Commencement

Congratulations and welcome to your Forever Buffs family

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

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

Sophia McKeown

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

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

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

🌎 A global network of Forever Buffs

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

💼 Free career support

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

🦬 Local meetups around the world

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

🎉 Signature events to celebrate and reconnect

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

📫 Exclusive Forever Buffs Network perks

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

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

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

Stay in Touch with ��

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Learn more about 2025 Commencement speaker Emma Coburn

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

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

Sophia McKeown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about commencement.

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From lasts to firsts: Embracing the end of college and the beginning of what's next

Anna Tolette — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 19:12:07 +0000

From lasts to firsts: Embracing the end of college and the beginning of what's next Anna Tolette Wed, 04/16/2025 - 13:12

My last seven semesters of college have been filled with countless moments of joy that have led me to where I am now: a senior at �� Boulder preparing to graduate in a few short weeks.

If you’re hopelessly nostalgic like me, you’re already reminiscing on late night study sessions at Norlin when delirium took over and everything was funnier than it should be. Or early Sunday mornings scattered across living room couches debriefing the previous night with your roommates. If you’re like me, you’re romanticizing first-year meals at the C4C and mid-afternoon naps on the tiny dorm beds. And if you’re like me, you feel a tinge of sadness as you realize these wonderful “firsts” in college have quickly become our “lasts.” But as we prepare for graduation and nostalgically celebrate our lasts, it’s equally important that we look ahead at the many more firsts in store for us.

In the fall, we experienced our last football season as �� students. However, during our time at ��, we were the first to witness the new era of �� Football with Coach Prime. We piled into Folsom Field dressed in black and gold and cheered from the student section as we watched the Buffs make history. But our journey as avid Buffs fans doesn’t end after graduation. I’m excited for our first season as alumni, and I can’t wait for the first reunion with my college roommates during Homecoming weekend. As we close the door to our student years, we open the door to a lifetime of being Forever Buffs.

This May, we will have our last day of college, perhaps even our last day of school ever. It will be the last time walking to class across the Norlin Quad, admiring the beautiful spring weather. It will be our last time sharing notes with the friend we made in class who was once a stranger but is now a smiling, familiar face. With some relief, we will submit our last homework assignment and turn in our last exam. And we will prepare for our first day somewhere else. Maybe it’s our first day at a new job, the one we worked so hard for. Or maybe it’s our first day in a new city, the place we always dreamed of living and now it’s finally reality. Amid the sadness of what we are leaving behind is the anticipation of the exciting future we have made for ourselves.

When I reflect on what I will miss most about college, I can’t help but think about the amazing relationships I’ve built throughout my time here. I remember the first time meeting my new roommates as we unloaded boxes from our parents' cars and into our new college house. I remember how quickly I realized that they would be forever friends of mine. I remember the first warm day in February, lying beside other students on the grassy lawns of campus and soaking up the sun while we were supposed to be in class. I remember my first time attending my professor’s office hours, nervously talking about my plans for after graduation. I remember that seemed so far away at the time.

�� the Author: Sophia McKeown, Class of 2025

Sophia McKeown is a fourth-year CMCI student studying Strategic Communication with a double minor in Business and Sports Media. She works as an editorial and marketing student assistant at the �� Boulder Office of Advancement where she writes impact stories and contributes to the Coloradan alumni magazine.

While many of these relationships are irreplaceable, I know I will carry these lessons in friendship into my post-grad life. And although I won’t live in my college house with my best friends ever again, I am so excited for the first time making memories with people I haven’t even met yet.

As difficult as it is to experience the lasts of college, I believe it is a privilege to be able to say goodbye. Many of us didn’t get a chance to have our last day of high school, our last prom or even a graduation ceremony due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For some of us, this year’s commencement might be a first as much as it is a last.

I am grateful to have the chance to say goodbye, to relish my last walk to class, my last workout at the Rec Center and my last late night on Pearl Street. And as I stare at the cap and gown hanging in my closet, I can’t help but be immensely proud of the Class of 2025 and excited for the next chapter of firsts that awaits us.

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Cap Off Your Senior Year: What to Expect During Grad Days 2025

Anna Tolette — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 18:11:52 +0000

Cap Off Your Senior Year: What to Expect During Grad Days 2025 Anna Tolette Thu, 04/03/2025 - 12:11

Sophia McKeown

Class of 2025 — 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.

“We’ve waited four years for this moment — I’m ready to take it all in,” said �� Boulder senior Claire Grossman (CTD’25).

Make the most of your last days as a �� Boulder 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 22, 5–7 p.m. at UMC North Dining Room and April 28–May 1, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. at �� Book Store

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

📸 Campus photo opportunities

April 28–May 1

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.

