Alumni Profile

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Cassidy Davis (StComm’23)

Anna Tolette — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 17:31:45 +0000

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Cassidy Davis (StComm’23) Anna Tolette Tue, 02/03/2026 - 10:31

From Folsom Field to Lumen Field, Forever Buff Cassidy Davis (StComm’23) has built a career from historic football seasons and meaningful mentorship relationships.

Learning the power of Buff connections early, Cassidy began her journey as an intern with CU Athletics, where she took full advantage of opportunities to learn from CU staff, faculty and alumni mentors. Today, she’s a corporate partnerships coordinator with the Seattle Seahawks, contributing to the organization during its landmark 50th anniversary season.

Along the way, Cassidy discovered just how small the sports world can be with the help of a few familiar faces, and just how far the Forever Buffs network reaches.

Read on to find out more about Cassidy’s road to the Super Bowl LX.

What shaped your ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� journey?

To work with the incredible team at CU Athletics was the pivotal moment for me in choosing the direction I wanted to take in my career.

My time as a marketing and fan experience intern for CU Athletics was the most impactful experience I was a part of. As one of my first introductions to sports, this role kickstarted my love for the industry and taught me the ins and outs of marketing across multiple teams. Starting this role in 2022 and ending with my graduation, I was able to see the transformation of the school’s program from being a 1-11 football team to welcoming Coach Prime and becoming one of the most talked about collegiate teams in the country.

What has it been like to be a part of the Seattle Seahawks organization during their Super Bowl bound season?

Absolutely unreal. I feel incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to go to the Super Bowl just two years into my career. The team’s success this year has created one of the most exciting work environments I’ve ever been part of. To experience such a historic playoff run during our 50th season is a beautiful story that I’ve had the privilege to help tell alongside my teammates.

As a corporate partnerships coordinator, my job is to help position our partners at the forefront of one of the most anticipated moments in sports. Doing this during such an important anniversary season has shifted my day-to-day role toward building on the legacy of an incredible team — one that will be celebrated and reshared by Hawks fans for years to come.

How has mentorship influenced your career in sports?

To succeed in the sports industry, mentorship is essential to positioning yourself as a competitive applicant. Mentors give you the opportunity to build on your network and can give you advice from the perspective of someone who has once been in your shoes.

Dawn Doty taught me the power of sharing words of encouragement and advice to those who are reaching for their dreams. Her mentorship to me as both my professor and friend during my college career has inspired me to mentor students in my post-graduate career. 

Mike Davies (Jour’94) was a guest speaker in one of my college classes who took the time to personally mentor me through my post-grad application process. He taught me the importance of maintaining connections as I’ve learned that sports is an incredibly small world! From giving me a chance to work my first NFL game in college as a FOX Sports Production Assistant, to connecting me with his network while applying for jobs — we still have the pleasure of working together whenever FOX Sports comes to town for a Hawks game.

Is there a recent sports trend that you’ve found especially interesting, exciting or meaningful? 

I am incredibly excited to see the NFL’s continuous expansion into an international sport. Over the past several years, the Seahawks have been granted marketing rights in New Zealand, Australia and Germany, expanding our fanbase in a way we’ve never seen before.

To see this sport grow across countries is so fun to be a part of as it opens up entirely new opportunities for partnerships and experiences that our fans can be a part of. I’m looking forward to continuing to see this expansion grow to countries who are just now being introduced to the world of football!

Are there any behind-the-scenes insights from your time in the sports industry that Buff fans might find surprising?

Almost always when a team wins a championship, the entire staff receives the same championship ring that players get!

Who is an artist that you would like to see at a future Super Bowl Halftime performance?

I’m a country girl at heart, so I would say either Luke Combs or Morgan Wallen! 

What advice would you share with Forever Buffs in sports and beyond?

If you’re looking to get a start in the sports industry, figure out a way where you can add value! Whether you’re freshly out of college or 10 years into your career, there is always a way you can position yourself as applicable for a role in this industry. Use your experiences as ways to bring new perspectives to a team. You will never achieve your dream job if you don’t try!

From Folsom Field to Lumen Field, Forever Buff Cassidy Davis (StComm’23) has built a career from historic football seasons and meaningful mentorship relationships. Along the way, Cassidy discovered just how small the sports world can be with the help of a few familiar faces, and just how far the Forever Buffs network reaches.

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Forever Buffs Impact Story: Debbie Ley (MCivEngr’02)

Anna Tolette — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 18:49:49 +0000

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Debbie Ley (MCivEngr’02) Anna Tolette Wed, 01/28/2026 - 11:49

From Boulder to global climate action, read on to learn how mentorship fuels a lifelong journey of impact.

