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MSU Denver alumnus Crisosto Apache is the state’s first Indigenous poet laureate.

MSU DENVER MAGAZINE TURNS 40 [P. 26] /// SUMMIT HOUSE RISES [P. 20] /// NEXT-LEVEL ALUMNI [P. 29]

AMANDA SCHWENGEL

The annual Iron Pour transforms a vacant patch outside MSU Denver’s Arts Building into an open-air sculpture studio. During the event, a joint project between MSU Denver and CU Denver, students and faculty turn buckets of scrap metal into a fiery, molten artist’s tool.

ALYSON McCLARAN

from the president

This spring, our graduates stepped into bright futures, and thanks to MSU Denver alumnus Stephen Lease, they did it in style. Stephen, the CEO and co-founder of goodr, gifted every spring 2026 graduate a pair of MSU Denver sunglasses. Behind the fun gesture is a story our students understand well: Success is rarely a straight line. Before building one of the world’s largest independent eyewear brands, Stephen experienced failure, setbacks and uncertainty, but he kept going. That perseverance reflects the spirit of this graduating class: More than half are students of color, nearly 57% are firstgeneration college graduates, and more than 62% transferred to MSU Denver before finding their path forward as Roadrunners. Their journeys may have looked different, but THEY SHARE THE

DETERMINATION TO BUILD BRIGHTER FUTURES FOR THEMSELVES, THEIR FAMILIES AND THEIR COMMUNITIES. At MSU Denver, we believe opportunity changes lives. Our graduates — and alumni like Stephen — remind us what’s possible when talent, access and purpose come together. — Janine Davidson, Ph.D., PRESIDENT

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AMANDA SCHWENGEL

contents

MSU Denver Magazine marks 40 years of chronicling the University’s growth, and growing along with it.

SPRING 2026 1 From the President 5 This or That? with Christine Márquez-Hudson 6 News 40 Class Notes 43 Crossword: Testing your magazine memory 45 In Memory 46 Roadrunner Roosts: Putting a political science career on the shelf 48 Recipe: Kyselica, aka sauerkraut soup

FEATURES 12 A gift for teaching How donors help transform the learning experience.

20 Room to rise See Summit House take shape.

22 Tasting opportunity Students with intellectual disabilities excel in college.

26 The pages of our history The magazine makes it over the hill.

29 Next level Meet four alumni whose careers have taken off.

PROFILES On the cover: MSU Denver alumnus Crisosto Apache plans to spend his year as poet laureate nurturing student creativity statewide. Photo by Alyson McClaran

10 Coaching couple kick soccer program up a notch Katie and Jeff Hooker elevate soccer at MSU Denver.

14 Giving voice to Colorado’s untold stories Crisosto Apache is the latest poet laureate.

18 Matched for life How Gerardo Villalon got a chance to save a life.

39 Party with a purpose An epic campus celebration commemorates alumni love.

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ED I TO R-I N- C H IE F

John Arnold EX ECUTI VE E DITOR

Laura Miller

Meet four MSU Denver alumni who’ve reached new heights in their careers.

M ANAGI NG E DITOR

Karen Garvey PHOTO EDITOR

Amanda Schwengel PUB L I CATION DE S IGNE R

Aldrich Design

POLINA SARAN

ALYSON McCLARAN

ED I TO RI AL ADVIS ORY BOARD

‘This definitely changes the whole perspective of MSU Denver, which has always been known as a commuter school.’ — GAGE LIDDIARD, Construction Project Management student.

‘I want to teach poetry to as many young people as I can.’ — CRISOSTO APACHE (B.A. ’13), Colorado poet laureate

Leon Duran (B.S. ’15, MBA ’22), Alumni Advisory Board Debora Gilliard, professor of Management, College of Business Brian Gunther, technical process and communications manager, School of Education Jamie Hurst, associate vice president for strategic engagement, University Advancement Steve Juliff, communications specialist, School of Hospitality Sam Ng, professor of Meteorology, College of Letters, Arts and Sciences Cory Phare, marketing and communication strategist/ senior copywriter, College of Health and Human Sciences Nicole Predki, senior lecturer, Department of Theatre and Dance Ted Shin, dean of the College of Aerospace, Computing, Engineering, and Design Andrea Smith, associate vice president of strategic communications, Communications and Marketing Lynne Winter, associate director of Advancement communications, University Advancement MSU Denver Magazine is published by the Metropolitan State University of Denver Office of University Communications and Marketing. © 2026 Metropolitan State University of Denver. All rights reserved. Send correspondence and address updates to magazine@msudenver.edu. The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the policies and opinions of Metropolitan State University of Denver or imply endorsement by its officers or by the MSU Denver Alumni Association. MSU Denver does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation or disability in admissions or access to, or treatment or employment in, its educational programs or activities.

