Alumni Stories

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Ef Rodriguez

Anna Tolette — Tue, 22 Sep 2026 21:13:52 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Ef Rodriguez Anna Tolette Tue, 09/22/2026 - 15:13

Keeley Haynes

When Ef Rodriguez, a 2007 journalism graduate, attended the University of Colorado Boulder as an undergraduate student, he didn’t join any clubs. He didn’t go to any sporting events. He didn’t live in the residence hall. In video game terms, he “speed ran” his college experience.

But in 2024, Ef received an email alerting him that the Forever Buffs Latinx chapter was at risk of being dissolved. Wanting to ensure Latinx Buffs retained access to the alumni network, he stepped up to serve on the chapter’s board and began his volunteer journey with ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��.

Now, as an alumni volunteer, Ef is more involved than ever. With Forever Buffs Latinx, he helps Hispanic/Latino students achieve their educational goals and foster a strong cultural community on campus. He dresses up for Homecoming and attends the staple campus events he missed as a student. He is essentially recapturing CU in a new light.

“It's excessively fulfilling,” said Ef. “Dude, I'm going to my first volleyball game next week!”

Read on to learn how Ef continues to make new memories at CU through volunteering.

What is your favorite CU memory?

I was asked to deliver the commencement address for the old School of Journalism and Mass Communication in 2011 since I had quickly built a career in the then-new and exotic field of social media. I skipped my own commencement, so it was a delightful proxy. There was also the time I wore a piñata costume to Buffs on Tap and got pummeled by Chip.

Who or what inspires you?

Mountain Dew. I've been preoccupied by the stuff for ages. The classic original. The sanguine Code Red. The rare Typhoon. The ubiquitous Baja Blast. The questionable, now discontinued Flamin' Hot. It is my nectar.

What is your favorite way to volunteer for ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?

My favorite event to volunteer at is the annual Día de los Muertos celebration. It’s a little spooky and a lotta soulful. Students and alumni spend meaningful time together to reflect on the holiday’s festive and macabre aspects. It’s sensational.

If you could give advice to someone interested in volunteering, what would it be?

Start small. Administrative terms like “board” can dissuade people from volunteering since they conjure ideas of dusty, powdered wigs. But simply showing up to a volunteer opportunity to snag a free shirt, meet a few folks and chug sparkling water is enough to get started. And there are so many ways to get active at CU, beyond just alumni activities.

How else do you give back to your community aside from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?

I'm on the board of Glider, a local nonprofit striving to create better communities through inclusive thinking. We produce community events like Boulder Startup Week, TEDxBoulder and Ignite Boulder. We’re also the fiscal sponsor of Colorado Startups.

Where is your favorite spot in Boulder?

There's a fast-casual Mexican restaurant called Nopalito's that is my absolute favorite. Their hot salsa is something I dream about. They've catered a bunch of the Forever Buffs Latinx events, and I encourage anyone reading this to try them if they are a fan of flavor.

Learn how to become an alumni volunteer

As an alumni volunteer, Ef is more involved than ever. With Forever Buffs Latinx, he helps Hispanic/Latino students achieve their educational goals and foster a strong cultural community on campus. He dresses up for Homecoming and attends the staple campus events he missed as a student. He is essentially recapturing CU in a new light.

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10 ways to inspire the next generation of Buffs

Anna Tolette — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 17:09:48 +0000

10 ways to inspire the next generation of Buffs Anna Tolette Thu, 09/17/2026 - 11:09

Buffs pride shines brighter together.

As a parent, grandparent, aunt or uncle, mentor, coach, family friend or simply a proud Forever Buff, you can introduce the next generation to a place and community that means something special to you.

Whether the young people in your life become Buffs themselves or grow up understanding why the University of Colorado Boulder means so much to you, there are many ways to share the traditions and community that make being a Buff special.

Here are 10 ways to get started.

Sport the black and gold

Buffs spirit looks good at every age. Dress the littlest Buffs in your life in CU onesies and miniature cheerleading uniforms. Pass down your “vintage” T-shirt or sweatshirt from your student days. Or get everyone decked out in black and gold for game day.

CU gear is an easy way to share your Buffs pride from the very beginning. Bonus points if you have an old photo of yourself wearing the same sweatshirt.

Show them ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��

Anyone can give a campus tour, but only you can share your college experience.

Visit campus and highlight the residence hall where you lived, your favorite study spot or the building where you took most of your classes. Then make new memories together. Catch a laser show at the Fiske Planetarium, go bowling at The Connection, grab a meal at a campus dining hall or explore the Hit the Bricks! campus diorama, built from 1.5 million Lego bricks.

When you share the places that mattered to you while discovering new favorites together, campus becomes more than just where you went to school. It becomes a place that holds memories for both of you.

Give back together

Show the next generation that being a Buff is also about giving back. Find an opportunity to volunteer with the ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� Alumni Association, including Buffs Give Back events each April, when Forever Buffs come together through service.

Let them also see the ways you stay involved with CU. Maybe you mentor a fellow Buff through the Forever Buffs Network Mentorship program, volunteer during Homecoming or give your time in another way that matters to you.

Sharing those experiences demonstrates that being a Buff doesn’t end at graduation. It’s also about finding ways to connect and make a difference.

Make game day special

Saturdays are for the Buffs. Whether you watch from the couch at home or join other Forever Buffs in your community for a Game Watch, cheering on CU together is an easy tradition to start. Teach them the fight song, explain the rules and tell them about the games you still remember from your student days.