Debora “Debbie” Ley (MCivEngr’02) remembers the moment she knew ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� was the right place for her. As a participant in Sandia National Laboratories’ One Year on Campus scholarship program, she visited ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, met with faculty and felt an immediate sense of connection.

“It was the people and the environment,” Ley said. “The experience of meeting faculty and the culture of support made a lasting impression.”

That sense of belonging, fostered by an early mentor who guided her through her first year, became the foundation for a career rooted in service, collaboration and global impact.

Today, Ley coordinates the update of the Nationally Determined Contribution 3.0 and the National Climate Change Action Plan for the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources of Guatemala. Since graduating from ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, her work has focused on rural electrification projects and reducing energy poverty in rural Central America and Mexico.

Since 2006, she has also served as a professional partner with Engineers without Borders, the organization founded by ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� Professor Bernard Amadei.

In recent years, her focus has centered on the science-policy-practitioner interface, examining how these scientific assessments can be used at the local level and how local action can inform policy and research.

“What I find meaningful is how these scientific processes can inform policy processes while also improving action in communities,” Ley said. “[That includes] supporting most vulnerable and marginalized populations, for example, people with disabilities and how even inclusive climate action can leave people behind.”

Looking back, Ley credits ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� for shaping her approach to teamwork, community and community engagement in the classroom and beyond.

Debbie Ley and her horse, Shogui

What we learned in class had real applicability in local communities, and there was a culture at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� of helping each other,” said Ley. “Even after graduation, we’ve maintained bonds, friendships and have continued to work together.”

She also found a home away from home in the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers/Latinos in Science and Engineering (SHPE/MAES).

Throughout her academic and professional career, mentorship has remained central to her growth. Ley points to several mentors at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� and Sandia National Laboratories for helping shape her path.

“Thanks to Dr. Frank Figueroa, Max Harcourt, Jan Kreider, Michael Brande Muehl and Paul Klimas,” said Ley. “I’m a better engineer and scientist, and I so appreciate them mentoring me.”

From learning to manage challenges, navigate difficult situations and build trust with rural communities, Ley says mentorship taught her the value of listening and character, ultimately shaping her leadership.

“They shared empathy, trustworthiness and the ability to inspire, helping me believe in myself.”

Mentorships’ lasting impact has also inspired her commitment to mentoring others.

“I’ve had — and still have — great mentors who have helped shape me and guide me,” Ley said. “I strongly believe the mentoring scheme is something we can all benefit from. I want my mentees to take away advice, guidance and confidence. In some cases, I’ve been lucky, and these mentors became good friends.”

For those seeking mentorship at any stage in their journey, Ley encourages them to look for people who are honest, approachable and strong listeners.

“Make sure your mentor knows how to inspire and empower you. My mentors have been my role models,” she said.

Looking for guidance or ready to give back? Find your match on the Forever Buffs Network.

Explore Mentorship on FBN

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Buff love stories 60 years in the making

Anna Tolette — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 20:19:42 +0000

Buff love stories 60 years in the making Anna Tolette Fri, 01/16/2026 - 13:19

April Driver

College is often the launch of lifelong friendships and unforgettable stories. For one remarkable group of ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� alumni, campus life became the starting point for connections that would shape the rest of their lives.

In the fall of 1965, this group arrived at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� ready to begin their college adventure and discovered friendships new and old where their stories unfolded.

More than 60 years later, those connections remain strong. Despite careers, families and the miles between them, they’ve never lost touch. Today, they host monthly Zoom calls, swapping stories from their college days and celebrating the lives they’ve built.

“Communication is the secret to staying in relationships,” Mike Ringenberg said.

Within this close-knit group are four enduring Buffs love stories, each unique and shaped by ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��.

Barbara and Dale Anderson: A full-circle love story

Dale and Barbara first met in their high school marching band in Arvada, Colorado, where Barbara’s initial impression of Dale was that he was “kind of goofy” — a trait she later came to adore. They began dating during the winter of their senior year, though their relationship had pauses in those early years.

Unexpectedly, they both chose to attend ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, reigniting their relationship. Living in the same residence hall, they frequently shared meals. When Dale helped charter the Alpha Kappa Lambda (AKL) fraternity alongside close friends, it created a community that would shape their lives long after graduation.

By junior year, Dale proposed. Barbara, wanting to be sure, took a break and spent a semester at sea through Chapman College. “When the ship docked in New York, Dale was waiting for me,” Barbara said. “He proposed again, and I said yes.”

They married before their senior year and navigated the uncertainty of the Vietnam era and Dale’s ROTC commitment. Ultimately spared deployment, the couple built a life together grounded in education and service: Barbara as an elementary school teacher, and Dale as a high school communications teacher and principal — eventually at Arvada West High School, where their story began.