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contributors 2 1

5 4

1> Jamiah Edwards ‘Party with a purpose,’ p. 39 Jamiah Edwards is a senior Public Relations student at MSU Denver. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career in the media and music industries, where she hopes to tell stories that inspire and make lasting impact. 2> Karen Garvey ‘Tasting Opportunity,’ p. 22 Pulitzer Prize winner Karen Garvey, senior writer and content manager at MSU Denver, was a newspaper journalist for more than two decades, including 14 years at The Denver Post. She lives in Denver with her husband and their maniac dog, Larry. 3> Alyson McClaran The award-winning photographs of Alyson McClaran, an

MSU Denver photojournalism alumna, have appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Time and more. She loves traveling, especially to Japan, as well as meeting and connecting with others through photography. 4> Alison Meyer ‘Matched for life,’ p. 18 Alison Meyer is an MSU Denver alumna

5> Shania Rea ‘A foot in the door at Coach,’ p. 30 An MSU Denver Journalism alumna, Shania Rea leads marketing and communications efforts for the university’s College of Aerospace, Computing, Engineering, and Design. When she’s not writing, she enjoys exploring Denver’s food scene, taking walks or playing video games with her fiancé.

and founder of Indigo Communications, where she helps organizations build 6> Lynne Winter their reputations and visibility ‘Forty years of flying the in AI search. She enjoys friendly skies,’ p. 34 writing about higher educaLynne Winter is an MSU Denver tion, financial services and alumna, the associate director social impact. Off the clock, of Advancement communicashe’s happiest with her family, tions and a proud Roadrunner. a book and a really good Every day, she lives out her almond croissant. childhood dream of being a writer, telling the stories of University alumni, donors and students. She loves hanging out with her husband, grandkids and chaotic dog, Cooper.

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Thinking of unsubscribing? Visit the link below to opt out of the print magazine, which is mailed twice a year. UNSUBSCRIBE

Send me a monthly newsletter, featuring the latest MSU Denver stories, via email instead. SUBSCRIBE TO THE EMAIL

this <or> that W I T H C H R I S T I N E MÁ R Q U E Z - H U D S O N

Los Angeles or New York City Spontaneous or Planned Talk or Listen Mountains or Ocean Americano or Latte Movie or Play Picasso or Monet U2 or the Clash

Comedy or Romance Happy Hour or Social Media Hermione Granger or Katniss Everdeen

ALYSON McCLARAN

Power Nap or Power Through

Get to know Christine Márquez-Hudson VICE PRESIDENT OF UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE MSU DENVER FOUNDATION

A longtime champion for education

NEW YORK CITY > I used to live in L.A. and

and equity, Christine Márquez-

thought it would be amazing. It wasn’t. So, I much prefer New York where you can get anywhere by walking or a subway, and where you can people-watch for free entertainment all day long!

Hudson played a key role in helping MSU Denver’s first comprehensive campaign, Roadrunners Rise, surpass its $100 million goal. Before joining MSU Denver, Márquez-

PLANNED > I married my husband because

Hudson served as president and

he was spontaneous and brought so much excitement into our lives, but, if left up to me, it would all be planned. I have a terrible habit of planning out everything. It makes me feel productive.

CEO of The Denver Foundation and CEO/executive director of Mi Casa Resource Center. Over a career spanning more than 30 years, she’s become one of Colorado’s most

TALK > I tend to think out loud, so I get

respected nonprofit leaders, known

excited when I can talk things through. For me, this leads to the best ideation — and connection with others.

for building partnerships, expanding opportunity and supporting the next generation of changemakers.

to our family cabin in the Uncompahgre National Forest. The mountains are “home” for me and bring me peace. PLAY > I was once a theater major, so

going to a play and having that “live” experience is energizing and exciting for me! U2 > I’m a child of the ’80s, and U2 was

one of the first bands I fell in love with. I got to see them live at Ball Arena with my sister and her wife on my 40th birthday — so fun! HAPPY HOUR > I hate social media. Give

me happy hour any day! KATNISS EVERDEEN > My daughter is a

MOUNTAIN > I grew up in western

Colorado, backpacking through the mountains, cross-country skiing and traveling

huge “Hunger Games” fan and so am I. We love cheering on Katniss as she overcomes all obstacles and challenges. <