The memories you make together will last much longer than the final whistle.

Watch Ralphie run

Some CU traditions must be experienced in person.

Bring a young Buff to Folsom Field to feel the anticipation before Ralphie charges the field, hear the roar of the crowd and experience a CU game day together. For younger fans, Chip’s Kids Club offers even more ways to get in on the fun, with special activities and opportunities to spend time with everyone’s favorite costumed mascot, Chip. Their first Ralphie Run might just become one of those stories you share for years.

Tell them your ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� stories

Pull out your old photo albums. Tell them about the professor you still remember, the roommate who became a lifelong friend, the class that changed how you saw the world or the ridiculous story behind that photo you hoped they’d never find.

Keep the stories going by sharing the Coloradan alumni magazine, which features alumni stories, campus news and highlights from across the Buffs community. It’s another way to show the next generation that the stories don’t end at graduation. The Forever Buffs impact lasts a lifetime.

Introduce them to your Forever Buffs community

Chances are, some of your favorite things about college aren’t things at all. They’re the people.

Introduce the young people in your life to the friends you made at CU and the fellow alumni you’ve connected with over the years. Bring them to alumni events in Boulder or across the country so they can experience the Forever Buffs community firsthand.

You can also show them how Buffs stay connected through the Forever Buffs Network, a free online community for ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� alumni where Forever Buffs can build professional connections, find or become a mentor and engage with the CU community. They’ll see that the Buffs community endures long after you leave campus.

Let them discover something they love at CU

You don’t have to be a college student to learn something new at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��. Young scientists can experiment, build and explore through CU Science Discovery programs. Aspiring athletes can develop their skills through CU Sports Camps. Budding performers can take the stage at CU Presents’ Shakespeare Camp.

Instead of just telling young people about the opportunities CU offers, give them a chance to explore one on their own. They might discover a new interest, a future career or simply a great way to spend the summer.

Add a little magic with CU Wizards

Explosions, optical illusions and science? This one practically sells itself.

At free CU Wizards shows, CU professors bring subjects like physics, chemistry, biology and astronomy to life through interactive demonstrations designed for young audiences.

It’s an entertaining way to spend time together and a chance for kids to see how ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� poses big questions and explores new ideas.

Start a Buffs tradition of your own

The traditions they remember most might be the ones you create together.

Take a photo at the Farrand Field Arch every year, make Homecoming an annual trip or sign up together for every Buffs Give Back. Or invent a tradition that is entirely yours.

Years from now, they may not remember every campus visit or game they watched, but they’ll remember that ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� is a place you shared. That may be the best way to inspire the next generation of Buffs.

Ready to make Buffs memories together? Explore upcoming Forever Buffs events.

Explore Alumni Events

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Forever Buffs Impact Story: Q&A with Alexa Tovar (StrComm’28)

Anna Tolette — Thu, 17 Sep 2026 17:01:27 +0000

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Q&A with Alexa Tovar (StrComm’28) Anna Tolette Thu, 09/17/2026 - 11:01

Newsworthy stories come from many places around the ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� community, even from students themselves.

As a storyteller in the College of Communication, Media, Design and Information (CMDI), Forever Buff Alexa Tovar helps share CMDI stories by creating meaningful experiences as a lead ambassador and resident advisor. Her social videos for CMDI help share on-campus stories, reaching as far as David Muir’s desk on ABC World News Tonight. It all started with an idea to use an old rotary phone to capture messages CU families left for their students on move-in day, filled with surprise messages of support, encouragement and love for their journey ahead.

Collaborating with ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� Strategic Communications, CMDI Communications and ABC’s network news team, Alexa shared a meaningful move-in moment with a global audience.

Ready for the challenge at hand, Alexa drew on the many experiences and opportunities that shaped her as a storyteller. From capturing special moments to crafting a campus-wide narrative with heart, her work was felt far beyond campus.

What has been a defining moment or opportunity that has shaped your time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?

A defining opportunity that shaped my time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� is CMDI Pathways to Excellence. Pathways gave me the college experience before I arrived, giving me the confidence to take on this new chapter. It gave me a community I can always count on and mentored me through my college journey, while also giving me the opportunity to give back by mentoring incoming students who were in the same position I was in when I started college.

Pathways gave me friendships I will forever cherish and job opportunities that have been amazing to try and network with. I seriously do not know where I’d be without Pathways!

How have on-campus experiences, whether in the classroom or in other activities, helped you bring real-world experience into the working world?

On-campus experience helped me bring real-world experience by teaching me how to communicate throughout a professional organization and how to maintain a work-life balance. The scenarios in class put us in the position of a consumer, rather than trying to convince the consumer, which is important because it puts us directly in their shoes.

Can you share more about your resident advisor and peer mentor role and the impact you hope to make by helping the next generation of Forever Buffs?

Being a resident advisor is not just creating the schedule of the program, but making it a place where incoming students feel safe and supported. The impact I hope to make is encouraging the next generation to take risks and not to be afraid to take on a new journey.

What are your aspirations post-grad? Is there a dream role you're targeting or a specific industry you want to work in?

My aspirations post-grad are to attend law school at CU Law to study family law while working in public relations. A dream role I am targeting is owning my own law firm one day to help families in need and handle the firm's marketing.

What was your experience submitting a video to be featured on ABC News? Can you share a little behind the scenes about how the opportunity came about and how it all came together?

