Your Impact

From stages to stars: Generosity connects community to culture at CU Boulder

Anna Tolette — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 17:54:19 +0000

From stages to stars: Generosity connects community to culture at CU Boulder Anna Tolette Tue, 12/16/2025 - 10:54

Keeley Haynes

At CU Boulder, programs like CU Presents, the CU Art Museum and the Fiske Planetarium aren’t just entertainment; they’re a bridge that connects students, faculty and staff to the larger community through creativity and discovery. From theater under the stars to immersive space views, philanthropy helps power these experiences.

Performing arts take center stage

CU Boulder is fortunate to have an umbrella organization, CU Presents, whose mandate is to present performing arts at CU Boulder with campus and community. It supports a wide range of departments and ensembles by providing professional marketing, ticketing and event services, including the Eklund Opera Program, Takács Quartet, Artist Series, Colorado Shakespeare Festival, the College of Music and the Theater and Dance Department.

“CU Presents partner groups present over 500 different events every year in genres including classical and contemporary music, dance, theater, opera and more,” said Andrew Metzroth, executive director for CU Presents.

One of CU Boulder’s most cherished traditions is the Colorado Shakespeare Festival. For nearly 70 years, the festival has shared the beauty of theater with audiences from across the world. This summer, theater lovers will return to the newly renovated Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre to experience Shakespeare’s most beloved plays.

The Colorado Shakespeare Festival is only one part of CU Presents. Their programs provide students, faculty and community members a front row seat to Boulder popular musicals like Oklahoma!, intimate performances from Grammy-winning ensembles like the Takács Quartet and the always popular Holiday Festival. Through the Artist Series, the community and campus can also hear from world-class artists like Renée Fleming and Joshua Bell. To ensure access to all, CU Presents offers more than 300 free performances per year.

“Our performing arts programs invest in students and audiences,” Metzroth said. “They teach us empathy, cultural literacy and expose us to ideas and experiences we haven't had ourselves.”

Behind the scenes, donor gifts make this magic possible, underwriting artist fees, capital improvements that enhance the audience's experience like lighting and sound equipment, and creating sets and costumes that immerse audiences into the world of theater.

“When you're giving to the arts, you're giving the gift of expression and wonder to the community at large,” Metzroth added.

Art that sparks connection

Located in the Visual Arts Complex, the CU Art Museum welcomes visitors free of charge. With over 12,500 objects spanning 10,000 years of history, the museum is more than a collection of art. It's a hub for connection and discovery with exhibitions and programs open to all.

"Viewing artwork is a powerful way to connect with others and gain new perspectives and enhance creative problem solving," said Hope Saska, director of the CU Art Museum. "University art museums are laboratories for teaching and learning, and in this context, experiencing artwork firsthand helps faculty and students alike gain new skills in analysis and critical thinking."

Philanthropy also ensures the museum is an inclusive gathering place. Earlier this year, the late Donald and Karen Rigsby contributed a historic $1.9 million to the CU Art Museum to strengthen museum initiatives like the Collection Study Center and provide the museum with financial flexibility.

Donations also support collection building. For example, the Diversity Acquisition Endowment empowers students to make targeted acquisitions that promote inclusivity in the collection.

"We often have visitors come in who have never been to an art museum, but who end up leaving with a new love for it,” said Elizabeth van der Marck-Gregg, visitor experience liaison for the CU Art Museum. “This is especially true when we have visitors see their identities represented in our galleries."

By helping the CU Art Museum grow its collections, build its capacity and enable free programming, donors allow the museum to foster belonging, spark dialogue and cultivate community across campus.

Exploring the stars together

For five decades, the Fiske Planetarium has brought the beauty of space to Earth. Through immersive full-dome films, star talks, laser shows and theatrical productions, Fiske shows how space education is a fun way to explore one’s place in this world.

“At CU Boulder’s Fiske Planetarium, we’ve seen how space education can ignite a passion for learning,” said Francisco Salas, operations manager for Fiske Planetarium. “By exploring topics like astronomy, planetary science and the search for life beyond Earth, students not only learn about the universe — they learn about collaboration, perseverance and humanity’s shared place in the cosmos.”

In 1975, the Fiske Planetarium opened its doors thanks to a generous donation from Wallace Franz Fiske. Now as the largest planetarium in the Rocky Mountain region, Fiske strives to inspire and engage the community through STEM education. It serves over 16,000 K-12 students and 6,000 undergraduates each year, introducing Colorado students to foundational astronomy concepts and interactive discovery labs. These experiences continue to be made possible by donor support.

“In total, Fiske is visited by over 75,000 students and members of the public each year,” said John Keller, director for Fiske Planetarium. “The immersive full dome environment transports families and classrooms across the planet and to the far reaches of the cosmos. Giving allows Fiske to continue to update the Fiske experience and engage audiences within our dome, in our exhibit gallery and through public outreach and engagement efforts across the state.”

Salas added, “Every gift helps us open our doors a little wider — whether it’s for K–12 students experiencing immersive science for the very first time or for CU Boulder students who come to Fiske to deepen their learning, find community and explore new ideas beyond the classroom.”

Discover cultural experiences that connect communities at CU Boulder

Whether you’re attending a performance, strolling through a gallery or losing yourself in a laser show, CU Boulder’s cultural enrichment programs connect our community to art, science and wonder. Your support ensures these experiences remain accessible and grow, inspiring visitors now and for generations to come.