“It was a sweet finish,” Dale recalls.

Married for more than 57 years, Barbara and Dale have raised two children, remained in Colorado and stayed closely connected to their CU friends. For them, ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� wasn’t just a campus — it was the starting point for a lifetime of love, friendship and purpose.

Dale and Barbara in college

Dale and Barbara now

LuAnn and Mike Ringenberg: Love that found its way home

LuAnn and Mike met in the Kittredge Dining Hall, where they joined a group of mutual friends for meals. LuAnn had arrived with her friend Barbara, who was dating Dale, Mike’s roommate.

“We dated off and on after that,” said LuAnn. “We even talked about marriage during our sophomore year.”

Life had other plans. LuAnn’s parents wanted her to wait to marry and instead see the world. She traveled through Europe and dated other people. “When I returned, I went to Mike’s work and told him I wanted to get back together,” she said. The rest is history.

LuAnn earned her math degree in 1969, but Mike’s education was delayed by the Vietnam War. He served in the Air National Guard and later completed his psychology degree.

The couple married in 1971 and built a life deeply rooted in Colorado, raising two children and welcoming three grandchildren, two of whom now attend ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��. Loyal Buffs through and through, Mike and LuAnn continue to audit classes, attend sporting events and travel with fellow alumni. Mike was also a charter member of AKL and still enjoys connecting with his fraternity brothers. From Roaming Buffs trips to Alumni Weekend, ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� remains a constant backdrop to their shared adventures.

What started as a college romance has grown into more than 55 years of marriage, friendship and devotion. Their love — for each other, their friends and the university — continues to deepen.

LuAnn and Mike in college

LuAnn and Mike now

Linda and Dan Morris: From CU roots to a life of service

Dan and Linda’s story began long before ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��, but it was on campus where their bond truly deepened. Both graduated from Arvada West High School and arrived at CU in August of 1965. While they had known each other since junior high, college gave them the space to grow closer.

“That transition from high school to CU marked the start of a new and formative chapter in our lives,” Dan said.

Dan became a charter member of AKL fraternity, joining his friends in building a home for students who valued connection and community. Those friendships would prove to be lasting.

After graduation, Dan and Linda embarked on a remarkable journey of service, joining the Peace Corps in 1969. Linda served in Western Samoa and Dan in Ghana. When they returned, their CU friendships remained strong.

In 1972, Dan and Linda officially became a couple. They married soon after and built careers centered on giving back. Linda worked for the Colorado Department of Agriculture, and Dan worked as a teacher, administrator and education technology leader.

Today, they live in Broomfield, Colorado, near their daughter — a CU Colorado Springs nursing graduate — and two grandchildren. From football games to alumni gatherings and now regular AKL Zoom calls, CU remains woven into their lives.

“CU has been a constant thread throughout our family’s story and across multiple generations,” Dan shared.

Dan and Linda in college, on the right

Dan and Linda now

Alice and Roger Cain: From a fraternity party to 57 years of love

Roger and Alice met in 1968 at a Voodoo-themed fraternity party. Roger, a busy chemical engineering student and AKL member, was set up by a fraternity brother who had met Alice in geology class. At midnight, playful “marriage ceremonies” took place. Roger and Alice ended their first date with their first “wedding photo.”

Their connection grew quickly. “In my senior year, I gave Alice my fraternity pin,” Roger said.

They soon married and moved into married student housing. Roger graduated with a degree in chemical engineering and began his career with 3M in Minnesota, where they started their family. Their daughter and son both went on to college, with their son following in his parents’ footsteps at CU.

After a decade in Minnesota, they returned to Colorado and settled in Loveland. Roger worked for Hewlett-Packard, while Alice pursued interior design, teaching and eventually kitchen and cabinet design — she even designed and managed the construction of their home. “She’s a woman of many talents,” Roger said.

Now retired and celebrating 57 years of marriage, the couple enjoys RV adventures and long-distance travel, including a month in New England and a 9,500-mile journey to Alaska.

Through it all, CU has remained a steady thread, connecting them to lifelong friends and shared memories that began with a blind date and a little Voodoo magic.

Alice and Roger in college

Roger and Alice now

Where forever begins

These are more than love stories. They’re reminders of what makes ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� special.

“CU was not just where all our paths crossed — it was where lifelong friendships were formed, where our relationship deepened and where a community was built that continues to this day,” Dan said.

Decades later, the bonds on campus still bring these alumni together. It’s proof that a Buff connection can last a lifetime. Whether through love, friendship or shared experiences, CU remains where forever begins.

