2023
2023
December
Armando Valdez Named 16th President of CSU Pueblo
The Colorado State University System Board of Governors today unanimously confirmed Armando Valdez as the 16th president of Colorado State University Pueblo – the CSU System’s regionally serving campus located in Pueblo – effective Feb. 1, 2024.
CSU Pueblo CyberWolves Dominate 4th Annual MWCC, Securing Top Honor in Cyber Security Excellence
CSU Pueblo's CyberWolves, a nationally ranked cyber security team, secured the top spot at the Mountain West Cyber Challenge on December 2nd, 2023. The competition featured 35 teams with a total of 130 participants. The CSU Pueblo CyberWolves Red Team secured the coveted first position, replicating their outstanding performance from the 2020 MWCC games. Additionally, CSU Pueblo's Team Purple and NOOBs Team also demonstrated their expertise, earning placements among the top 35 teams in this highly competitive event.
Colorado State University Pueblo Choir to perform at 80th Colorado Music Educators Association Convention in 2024
The Colorado State University Pueblo Choir is proud to announce their upcoming performance at the 80th Colorado Music Educators Association (CMEA) Convention at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. This is a milestone for the choir as they are eligible to perform at the CMEA Convention once every eight years. The CSU Pueblo Choir performance is set for January 26, 2024 at 4:30 p.m. in Broadmoor Hall B.
Departing CSU Pueblo President Dr. Timothy Mottet Awarded Emeritus Status
PUEBLO, COLORADO – The Colorado State University System Board of Governors unanimously approved President Emeritus status for CSU Pueblo President Dr. Timothy Mottet. The motion was made during the monthly board meeting held at the CSU Spur campus in Denver last week. Emeritus status is the highest honor conferred by the university to show respect for a distinguished career. Dr. Mottet announced his retirement from the university in May and is the first president in the university’s 90-year history to receive this honor. He became CSU Pueblo’s 15th president in 2017.
Assistant Dean of Student Engagement and Leadership selected to represent CSU Pueblo at the 2023-2024 HERS Leadership Institute
Assistant Dean of Student Engagement and Leadership Dr. Lucie Menjivar has been selected to participate in the prestigious Higher Education Resource Services Leadership Institute (HLI). The 2023-2024 cohort is composed of 64 leaders in higher education from across the nation.
November
Armando Valdez Named Sole Finalist for CSU Pueblo Presidency
Denver, Colo. — The Board of Governors of the Colorado State University System on Thursday named Armando Valdez as the sole finalist for the CSU Pueblo presidency. A longtime academic and emeritus professor of Adams State University, Valdez is currently the state director for USDA-Rural Development in Colorado and operates Valdez Land & Livestock, LLC, his family farm and ranch operation near Capulin, Colo.
Colorado State University Pueblo hosts Scholarship and Research Day on Nov. 9
PUEBLO, COLORADO – Colorado State University Pueblo faculty and students will join together to present their research and scholarship to the campus community on Thursday, November 9. The Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Research Symposium will take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Occhiato Student Center; over 40 research posters, spanning every area of the STEM college, will be on display. Faculty will present their scholarly research in the LINC, located in the university library, from 4 - 6 p.m. Both events are free and open to the public.
October
Colorado State University Pueblo Lecturer Receives Lifetime Service Award from the Rocky Mountain Humanistic Counseling and Psychological Association
CSU Pueblo is proud to announce Ron Smith, a lecturer in the psychology department, was named as the recipient of the 2023 Dr. Emory G. Cowan, Jr. and Dr. Susan Cooper Lifetime Service Award at the Rocky Mountain Humanistic Counseling and Psychological Association conference held in Colorado Springs on October 20.
CSU Pueblo Cyber Security Program garners National Science Foundation funding and creates pathways for students
The Center for Cyber Security Education and Research (CCSER) is now in the fourth year of its five-year $2.5 million Project PUENTE (Partnerships in Undergraduate Education for New and Transferring Estudiantes) National Science Foundation (NSF) grant. The project is funded by the NSF as an initiative to support Hispanic Serving Institutions create pathways for underrepresented minority student groups and females in the Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Project PUENTE, which is Spanish for “bridge,” seeks to ease the transition from a two-year to a four-year institution and incorporate advanced coursework to help students adjust from lower-division to upper-division classes.