I am a commuter, and I do not go to campus on Tuesdays or Thursday, which is when the opportunity came about. I remember just getting back from the gym and getting the call to do the video. I quickly got ready in 45 minutes while finding a place in my house to film and decorate with Buff merch and reviewing what I was going to say.

After getting the technical side done and going through three video drafts, we got the video to send off to ABC!

What advice do you have for fellow students who want to share their impact or accomplishments?

Be a yes person to every opportunity you are asked to do, even as simple as a task. Those little things can make an impact you might not realize at the time. Just like how I thought helping with getting participation for the video turned out to be even greater!

What are you most proud of about the experience?

Being part of the CMDI communications team, the phone call idea was to make a space for parents to share the emotions they were feeling on move-in day with their students.

I’m most proud of the teamwork on the day we filmed the video, asking parents to participate and seeing their reactions firsthand after they left the message and hung up. Getting to see students and their families move in reminded me of how my family and I were. It is such a special nerve-wracking day!

How can Forever Buffs support students like you?

Forever Buffs can support students like me by offering more opportunities to connect with alumni who can offer career advice and guidance about life after college. As I’m preparing for law school, having someone to guide me through LSAT preparation and having someone who’s built their career is valuable. Scholarships and financial support would help because it reduces financial stress.

What’s something you want Forever Buffs to know about you?

I am so grateful for the opportunities and people ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� has given me! From Pathways to becoming a resident advisor, lead ambassador and working with the CMDI communications team, each has helped me grow in ways I never would have thought! I hope my story encourages other students to say yes to opportunities even if they are nervous or unsure. You truly never know where one yes can take you.

Support the next generation of Buffs, like Alexa, on the Forever Buffs Network

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Inside the Forever Buffs Network Mentorship Program

Anna Tolette — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 19:19:37 +0000

Inside the Forever Buffs Network Mentorship Program Anna Tolette Tue, 09/08/2026 - 13:19

A good mentor can offer advice. A great mentor can help you see what’s possible.

That’s the idea behind the Forever Buffs Network Mentorship Program, which connects the University of Colorado Boulder students and recent alumni with Buffs who are ready to help guide the next generation. Mentorship matches are based on professional interests, career goals and personal preferences, but participants don’t need to share the same background to make a meaningful connection.

Sometimes, a new perspective is exactly what you need.

Mentors Jake Loskutoff (Comm’03) and Jen Davies (Jour, MediaSt’09) and mentees Muhammad Ali (Jour’27) and Luke Ruhl (IntlAf’25) shared what brought them to the program, what they learned from one another and how mentorship strengthened their connection to the Forever Buffs community.

What brought you to the mentorship program?

Jake Loskutoff, mentor:
Initially, I joined to make myself available to students who could benefit from my experience and network. But I keep coming back because of the perspective I gain from connecting and collaborating with others. Hearing what students and recent graduates are experiencing gives me a perspective I don’t necessarily encounter at this stage of my own career.

Jen Davies, mentor:
I love giving back to the CU community. My time in Boulder was transformative, and after having a great experience as a mentee in a previous session, I wondered whether my skills and experience could help someone else.

Muhammad Ali, mentee:
I wanted to learn from CU graduates who had experience navigating the transition from school to professional life. I was especially interested in practical advice about preparing for my career, understanding industry expectations and learning from someone who had already made that transition.

Luke Ruhl, mentee:
I joined while I was searching for my first job after graduating. I had already been connecting with alumni, recruiters and other professionals to learn as much as I could about different industries and what professional life was really like. The mentorship program felt like an opportunity to build a more personal connection with someone who shared my ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� background.

What made the connection meaningful?

Jake:
I like that the relationship doesn’t have to end with the program. These are people I may hire, recommend, work alongside or call years from now. I don’t really see it as building a temporary mentor-mentee relationship. I see it as starting a professional relationship earlier.

Jen:
Ali and I have been able to connect over family and our different backgrounds, and I’ve found that incredibly fulfilling. There’s more that we have in common than what makes us different. I’ve also learned from his expertise in AI and media, which wasn’t something I expected when I entered the program.

Muhammad:
Having someone experienced to turn to for practical advice made the mentorship especially valuable. My mentor helped me improve my resume, which I was able to use successfully in my job search. She also offered guidance and encouragement during moments when I felt stressed about my career and what came next.

Luke:
For me, it was flexibility. I started the program without a job, and then everything changed when I accepted my first corporate role. My goals for mentorship changed with it. My mentor met me where I was and became one of my biggest advocates, whether I was navigating the job search or figuring out this new stage of my career.

What did you learn along the way?

Jake:
The further I get from starting my own career, the easier it is to forget what it felt like to try to get someone to take a chance on me. These conversations have reminded me of that. They’ve also changed how I evaluate people professionally. I find myself asking more about where someone wants to go, what they’re curious about and how they think, not just what they’ve already done.

Jen:
I learned that I had undervalued my own experience. Before becoming a mentor, I discounted some of what I had learned as not being enough to provide value to someone else. Mentorship has challenged me to recognize what I can offer while also looking for blind spots in my own understanding.

Muhammad:
I learned that having strong academic and professional experience is important, but presenting those experiences effectively matters, too. My mentor helped me recognize my strengths and communicate them more clearly. That has given me greater confidence as I prepare for my career.

Luke:
I’ve learned that I can be too hard on myself. When I started my job, I wanted to be a problem solver and a top performer right away. My mentor helped me think differently about work-life balance, setting boundaries and giving myself time to grow. I’m learning that you can’t solve everything, and you don’t have to. Growth takes time.