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Scott Snyderman (IntBus’85)

Anna Tolette — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 22:57:53 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Scott Snyderman (IntBus’85) Anna Tolette Thu, 01/08/2026 - 15:57

Keeley Haynes

When recent graduates leave ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� campus for the first time, they may feel uncertain about life after college, but Scott Snyderman (IntBus’85) ensures they know they’re not alone.

As the chair of the Forever Buffs New York alumni chapter, Snyderman helps welcome over 500 new Buffs to New York City each year. The volunteer-led chapter organizes football and basketball Game Watches, networking events and mixers in the city, which connect recent graduates to over 8,000 other Forever Buffs in the area. He also coordinates with ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� off-campus career exploration and immersion trips, such as the Leeds School of Business’s Wall Street Treks, to expand current students’ New York network. network.

Read more about what drives Snyderman to volunteer and how he keeps the Buff spirit alive.

What’s your favorite CU memory?

A few years ago, I returned to Folsom Field and watched the Buffs beat Nebraska. Seeing us take down the Cornhuskers and celebrating with fellow CU fans in person was something I got to check off my bucket list. I’ll never forget it.

Who or what inspires you?

I like to live by the motto: “Do to others as you want done to you, your friends and your family.” I try to replicate the kindness I’ve been shown in the past and the respect I want my loved ones to be treated with. This helps me be the best person I can be.

Why do you volunteer?

It is all about connecting our Buff family in New York. When Buffs first graduate and arrive in New York, we’re their first impression of the city and post-grad life. You only get one chance to make a first impression, so I volunteer to help ensure NYC Buffs know that they have a community and a support system behind them. I love when a new Buff shows up to an event we are hosting and they find out that there is a whole group of Buffs here. They usually run into a friend or two that they didn't know lived here. That's the magic of being a Buff for life.

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

We host Buffs Football Game Watches, which are always lots of fun. When 300 to 500 Buffs gather to watch a game, it is just madness. We’re always loud and proud; it’s a great time.

What does being a Forever Buff mean to you?

It means being part of a family. No matter where you are in the world, if you meet a Buff, it’s an immediate connection. You’re instantly met with a familiar Boulder smile and the typical excited “Sko Buffs!” It’s comforting to know we have community everywhere.

Learn more about alumni volunteering

As the chair of the Forever Buffs New York alumni chapter, Snyderman helps welcome over 500 new Buffs to New York City each year. Read more about what drives Snyderman to volunteer and how he keeps the Buff spirit alive.

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CU Spotlight: Homecoming Spirit Chair Kate Jordan Little

Anna Tolette — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 15:37:42 +0000

CU Spotlight: Homecoming Spirit Chair Kate Jordan Little Anna Tolette Wed, 10/08/2025 - 09:37

Kate Jordan Little is a fourth-generation Buff, making her the 23rd member of her family to attend ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��. A junior from Denver, Colorado, she is pursuing a dual major in management and entrepreneurship and marketing, with a minor in leadership. Her academic distinction sets her apart. She is a U.S. Presidential Scholar and a Boettcher Scholar, complemented by her involvement in the President’s Leadership Class and the Leeds Scholars Program.

Beyond academics, Kate’s commitment extends to campus engagement, including her roles as the New Member Educator and former Foundation Ambassador for Chi Omega, as well as being active in CU Sports Information and competing with Club CU Swimming and Diving. Little currently serves as the Homecoming Coalition Spirit Chair for CU Student Government and is excited for all that is in store for the upcoming Homecoming festivities.

What does ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� Homecoming mean to you?

Homecoming means so much to me because it celebrates family and tradition.

I am a fifth-generation Coloradan, a fourth-generation Buff and the 23rd member of my family to attend CU. My parents, sister, grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins have all shared this same journey, and we have each felt the magic of being a Buff in our own way.

My grandfather is remembered through the Zack Jordan Award that honors the CU Football Most Valuable Player each year, and my family has never missed a home game.

Homecoming is a time to gather, celebrate the love and pride we all feel for CU, and carry forward a legacy that has shaped my family for generations. It reminds us that CU is not just where we go to school but part of who we are.

What is your favorite part of your role as Homecoming Spirit Chair?

Kate, pictured with her parents and sister, is the baby on the right!

My favorite part of being the Homecoming Chair is seeing people light up with Buff pride. Helping create the parade and pep rally feels meaningful because I know how much joy those moments bring to students, alumni and families. I think about my family filling the stands and how often we have experienced that same excitement together.

Being Spirit Chair is a way of giving back to a community that has been at the center of my life for as long as I can remember. Whenever I see people laughing, singing the fight song, and cheering together in black and gold, I feel connected to something bigger: a CU family we all belong to.

If you had the attention of every Forever Buff for one minute, how would you convince them to attend Homecoming?