Explore the Magic of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) with CSU Pueblo STEM Student Organizations
PUEBLO, COLORADO –Colorado State University Pueblo (CSU Pueblo) STEM Student Clubs will host the “Magic of STEM” on Friday, Oct. 27 from 4 to 6 p.m. This fun event is geared toward elementary-aged children and their families and promises an exciting experience packed with engaging STEM activities.
UCHealth, CSU Pueblo and National Fitness Campaign Bring Free Outdoor Fitness to CSU Pueblo Campus
(PUEBLO, CO - OCTOBER 30, 2023) — UCHealth, Colorado State University Pueblo, and National Fitness Campaign (NFC) today announced an agreement to bring an outdoor Fitness Court to Colorado State University Pueblo. The Fitness Court, located on the CSU Pueblo campus at 2200 Bonforte Boulevard, will open on November 2, 2023 at 2:30 p.m. with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
CSU Pueblo Supports Empowerment of Local Youth Through Community-based Conference
Pueblo— The community-driven Rita J. Martinez Youth Leadership Conference returns to Colorado State University Pueblo on Thursday, Oct. 19. The second annual conference welcomes over 350 high school students from Pueblo, the San Luis Valley, and Fountain to campus. In keeping with the theme of lasting community impact, the Rita J. Martinez Youth Leadership Conference features keynote speakers Daniel Valdez and Dr. Velia Rincon. The conference is sponsored by CSU Pueblo, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Pueblo County, Servicios de la Raza, and El Movimiento Sigue (The Movement Continues) to bring culturally enriching and educational sessions to students with topics ranging from lowrider culture to banned books and Chicano graffiti to knowing your rights.
CSU Pueblo Senior Leaders Selected as Keynote Panelists at the Women in Leadership for Higher Education Conference
CAMBRIDGE, MA – October 11, 2023 - CSU Pueblo is proud to announce Dr. Donna Souder Hodge, Vice President of Operations and Advancement, and Dr. Kristyn White Davis, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Extended Studies, have been selected as keynote panelists for the opening session at the Women in Leadership for Higher Education (WLHE) conference presented by the National Diversity Congress in Cambridge, Massachusetts, entitled, "Institutional Advancements in D&I: How to Create a Culture of Inclusion." This prestigious event, scheduled October 11-12 at the Harvard Faculty Club, brings together higher education leaders, educators, and professionals from across the nation to discuss and address critical issues related to gender equity as well as diversity and inclusion in higher education.
October 2023 Board of Governors Update
The Colorado State University System Board of Governors Meeting was held October 5th and 6th at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. Several key updates and initiatives were discussed, providing a comprehensive overview of the system's status and future.
CSU Pueblo Shows Increase in Enrollment and Retention Numbers for Fall 2023
Colorado State University in Fort Collins welcomed one of its largest classes ever this fall and also saw record enrollment of diverse students. At CSU Pueblo, increases in new freshmen and a big jump in graduate students drove an overall enrollment increase over Fall 2022.
Colorado State University Pueblo Celebrates Homecoming and Family Weekend Oct. 6 - Oct. 7
Colorado State University Pueblo has announced the schedule of events for Homecoming and Family Weekend. Alumni, guests, students, and Pack families are invited to the campus to participate in the full weekend of events designed to celebrate the spirit of CSU Pueblo.
September
Loss of a Colleague and Celebration of Life: Professor Janet Nichols
Earlier this month, CSU Pueblo lost a stalwart member of our community. Professor Janet Nichols (Mathematics) passed away at her home in Canon City, surrounded in love with her children, Gina and Dan, after a turbulent battle with metastatic pancreatic cancer.
CSU Pueblo Opens New Satellite Campus at Pikes Peak State College
Colorado Springs, Colo. - Colorado State University Pueblo (CSU Pueblo) and Pikes Peak State College (PPSC) have signed a five-year agreement to allow students to complete an associate’s degree and a bachelor’s degree at one central location. The agreement between the two institutions opens the door for new transfer options and opportunities for more degree completion pathways for students in Pueblo and El Paso Counties, and the surrounding region.
CSU Pueblo Foundation Announces Staff Changes
PUEBLO – The Colorado State University Pueblo Foundation today announced the addition of a new employee and the reassignment of a current staff member, according to Todd Kelly, CSU Pueblo Foundation President/CEO.
CSU Pueblo Foundation and Alumni Association Recognize Four 2023 Distinguished Young Alumni
PUEBLO – The CSU Pueblo Alumni Association, in conjunction with the CSU Pueblo Foundation, has announced the recipients of the 2023 Distinguished Young Alumni (DYA) Award. The honor recognizes the remarkable achievements and contributions of our alumni ages 40 and under.