How has participating in the program strengthened your connection to the Forever Buffs community?

Jake:
It’s made being a Forever Buff feel less like an alumni designation and more like an ongoing connection. I get to hear what current students are thinking about, what they’re worried about and what they want from their careers.

Jen:
Because I no longer live close to campus, it can sometimes feel like I’m far away from the CU community. The mentorship program reminded me that being a Forever Buff isn’t measured by distance. Every call and message has helped me feel connected to the community again.

Muhammad:
The program showed me that the CU community continues to support students beyond the classroom. Connecting with an alum and learning from her experience also encouraged me to stay involved. I hope I can support other Buffs in the future just as my mentor supported me.

Luke:
My relationship with my mentor showed me that the Forever Buffs community isn’t just a resource but a personal support network. As CU graduates, we have this community for life. I hope I can carry that forward and someday use what I’ve learned to support other Buffs on their journeys.

Find your connection

You never know what one conversation or connection might lead to.

Apply by Sept. 30 to join the 2026–27 Forever Buffs Network Mentorship Program.

Apply to the Mentorship Program

Hear more from Forever Buffs mentors and mentees.

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Forever Buffs Spotlight: Andrew Marsh (StrComm’26)

Anna Tolette — Mon, 24 Aug 2026 20:01:55 +0000

Forever Buffs Spotlight: Andrew Marsh (StrComm’26) Anna Tolette Mon, 08/24/2026 - 14:01

Forever Buff Andrew Marsh (StComm’26) dedicated his time at the University of Colorado Boulder to developing leadership skills for himself and fellow students. As professional development chair of the Herd Leadership Council (HLC) and a recipient of the 2026 Center for Leadership’s Graduating Leaders of the Year award, Andrew sees leadership as more than personal achievement; to him, it is about what can be achieved together.

He also contributed to the campus community in various roles, including as a student facility manager at the Koenig Alumni Center and as a photographer for CU Athletics.

In his first year after graduation, Andrew is interning with the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment in government policy and public relations as a strategic communications intern.

Andrew credits his success to the meaningful connections he made with Forever Buffs and to the professional experiences that helped launch his career.

“If it were not for all the strong connections I made in school, I would never have had the current opportunity I have,” Marsh said. “Meeting [Forever Buffs Advisory Board Member] Joe Barela (DistSt’06) on campus opened doors that I did not believe were possible just months after my graduation. CU helped me every step of the way with launching my career through these connections.”

Seeking to make the most of every experience, Andrew became involved with HLC, which offered him a unique opportunity to learn and apply his professional development and leadership skills. Each experience served as a building block toward becoming a better leader and professional.

“HLC gave me opportunities to strengthen my communication, event marketing and time-management skills while also challenging me to grow as a leader,” he said. “My biggest takeaway was to take advantage of every opportunity HLC provided.”

As part of his on-campus leadership, the Forever Buffs Network Mentorship Program and HLC also helped shape his post-grad journey through unexpected connections.

“Through the mentorship program, I was able to connect with a CU alumnus who had experiences and interests like mine and could guide me through the transition from college into my career,” Marsh said. "HLC also helped me build meaningful relationships with current students and alumni who have supported me and helped me find opportunities after graduating. Most importantly, both experiences allowed me to meet incredible people while growing personally and professionally.”

Forever Buffs can be a life-changing connection for Buffs like Marsh. His advice to alumni is simple: Be willing to help.

This is especially true for supporting today’s students entering a competitive and challenging job market, where those relationships and connections are more valuable than ever.

“Reaching out, making introductions and helping students navigate career opportunities can make a huge difference,” he said. “For me, building those connections has been one of the most important parts of starting my career.”

On campus or online, sometimes all a student needs is someone willing to start the conversation.

“I would encourage alumni to continue reaching out to students,” he said. “Some students may be hesitant to approach an alum. Making that first connection and letting students know that you are willing to help can go a long way.”

As for current students, Marsh encourages them to take advantage of the resources and networks available to them.

“You are surrounded by a huge and strong network of alumni, faculty, staff and other students who want to help,” Marsh said. “Create your LinkedIn and Forever Buffs Network profiles early, start reaching out to people and use those conversations to explore what interests you.”

“The sooner you start building those relationships, the more connected you will be when it comes time to graduate and begin your career.”

Forever Buffs is a unique community of support, and Marsh’s story highlights the doors that open for those willing to embrace new connections and the possibilities they can unlock.

Whether you are a current student or an alum, you're part of something special at CU. Marsh's connections changed the trajectory of his career in ways he couldn't have imagined.

A proud Forever Buff, Marsh said ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� on-campus leadership, professional development and alumni connections were the catalyst for his post-graduation success.

“Earning a CU degree has opened doors to organizations and opportunities that I am passionate about, while also allowing me to build lifelong friendships and relationships,” Marsh said.

Find your next Forever Buff connection: Apply for the Forever Buffs Network Mentorship Program by Sept. 30.

Apply Now

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Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Thom and Mary Rabaglia

Anna Tolette — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 16:14:39 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Thom and Mary Rabaglia Anna Tolette Mon, 08/17/2026 - 10:14

Keeley Haynes

As new Buffs move into residence halls to begin their CU journeys, their possibilities feel endless. A simple greeting can turn into a lifelong friendship. A casual invitation to the dining hall can lead to unforgettable conversations. And in the case of Forever Buffs volunteer Mary Rabaglia (EPOBio’77), an innocent prank can be the start of a generational love story.