Give now

CU Boulder’s cultural programs, like CU Presents, the Art Museum and Fiske Planetarium, connect campus and community through art, science and wonder. See how philanthropy powers these experiences and why your support matters.

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Employer gift matching multiplies donor impact

Anna Tolette — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:51:21 +0000

Employer gift matching multiplies donor impact Anna Tolette Thu, 07/31/2025 - 14:51

Employer gift matching offers CU Boulder donors a way to enhance their investment in the causes they care about. Through these often-underused programs, companies match charitable contributions made by their employees.

For two donors, tapping into their companies’ gift-matching programs offered a meaningful way to support student scholarships and expand on their desire to give back.

A family tradition of giving

Kevin Ruffcorn with his son, Nick Ruffcorn (Fin'21)

The Ruffcorn family, whose youngest child graduated from CU Boulder, has made employer gift matching a cornerstone of their family’s giving. Kevin Ruffcorn works for a Fortune 50 company with a generous matching limit. While he didn’t take full advantage of the matching opportunities early in his career, he’s intentionally maxed out the annual limit in recent years.

“It took me a few years to appreciate the impact of gift-matching, but once I learned of its multiplier effect, I leveraged it to the greatest extent possible,” said Ruffcorn.

Each year during the holidays, his family discusses their giving priorities for the coming year. Scholarships are always at the top of the list. Ruffcorn was a first-generation college student, which inspired his support for scholarships. Employer gift matching enabled his family to fully fund a scholarship endowment two to three years earlier than possible without the additional support.

“I received a scholarship that enabled me to attend the university of my choice,” he said. “So, I am well aware that scholarships can be life-changing for their recipients, as my scholarship was for me.”

Their family has fully funded an endowed scholarship at their oldest son’s university and recently started one at CU Boulder, named in honor of Ruffcorn’s in-laws.

“My wife and I have been extraordinarily fortunate, and we credit education for our good fortune,” he shared. “Gift matching enables donors, like us, to have a greater impact, and I encourage all donors to use these programs.”

Giving with gratitude and pride

Alyssa Louise Moody’s (Film’08) time in the Golden Buffalo Marching Band inspired her to give back to CU Boulder. After graduating, she followed her parents’ example by supporting scholarships for marching band students.

“As a student at CU Boulder, I was lucky enough to receive a few scholarships from the Golden Buffalo Marching Band, and it made me appreciate that someone was willing to contribute to my education,” said Moody. “It also gave me a sense of pride knowing I was successful enough in school and band to be eligible for a scholarship.”

Now working for the Walt Disney Company, Moody uses the company’s generous gift-matching program to advance her family’s legacy of support.

“Walt Disney Company encourages every cast member, the name for Disney employees, to participate in their community,” said Moody. “I appreciate their willingness to provide these gifts and make them readily available for donors passionate about a particular cause. Sometimes I even donate a larger amount because I know they will match it.”

She wants to ensure future generations of marching band students feel as appreciated as she did. Students from all majors can find a sense of belonging and purpose in the Golden Buffalo Marching Band as they create music and represent CU Boulder pride.

“Being in the marching band is like a part-time job with little recognition, but it’s rewarding,” she said. “I want future members to feel that their hard work is valued and that someone out there is cheering for them.”

A simple way to make a big difference

Gift matching is one of the easiest ways for CU Boulder donors to maximize the impact of their gifts. Whether it’s a scholarship for a first-generation student or support for a hardworking band member, every matched dollar helps unlock more opportunities for Buffs.

Find out if your employer offers gift matching

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Supporting future business and engineering leaders by paying it forward

Anna Tolette — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 17:27:28 +0000

Supporting future business and engineering leaders by paying it forward Anna Tolette Mon, 06/30/2025 - 11:27

April Driver

Terry and Charlotte Quarton

Terry and Charlotte Quarton know firsthand how a scholarship can change the course of a life. As college students, they each received financial aid that helped make their education possible. Years later, they decided to return the favor by establishing the Quarton Scholarship Fund at the University of Colorado Boulder.

“We both received scholarships when we were going to college because we didn’t have the money to fund our education,” Charlotte shared. “I always wondered where the scholarship money came from and how I had the honor of receiving it.”

Giving in retirement with a tax-wise approach

The Quartons have always been careful savers, which has given them financial flexibility in retirement. As they reviewed their finances, they realized they had more than enough money to live comfortably and could also support causes they care deeply about, including their church and CU Boulder.

At first, they included a scholarship fund in their will. Later, they learned that the required withdrawals from their IRAs would be taxed at nearly 40%.

“We realized that if we donated the money directly to CU Boulder, it could be transferred tax-free to support student scholarships,” Terry said.

Investing in potential through scholarships

Established in 2016, the Quarton Scholarship Fund supports high-achieving Colorado students with financial need who are pursuing degrees in the Leeds School of Business or the College of Engineering & Applied Sciences. The Quartons specifically chose these schools to help students enter fields that offer both intellectual challenge and strong career potential.

Each year, the fund awards a considerable number of scholarships, helping students offset tuition costs and reduce financial stress while pursuing their degrees.

Making a personal connection

Every spring, the Quartons host a luncheon for the Quarton Scholarship recipients. It’s a time to meet one another, share stories and celebrate student progress.

“It’s fun to watch the students go through the same stages that we went through — from wondering how to make ends meet, to landing summer internships, to launching exciting careers,” Terry said. “Then, finally, they get job offers and off they go.”