🍩 Grab & go donuts

April 29, 9–11 a.m. at Visual Arts Complex (VAC) Breezeway and Engineering Center Herbst Plaza

Start your week with a sweet treat provided by the Senior Class Council and the Alumni Association. Donuts are first-come, first-served.

🌄 Senior Class Council's senior sunset

April 29, 7–10 p.m. at 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. Two alcoholic beverages per attendee will be provided for those 21+ with a valid ID. Registration is required. 

💃 Grad Bash

May 1, 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 �� 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.

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 2025 — let’s celebrate!

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Class of 2025 Ultimate Commencement Guide

Anna Tolette — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 16:23:23 +0000

Class of 2025 Ultimate Commencement Guide Anna Tolette Tue, 04/01/2025 - 10:23

Sophia McKeown

The countdown to commencement has begun, and it’s your time to shine! The next few weeks are filled with fun events, memorable �� traditions and opportunities to celebrate your accomplishments before the commencement ceremony on May 8.

As you reflect on your incredible journey at �� Boulder, this is your chance to make the most of your final moments as a student and prepare to step into your new role as a Forever Buff. Here’s a list of essential information to help you make the most of commencement week.

Grad Bash

Join fellow graduates on the Koenig Alumni Center lawn on May 1 from 4–7 p.m. for Grad Bash — a day filled with festivities and tradition. As you near graduation, take pride in everything you’ve accomplished and enjoy a memorable evening surrounded by your Buffs family. With live entertainment, food and exciting prizes, this is your chance to reflect on your �� experience while making new memories before commencement. Register for Grad Bash.

Grad Days

Take part in Grad Days: a week-long celebration leading up to commencement, from April 28 to May 1. It’s packed with fun activities to help you say goodbye to your favorite places on campus, snap some photos with your friends and make new memories in your last days as a student.

Cap decorating | April 22, 5–7 p.m. at UMC North Dining Room and April 28–May 1, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. at �� Book Store.
- Add flair to your commencement cap. Stop by and decorate your cap with free craft supplies.

Campus photo opportunities | April 28–May 1
- Don your cap and gown and head to numerous iconic campus locations to take photos with our inflatable commencement photo frames. Share your photos with us on social media using #ForeverBuffs.

Grab & go breakfast | April 29, 9–11 a.m. at Visual Arts Complex (VAC) Breezeway and Engineering Center Herbst Plaza
- Start your week with a breakfast hosted by the Senior Class Council and the Alumni Association. Food is first-come, first-served.

Senior Class Council's senior sunset | April 29, 7–10 p.m. at 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. Two alcoholic beverages per attendee will be provided for those 21+ with a valid ID. Registration is required.

Sign your name at The Sink

For decades, thousands of �� grads have celebrated commencement by visiting The Sink, a beloved spot on The Hill. This iconic 100-year-old restaurant has been a cherished part of ��’s culture for generations, and one of its most beloved traditions is having graduates sign their names on the ceiling. On the morning of May 8, wear your cap and gown, gather your friends and head over to The Sink to leave your mark on this time-honored tradition — literally!

Cultural and affinity commencement ceremonies

Campus organizations host cultural and affinity celebrations each May during commencement to honor its graduates’ personal and academic achievements. These events provide a meaningful space for students to celebrate their unique journeys and connect with their communities, reflecting the diverse experiences that have shaped their time at �� Boulder. Register to reserve your spot.

Graduation regalia

During commencement, you will continue an age-old tradition by wearing the same attire as generations of Buffs. Commencement wouldn’t be complete without proper attire including cords and stoles to signify various affiliations, achievements and contributions during your academic journey.

Cords are rope-like strands worn around the neck during the commencement ceremony, and each color combination has a distinct significance. A comprehensive list of approved cords and their meanings is available on �� Boulder’s Academic Dress page.

Stoles are sash-like garments draped over the shoulders, highlighting a student's affiliation with a club, organization, community or academic achievement. Many graduates also represent their college or school by purchasing a degree stole at the �� Book Store to wear for graduation.

Check with your department, student organizations or the �� Book Store to see what you qualify for and proudly wear it on commencement day. Learn more about academic regalia on the Academic Dress website.

The commencement marshal

As part of a centuries-old tradition, the commencement marshal, appointed by the chancellor, leads a procession of graduates into Folsom Field to begin the ceremony. The marshal is tasked with carrying the mace to signal the strength of the university and highlight the significance of their role. This year’s commencement marshal is Leigh Holman, director of �� Boulder’s Eklund Opera program and a �� Boulder alum.

Academic recognition ceremonies

In addition to the main commencement ceremony, �� colleges, schools, departments and programs have recognition ceremonies to celebrate the unique accomplishments of different groups on campus. These personalized events offer a more intimate setting for students to celebrate their academic achievements alongside peers, faculty and loved ones. Check the Spring Recognition Ceremonies website for registration requirements and specific dates and times.