I would tell them that Homecoming is not just about events but about being part of a story stretching across generations. It is laughter with friends, the traditions we pass down and the memories we create together.

When you come back for Homecoming, you are not just celebrating a weekend; you are celebrating the pride, the joy and the love that make CU a family. Every voice in the fight song, every smile in the crowd and every cheer from the stands matters.

We are all Buffs, and Homecoming is our chance to remember that and celebrate it shoulder to shoulder.

What is special about Homecoming this year?

Homecoming 2024

This year feels extra special because it focuses on community and connection.

Whether you are a student experiencing your very first Homecoming, an alum returning to the place that shaped you or a Forever Buff family member who has loved CU for decades, there is a place for you here. The parade, the pep rally and the game bring us all together in one place where generations of Buffs can stand side by side and celebrate what we share.

For me, it is not just about carrying forward my family’s traditions; it is about being part of the bigger CU family and knowing that we are all Buffs.

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Forever Buffs Impact: Q&A with Amanda Giguere (MThtr'06; PhD'10)

Anna Tolette — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:43:16 +0000

Forever Buffs Impact: Q&A with Amanda Giguere (MThtr'06; PhD'10) Anna Tolette Thu, 07/31/2025 - 14:43

What can one of history’s most famous playwrights teach us about preventing violence? Forever Buff Amanda Giguere’s work as the Director of Outreach at the Colorado Shakespeare Festival (CSF) has turned this idea into a mission for change through theatre.

Amanda leads education programs that bring Shakespeare to life for thousands of Colorado students each year, using the power of theater to build empathy, foster dialogue and create safer communities.

Since joining CSF as a graduate student in 2004, Amanda has helped the theatre education program reach more than 300 Colorado schools and nearly 140,000 students. Her latest project, Shakespeare & Violence Prevention: A Practical Handbook for Educators, shares this innovative work with a national audience.

Read more about how Amanda’s time at ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� helped inspire her and how you can help bring the transformative power of Shakespeare to even more communities.

What is your favorite part of your role as the Director of Outreach for the Colorado Shakespeare Festival?

I love the variety of this work. I get many opportunities to interact with people of all ages and varying experience levels with Shakespeare. No matter how many times I encounter the plays, I always learn something new from watching others encounter them. We all bring our unique perspectives to the plays. 

Reflecting on your theatre studies at CU and becoming a full-time staff member, what experiences helped shape the path you’re on now?

I encountered Shakespeare as a child (around 10 or 11) in a Shakespeare camp, and I was hooked.

I began teaching for the same Shakespeare camp when I was in college. After college, I taught for a couple of years in Hong Kong and then felt the pull of graduate school. I wanted to expand my knowledge of theatre, and I applied to one school – ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� – because of its connection to CSF. I knew I wanted to do something with Shakespeare and children, though I didn’t have a clear career path. Even as I pursued my MA and PhD, I never felt the traditional academic path of a tenure-track position was for me. I began working at CSF as a graduate student, and after completing my doctorate, I returned to CSF as a full staff member. I feel lucky to be doing work I’m passionate about and that aligns with my skill set.

Now, when people tell me, “Your job is so cool, I want it!” I smile, thinking, “I agree! This job is VERY cool.”

Thinking about your new book, what part are you most proud of, and what do you hope readers will walk away thinking or feeling?

I wrote the book because, after many years of running a Shakespeare & Violence Prevention program in K-12 schools, I realized that teachers across the country could be doing this work. So many educators already teach Shakespeare. But they may not realize that teaching Shakespeare can also teach violence prevention – I saw an opportunity to share this work beyond the limits of where our CSF van could travel. I hope readers walk away feeling they play a part in preventing violence. Maybe it’s through encountering Shakespeare, or perhaps it’s through connecting with their fellow humans in ways that light them up.

I also hope it debunks the myth that Shakespeare is too hard, too fancy, too far out of our reach to grasp the meaning. These plays have so much to teach us about our world. 

How do you see the arts as an agent for social change? Where do you see potential for more change?

The area of change I think about most frequently is funding for the arts, particularly arts education. We are seeing the impact of federal funding cuts and the increasing difficulty of grants. We at CSF are relying more heavily on philanthropic support.

I see the value of these programs firsthand – exposure to theatre as a child can help build confidence, improve public speaking and heighten a child’s social-emotional competencies. It’s not just about training actors. If more young people had access to arts education, I imagine we’d see an increase in those skills that also prevent violence: empathy, teamwork, connectedness.

That’s why I decided to donate all the royalties from the book sales to the CSF Education Endowment. This fund helps provide operational support to CSF’s education programs. 

How can Forever Buffs support your work?