For the Quartons, giving isn’t just about donating money. It’s about paying it forward to future generations — one student at a time.

Find your path to giving

If the Quartons’ story inspires you, you can explore ways to support students and programs at CU Boulder, including donating to the Quarton Scholars Fund.

Give Today

Smart giving from your IRA

You can give money from your IRA directly to the University of Colorado without having to pay income taxes on that money.

This popular gift option is commonly known as an IRA charitable rollover, also referred to as a qualified charitable distribution. It is essential to let CU Boulder know if you plan to make this type of contribution to ensure your donation goes to your intended funds.

Learn about IRA charitable rollovers

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New endowed professorship in space policy and law to expand frontiers of global collaboration

Anna Tolette — Tue, 24 Jun 2025 19:20:45 +0000

New endowed professorship in space policy and law to expand frontiers of global collaboration Anna Tolette Tue, 06/24/2025 - 13:20

Emily Wirtz

$2.5 million investment will support teaching, research in cutting-edge field

Through a generous investment in the future of space governance, CU Boulder donors Dale and Patricia Hatfield have given $2.5 million to establish the Hatfield Endowed Professorship in Space Policy & Law.

Underscoring the university’s commitment to leadership in this fast-evolving field, the professorship will drive teaching and research on space policy and law, with broad implications for national security, global communications, navigation, weather forecasting and international collaboration.

This interdisciplinary position will rotate every two years between the College of Engineering and Applied Science, the Leeds Schools of Business and Silicon Flatirons, supporting faculty whose teaching and research advance this work. Professor Marcus J. Holzinger of aerospace engineering sciences is the inaugural Hatfield Endowed Professor, bringing expertise in space policy, domain awareness, development and strategy.

“As humanity ventures beyond our planet, space law and policy have emerged as a new frontier, offering vast opportunities to shape the future of space exploration and utilization,” Dale Hatfield said. “The realm of space beckons a new generation to establish the legal and policy frame that will govern our cosmic endeavors.”

Building on strengths for greater impact

The Ann & H.J. Smead Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences building

With this position, CU Boulder will help address the legal and policy challenges of space activities — advancing critical knowledge and preparing the next generation of leaders in outer space governance.

The university already boasts strengths in aerospace engineering, public policy and international law, with powerful research and industry partnerships across these areas. The addition of a dedicated, endowed professorship — along with the new Colorado Space Policy Center — will unify and elevate these efforts, helping to attract and retain top researchers, as well as distinguish the campus as a leader in outer space governance.

As the first appointment to the Hatfield Endowed Professorship, Holzinger will use his policy research — combining astrodynamics and geopolitics — to build a future in space that’s based on democratic norms.

“The Third Space Age presents a choice: Will we build a future in space guided by proven values and foresight, or will we extend old conflicts into this new arena?” said Holzinger. “Space is already deeply integrated into our global society, but traditional approaches to preventing conflict don’t meet our emerging needs in this complex environment. My research confronts these emerging challenges directly.

“By combining the physics of space with the dynamics of international strategy, we are charting new frameworks. The objective is to craft fresh views on deterrence and cooperation, establishing norms for responsible conduct that will safeguard our expanding human enterprise, on Earth and beyond.”

In addition to direct funding for the holder of the professorship, the endowment will fund research, course development, conference attendance and related efforts that strengthen the university’s work in space policy and law.

This flexible funding model will give Holzinger and future holders the tools they need to explore big ideas and offer students valuable learning opportunities.

“The Hatfield Endowed Professorship will directly facilitate my research,” Holzinger said. “It will enable and encourage engagement in national and international policy debates and facilitate network-building with key decision-makers essential for shaping sound space strategy.”

Furthermore, the rotating structure of the position is specifically designed to encourage collaboration across engineering, law and business — mirroring the real-world intersections shaping today’s space landscape.

The power of philanthropy

Dale and Pat Hatfield

Dale Hatfield, a pioneer in telecommunications policy, is known for his leadership in both government and academia. He began his career as chief of the Office of Plans and Policy at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in 91��Ѽ, D.C., before moving to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. He then founded a Boulder-based consulting firm before rejoining the FCC as chief technologist, eventually serving as chief of the Office of Engineering and Technology. He now serves as a distinguished advisor at Silicon Flatirons and an adjunct professor at CU Boulder.

Dale and his wife, Patricia, have supported the university for years, including an endowed professorship and scholarship fund for the ATLAS Institute, scholarships for the Lattice Scholars program and support for Colorado Law. Their latest investment exemplifies how private philanthropy can catalyze new areas of research, teaching and discovery.

By establishing this endowed professorship, the Hatfields are making a commitment to a future defined by innovation, cooperation and responsible exploration — where a new generation of space leaders can make their mark.

Dale summed it up by saying, “As Horace Greeley once urged pioneers to ‘go West,’ today we encourage young visionaries to go into space policy and law, to explore and to find the legal and policy landscapes of our new frontier beyond Earth.”

Donate to Hatfield Endowed Professorship Fund

Read more impact stories

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Basic Needs Center helps Buffs overcome barriers

Anna Tolette — Thu, 01 May 2025 19:41:05 +0000

Basic Needs Center helps Buffs overcome barriers Anna Tolette Thu, 05/01/2025 - 13:41

Ways to contribute to the Basic Needs Center

Support the center in a way that works for you, from volunteering to financial donations.