Colorado State University Pueblo celebrates Hispanic Serving Institutions Week
From Monday, September 11 through Sunday, September 17, Colorado State University Pueblo will celebrate “Hecho en CSU Pueblo,” (Made at CSU Pueblo), a series of events scheduled during Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSI) week. The week falls within National Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated September 15 through October 15. CSU Pueblo has a slate of activities scheduled to increase awareness of HSI week and will highlight educational sessions around campus initiatives that advance and elevate the campus’s status as a premier HSI. All activities are free and open to the public.
CSU Pueblo Students Will Gain Access to Additional Services this Fall Thanks to a Continued Partnership between the University and Mt. Carmel Veterans Center
CSU Pueblo students will gain access to additional services this fall thanks to a continued partnership between the university and Mt. Carmel Veterans Center. Mt. Carmel staff now have regular staffing at the CSU Pueblo Military and Veteran Success Center (MVSC) and Veterans Upward Bound (VUB) offices to provide expanded services to military-affiliated students.
Colorado State University Pueblo Women’s Swim and Dive team to host free swimming lessons Sept. 4 through Sept. 8
CSU Pueblo Women’s Swim and Dive team has partnered with No More Underwater to host a one-week event that offers free swimming lessons. One-hour lessons are scheduled September 4 through September 8 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the pool in the Student Recreation Center.
August
“Expressions Unbound: An Inmate’s Exploration of Art” exhibit unveiled Sept. 8 at Colorado State University Pueblo
“Expressions Unbound: Time, space, and self - an inmate’s exploration of art,” a student art show features the work of Colorado State University Pueblo Independent Study student, Christopher Levitt. This unique exhibit highlights Levitt’s diverse range of artistic expressions developed within the walls of a correctional facility. The event is scheduled at CSU Pueblo’s Art and Music Building in the Art Gallery on the lower level, on September 8th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The exhibit will run until November 22. Admission is free and open to the public.
CSU Pueblo School of Education Program Among Top in the U.S. for Training Future Teachers in the Science of Reading
The undergraduate teacher preparation program at Colorado State University Pueblo has been recognized by the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ) for its rigorous preparation of future teachers in how to teach reading, earning an “A” grade in NCTQ’s new report, Teacher Prep Review: Strengthening Elementary Reading Instruction. The program is among just 23 percent nationwide to earn an “A” from NCTA for meeting standards set by literacy experts for coverage of the most effective methods of reading instruction—often called the “science of reading.”
National Science Foundation awards $33,000 grant to fund microbiology literacy project
The project, “Increasing Science Literacy in Microbiology through the Use of Open Education Resources,” has been awarded funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF), with CSU Pueblo receiving $33,152. The goal of this project is to help students learn and engage with current science through use of no-cost, open education resources.
CSU Pueblo and Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce Announce Joint Partnership with New Visit Pueblo Welcome Center Location
CSU Pueblo and the Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce (GPCC) are proud to announce the grand opening of the Visit Pueblo Welcome Center. A ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled at 6 p.m. on August 18th at 310 Main Street.
July
CSU Pueblo’s High School Equivalency Program Celebrates Inaugural Cohort of Students
CSU Pueblo celebrates 12 students who are the first to earn their GED through the High School Equivalency Program (HEP) offered at the university. HEP is a federally-funded program from the U.S. Department of Education that helps eligible migrant workers and their families obtain a high school equivalency diploma.
Packfest at CSU Pueblo: A Spectacular Music Festival Lineup Announced
Pueblo, CO - June 16, 2023 - Mark your calendars and prepare for an amazing music experience as CSU Pueblo proudly presents Packfest on Saturday, September 16, featuring Waka Flocka Flame, Kid Ink, Wiz the MC, and Carmen Deleon, who each bring their unique style and energy to the stage. The festival will be held at the Hasan Outdoor Amphitheatre at the CSU Pueblo campus. Packfest features special guests from the community to highlight the vibrant talent within the region. Kicking off the festivities will be local artist, Box State Rootz. Known for their infectious beats and soulful melodies, Box State Rootz promises to set the tone for an extraordinary night of music.
Colorado State University Pueblo Nursing Education Initiative Awarded $1.39 Million from Opportunity Now Colorado Grant Program
Colorado State University Pueblo nursing education initiative awarded $1.39 million from Opportunity Now Colorado Grant Program.