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news

MSU Denver becomes Romer repository Former Gov. Roy Romer is an indispensable part of MSU Denver’s history. Soon, MSU Denver will become the guardian of Romer’s history and his legacy. Romer, 97, will donate his gubernatorial papers to MSU Denver’s archives as part of a partnership between the University and the renamed Romer

goodr shades show Roadrunner pride

Institute of Evidence-based Policy. The donation gives students, faculty and researchers direct access to original records documenting some of — JANINE DAVIDSON, MSU the most consequential public policy decisions in DENVER PRESIDENT modern Colorado history. A $2 million gift from the Romer family will support the new Romer Institute of Evidence-Based Policy and the integration of Romer’s papers into MSU Denver’s archives. Romer, who served 12 years as governor following eight in the State Legislature, fought for creation of what was then Metropolitan State College, standing up to dogged opposition from leaders of many of the state’s other institutions. “Roy Romer’s belief in expanding access to education helped make MSU Denver possible 60 years ago, and his commitment to public service and pragmatic leadership continues to reflect the values of our University today,” said MSU Denver President Janine Davidson, Ph.D. < ALYSON McCLARAN

Stephen Lease, who built a performance eyewear empire on the foundation of a Metropolitan State University of Denver degree in Marketing, returned to his alma mater last spring to deliver the keynote Commencement addresses to the Class of 2026 graduates. And he brought along a surprise. Lease, co-founder and CEO of goodr, gave every grad at the day’s ceremonies sunglasses designed especially for the MSU Denver community. The shades, called Get Rowdy, come in MSU Denver’s red and blue and feature a custom design. “This collaboration represents the very best of the Roadrunner network,” said Brandi Rideout, executive director of alumni engagement at MSU Denver. “These custom sunglasses are more than a product, they’re a celebration of alumni success, school pride and what’s possible when our community continues to show up for each other.” < Get your pair.

Former Colorado Gov. Roy Romer speaks at an MSU Denver Commencement ceremony in 2021.

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“Roy Romer’s belief in expanding access to education helped make MSU Denver possible 60 years ago.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF STACY MEISNER

Generous donation brings new era, and new name, to Classroom to Career Hub

Stacie Meisner brings a habit of winning to her new role as head Volleyball coach.

Thanks to a $3 million gift from the Kemper Family foundations, the Metropolitan State University of Denver Classroom to Career Hub will be able to offer more services to more students. In recognition of the donation, the center will be renamed the Kemper Classroom to Career Hub. “We’re proud to support MSU Denver in preparing the next generation of leaders and strengthening the communities they will serve, while cultivating the next generation of philanthropists in our own family,” said Mariner Kemper, a longtime MSU Denver philanthropic partner and president and CEO of UMB Financial Corp. The C2 Hub helps prepare students for careers and job-seeking, and assists high school and first-generation students in building community and navigating what can be overwhelming processes like registration and securing student loans. “We’re proud to The new Kemper support MSU Denver.” C2 Hub will be able — MARINER KEMPER to serve about 17,000 MSU Denver students and connect students, faculty members and over 4,300 industry partners. It will be housed on the second floor of the 12-story facility that will include Summit House, the University’s first student residence, scheduled to open in 2027. <

One volleyball coach rotates out, another takes the court

$3M

After 10 seasons, more than 250 wins — and bringing home Metropolitan State University’s first NCAA Division II national volleyball championship in 2025 — Head Women’s Volleyball Coach Jenny Glenn has moved on. Glenn accepted a position as head coach of the Division I American University Eagles volleyball team in Washington, D.C. Meanwhile, the winning Roadrunners will be in capable hands. Stacie Meisner has been named the University’s seventh head volleyball coach. She comes to MSU Denver from the University of Alaska Anchorage, where she guided the Division II Seawolves to a conference championship in 2025 and was named conference Coach of the Year. <

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news

MSU Denver gets a new list of deans The School of Education, College of Business and the College of Aerospace, Computing, Engineering, and Design all welcomed new deans this spring.

JINSEUP “TED” SHIN, MFA,

ROSEMARIE ALLEN, Ed.D.,

ETHAN WAPLES, Ph.D., has

who had been serving as interim dean, was named permanent leader of CACED following an extensive search. Before entering academics, Shin built a successful career as an industrial designer, including at Samsung. Over more than two decades at MSU Denver, he has served as a faculty member, department chair and interim director of the Advanced Manufacturing Sciences Institute.

a professor of Early Childhood Education who began teaching at MSU Denver in 2004, has assumed the role of dean of the School of Education. Allen replaces the school’s founding dean, Elizabeth Hinde, who retired this year. Allen has been nationally recognized for her work to ensure access to highquality early-childhood programs especially those from historically underserved communities.

been named dean of the College of Business. He previously served as associate dean and interim dean of the college and has extensive experience designing innovative, industry-connected MBA curricula. Waples’ appointment follows a nationwide search for a successor to Ann Murphy, Ph.D., who retired from the University last year after 27 years.