Volunteering

The Basic Needs Center runs on a team of professional staff and volunteers. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members can sign up to volunteer for the following opportunities:

Buff Pantry

Mobile Food Pantries

Swipe It Forward

Buffs Boxes

Donate food or goods

The Basic Needs Center accepts donations of food and personal care items to stock the Buff Pantry and mobile food pantries.

Buff Pantry food donations: The Buff Pantry accepts shelf-stable items with at least a three-month window to expiration.

Shop the Amazon wish list: You can select items and ship them directly to the center.

Make a financial donation

The Basic Needs Center is fully donor-funded. Contributions ensure students receive help, both now and in the future. You can donate to the Basic Needs Center Discretionary Fund, which funds operations at the center.

When Sam* lost everything in a devastating apartment fire just two months before graduation, the University of Colorado Boulder’s Basic Needs Center became a lifeline, offering critical aid to help them stay in school and graduate on time. The center helped schedule legal advising with Student Legal Services, provided emergency housing assistance and food aid, and offered financial relief.

“The Basic Needs Center had a profound impact on my life during a time of unimaginable crisis,” Sam said. “Their unwavering support allowed me to stay on track with my education and graduate.”

A staple of support

Sam’s story is only one example of the center’s impact. Since opening in 2022, the Basic Needs Center has become a staple of support for thousands of students, connecting them to resources that help them thrive.

Over the last three years, the center has added programs and expanded its outreach to help foster a sense of belonging by allowing students to focus on their education without the burden of food and housing insecurity. Today, the center assists students through financial assistance for housing, emergency housing placement, SNAP benefit enrollment, a food pantry and educational workshops, like financial literacy and meal planning.

By the numbers

Over 1 million pounds of food and 900,000 meals distributed through the Buff Pantry and mobile food pantries

Over 24,000 on-campus meals provided to students through the Swipe It Forward program

$360,469 distributed in financial assistance for food, housing and other emergencies to support 215 students

1,232 students reached through nutrition, housing, finance and wellness educational programs

132 students assisted in applying for SNAP benefits since fall 2023

Unless otherwise noted, the data reflects the Basic Needs Center’s impact since opening in the fall of 2022.

Promoting student success

The role of the Basic Needs Center goes beyond the numbers. Offering resources on campus reduces barriers that prevent students from seeking help, such as knowing community resources or needing transportation to reach them. Bringing resources to students is crucial in creating an environment where students feel valued and connected.

Likewise, a recent study of CU Boulder students showed that food insecurity can negatively impact academic performance. By giving access to food and housing resources, the center aims to reduce the negative impact, allowing students to focus more fully on their education.

“The Basic Needs Center creates a community of care where everyone can thrive,” said Hannah Wilks, interim assistant dean of students. “We aim to connect students to the resources they need to continue their education and succeed at CU Boulder.”

The impact of giving

Every contribution to the Basic Needs Center helps sustain a valuable program that improves students’ lives. Grace and Ray Michael, CU Boulder parents and donors, became aware of the center’s importance when their student attended the university.

“We believe that students simply cannot reach their full academic potential if they are concerned with food insecurity,” Grace Michael said. “Over the past several years, we have witnessed the compassionate focus of the Buff Pantry and the Basic Needs Center on alleviating the immediate food and housing insecurity of students. We will continue to support the Basic Needs Center because we wholeheartedly believe in its mission and commitment to fostering success through stability and access to essential resources.”

The Jane Bosart Foundation also contributes generously to the Basic Needs Center, guided by shared values and a lasting connection to the university.

“The emergency fund at the Basic Needs Center directly aligns with our educational focuses as a foundation,” said Wallis Richardson Kinney (MCDBio’16), president of the foundation. “As an alum of CU Boulder, it is my honor to support current students. Students attending the university should not have their education altered or paused because of life’s emergencies. I hope the support we give to students helps them stay enrolled and finish their educational path.”

Philanthropic investment in the Basic Needs Center affirms a simple truth: Every student deserves the chance to succeed without the burden of basic needs insecurity. With continued generosity, the center can build a stronger CU Boulder community.

Whether through volunteering, donating goods or making a financial contribution, each effort directly impacts students’ lives and demonstrates a dedication to their well-being. Supporting the Basic Needs Center ensures it continues programming and meets students’ growing needs.

Give now

*Name changed to protect student privacy.

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Thompson Endowment Swings Jazz Forward at CU Boulder

Anna Tolette — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 18:04:41 +0000

Thompson Endowment Swings Jazz Forward at CU Boulder Anna Tolette Thu, 03/20/2025 - 12:04

April Driver

Last fall, CU Boulder’s College of Music added a vocal jazz degree option to the Thompson Jazz Studies Program. Alumni and longtime donors Jack (Hist’64; MA’70) and Jeannie Thompson (Zool’64) expanded their endowment to further enhance their impact and legacy with the jazz studies program.

In 2013, the Thompson Jazz Studies Endowment transformed the future of CU Boulder’s jazz program. A little over a decade later, the program has gained national recognition, drawing world-renowned artists for workshops, enabling students to collaborate with musicians worldwide and enriching the community with outstanding performances year-round.

“Seeing student and programmatic growth through our giving has been a delight,” said Jack and Jeannie Thompson. “An example is the students and faculty who have traveled to Costa Rica and Cuba, experiencing jazz and learning new forms of international jazz.