CSU Pueblo Foundation Announces July 28 ThankBrew Mini Brewfest
PUEBLO – The CSU Pueblo Foundation is delighted to announce the inaugural "ThankBrew" Brewfest, a special event dedicated to honoring the members of the Young President's Club (YPC). This gathering will take place on July 28 at the CSU Pueblo Thunderbowl’s Leomiti Warrior Center rooftop, offering a unique opportunity to celebrate the collective contributions of young philanthropy.
Moveit Software Cyberattack Notification
CSU System community members: I am writing to inform you of a cyberattack against third-party organizations that have a relationship with many corporations and institutions of higher education across the country, including the Colorado State University System, which potentially has resulted in unauthorized access of personal information of some members of our community.
Supreme Court Ruling on Affirmative Action
This past week, the U.S. Supreme Court made a final ruling on two affirmative action cases regarding the use of race in admissions policies at institutions of higher education. In this decision, the Supreme Court banned the consideration of race as a factor in university admissions.
June
CSU Pueblo Named as a Recipient of the CulturaGo Grant to Support Study Abroad
CSU Pueblo is one of six institutions awarded the CulturaGo Grant for the Summer 2023 session. Through this grant, up to 1,000 students at CSU Pueblo now have the opportunity to enroll in free cultural education courses through CulturaGo to help prepare them for study abroad in South Korea and Italy. Course topics include etiquette, advice from locals, culture shock, and how to avoid faux pas. The deadline for students to enroll is June 30. However, students retain their access beyond that date and are encouraged to use this resource to prepare for future study abroad excursions. There are no requirements or prerequisites to register for this program. Students interested in South Korea or Italy are encouraged to enroll.
CSU Pueblo Leaders Accepted to Prestigious National Institute Professional Development Programs
Pueblo— Two administrative leaders from Colorado State University Pueblo have been named to participate in competitive, national leadership programs offered by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU). AASCU’s intensive curriculum is designed to develop the skills and competencies necessary for the next generation of higher education leaders, including future cabinet members, provosts, and presidents. The 2023 cohorts will demonstrate their leadership skills to their campus community by leading an on-campus project or initiative with the support of their president and appointing vice president.
Colorado State University Pueblo Awarded $510,000 From The Colorado Health Foundation
Colorado State University Pueblo’s Denver-based Advancement team has been awarded a three-year $510,000 grant from the Colorado Health Foundation to support the project, "Grow Where You're Planted: Southern Colorado Partners Leading Advancement in Nursing Track” (PLANT). The proposal, stewarded by Alexandra Hansen, with support from the university’s Operations and Advancement division, was created as a collaboration between CSU Pueblo’s School of Nursing, the Graduate School, and the Extended Studies rural outreach program. The goal of the project will be to connect high school students, primarily students of color and rural students, throughout Pueblo and Southern Colorado with the resources they need to earn a degree in nursing and serve their communities who have limited access to health care.
Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 Dean’s List
The following students have been named to the 2022 Fall semester and 2023 Spring semester Dean’s lists at Colorado State University Pueblo. This honor recognizes undergraduate degree-seeking students who have completed 12 or more credit hours with a minimum grade-point average of 3.5. The students are listed alphabetically and are divided by semester.
CSU System Board of Governors Approves CSU Pueblo Budget for 2023-2024
The Board of Governors of the Colorado State University System approved budgets for its campuses this week that keep tuition increases below the rate of inflation and legislative allowances, while focusing on compensation for faculty and staff.
CSU Pueblo Foundation Launches Young President’s Club
PUEBLO – In an effort to provide philanthropic opportunities for new professionals and young alumni, the Colorado State University Pueblo Foundation has established the Young President’s Club (YPC). The YPC is a new initiative aimed at donors 40 and under, or alumni,who graduated within the last ten years, who are interested in making a positive impact on CSU Pueblo students. The YPC provides a platform for young donors to come together and support causes they care about in support of CSU Pueblo and its students.
May
CSU Pueblo President Accepted into the Fulbright International Education Administrators Program in France
Colorado State University Pueblo President, Timothy Mottet, has been accepted into the Fulbright International Education Administrators (IEA) Awards program in France. The seminar is an immersive, two-week-long program that provides opportunities to engage with international partners in educational, political, cultural, economic, and scientific fields.