Equipping leaders for the fight against Colorado wildfires It may be coincidence that Metropolitan State University of Denver will begin offering its Fire and Emergency Response Administration bachelor’s degree fully online at the end of a summer that saw particularly destructive and deadly fires rage across Colorado. But the conditions that led to this year’s wildfire onslaught aren’t new. The West’s increasingly complex and large wildfires highlight the growing need for expertly trained people to lead the fight against them. The online FERA program was created to equip them. Designed for working professionals, the online FERA program focuses on leadership and administration — incident command, emergency planning, personnel management and community risk reduction. And it’s flexible enough to allow those already experienced in combating wildfires to earn the degree and advance their careers. MSU Denver’s program is one of few in the region that is recognized by the National Fire Academy’s Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education network. <

Learn more about FERA online.

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ALYSON McCLARAN

Roadrunners Rise rises above goals The University’s inaugural comprehensive campaign, Roadrunners Rise, didn’t meet its $100 million fundraising goal. It exceeded it. At a June celebration, Christine Márquez-Hudson, vice president of University Advancement, revealed that the multiyear campaign had raised more than $118 million. “We believed that MSU Denver was worthy of philanthropy, that our students deserved investment. And people responded,”

Márquez-Hudson told a crowd of nearly 350 guests, including students, alumni, faculty, staff and community members who attended the celebration. “Because of our collective belief, we didn’t just meet our needs; we changed lives.” The $118 million was raised toward four fundraising pillars: facilitating student success, creating classroom-to-career pathways, cultivating inclusive excellence and advancing Colorado’s talent pipeline. <

Three new graduate degree programs debuted this fall: BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE merges technical skills like data analysis and machine learning with business strategy.

HOSPITALITY LEADERSHIP emphasizes leadership, decisionmaking, financial management and innovation to equip future hospitality executives.

EVENT & EXPERIENCE MANAGEMENT focuses on event design, marketing, finance and risk management to prepare leaders in the global events industry.

<< See all graduate programs.

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COACHING COUPLE KICKS SOCCER PROGRAM UP A NOTCH KATIE AND JEFF HOOKER BRING DECADES OF EXPERIENCE AS PLAYERS AND COACHES TO THEIR ROLES WITH MSU DENVER SOCCER. By Karen Garvey || Photo by Alyson McClaran

left to right: MSU Denver

Soccer assistant coaches Kristin Dedycker and Lindsey Hendon; Head Coach Katie Hooker; Assistant Coach Jeff Hooker; team members Brooklyn Gold and Jaki Anchondo.

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Katie Hooker may be Metropolitan State University of Denver’s new head women’s soccer coach. But she’s hardly new to soccer. MSU Denver grabbed her — along with her husband, Jeff Hooker, who serves as a volunteer assistant coach — after she’d spent two decades coaching with the University of Denver team and years on the field as a professional and collegiate player. Joining MSU Denver “was super appealing,” Hooker said, “We’re a college family. And working together again was one of the most appealing parts.” The couple met while he was head coach of the University of Denver men’s soccer team, and she joined the staff as an assistant women’s coach. “Katie’s strength is that she doesn’t feel like she knows everything. She’s always learning new things,” Jeff Hooker said. Also a former professional player and a member of the 1984 U.S. Olympic soccer team, he racked up a winning record and half a dozen championships with the Pioneers. Jeff Hooker said he encouraged Katie to take the Roadrunners head job. “This is a different situation, with our roles reversed — now she’s working full time.” That’s something she was hesitant to do when their three kids — now 9, 11 and 13 — were younger. A major key to coaching success, Jeff Hooker said, is being able to teach and knowing that “players have many different learning styles.”