“We recently added funds to support vocal jazz — it will be fun to see that much-needed area in the program expand. The inspiration to support has given us pleasure, and it’s great to see the jazz program develop within the college.”

Vocal jazz enriches jazz studies

According to Jocelyn Medina, instructor for vocal jazz at CU Boulder, integrating vocal jazz enriches the entire jazz studies program.

Instrumentalists benefit from learning to play with singers, reinforcing their listening and accompaniment skills. They also learn to play songs in different keys and with greater dynamic range, developing a deeper understanding of the repertoire related to the lyrics and storytelling of the melodies and harmonies.

Many instrumentalists may also want to be vocalists. With the new program, jazz students can do both.

“Instrumentalists who sing can hone their skills by adding vocal jazz courses,” Medina added.

Jazz opens doors to the world

The Thompson Jazz Endowment has created incredible experiences for CU Boulder’s jazz students and faculty — from traveling to the Next Generation Jazz Festival in Monterey, California, to hosting world-renowned artists on campus.

Musicians inspire and learn from each other. These experiences go beyond the classroom to connect students with the global jazz community.

John Gunther, director of the Thompson Jazz Studies Program, explained the significance of these experiences: “We took 23 students and faculty to Cuba for an intensive week of study with master musicians. These trips help elevate the College of Music’s profile nationally and internationally,” he said.

The endowment helps offset student travel costs, making these international experiences more accessible. Students with financial needs can receive additional support, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate.

Expanding professional networks

The program fosters professional connections for students and faculty. Thompson Jazz Studies has grown as a respected hub for jazz education and innovation, attracting guest clinicians and artists to campus.

Faculty integrate the guest artists, who often work with big bands and jazz combos, into the student experience. They share insights on performance, musicianship and career development, offering students a deeper perspective of their craft. Students often perform alongside these seasoned professionals, helping expand their resumes and performance education aligned with the college’s universal musician approach to achieving its mission.

Endowments 101

At CU Boulder, endowments provide crucial support for students, faculty, research and programs.

What is an endowment?

An endowment is a type of donation that offers CU Boulder long-term support by investing the principal amount of the endowment and using a portion of the returns annually to fund specific programs, like scholarships, faculty positions or research.

What are the benefits?

Program support: Endowments provide permanent funding for specific programs, scholarships and positions, enhancing CU Boulder’s ability to fulfill its mission and attract top talent.

Funding stability: They provide predictable and stable funding to sustain programs over the long term.

Donor legacy: Endowments allow donors to establish a lasting tribute and extend the value of their gift to support future generations.

Learn more about endowments

CU Boulder’s jazz program also provides students with hands-on experience in professional recording. Each year, students record in a professional studio in Denver. The Thompson Jazz Records label, supported by the endowment, allows students to navigate the entire production process — creation, copyright, publishing and contracts — helping them prepare for careers in the music industry.

CU Boulder’s jazz program now boasts one of the most robust infrastructures for engaging with external experts. This ongoing exchange of knowledge and talent elevates the program and expands professional networks, providing career opportunities and connections to the jazz world.

Hosting world-renowned artists

The Thompson Jazz Endowment has also provided CU Boulder’s jazz students and faculty opportunities to work with acclaimed artists.

Maria Schneider, a multi-Grammy-winning composer and bandleader, will conduct workshops on her creative process and the music industry in April. She will also direct CU’s jazz ensembles in a performance of her music.

Last year, legendary bassist Dave Holland held a weeklong residency, offering masterclasses and collaborating with students. These opportunities are open to all students in the College of Music, expanding the jazz program’s reach.

“To regularly have artists of this stature visit not only jazz studies but the College of Music is hugely impactful,” Gunther said.

These residencies provide students with direct access to the most respected names in jazz. They foster mentorship, collaboration and hands-on learning — central to CU Boulder’s jazz program.

Giving back to the campus and community

CU Boulder’s jazz program also prioritizes community engagement. Each December, the jazz ensembles participate in an annual performance of Duke Ellington’s jazz arrangement of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite. On campus, students host pop-up concerts and an end-of-year outdoor performance that brings music to the broader university community.

Additionally, the jazz program is open to non-music majors. CU Boulder has a non-major jazz ensemble where students from other majors can play jazz. The program also offers vocal jazz lessons to students from other disciplines, such as musical theater and classical voice, expanding access to jazz education.

Preserving the future of jazz studies at CU Boulder

The Thompsons have made a lasting impact at CU Boulder. They demonstrated their love of jazz and CU Boulder through their generosity. By establishing an endowment, the Thompsons have given the College of Music the tools and confidence to grow the Thompson Jazz Studies Program, knowing that the resources are there to support initiatives in future years.

With the continued support of the Thompson endowment, CU Boulder’s jazz studies program is becoming one of the leading jazz education institutions in the country, offering unparalleled opportunities for students to learn, perform and connect with the jazz community — locally and globally.

“The Thompsons’ generosity has been truly transformative for the jazz studies program,” said John Davis, dean of the College of Music. “Thanks to their support, students and faculty now have opportunities that were never possible before — whether international exchanges in Costa Rica and Cuba, collaborations with world-class musicians or hosting guest artists on campus.

“The Thompson Jazz Endowment fund has elevated our program to a new level, fostering professional connections, creative growth and unparalleled experiences for our students.”