THE DROP 104.7 Partners with REVOLUTION 89.5 to Launch "The Kickback with Unique" in Pueblo
Denver, CO – Rocky Mountain Public Media, the parent company of Rocky Mountain PBS, KUVO JAZZ, and THE DROP, is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking collaboration with Colorado State University Pueblo, bringing one of the station’s most popular radio shows to Pueblo. Starting June 1, 2023, Pueblo listeners can tune into live broadcasts of "The Kickback with Unique" on REVOLUTION 89.5 from Monday to Friday, 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
A Message From CSU Pueblo President Timothy Mottet
It is with an enormous sense of gratitude that I am announcing my departure from Colorado State University Pueblo, effective December 31, 2023. Though we have made many positive strides since 2017, I know I have accomplished all that I am able to do as your president. It’s time for CSU Pueblo to take the next steps in the journey to become the people’s university.
CSU System Chancellor and Board of Governors Message
By now, all of you likely have received the message from President Timothy Mottet that he will be stepping down as president of Colorado State University Pueblo, effective December 30. As Chancellor and Chair of the Board of Governors of the CSU System, we recognize that this is a significant change for the campus; President Mottet has enormous support from the Board, and despite our efforts to persuade him to stay, we understand this is a personal decision based on what he and Rick want to accomplish in the next chapter of their lives. And so, we join all of you in wishing them both the very best – and in thanking Tim for his strong, thoughtful, and steadfast leadership of the campus during an extremely complex and challenging time.
Colorado State University Pueblo to Celebrate 500 graduates on Saturday with 10,000 in attendance
The Colorado State University Pueblo ThunderBowl will be at capacity on Saturday for the university’s commencement ceremony which begins at 8:30 a.m. The class of 2023 will be cheered on by 10,000 family members, friends, and loved ones, while more than 500 graduates receive their diplomas.
CSU Pueblo Announces First Graduates from Sturm Collaboration Campus
On Thursday, May 11, nine students will receive their bachelor’s degrees at a ceremony held at 4 p.m. at CSU Pueblo’s Sturm Collaboration Campus in Castle Rock, Colorado. This unique group of graduates completed a two-year degree pathway in cybersecurity through a strategic partnership between Arapahoe Community College (ACC) and CSU Pueblo.
CSU Pueblo Receives $3 Million Grant Over Five Years from the U.S. Department of Education to Develop Unique and High Impact Programming for Graduate Programs and Student Success
Colorado State University Pueblo will receive $3 million over the next five years to develop an innovative grant program named Project Exíto. The grant will put into place innovative outreach, advising, and support structures for online graduate education that are “high impact practices” designed to create enriching academic opportunities that foster success for CSU Pueblo’s diverse graduate student population. The grant is funded by the U.S. Department of Education as part of the Developing Hispanic Serving Institutions Grant Programs.
CyberWolves rank 7th nationally during National Cyber League Team Game Playoffs April 14-16, Shu ranks in the top 20 in individual games
The CSU Pueblo CyberWolves Red Team finished in 7th place in the Experienced Bracket at the Spring 2023 National Cyber League (NCL) Team Playoffs held April 14-16. The results are based on the Cyber Skyline Power Rankings, which are a comprehensive measure of NCL Individual and Team performance that considers a school's top performing team, their top performing students, and the number and performance of each of the participating students from each school.
Garrison Ortiz Named Chief Financial Officer at Colorado State University Pueblo
PUEBLO, CO - Colorado State University Pueblo has named Pueblo County Commissioner, Garrison Ortiz as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for the university. He will begin his duties on June 1, 2023. Ortiz has served as the Chair of the Board of Pueblo County Commissioners since 2017.
April
Colorado State University Pueblo 2022-2023 Staff Award Winners Announced
More than 300 faculty and staff members gathered together at the Occhiato Student Center Ballroom on Thursday, April 27 for the annual employee recognition luncheon. Each recognition category was created to honor and celebrate achievements of faculty, classified and professional staff, outstanding teams, and a student’s choice award. The awards recognize employees who have gone above and beyond during the academic year. Employees are nominated by CSU Pueblo students and employees, and each winner is selected by a designated committee composed of students, faculty, administrative or classified staff, and previous award recipients.
Dr. Gail Mackin Named CSU Pueblo Provost and Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs
PUEBLO, CO - Colorado State University Pueblo has named Dr. Gail Mackin as provost and executive vice president of academic affairs. She will begin her duties on August 1, 2023. Dr. Mackin has served in the Office of the Provost at Central Washington University since 2017.