In the fall of 1973, two weeks after moving into Hallett Hall, Rabaglia was in the mood for some late-night mischief.

“I had taken a bunch of butter pats from the cafeteria because I was going to make some popcorn in my dorm room,” said Mary. “It got late, and no one wanted popcorn, so I started buttering the doorknobs on my floor.”

That’s when Thom Rabaglia (CivEngr’77) became her partner in crime.

“Thom saw what I was doing and started to help me,” said Mary. “The rest is history. We just celebrated our 50th Wedding Anniversary.”

Now, the two share their love with CU by giving back.

Read on to learn how Thom and Mary use volunteering to reminisce about their first dates and five decades together.

Favorite shared CU memory

Watching the Buffs beat Notre Dame and become national champions at the 1990 Orange Bowl in Miami. Thom was on the field; I was in the stands. John Parker, the former Ralphie Program director, asked Thom to be on the field. We made several flags that John arranged to have run on the field with Ralphie at every game. It was always a thrill to see our flags on the field, and a few times, Thom ran the largest 10 feet by 14 feet flag.

Who or what inspires you?

Currently, Coach Deion Sanders. We have been consecutive season ticket holders for over 50 years. The energy and excitement Coach Sanders brings to the football program and the broader Boulder community is amazing and so wonderful. Both of us have read Sanders’s book, “Elevate and Dominate,” which is filled with so many inspirational messages.

What is your favorite way to volunteer for ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?

We help set up events on campus and at away games. Our favorite on-campus event is Buffs on Tap at the Koenig Alumni Center during Homecoming weekend. We also set up the Buff Bashes anytime we travel for away games.

What have you learned about yourself through volunteering with ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?

Now that we are retired, it is wonderful to have the time to help others. I volunteered very little while focusing on my career, so now I am glad I can give back, especially to an institution that gave me so much. Both of us are who we are today because of CU, and now we love all the fellow Buff alums we have the honor to meet at the events where we volunteer.

Where is your favorite spot to go to in Boulder, either on or off campus?

Folsom Field will always be a special place for us. We had one of our first dates watching a football game in the student section, and we just celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary with a party on the Rooftop Terrace. Off campus, our favorite spots are Eben G. Fine Park, Pearl Street and the trails around Boulder Creek.

Learn how to become an alumni volunteer

Mary and Thom Rabaglia on their 50th anniversary

For Forever Buffs volunteers Mary (EPOBio’77) and Thom (CivEngr’77) Rabaglia, an innocent prank can be the start of a generational love story. Read on to learn how Thom and Mary use volunteering to reminisce about their first dates and five decades together.

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Top 10 facts about Ralphie, ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� live mascot

Anna Tolette — Wed, 12 Aug 2026 21:59:34 +0000

Top 10 facts about Ralphie, ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� live mascot Anna Tolette Wed, 08/12/2026 - 15:59

Five minutes before every game-day kickoff, electricity fills the air at Folsom Field. Decked in black and gold, Buffs fans stomp their feet against the bleachers, wave a sea of rally towels and roar, knowing they are about to witness one of ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� greatest traditions. The stadium erupts as Ralphie — CU’s beloved live mascot — makes what the NCAA ranks as one of the best entrances in college football and storms the field.

As we head into another season of Buffs football, hereeeee come 10 facts about Ralphie and her iconic run to gear you up for Folsom Field game days.

Ralphie is a girl.
- Ralphie has always been a female bison because of their size and temperament. Male bison can weigh 1,000 pounds more and stand a foot taller, while female bison typically have a more agreeable disposition.

And a big one at that.
- Ralphie VII weighs almost 800 pounds and eats up to 30 pounds of hay per day. She also drinks 10 to 15 gallons of water daily. This fuels her to run up to 25 miles per hour on game days.

Ralphie has been running for 59 years.
- In 1966, Ralphie stood on the sidelines but did not lead the team out on the field. Starting in the 1967 season, head coach Eddie Crowder approved the idea of the football team following her out on the field. CU beat Baylor 27-7 and the tradition of Ralphie leading the way stuck.

The origins of Ralphie’s name are unclear.
- Initially called “Rralph”, her name was changed to Ralphie as a more fitting name for a female buffalo. Her original handlers still don’t agree on the origins, but the name became so iconic that even after Ralphie I’s retirement, each buffalo continued to carry the moniker.

Seven different buffalo have served as Ralphie.
- Ralphie I retired in 1978, and the legacy continued with Ralphie II carrying the torch that same fall. Ralphie VII began her duties in 2025 and will continue to lead the Buffaloes on to the field this season.

All seven Ralphies have been gifted to CU.
- The first Ralphie was donated to CU in 1966 by John Lowry, father of CU freshman Bill Lowery. The current Ralphie, Ralphie VII (“Brandy”), was raised and donated by the Beauprez family who have many proud CU alumni.

Ralphie is kept on a private ranch in a secret location.
- Both Ralphie V and Ralphie VI are living out their retirements on the same ranch as Ralphie VII. The location is kept a secret to protect their well-being, safety and happiness.

Ralphie is technically not a buffalo.
- Ralphie is officially classified as an American bison, but the term buffalo is commonly accepted and used to represent the historical significance to the American West. She is a genetically pure bison, with features of both woods and plains Bison subspecies. “Bison” and “buffalo” are used interchangeably, but a key difference is that buffalo is a cultural term, while bison is a scientific one.