Give to the Thompson Jazz Studies Program

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Record-Breaking Buffs All In Tops $1M

Laura Duncan — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 15:53:07 +0000

Record-Breaking Buffs All In Tops $1M Laura Duncan Mon, 03/10/2025 - 09:53

March 6 marked the third Buffs All In, CU Boulder’s annual giving day — and Buffs everywhere showed up in a big way. Donations exceeded $1 million, almost doubling last year’s total.

By the numbers

Preliminary results show that 2,499 donors raised an impressive $1,082,362, directly funding student success, research, athletics, emergency assistance and many other critical needs.

Challenge gifts made an impact

The day gained momentum thanks to generous challenge gifts, inspiring even more Buffs to contribute and make every dollar go further.

Athletics led the charge with an anonymous donor’s $200,000 challenge gift. To unlock it, 200 donors needed to give to Buff Club funds — and Buffs rose to the challenge!

Together, donors helped raise $266,500 from challenge gifts, fueling excitement and amplifying each donation’s impact.

Buffs everywhere showed up

Contributions will fuel groundbreaking research at the Leeds School of Business, offer critical assistance for students facing unexpected emergencies through the Student Emergency Fund, and help provide housing, travel and nutrition for 350-plus student athletes. These are just a few ways Buffs All In makes a difference.

From alumni and faculty to parents, staff and friends, Buffs from all corners of the community came together to show their support and reflect the heart of CU Boulder.

Together, we make a difference

Buffs All In is more than a giving day — it’s a celebration of what we can accomplish together. Thank you for making this year’s event one to remember.

Learn more about your impact

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$1.9M bequest from CU sweethearts bolsters university’s art museum

Anna Tolette — Wed, 05 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000

$1.9M bequest from CU sweethearts bolsters university’s art museum Anna Tolette Wed, 02/05/2025 - 06:00

Jessica Winter , CU Boulder Advancement Marketing and Communications

The University of Colorado Boulder Art Museum has received the largest philanthropic gift in its history: a $1.9 million investment from late alumni Donald and Karen Ringsby. The endowment, which will be allocated at the discretion of the museum’s director, reflects the couple’s love of art and acknowledges the museum’s significance to the campus community.

More than a museum

An installation view of the exhibition We CU: A Visual Celebration of Black Womanhood, Presence, and Connectedness at the University of Colorado Art Museum. Image by Wes Magyar, © The Museum for Black Girls and © CU Art Museum and University Libraries, University of Colorado Boulder.

Housed within the university’s College of Arts and Sciences, the CU Art Museum offers a forum for faculty, students and the surrounding community to explore exhibitions, fuel their visual imagination, and engage in creative thought and campus collaborations. Having studied art and art history at CU, Donald (Don) and Karen Ringsby saw the value that the museum and these creative engagements have on campus and in a college education.

“The discretionary nature of this endowed gift acknowledges that the critical needs of a museum will change over time, and it offers flexibility to support those evolving initiatives,” said Hope Saska, acting director, chief curator and director of academic engagement for the CU Art Museum. “The Ringsbys were extraordinarily generous and forward-thinking in establishing this legacy gift for the museum.”

In addition to exhibition galleries, the CU Art Museum features a Collection Study Center where classes and researchers can directly study works of art in learning sessions facilitated by museum staff. Throughout the year, the museum's program of free exhibitions and events promote cultural expression, engaged learning and interdisciplinary scholarship.

“CU Boulder is fortunate to have an outstanding museum, which offers opportunities for innovative collaboration and creative education,” said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. “The Ringsby family’s gift to the CU Art Museum is a strategic investment that enhances innovative, hands-on learning and strengthens our connection to the community.”

The museum received first-time accreditation in 2023, joining a prestigious group of 26 museums accredited in Colorado. It boasts a permanent collection, started in 1939, that has grown to include more than 13,500 artworks representing 10,000 years of human creativity. From Greek pottery to Roman glass and contemporary painting, photography and printmaking, the comprehensive collection enriches educational experiences for faculty, students and the broader community.

Legacies built through lives well-lived

Karen and Donald Ringsby

First as students and later as alumni, Don (A&S’62) and Karen (EnglLit’62) attended art shows on campus and spent time searching for art in Colorado and, eventually, all over the world. The son of Denver trucking magnate Bill Ringsby, Don went on to become the president of Ringsby Truck Lines, Aspen Airways and the Denver Rockets — which would later become the NBA’s Denver Nuggets. He passed away in 2020, and Karen, who later earned her master’s in English from the University of Denver, passed away in 2024. Her lustrous career included modeling, serving as president of the Rocky Mountain Planned Parenthood board, and advocating with the Global Warming Mitigation Project and for Palestinian human rights.

“Their legacy is one of friendship, family, philanthropy, art and their mutual love of the outdoors,” said son Alex Ringsby, president and CEO of RINGSBY, INC., which owns Ringsby Realty Corporation in Denver. The couple’s two other sons, Gray and Eric Ringsby, live in Maui, Hawaii, and Rock River, Wyoming, respectively.

Don and Karen’s Buff pride extended from their student involvement with Greek life to being loyal football spectators — they had season tickets for 40 years. Among others, Don served on the board of the CU Foundation, and Karen was an active member of the art museum’s Collection Committee, responsible for shaping the museum’s art collection. The Ringsbys later donated to the museum’s “Sharkive” collection and contributed a painting by Colorado abstract artist Dale Chisman, which will be on view in the museum’s upcoming spring exhibition, Hello, Friend.