Department of Social work to host Holocaust Day of Remembrance on April 18
CSU Pueblo’s Department of Social Work will host the Holocaust Day of Remembrance on Tuesday, April 18 in the Tundra Room at the Occhiato Student Center. The day-long event features keynote speakers, a live-virtual tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau, presentations, a documentary screening, and discussions on book banning and LGBTQ+ and disability groups and the Holocaust.
School of Nursing to host annual 365 Health Fair on April 15
The School of Nursing class of 2023 will host the annual 365 Health Fair at the Occhiato Student Center Ballroom on Saturday, April 15 from 7 a.m. until noon. The health fair is sponsored by 365 Health and provides free and affordable health screenings, vaccinations, discounted lab work, screenings and exams, and community resources for follow-up care and referrals.
CSU Pueblo Biology Department to host the Tri Beta 2023 W-1 District Convention April 14-15
The Biology Department at Colorado State University Pueblo will host speakers, poster sessions and 30 research presentations as part of the Tri Beta 2023 W-1 District Convention. Tri Beta is a national biological honor society for undergraduates dedicated to improving their understanding and appreciation of biological research. The key activity of Tri Beta is to support biology research students with opportunities to present their research.
Jocelyn Sanchez Selected as the 2023 Threlkeld Prize for Excellence Recipient
Pueblo native, Jocelyn Sanchez, was named as the Colorado State University Pueblo 2023 recipient of the Threlkeld Prize for Excellence at the Student Involvement and Leadership Awards held Tuesday night at the Occhiato Student Center Ballroom. Sanchez will receive the first diploma at the 2023 commencement ceremony, Saturday, May 13 at the CSU Pueblo ThunderBowl, and a monetary award.
Dr. William Donoher Named Dean of the Hasan School of Business
Colorado State University Pueblo has named Dr. William Donoher as the Dean of the Hasan School of Business (HSB). He will begin his duties on July 17, 2023. Dr. Donoher currently serves as Professor and Chair of the Department of Management, Marketing and Logistics at Georgia College and State University (GCSU).
CSU Pueblo Students to Present Original Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity During the 9th Annual Spring Symposium on April 7
The 9th Annual Spring Symposium: A Celebration of Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity begins at 8 a.m. on Friday, April 7 at the Learning, Innovating, and Networking Center (LINC) located on the second floor of the Library and Academic Resource Center (LARC) at CSU Pueblo. The symposium features poster, oral, and creative presentations by undergraduate and graduate students at CSU Pueblo.
Five finalists announced for Threlkeld Prize for Excellence
Five finalists for the Threlkeld Prize for Excellence have been selected from a pool of candidates nominated by CSU Pueblo faculty and staff across multiple departments. The finalists include Nicole Buttram, Phillip Flores, Mikayla Lerch, Tiffany Post, and Jocelyn Sanchez. The Threlkeld Prize for Excellence was established in 1990 in memory of respected faculty member and beloved community member, Budge Threlkeld. The award recognizes a graduating senior who has completed at least four semesters at CSU Pueblo, maintained a grade point average of 3.7 or higher, and has demonstrated service to CSU Pueblo and the community. The winner will be announced during the Student Involvement and Leadership Awards ceremony on Tuesday, April 11 at the Occhiato Student Center Ballroom. The Threlkeld recipient will be recognized at the spring commencement ceremony and will receive the first diploma and a monetary award on Saturday, May 13 at the ThunderBowl.
CSU Pueblo to honor Dr. Margie Massey, Johnson Controls, Inc, Eric and Renee Carson, and Alumnus Timothy Simmons at President’s Blue and Red Gala on May 20
CSU Pueblo Professor of Education, Dr. Margie Massey, Johnson Controls, Eric and Renee Carson, and alumnus Timothy Simmons, 1969, will be honored as part of the Colorado State University Pueblo 2023 President’s Blue and Red Gala on Saturday, May 20. Proceeds from the Gala directly benefit future generations of CSU Pueblo students through scholarships and programs.
March
Provost Candidate, Dr. Abbey Zink, to Visit Campus on April 4
Dr. Abbey Zink has served in academic leadership roles on campuses ranging from 5,500 to 20,000 students in rural and urban environments and at Hispanic Serving Institutions. These roles have included Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania; Dean of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) at Sam Houston State University (SHSU) in Huntsville, TX; Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK); and Interim Dean and Assistant Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Western Connecticut State University (WCSU) in Danbury, CT.