Please tell a language arts teacher, a Shakespeare fan or a school administrator about this book! Buy them a copy for their classroom.

And support your local arts organizations — see a play, attend a concert. The arts help connect us to our fellow humans in vital ways. 

Support the Colorado Shakespeare Festival

Forever Buff Amanda Giguere’s work as the Director of Outreach at the Colorado Shakespeare Festival (CSF) has turned this idea into a mission for change through theatre.

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Forever Buffs Impact: Q&A With Harold Abrams (Comm ’85)

Anna Tolette — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 16:25:16 +0000

Forever Buffs Impact: Q&A With Harold Abrams (Comm ’85) Anna Tolette Fri, 06/27/2025 - 10:25

Dani Martinez

From storytelling in blue books to interviewing Stevie Wonder, Forever Buff Harold Abrams has used storytelling as a positive force to spotlight the voices of Black and LGBTQI+ communities, as well as other people of color. Representation matters, a sentiment that Abrams has dedicated his career to celebrating through his roles as a screenwriter, producer and artist. Committed to celebrating diverse experiences, Abrams works to uplift these communities through powerful and purpose-driven media.

A two-time Emmy Award-winning producer, Abrams has brought compelling stories to screens nationwide, like “New Year’s Eve Dance Marathon,” MTV, and “Michael Jackson: Making History,” VH1. His work reflects a deep commitment to social impact, as seen in “World AIDS Day,” VH1, “Foster Care,” PBS, and “Teens and Gun Violence,” PBS. He also serves as Project Director for the National LGBTQI+ Cancer Network, continuing his mission to create lasting change.

Read on to learn how Abrams found his voice in the ’80s and turned his passion for storytelling into a lifelong purpose.

What brought you to ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?

Like many schools at the time, ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� was making a strong effort to recruit Black students, and I had the opportunity to participate in a summer program that allowed me to live on campus and take courses. That experience helped me see how I might thrive there. I was especially drawn to the communication and journalism programs, and I’m glad I chose to major in communication — it set the stage for so much of what came next.

How would you describe your experience as a CU student in the 1980s?

Attending CU was a huge shift for me. I came from a small parochial school in Denver with 88 students in my graduating class, so landing on a campus of over 25,000 students was a bit shocking. Everything felt bigger: the lecture halls, the energy, the range of people and ideas.

One of the most formative aspects of my college experience was meeting a tight-knit group of students from New York City. They were vibrant, well-traveled and talked about the world in ways I hadn’t considered before. Their presence opened something up in me — and ironically, though New York wasn’t on my radar back then, it’s now been my home for over 30 years.

��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� was also a space where I encountered the complexity of my identities. As a Black student, I often found myself one of the only people of color in the room — an experience that was isolating at times. One of the ways I found community was through Kappa Alpha Psi, the historically Black fraternity where I served as chapter president. That brotherhood grounded me and even extended into campus life — especially around sports, which were a big part of the CU culture. I had fraternity brothers on the football and basketball teams, and going to games was always a highlight.

Looking back, I also carry a sense of what was missing. For many students, college is a time of self-discovery, but in the 1980s, being out as queer wasn’t widely accepted. I spent those years as much in suppression as in exploration. I sometimes wonder who I might’ve met or become had I been able to live more openly on campus. I loved CU, but that regret is part of my story, too.

My time at CU was full of contradictions — overwhelming and expansive, exuberant and complicated.

How did your involvement with the Black Student Alliance and the Black Voice newspaper influence your path after graduation?

Serving as treasurer of the Black Student Alliance and founding editor of The Black Voice were formative experiences that allowed my leadership skills to flourish. Both roles allowed me to bring people together — whether organizing events, facilitating conversations about campus life and racial equity, or helping others express their talents and perspectives.

As a communication major, creating The Black Voice was especially meaningful. Before launching the paper, I had written editorials for the Colorado Daily, but I wanted to establish a dedicated platform where Black students could share their stories, opinions, and experiences in their voices. Turning that idea into reality is something I’m still proud of — it brought visibility and connection to our community. I’ll never forget the buzz around our first issue, launched at an event in the Williams Village dorms; the turnout was incredible.

That experience was a clear precursor to my professional path. After graduation, I continued writing and had letters to the editor published in People, Entertainment Weekly, Vibe, W, and Vanity Fair. As a supervising TV producer, I’ve created content that highlights culture, entertainment and issues impacting Black communities and people of color.

My time with those student-led initiatives at CU taught me how to build something meaningful from the ground up — a skill that’s shaped my entire career.

How do you infuse passion, creativity and celebrate diverse voices through your work in entertainment and advocacy?

