law, and culture all at once. What kept me here was how involved I was able to get. I joined multiple clubs, took on leadership roles, and worked on research projects that made the field feel real and impactful. Being surrounded by people just as passionate, including my best friend Lauren who is also in IAFS, made it feel like both an academic home and a community.

What class, project, or experience had the biggest impact on you?

Every single PACS course I have taken has left a profound impact on me that has shaped my overall IAFS experience and my career trajectory. IAFS is incredibly interdisciplinary with varying dimensions of studies, so when I was introduced to conflict studies by Dr. English my undergraduate experience shifted forever. I found purpose within it and most importantly I found a way to connect to humans in a way a did not think was possible otherwise.

What are your plans after graduation, and how will IAFS shape them?

I have been accepted into multiple graduate programs including Brown University's MPA Program and the Peace and Conflict Program at Uppsala. These opportunities will allow me to deepen my focus on international governance, peacebuilding, and security. IAFS has shaped these goals by giving me both the academic foundation and practical experience to pursue them. Through my coursework, research, and leadership roles, I have developed a strong understanding of global conflict, diplomacy, and policy analysis. Looking ahead, I also plan to attend law school to further specialize in international law and ultimately pursue a career at the intersection of law, diplomacy, and global security.

What is your favorite memory at CU or in IAFS?

My favorite memory within IAFS is being able to defend my thesis and witness the culmination of my hard work and research!

If there were an IAFS yearbook, what would your senior quote be?

“I may mediate conflict, but I am always down for the hot gossip”

What is something people might be surprised to learn about you?

I was on Chopped Junior at 11 years old!

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