CSU Pueblo Foundation Invites You to be a Part of Leading the Legacy Endowment Fund
In 2021, Colorado State University Pueblo Foundation established the Leading the Legacy giving society. CSU Pueblo’s Leading the Legacy fund was founded by philanthropic women who aspire for inclusion and diversity to make a positive impact in Pueblo County through higher education. As women are celebrated during March for Women’s History Month, the women who came together to establish this fund are appreciated.
Provost Candidate, Dr. Andrew Ketsdever, to Visit Campus on March 30
The third provost candidate, Dr. Andrew Ketsdever, will visit campus on Thursday, March 30. A campus presentation beginning at 9:45 a.m. is open to faculty, staff and students to attend. Andrew Ketsdever assumed the role of interim vice president of Oregon State University - Cascades on May 1, 2021. As interim vice president and leader of the Cascades Campus, Ketsdever has been a champion of two key initiatives including the development of an innovation district on the Bend, OR campus and an innovative career development program designed to bring career education to all students. In his current role, he also serves as chief academic officer for the campus with responsibility for expanding degree programs to meet industry needs, advancing research efforts and leading faculty instructors and researchers. He has standing as a professor in OSU’s School of Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering within the College of Engineering. Ketsdever joined OSU-Cascades in 2018 as an associate dean, overseeing degree programs in science, technology and engineering, and leading research and faculty diversity efforts and was also the dean of academic affairs prior to becoming the interim vice president. Under Ketsdever’s leadership, OSU-Cascades has continued to set record enrollment, revenue, and research expenditure targets while maintaining inclusive excellence and a student-focus to growth initiatives.
Liz Guerra announced as the final speaker for the Indigenous Holistic Health and Healing Speaker Series
CSU Pueblo in partnership with El Pueblo History Museum and Storytellers of the Ancestral Red Road (SOAR) announce Liz Guerra as the final speaker in the monthly Indigenous Holistic Health and Healing Speaker Series. Guerra will present Practicing Holistic Healing: Understanding Mind-Body-Spirit Connections on Thursday, March 30 at 6 p.m. at the El Pueblo History Museum.
Provost Candidate, Dr. Gail Mackin, to Visit Campus on March 28
The second provost candidate, Dr. Gail Mackin, will visit campus on Tuesday, March 28. A campus presentation beginning at 9:45 a.m. is open to faculty, staff and students to attend. Dr. Gail Mackin received her BS in Mathematics and Physics from Keene State College and her MS and PhD in Mathematics from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. Gail has taught at several comprehensive universities, the most recent being Northern Kentucky University (NKU) where she spent 16 years as a member of the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. During this time, Gail taught a vast range of entry-level and upper-level mathematics courses including an interdisciplinary bio-mathematics modeling course co-taught with a peer from the department of Biological Sciences. She also mentored more than 50 students in undergraduate research and for the international COMAP mathematical modeling competition.
Provost Candidate, Dr. Tim Borchers, to Visit Campus on March 15
The first provost candidate, Dr. Tim Borchers, will visit campus on Wednesday, March 15. A campus presentation beginning at 9:45 a.m. is open to faculty, staff and students to attend. Dr. Tim Borchers is the Vice President for Academic Affairs at Peru State College, located in southeast Nebraska, where he collaborates with Deans, faculty, and staff to provide a personalized, engaging, and transformative educational experience for a diverse student population.
Elizabeth Georgina Barratt Wells inducted into the Colorado Women's Hall of Fame as part of Women’s History Month
The Colorado State University Pueblo Women's Studies Program in conjunction with the Pueblo West Library celebrates the induction of Elizabeth Georgina Barratt Wells into the Colorado Women's Hall of Fame as part of Women’s History Month.
Provost Candidate Presentations and Faculty Reception Dates and Times Announced
Four individuals have been selected as finalists for the top academic position at Colorado State University Pueblo. On-campus candidate visits for the next CSU Pueblo Provost have been scheduled.
CSU Pueblo Receives $2.98 Million Grant to Increase Broadband Access
CSU Pueblo received a $2.98 million grant from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to implement a two-year pilot project that will increase broadband access to underserved communities in Pueblo, Colorado. The “Adelante Connect” project targets low-income areas with low internet and device access within the community of Pueblo. Data indicate that there are 36 Pueblo census tracts that may qualify for assistance through the pilot program.