For me, passion has evolved into purpose. Whether I’m producing television or managing advocacy projects for a nonprofit, my focus remains the same: to celebrate and center diverse voices, and to create meaningful work that reflects the world we live in.

As a Black gay man, I understand firsthand the power of visibility and the importance of being seen, valued, and heard. That lived experience drives me to ensure that the voices of marginalized communities are not only included but are central to the stories being told.

In both entertainment and advocacy, I work intentionally to build inclusive teams, conduct thoughtful research, and approach each subject with care and nuance. I’ve learned that even the most specific or personal stories can carry universal themes — when told honestly and with integrity, they resonate far and wide.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege to lead projects that speak to that mission — from producing segments on PBS featuring foster youth navigating the system, to interviewing Stevie Wonder about the importance of Black History Month, to documenting the cancer journey of a nonbinary trans femme person amidst a wave of anti-trans legislation. These moments remind me why I do this work.

Representation matters — and I’m committed to creating space for it, every step of the way.

What accomplishment are you most proud of in your personal or professional journey?

Winning my second Emmy Award stands out — not just for the recognition, but for what it represented. It was the result of a team coming together with heart, skill and a shared sense of purpose to fulfill VH1’s mission and bring awareness to the ongoing impact of HIV and AIDS in the entertainment community and beyond.

At the time, I pitched my supervisor a series of segment ideas highlighting musicians, political advocates, members of the Broadway community and everyday people affected by HIV and AIDS. Not only did he support the vision — he greenlit an entire special. From there, I found myself walking the halls of VH1, asking already-overloaded producers and staff if they could take on one more project. I’m grateful for those who said yes.

The special we created became the first VH1 program to ever win a National Emmy. More than a career milestone, it was a powerful reminder of what can happen when people unite around a story that truly matters.

What is your advice to Buffs of all industries who aim to turn their voice into impact?

The most important part of making an impact has been staying connected to who I am and why I do the work. That sense of purpose — your why — should align with the mission behind what you're building, creating or contributing to. Whether it’s protecting lives, creating joy, making change, or building something sustainable, when your work reflects your authentic self, it resonates more deeply and reaches further.

Early in my career, I was a producer on a television series called In the Mix, which we often called 60 Minutes for teens. While the show covered a wide range of topics, I was drawn to producing segments that tackled serious, issue-driven subjects — like foster care, eating disorders, legal rights, and gun violence. Those stories might not have been the buzziest, but they meant something to me. They were rooted in empathy and a desire to help someone feel seen or informed. That was — and still is — my way of using my voice for good.

So, for me, the key has always been leading with heart, working with intention and staying open to growth. When you bring your full, honest self into your work, that’s where the real impact begins.

What brings you the most joy in your work as Projects Director for the National LGBTQI+ Cancer Network?

What I value most in my role is the opportunity to lead a range of projects that all align with the Cancer Network’s mission of education, training, and advocacy, each aimed at supporting LGBTQI+ communities across the cancer continuum.

One area that stands out is overseeing our cultural competency training for healthcare providers. Helping them build safer, more affirming environments for LGBTQI+ patients —especially trans and nonbinary individuals — is meaningful work. Many providers haven’t received guidance on how to care for queer communities, so being a resource in that space makes a real difference.

It’s also great to support my team — understanding what motivates them, nurturing their strengths, and creating opportunities for growth. And throughout all of this, storytelling remains a powerful part of my work. I’ve been able to use my background as a producer to document and uplift the voices of queer individuals navigating cancer. Sharing these stories is one of the most impactful ways we connect community experiences to broader change.

Is there a project you're currently working on that you're especially excited about?

I’ve been expanding into narrative storytelling after years in documentary TV. My original drama series, Grave Affairs — about a funeral planner navigating the death industry — won the SeriesFest TV Festival and was featured in a live reading for their 10th anniversary. I’m currently writing my first feature, Crushed, about a TV producer returning home to confront his past. I’m excited to share both projects with festivals and production partners.

What does it mean to be a Forever Buff?

Being a Forever Buff means carrying the spirit of ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� with me — in my work, my values, and my identity. The campus gave me a sense of possibility, and the foundation I built there continues to shape my personal and professional journey. I still wear CU gear with pride, stay connected through newsletters, and always light up when I see that buffalo logo. Living in New York, I’ve had the chance to meet with visiting faculty and fellow alumni from the College of Communication, Media, Design and Information.

Those connections remind me that CU isn’t just something in my past — it’s something I carry forward.