Senior class gift

Last but not least, make a lasting mark on �� Boulder by donating to the Class of 2025 Senior Gift. Since 2013, the senior class gift has been a scholarship created by students, for students. This tradition, passed down by generations of Buffs, is a meaningful way to give back and help future students enjoy the same incredible �� experience you had. Plus, it just takes $20.25 to make an impact. Embrace tradition and leave your legacy after graduation by donating today.

The countdown to commencement is officially on — Class of 2025. It’s your moment to shine! These next few weeks are packed with unforgettable events, beloved �� traditions and many opportunities to celebrate your achievements. Embrace your final moments as a �� Boulder student and prepare for your next exciting chapter as a Forever Buff. See you out there!

Don't Forget! Register for Grad Bash

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

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Celebrate in Style at the Class of 2025 Grad Bash

Anna Tolette — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 21:14:22 +0000

Celebrate in Style at the Class of 2025 Grad Bash Anna Tolette Mon, 03/24/2025 - 15:14

Sophia McKeown

Get ready for graduation by registering for Grad Bash, a special event just for the Class of 2025! On Thursday, May 1, join fellow graduates on the Koenig Alumni Center lawn for a free celebration with festivities and tradition.

As you near graduation, take pride in everything you’ve accomplished and enjoy a memorable evening surrounded by your Forever Buffs family. With live entertainment, food and exciting prizes, this is your chance to reflect on your �� Boulder experience while making new memories before commencement.

Here’s a sneak peek of the activities in store!

📸 Memorable photo opportunities:

Capture unforgettable moments with your friends and represent your Buffs pride in front of fun backdrops, perfect for commemorating your time at �� Boulder. Taken by a professional photographer, you don’t want to miss out on this chance for amazing photos right before graduation!

🍻 Savor the celebration with free food and drinks:

The best part of every celebration is the free food and drinks! Stop by Grad Bash to grab some great bites and refreshments while you enjoy the rest of the festivities.

💃 Party with our live DJ:

No party would be complete without a DJ, and Grad Bash is no exception. Listen to great music and dance the night away alongside fellow Buffs.

🥳 Share the celebration with friends:

All members of the Class of 2025 are invited to Grad Bash, so it’s the perfect place to connect with friends and make lasting memories before heading into your next chapter. You can also bring a plus one to Grad Bash when you register.

🎉 Fun-filled activities:

There will be plenty to keep you entertained at Grad Bash. From signing banners to lawn games and winning swag, there’s something for everyone at this celebration.

🦬 Get to know the benefits of being a Forever Buff:

As you prepare for your transition from student to alum, you can learn about all of the benefits available to you as a new graduate. The perks include exclusive alumni events, a career mentorship program and special discounts just for Buffs. Attend Grad Bash to find out the ways to make the most of being a Forever Buff.

🎁 Get your grad gift:

When you register for Grad Bash, you’ll receive a free gift from the Alumni Association to celebrate your graduation and honor your accomplishments as a �� student. You don’t want to miss out on this special keepsake!

Grad Bash is the perfect way to commemorate your time as a �� student and celebrate the journey that brought you to this milestone. This event is all about recognizing your hard work, dedication and achievements as you get ready to take the next step as a Forever Buff. With exciting activities, delicious food and great company, you’ll create lasting memories with your fellow graduates before embarking on your next adventure. Join the rest of the Class of 2025!

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Leave Your Legacy with the Class of 2025 Senior Gift

Anna Tolette — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 22:10:59 +0000

Leave Your Legacy with the Class of 2025 Senior Gift Anna Tolette Mon, 03/10/2025 - 16:10

Sophia McKeown

After years of making lifelong memories, connections and experiences, there’s one final opportunity to leave a legacy at �� Boulder: Contribute to the Class of 2025 Senior Gift.

This tradition, passed down by generations of Buffs, is a meaningful way to give back and help future Buffs enjoy the same incredible �� experience you had. Plus, it just takes $20.25 to make an impact.

🦬 Keeping the tradition alive

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

Whether through tangible campus improvements or vital scholarship funding, your contribution — no matter the size — helps make �� a better place for future Buffs.

🎁 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.

Your gift will allow future Buffs to experience the same excitement of discovering new passions, making lifelong friends and becoming part of the vibrant �� Boulder community.

Last year’s 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."

🎉 The gift that keeps on giving

On top of the rewarding feeling of helping students become Forever 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. to 5 p.m.).

Lastly, family and friends can donate in your honor, making the gift even more special and showing their support for your time as a Buff.

As you look forward to graduation, consider contributing to the Class of 2025 Senior Gift. You’ll make your mark at ��, and your legacy will live on through the stories of future Buffs. Every gift, large or small, creates a lasting impact on the lives of others.

Donate Today

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