February
CSU Pueblo Department of Music presents, “Destination unKnown”
The CSU Pueblo Department of Music is proud to present, “Destination unKnown,” an evening of musical theatre in collaboration with the Department of Media and Entertainment on March 10th and March 11th at the Buell Communications Center Blackbox Studio. The cabaret features students from across campus, as well as staff and community members.
CSU Pueblo Researcher’s Work Selected for Inclusion in Continuing Medical Education Program
A recent article published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine by CSU Pueblo professor, Brad Gilbreath, PhD, and Cynthia Mathieu, PhD, at Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières has been chosen for inclusion in the Continuing Medical Education (CME) program. This prestigious recognition highlights the significance of their research and its potential to make a positive impact on healthcare practices.
CSU Pueblo Foundation Welcomes Members of The Next Gen Council
In 2022, Colorado State University Pueblo Foundation implemented the Next Gen Council comprised of young professionals and CSU Pueblo alumni under 40 years of age wanting to make an impact on CSU Pueblo students and young alumni. The Next Gen Council’s mission is to engage and connect with young adults and alumni to promote higher education and support efforts designed to supplement and enhance their future. The Next Gen Council meets quarterly to identify student and alumni needs, select the Next Gen Council scholarship recipient, and work with professionals in the community who can help mentor students and alums.
More than $3.5 Million in Scholarships Available to CSU Pueblo Students for Fall 2023
New and returning students at Colorado State University Pueblo are encouraged to apply for scholarship funding for the 2023-24 academic year through the CSU Pueblo Foundation online application process. The application process ends March 1, 2023.
Colorado Southern Regional Science Olympiad Tournament welcomes 600 STEM students to campus Saturday
The Colorado Southern Regional Science Olympiad Tournament is set for Saturday, February 18 at CSU Pueblo. The rigorous STEM-based competition welcomes more than 600 middle and high school students across Colorado to campus. This one-day tournament features 46 STEM competitions, facilitated by a team of 50 STEM faculty, staff, and community professionals. Competitions range from crime busting and forensics to remote sensing and device testing. Spectator events held at Massari Arena are free and open to the public.
Colorado State University Pueblo to host the 15th annual Festival of Winds February 9-11, 2023
The 15th annual Festival of Winds returns to campus February 9 for the largest wind and honor band event in Colorado. The festival is an immersive three-day experience for over 350 high school students throughout the state. The students are accepted to the festival by invitation only. Band directors in Colorado can nominate up to 15 students to attend, with a minimum of two participants guaranteed placement. A total of 46 high schools will be represented at the 2023 festival.
January
Colorado State University Pueblo Announces Dana Perino as 2023 Commencement Speaker
Colorado State University Pueblo welcomes distinguished alumnus Dana Perino to deliver the spring 2023 commencement address. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. at the ThunderBowl on Saturday, May 13. “We are excited to welcome Dana back to CSU Pueblo. Her career has served as an inspiration for our students and she has been an incredible mentor providing opportunities for them to see her studio in New York,” CSU Pueblo President Timothy Mottet said. This will be the second time Perino will address the university’s graduating class. Perino was the commencement speaker for the 2008 commencement exercises and spoke about her journey to the White House and beyond.
CSU Pueblo administrative leaders complete prestigious national institute development programs
Three administrative leaders from Colorado State University Pueblo have completed intensive leadership training provided by the American Association of State Colleges and Universities. AASCU serves as a collective voice for nearly 400 public colleges, universities, and systems, and works to expand student access, success, and opportunity; promote world-class teaching and learning tied to career advancement; and support applied research and service that advances economic development and quality of life in communities across the country. The AASCU programs are designed to develop leadership skills and competencies to grow the next generation of higher education administrators through the many stages of their careers, including presidencies.
CSU Pueblo partners with TheDream.US to assist Dreamer Students
Colorado State University Pueblo is the newest partner college to join TheDream.US network of schools that serve undocumented migrant students. This partnership provides scholarship opportunities to cover tuition and fees for undocumented students in Southern Colorado. The university is the first Colorado institution of higher education located outside of the Denver area to receive the designation.
Colorado State University Pueblo to Observe the Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with a Week of Service and Learning Events
Colorado State University Pueblo will observe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day with a week of service and learning events to celebrate his life and legacy. “In celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., our campus is engaging in service and community,” Vice President of Student Affairs and Dean of Students Dr. Marie Humphrey said. “For CSU Pueblo, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is an opportunity to live out his legacy by serving others.”