Ralphie is cared for by a team of student handlers.
- Over 100 CU students try out every year for a coveted few spots on her team. The men and women who run with Ralphie are known as “Ralphie Handlers” and train year-round to keep up with her.

Ralphie is funded by CU fans and the Boulder community.
- In 1976, over $25,000 was donated to send Ralphie to the Orange Bowl and fund her future care. All of her feed, vet care and transportation are funded by generous CU donors who help to keep her running year after year.

Read more Ralphie facts and learn how you can support the Ralphie Program.

Join the Buff Club

As we head into another season of Buffs football, hereeeee come 10 facts about Ralphie and her iconic run to gear you up for Folsom Field game days.

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July Buff of the Month: Shu-Wei Tseng (DMA'10)

Anna Tolette — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 17:53:36 +0000

July Buff of the Month: Shu-Wei Tseng (DMA'10) Anna Tolette Mon, 08/03/2026 - 11:53

Shu-Wei Tseng

Forever Buff Shu-Wei Tseng (DMA'10) is an acclaimed musician celebrated for her outstanding technique and musicality. She has performed in prominent concert halls across four continents, demonstrating her skills as a soloist and chamber musician playing piano and cello. She serves on the faculty of the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music.

Since 2024, Shu-Wei has been part of the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, a volunteer group offering strategic advice to the ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� Alumni Association. Representing the university’s alumni, they work to foster pride and increase engagement with Forever Buffs.

Besides her musical and teaching pursuits, Shu-Wei has a keen interest in science, especially neuroscience. Her MS in psychology complements her music degrees and deepens her interest in the connection between music and scientific research, enriching her music teaching approach.

What led you to choose ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� for your doctoral degree in Musical Arts?

While researching where to pursue my DMA, I came across a music recital program featuring a ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� graduate. That chance discovery led me to learn more about the university, and I was immediately drawn to its strong reputation in both music and the sciences. Combined with Colorado's breathtaking landscape — often referred to as the "Switzerland of America" — ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� offered the perfect environment in which to complete my final degree.

What is your favorite ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� memory?

Attending faculty concerts with my new friends was one of the highlights of my time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��. These performances were among the most inspiring experiences of my student years. Unlike my experience in Europe, where students often have to seek out their professors' concert schedules and pay their own travel expenses to hear them perform, ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� offered the remarkable opportunity to experience world-class faculty performances right on campus. Two of my professors (Doris and Ozwald Lehnert) helped launch the college’s popular Faculty Tuesdays recital series in 1999.

Watching professors demonstrate on stage the very techniques, artistry and musical ideas they taught me each week was both inspiring and humbling. Seeing their teaching come to life in performance deepened my understanding of the music and reinforced everything I was learning in the studio. It also gave me an even greater appreciation for their extraordinary artistry and musicianship.

Having such exceptional performances woven into campus life was a rare privilege — one that profoundly enriched my education and left a lasting impression on my further development as both an artist and an educator.

If you could pick one song to capture your Forever Buffs experience, what would it be?

“Stand Up for Something,” the song written by Common and Diane Warren, performed by Common and Andra Day.

What inspired you to stay connected with the university beyond graduation?

My time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� was an emotional journey — one filled with challenges, but also with meaningful relationships and unforgettable experiences. Along the way, I met extraordinary mentors and lifelong friends who enriched my journey and helped shape both my personal and professional growth. I have remained involved because I value those connections and believe the experiences, perspectives and skills I gained can help support and inspire current and future ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� students.

You’ve conducted workshops and masterclasses across four continents. What has been the most surprising thing that you’ve learned in teaching the next generation of musicians?

The amount of information and the wealth of resources available today far exceed anything we could have imagined just a generation ago. While this unprecedented access offers remarkable opportunities, it also presents new challenges. In a culture that prizes speed and efficiency, we should be cautious about equating faster with better. One thing that has particularly surprised me is how rarely students ask themselves why — the question at the heart of meaningful musical interpretation.

The real challenge is finding a balance: embracing the efficiency of modern tools and physical stamina, while allowing learning to unfold deeply, thoughtfully and organically.

What advice would you give to fellow Buffs about building a professional music career?

The priorities of your education should evolve with each stage of your life. As an undergraduate, choose a professor who has the time to mentor you, rather than one whose frequent travel results in inconsistent lessons or substitute teachers. These formative years are when close mentorship has the greatest influence on your growth as both a musician and a person.

For postgraduate study, broaden your horizons. Study in different cities or countries, explore diverse musical traditions, research historical contexts and learn from teachers and peers whose backgrounds differ from your own. These experiences cultivate not only artistic maturity but also a broader perspective on the world. By embracing different cultures, pedagogical approaches and ways of thinking, we become more thoughtful musicians and more compassionate global citizens.

Music is a universal language, and with that comes a responsibility to learn, question, explore, exchange ideas, teach and pass on knowledge. In doing so, we honor both the composers whose works we perform and the audiences with whom we share them.

How can Forever Buffs support you, or how can they check out an upcoming performance?

My website and social media platforms are regularly updated, including my new Instagram, to share upcoming projects and opportunities.

Forever Buffs can support these efforts by helping me connect with students, alumni and prospective Buffs who may be interested in collaborating or simply meeting up. Together, we can create meaningful events and experiences for the entire ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� community and accomplish wonderful things.

Connect with Shu-Wei and our other Forever Buffs Advisory Board members.