Connect with Harold on the Forever Buffs Network

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Sarah Seibold’s Journey from Figure Skating to Ice Cross

Anna Tolette — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 16:19:01 +0000

Sarah Seibold’s Journey from Figure Skating to Ice Cross Anna Tolette Mon, 04/28/2025 - 10:19

Former figure skater Sarah Seibold (MBusAna’25) and current data analyst for CU’s Office of Information Technology found her calling in the high-adrenaline sport of ice cross, which entails athletes racing down steep, icy tracks. This year, Seibold (pictured above, far right) earned a third-place spot on the podium in the All-Terrain Skate Cross (ATSX) Ice Cross Women’s World Championship, and placed first overall for the U.S. Ice Cross Association (USIX) Cup Series, making her the highest-ranked American Woman Competitor for the 2024-25 season. Sarah is helping pave the way for the sport’s growth — especially for women.

Can you describe ice cross?

Ice cross has been coined ‘the most insane sport that you’ve never heard of.’ It’s basically the same concept as ski or snowboard cross, but on ice skates. Athletes compete four at a time, and the top two move on until you reach the final four.

There are no permanent ice cross tracks because they are difficult to maintain. They’re made a couple of months or weeks before a race, depending on the weather. We’ve done everything from icing over a ski run at a ski resort to competing on a bobsleigh track. We’ve even iced piles of snow in a parking lot.

What inspired you to transition from figure skating to ice cross?

I’ve always been on the more powerful side of figure skating, I wasn’t very dainty or pretty when I would skate. The main difference between the two sports is that figure skating is much more risk-averse, and training is more about control and technique, while ice cross is a little bit crazier. Once I found out that ice cross existed from a rollerblader I follow on social media who competed, I wanted to try it.

How do you prepare for a race?

I start the morning of a race day by stretching. Depending on where the track is and how the ice is, I’ll either have been training or, if I haven’t trained on the track, I’ll do a lot of visualization. Sometimes, we walk the track and figure out where I need to take steps or what foot to put in front of the other at a certain point.

How did it feel to place third overall in the ATSX Ice Cross Women’s World Championship?

It was honestly a little unexpected. I’m pretty consistent at getting fourth place, but it was amazing. It only made me more motivated, and I can’t wait to stand on another podium.

How do you see the sport evolving in the U.S.?

We raced in France this year, and the Olympic committee came to see if we were on track to go to the 2030 Olympics, which we’re waiting to hear back on. If it gets approved, the word will get out, and we can gain a lot more interest.

Right now, ice cross is more marketed towards men. They’re more easily interested because they see videos of a crash or the danger of the sport and think it’s cool. If we want to get more women into the sport, we have to highlight more of the aspects that make it fun.

What advice would you give to young skaters who might be interested in trying ice cross?

Just go for it. Sign up. And reach out to me with questions!

How many hours a week do you train? What does training look like in warm seasons?

I train around 20 hours a week. In the winter, there’s a lot of natural ice on lakes and reservoirs to utilize. In other seasons, I rollerblade, mostly in skate parks, which can simulate the jumps and curves you would find on an ice cross track. Rollerblading is great training because they’re a lot heavier than my hockey skates, which makes ice skating feel easier. The main thing I train for is endurance, just skating for a long time, so my muscles are used to it.

How did you balance training and competing while also pursuing your master’s degree?

Luckily, the business school allows me to get this degree in four years, so I only have to take one class at a time. There have been some difficult weekends where I don’t have cell service, am sitting in a hotel room doing homework or going to class at 3 a.m. because of a time difference, so it’s definitely a challenge, but since it’s only one class, I can make time.

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Learn more about 2025 Commencement speaker Emma Coburn

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

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

Sophia McKeown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about commencement.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� the Author: Sophia McKeown, Class of 2025

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

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

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

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

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Alumni Profile

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Cassidy Davis (StComm’23)

What shaped your ���Ҵ�ý�ƽ������ journey?

What has it been like to be a part of the Seattle Seahawks organization during their Super Bowl bound season?

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Is there a recent sports trend that you’ve found especially interesting, exciting or meaningful?

Are there any behind-the-scenes insights from your time in the sports industry that Buff fans might find surprising?

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Sarah Seibold’s Journey from Figure Skating to Ice Cross

Can you describe ice cross?

What inspired you to transition from figure skating to ice cross?

How do you prepare for a race?

How did it feel to place third overall in the ATSX Ice Cross Women’s World Championship?

How do you see the sport evolving in the U.S.?

What advice would you give to young skaters who might be interested in trying ice cross?

How many hours a week do you train? What does training look like in warm seasons?

How did you balance training and competing while also pursuing your master’s degree?

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Learn more about 2025 Commencement speaker Emma Coburn

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

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What shaped your ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� journey?

Is there a recent sports trend that you’ve found especially interesting, exciting or meaningful? 

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

What does ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ�� Homecoming mean to you?

What brought you to ��Ҵ�ý�ƽ��?