In addition to their involvement with CU, Don and Karen were patrons of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Denver, supporters of the nonprofit for urban youth Colorado UpLift, and gave to Rocky Mountain Planned Parenthood. Loving historic places and nature, they resided in Denver, Aspen and Savannah, Georgia.

“They were so proud of Boulder and CU — they really lived it and wore their pride on their shoulders for all to see,” said Alex Ringsby. “They prioritized philanthropy and championed the idea of improving the communities they lived in.”

A storybook love

College sweethearts, Don and Karen first met in their French 301 course at CU Boulder. They were Buffs who shared a love for Boulder, with Don being a lifelong Coloradan and Karen growing up in South Dakota.

“They both adored each other and gave Boulder the credit for finding each other,” said Alex Ringsby.

After graduating, the two eloped in a secret ceremony at the Rock of Gibraltar, British Territory, in the Mediterranean Sea. Loved ones later referred to the couple’s nearly 60-year marriage as having weathered the storms of life, just like the location of their elopement.

“They lived a storybook life and shared a romance for the ages,” said Alex Ringsby. “My father said the first time he saw my mother on campus, he thought, ‘I am going to marry her someday’ .... and he did.”

Their love for family, passion for art and care for their communities resulted in a partnership that inspired others and will create change for years to come. Saska remarked that the couple “united their love for CU Boulder and for art” in their endowment gift to the CU Art Museum and will support the museum’s mission to be a “vital part of the cultural community — on campus and off.”

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How philanthropy fuels success: Center for African & African American Studies empowers students, drives impact through donor support

Anna Tolette — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 20:56:40 +0000

How philanthropy fuels success: Center for African & African American Studies empowers students, drives impact through donor support Anna Tolette Mon, 02/03/2025 - 13:56

Shamika Klassen, 2023–24 Alice Cleora Reeves Endowed Dissertation Fellow

When Shamika Klassen (PhDInfoSci’24) graduated last year with her PhD in information science, she was the first Black graduate in the decade-long history of the department.

Her significant achievement is part of the growing community of the Center for African & African American Studies (CAAAS), where philanthropic dollars help fund fellowships for students like Klassen, as well as faculty research and community engagement.

On Feb. 1, the center kicked off Black History Month with a celebration of CAAAS Day — its third annual event since Gov. Jared Polis declared the day in 2023. CAAAS Day serves as a moment to honor the history and contributions of African and African American communities, while spotlighting the work of the center itself. The day is also an opportunity to recognize donors to the CAAAS and celebrate the university's continued philanthropic match.

Through music, dance, poetry, food and Africana cultural expressions, this year’s celebration continued the tradition of highlighting the vibrant student, faculty and community involvement that makes the center a vital force at CU Boulder and beyond.

Philanthropic support fuels growth and opportunity

Donor support has been crucial to the success and expansion of the CAAAS since its founding. To support student success, donations help fund student fellowships, research awards and creative work awards.

In 2023–24, philanthropic support directly benefited students like Klassen, the recent information science graduate who was awarded the Alice Cleora Reeves Endowed Dissertation Fellowship.

“I am so grateful to the CAAAS and Dr. Reiland Rabaka for their encouragement and financial support in the final mile of my doctoral program,” said Klassen.

CAAAS Director Reiland Rabaka speaks with CAAAS graduate fellow Reya Roussel at the November 2024 CAAAS Graduate Fellows Conference

Philanthropy also supports faculty fellowships, research initiatives and community engagement programs that help further the center’s mission. In 2023–24, the CAAAS awarded faculty teaching and research awards to scholars in fields such as history, philosophy, ethnic studies and communications — each of whom contributes to a broader understanding of African and African American experiences.

Building a stronger future

Looking ahead, the CAAAS plans to continue expanding its programming and increase opportunities for both students and faculty. For every dollar of philanthropic support raised through June 30, 2026, Chancellor Justin Schwartz is continuing to match up to $1 million with university funding to help promote the center’s vision and mission.

These funds will help enhance research, community engagement and student services within the CAAAS, reinforcing the center’s role as a hub for community and academic excellence.

“To all who have supported the CAAAS, whether financially or otherwise, thank you for believing in our vision,” said Reiland Rabaka, founder and director of the CAAAS. “Your investment affirms our deep commitment to building community at CU Boulder through research, creative work and cultural programming.”

A space for learning and connection

Attendees at the November 2024 CAAAS Graduate Fellows Conference

Founded in 2021, the CAAAS is dedicated to researching, promoting and preserving knowledge about the histories, cultures and arts of African, African American and African diasporan communities. Through research, visual and performing arts, and student services, the CAAAS helps foster a deep sense of community and belonging on the CU Boulder campus.

“The CAAAS continues to expand as a focal point for campus and community life grounded in the experiences of Africans, African Americans and the African diaspora,” said Rabaka. "We provide culturally relevant student services, public programs, mentorship, leadership training, professional development and advocacy for social change.”

In addition to its academic and research focus, the center hosts annual events such as the Kwanzaa Celebration, Black Graduation and, of course, CAAAS Day. These events foster a strong sense of community while celebrating the culture, history and accomplishments of African, African American and African diasporan students, faculty and alumni at CU Boulder.

Following this year’s CAAAS Day celebration, the entire campus community is invited to reflect on how far the center has come and how far it will go with continued philanthropic backing. For more information about the CAAAS and how to support its work, visit colorado.edu/center/caaas.