Explore the Forever Buffs Advisory Board Directory

Shu-Wei Tseng

Forever Buff Shu-Wei Tseng (DMA'10) is an acclaimed musician who has performed in prominent concert halls across four continents, demonstrating her skills as a soloist and chamber musician playing piano and cello. Since 2024, Shu-Wei has been part of the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, a volunteer group offering strategic advice to the ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� Alumni Association.

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Forever Buff Brian Nevin reflects on 40 years with Big Head Todd and the Monsters

Anna Tolette — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 19:46:28 +0000

Forever Buff Brian Nevin reflects on 40 years with Big Head Todd and the Monsters Anna Tolette Wed, 07/22/2026 - 13:46

April Driver

Brian Nevin of Big Head Todd and the Monsters, photo by Jenise Jensen

Forty years ago, Brian Nevin was a ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� student playing music at fraternity parties and local venues with two friends who shared a dream. Today, he is still behind the drums with Big Head Todd and the Monsters, one of Colorado’s most enduring and beloved bands.

From regular gigs at Tulagi on The Hill during college to today’s annual performances at Red Rocks Amphitheater, the band’s Colorado roots have remained central to their story. One memorable Red Rocks performance in 2014 even featured an introduction from astronaut and fellow Forever Buff Steven Swanson aboard the International Space Station.

Over four decades, Big Head Todd and the Monsters has built a loyal following through its signature blend of rock, blues, funk and jazz, along with a reputation for energetic live performances. This summer the band returns to Boulder as the headliner of the Boulder Roots music festival, Aug. 27–30.

Ahead of the festival, Nevin reflected on the early days at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, the friendships that have sustained decades of music success and the advice he’d offer Buffs today.

Big Head Todd and the Monsters began while you and your bandmates were still in high school. How did coming to ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� help shape the band’s future?

Todd Park Mohr (singer, guitarist and songwriter), Rob Squires (bass) and I started playing as Big Head Todd and the Monsters in 1986. We were high school buddies [who ended up] attending the University of Colorado. Boulder was a wonderful playground for three young guys who thought we had something special and loved playing music together. It started with us playing parties for friends and fraternities and at Quigley’s on campus.

Is there a particular memory, experience or lesson from your time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� that has stayed with you throughout your career?

On Friday afternoons, the Program Council would put on an FAC (Friday Afternoon Club) either in the Alfred Packer Grill or, if the weather was good, on the University Memorial Center terrace. These were great events and memorable for us as a band.

When you think back to those early days playing fraternity parties, Tulagi's and other Boulder venues, did you have any sense that the band would become your life's work? At what point did it start to feel like this could be something bigger?

We started to get popular playing parties at the music bars around town, primarily Tulagi on The Hill, The Walrus and JJ McCabe’s. We didn’t think this would be our life’s work at the time. We made a couple of recordings that started to get airplay on the ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� campus and other college radio stations, so we decided to take a semester off school, buy a van and drive around the country booking shows in college towns.

It was a great era for live music, especially for indie and college bands. Because it was before the internet, bands could make a good amount of money selling their cassette tapes, CDs and vinyl at shows. We sold enough copies of our independent releases “Another Mayberry” and “Midnight Radio” that we attracted the attention of a major record label called Giant Records, who signed us to a deal in 1992. That’s when we knew it was going to be our focus and career.

Photo by Jenise Jensen

The band has built a loyal following by continually touring and connecting with fans year after year. What has kept performing live exciting for you after all this time?

We’ve been a band for 40 years, and in many ways our live performance has gotten more rewarding and challenging. The bravado of youth made the early years exciting, but as I’ve gotten older, it’s more about wanting to play a perfect show. The other guys in the band keep getting better, so I’ve got to keep working on my game. That’s what keeps it exciting.

One of the most remarkable parts of your story is that the band has stayed together for nearly four decades. What's been the key to maintaining those friendships and creative partnerships over the years?

Our friendship and respect for each other have been key to our longevity, but the creative element is what is still intriguing. I love playing music with these guys and like what we produce together. It still feels like it’s growing and there’s more to learn.

This August you'll be returning to Boulder for the Boulder Roots music festival. How does it feel when you play for a hometown audience after all these years?

Boulder is our roots, and we’re happy to be a part of the Boulder Roots Music Festival!

Looking back on your journey, from rehearsing and performing as college students to building a long and successful career, what advice would you offer today's ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� students who hope to pursue creative careers or follow an unconventional path?

Find a way to make what you love to do with your time profitable, then you can spend your time doing what you love to do and pay the bills.

Forty years after first playing at campus parties and Boulder venues, Nevin and Big Head Todd and the Monsters will return to the city where it all began. Fans can see the band as the headlining act at the Boulder Roots music festival.

Get Your Tickets for Boulder Roots

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Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Judith Glyde

Anna Tolette — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 16:27:31 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Judith Glyde Anna Tolette Fri, 07/17/2026 - 10:27

Keeley Haynes

For more than 20 years, Judith Glyde shared her passion for music with ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� College of Music students as a professor of cello and chamber music and the Strings Department Chair. Now, she continues to bring joy and expertise to the CU community as a Forever Buffs New York alumni chapter board member.

From producing specialty holiday performances amidst the COVID-19 pandemic to promoting cultural events around New York City, Judith strengthens bonds among CU alumni and deepens her personal enrichment through volunteering.

“We grow from knowing the students and, hopefully, they grow from knowing us,” said Judith upon receiving the College of Music’s Distinguished Service Award in 2022. “To be able to continue a relationship with our alums, supporting their music and their dreams, is a rare privilege.”

Read on to learn how Judith transfers her wisdom from teaching to volunteering and continues to make an impact on the youth of today.

What is your favorite ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� memory?

Remembering every student I had the pleasure of teaching (some of whom are in NYC with me now) and every colleague I had the pleasure of performing with at Faculty Tuesdays. My favorite memory as a volunteer, however, is when Dawn Barone and I produced a Holiday Christmas celebration in December 2020. We held live stream performances by 13 CU alumni, with an introduction by emeritus chancellor Phil DiStefano. Hearing these professional presentations during a time of disconnection was truly inspirational.

Who or what inspires you?

I am inspired by the passion and energy CU alums bring to NYC to follow their dreams. I am so proud of any alum who comes to New York City — a city that can be quite demanding. A great deal of patience is required.

Why do you volunteer?

I love young people! I have carried into retirement the important idea that we are never too old to learn from the younger generation. It’s delighting to collaborate with CU alums and help them adjust to life in the city. All of this is surely the ‘icing’ on the proverbial ‘retirement cake.’

What is your favorite way to volunteer for ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?

I was asked to be on the Forever Buffs NY Board to promote culture for the sportier alums in the city. Specifically, I keep an eye out for productions that highlight and involve our alumni. These events can take place on large or small stages, or in the pit of a Broadway show. I also love to help Scott Snyderman at our Judy Z’s Watch Parties!

Where is your favorite spot to go to in Boulder either on or off campus?

I believe at one point Boulder was known as “America’s Foodiest Town.” Many of my favorite eateries (The Dark Horse, for one) are no longer around, but my ‘favorite spot’ had to be wherever I met up with my colleagues for a great meal and conversation. I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention the Rocky Mountains — ideal for a hike in the hills.

How else do you give back to your community?

I am on the board of Friends of Chigiana, a non-profit organization based in NYC. Our mission is to promote the Accademia Chigiana in Siena, Italy. We provide scholarships that grant talented musicians the opportunity to study abroad in Siena, thus making a lasting impact on their lives and cultivating a unique cultural exchange between Italy and the United States.

What drew you to teach at CU?

��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� College of Music has an incredible history of chamber music with the Pro Arte and Takacs Quartets. Being a chamber musician (I was with the Manhattan String Quartet for 23 years), I could not think of a better environment to teach and perform. In addition, I have always loved the mountains. I probably have every book written about Mt. Everest, K-2 and the North face of the Eiger.

Why should other Forever Buffs volunteer?

Volunteering is the perfect way to keep in touch with fellow alums and to remember the stories and joys that stay with you after leaving Boulder.

Learn more about alumni volunteering

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July Buff of the Month: Shu-Wei Tseng (DMA'10)

What led you to choose ���Ҵ�ý�ƽ������ for your doctoral degree in Musical Arts?

What is your favorite ���Ҵ�ý�ƽ������ memory?

If you could pick one song to capture your Forever Buffs experience, what would it be?

What inspired you to stay connected with the university beyond graduation?

You’ve conducted workshops and masterclasses across four continents. What has been the most surprising thing that you’ve learned in teaching the next generation of musicians?

What advice would you give to fellow Buffs about building a professional music career?

How can Forever Buffs support you, or how can they check out an upcoming performance?

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Forever Buff Brian Nevin reflects on 40 years with Big Head Todd and the Monsters

Big Head Todd and the Monsters began while you and your bandmates were still in high school. How did coming to ���Ҵ�ý�ƽ������ help shape the band’s future?

Is there a particular memory, experience or lesson from your time at ���Ҵ�ý�ƽ������ that has stayed with you throughout your career?

When you think back to those early days playing fraternity parties, Tulagi's and other Boulder venues, did you have any sense that the band would become your life's work? At what point did it start to feel like this could be something bigger?

The band has built a loyal following by continually touring and connecting with fans year after year. What has kept performing live exciting for you after all this time?

One of the most remarkable parts of your story is that the band has stayed together for nearly four decades. What's been the key to maintaining those friendships and creative partnerships over the years?

This August you'll be returning to Boulder for the Boulder Roots music festival. How does it feel when you play for a hometown audience after all these years?

Looking back on your journey, from rehearsing and performing as college students to building a long and successful career, what advice would you offer today's ���Ҵ�ý�ƽ������ students who hope to pursue creative careers or follow an unconventional path?

Related Articles

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Judith Glyde

What is your favorite ���Ҵ�ý�ƽ������ memory?

What is your favorite way to volunteer for ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?

How else do you give back to your community aside from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?

Show them ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��

Tell them your ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� stories

What has been a defining moment or opportunity that has shaped your time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?

What is your favorite way to volunteer for ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?

What have you learned about yourself through volunteering with ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?

Top 10 facts about Ralphie, ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� live mascot

What led you to choose ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� for your doctoral degree in Musical Arts?

What is your favorite ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� memory?

Big Head Todd and the Monsters began while you and your bandmates were still in high school. How did coming to ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� help shape the band’s future?

Is there a particular memory, experience or lesson from your time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� that has stayed with you throughout your career?

Looking back on your journey, from rehearsing and performing as college students to building a long and successful career, what advice would you offer today's ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� students who hope to pursue creative careers or follow an unconventional path?

What is your favorite ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� memory?

What is your favorite way to volunteer for ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?