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2024–25 CAAAS graduate fellows with CAAAS Director Reiland Rabaka

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2024–25 CAAAS graduate fellows with CAAAS Director Reiland Rabaka

Presidents Leadership Class donation expands scholarships, experiential learning

Anna Tolette — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 22:03:51 +0000

Presidents Leadership Class donation expands scholarships, experiential learning Anna Tolette Fri, 01/31/2025 - 15:03

A CU Boulder family with 100 years of history at the university has committed $2.15 million to expand scholarships and experiential learning for students in the Presidents Leadership Class (PLC).

The Ruyle Family Scholarship, originally established in 2016, now provides up to four years of funding for selected PLC scholars through the family’s $2 million endowment gift — providing students with the financial means to achieve their academic goals. An additional $150,000 will support the Dr. Larry Allen Endowment Fund for experiential learning programs within PLC.

Robert A. Ruyle and Lydia Miller Ryule

These new investments were estate gifts from Robert A. Ruyle (Law’59), who passed away in July of 2024, and his late wife, Lydia Miller Ruyle (Econ, PolSci’57), as designated by their three children and their spouses: Stephen (MCDBio’80) and Stephanie Ruyle, Margaret (Chem’83) and Daniel Rukstalis, and Robin (Class’84) and Keith (Econ’84) Struve.

The family’s contribution honors their long-standing family history at CU — stretching back generations to the 1920s — as well as their experience with PLC.

Creating impact in the Presidents Leadership Class

Established in 1972, PLC is an interdisciplinary, 4-year leadership program at CU Boulder that offers an immersive approach to leadership development. Driven by academic and experiential programming, a diverse community of undergraduates learns how to step boldly into their roles as the next generation of leaders.

“PLC makes you a better citizen — unafraid to use your voice,” said Stephanie. “Giving kids the skills and courage to do that is really important.”

Since 2016, the Ruyle Family Scholarship has provided PLC students with scholarships, offsetting the cost of tuition and helping students to focus on their schoolwork. Now, the family’s expanded endowment will ensure the program can provide support for all four years to students in underserved or underrepresented communities.

“It’s lack of opportunities that holds people back — and one of the biggest lack of opportunities is financial,” said Robin. “We want to make sure people from underrepresented areas — geographically, culturally, racially — can attend CU and be part of the PLC program.”

The scholarship now provides $10,000 a year (for up to four years) for students who meet one or more of the following criteria: 1) first-generation students from a rural area of Colorado; 2) members of a federally recognized Indian Tribe from the Rocky Mountain region, or 3) underrepresented students from Colorado.

Existing students are already benefiting from the scholarship’s support.

“The rich perspectives in PLC are what helps me grow every day,” said Santé Crutcher (Physio’26), a PLC student and Ruyle Scholar who currently serves as the program’s service coordinator.

“It is a community of people committed to making the world a better place for those who follow in our footsteps. PLC is a program that gives back what you give it.”

100 years (and counting!) at CU Boulder

The Ruyle family’s connection to CU has extended over the past century. The first family member to attend, David Jacob Miller (SocSci’1929; Law’1932), studied law and even brushed elbows with future Supreme Court justice Byron White. His daughter, Lydia, later attended as part of the first class of Boettcher Scholars in the mid-1950s. Her future husband, Robert, followed her there to attend law school, and together they cemented their family legacy as Forever Buffs.

The extended Ruyle family

Eager to carry on the family tradition, the Ruyles’ three children, Stephen, Margaret and Robin, also attended CU. They were all part of the Presidents Leadership Class in its early days — with their father, Robert, serving as one of the program’s early trustees, as well as a CU Foundation trustee.

“We grew up with tremendous learning opportunities for four generations of fun at CU,” said Margaret. “Since PLC includes students from all departments and classes, I was blessed to learn and work together with my brother, sister, friends and leaders in Colorado’s private and public sectors — and we continue to support positive changes in Colorado, the U.S. and the world.”

The extended Ruyle family has continued to serve as advocates, supporters and fans of the university over many decades. Stephen, Stephanie and Robin have also served on the PLC Board of Advocates, and the whole family was instrumental in selecting CU Boulder and the PLC program as beneficiaries of their parents’ estate gift.

“Giving back to the community is part of our family’s DNA,” said Robin.

But the family connection to CU doesn’t stop there. Three of Robert and Lydia’s grandkids have also attended: Katie Struve Binswanger (IntlAf’15), Bridger Ruyle (EnvEngr’17) and Remi Ruyle (Phys, Span’20).

Bridger and Remi are also PLC graduates — another reason the family chose to honor the program with their significant gift.

Their family’s long history with the university is a testament to the power of higher education, according to Stephen. “I look at education like a societal IRA — if you’re going to have good citizens and a society that’s productive, education is the building block of all of it,” he said. “Higher education is the foundation for a successful society.”

Upholding the family legacy

By expanding their scholarship and supporting students through the PLC program, the Ruyle family is cementing their role as stewards of the CU Boulder mission.

“Education was core to both my parents,” said Stephen. To continue his parents’ tradition of generosity, he said it was a “no-brainer” to invest his parents’ estate gift in a place so meaningful to the whole family.

And their impact will carry on for generations to come.

“I was a classics major, and part of the classical tradition is that you live on as long as somebody remembers you,” said Robin. “We hope people will remember the generosity of our family — and that we can impact and change students’ lives.”

Learn more about the PLC program, including ways to give, at colorado.edu/plc/donate-plc.

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