Katie Hooker is excited by the possibility of matching the former glory of the MSU Denver women’s team, which brought home a Division II national championship in 2004. And she’s grateful for the backing of the University administration and athletics department. “They’ve all been super supportive, and that’s been wonderful,” she said. After her first season at MSU Denver, she turned her attention to bolstering the team roster, an essential step after losing 10 seniors last year. “Locally, a lot of players don’t know what MSU Denver has to offer,” she said. “One big piece (of recruiting) is just reaching out to local clubs and making sure they know what a good option MSU Denver is.” The new MSU Denver student housing complex, expected to open in 2027, will help considerably, Hooker said. So will the presence of the Denver Summit FC women’s team, which plays its inaugural season nearby in Centennial. “Any relationship we’re able to get with that team is going to be great. I think it’s exciting for the players,” Katie Hooker said. “Whether they’re interested in playing professionally or

not, they can see there are many job opportunities” in a sport that’s growing rapidly. Soccer’s profile and popularity have skyrocketed since the Hookers began playing. For Katie Hooker, her playing days started when she was a 5-year-old in Bakersfield, California. “I lucked out; I had someone who wanted to coach me.” She loved the fun of the sport, the running up and down the field, and went on to play in college and professionally. Juggling Katie’s full calendar of practices, games and travel during the soccer season with the schedules of three active kids, who themselves play soccer and “are always going in three different directions,” takes patience, planning and a little help from friends and family, Jeff Hooker said. The same is true for many of the Roadrunners on her team, Katie Hooker said. “A lot of the kids here come in and work really hard and practice, and then they go to work. Or to class. Their days are full.” She never loses sight of what drew her to soccer in the first place: fun. “We’re there to win, that’s the goal. But we’re also there to have fun.” <

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AMANDA SCHWENGEL

A GIFT FOR TEACHING BY LYNNE WINTER

Christy and Ferd Belz’s generosity expands opportunities and benefits students on both sides of the classroom experience.

SUPPORT FIRST-GENERATION INITIATIVES

AS THE FIRST in their families to attend college, Ferd and Christy Belz understand the challenges of navigating higher education pathways without a roadmap — an experience shared by many Metropolitan State University of Denver students. “We’re first-generation, like a lot of these students, and it’s different when you don’t have a heritage of families that go to college,” said Ferd Belz, speaking at the 2026 Annual Scholarship Celebration Dinner. “They work, they have families and they still go to class. And they still need the support.” Ferd Belz, president of Denver-based real estate development company L.C. Fulenwider Inc. and a member of the MSU Denver Foundation Board of Directors for over 10 years, and Christy Belz, president of Empowerment Coaching and Consulting, have been instrumental to MSU Denver’s mission since 2012. They have long been dedicated to ensuring students’ access to services and resources, including First-Generation Initiatives, which assists students in building community, navigating campus resources and accessing the tools that will help them succeed, and the Student Emergency Retention Fund, which supports students experiencing catastrophic events that might cause them to halt their education. The Belzes’ support includes a significant gift to

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“This University is transforming lives, and in turn, those students and graduates are transforming the future of our city and our country.” — FERD BELZ

the Student Success Endowed Fund in 2023. “As a social worker, I knew the importance of these support services. What it could mean for the students,” Christy Belz said. Most recently, the couple again demonstrated their passion for education by becoming champions for the University’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign, Roadrunners Rise. In November 2025, the Belzes provided the campaign with the boost it needed to surpass its $100 million goal by making a $30,000 gift to the campaign’s cultivating inclusive excellence fundraising pillar, which supports the Faculty Fellows and Teaching Assistant programs. “This University is transforming lives, and in turn, those students and graduates are transforming the future of our city and our country,” Ferd Belz said. “It is so important that we invest in these young people and let them change the world — and us.”

ANDY SCHLICHTING

Support MSU Denver students at msudenver.edu/giving

Teaching assistants get, and give, extraordinary learning opportunities.

GAINED HANDS-ON TEACHING EXPERIENCE

“When you’re able to teach someone something, you also learn things better.” WHETHER GUIDING FELLOW MSU Denver students through formulas in Principles of Chemistry or dissecting bodies in the Advanced Human Cadaver Anatomy lab, Elena Herrera has found, and given, tremendous value as a teaching assistant. “I love being a TA,” said the Biology major and first-generation college student. The Teaching Assistant Program, launched in 2020, offers students opportunities to gain hands-on teaching experience and develop leadership skills by providing academic help to students and supporting faculty. The program is bolstered by a gift from Christy and Ferd Belz that will allow the TA program to reach more students at critical points. “We have witnessed how support services like the Teaching Assistant Program transform the learning experience and help students successfully navigate their higher education journey,” said Christy Belz, a former first-generation student and social worker. “It’s an honor to make this gift and watch them change the trajectory of their lives.” The TA program “is a scalable, research-supported instructional model for improving student success and building a strong

— ELENA HERRERA

academic community,” said Philip Bernhardt, Ed.D., professor of Secondary Education and codirector of the TA program with Rebecca Forgash, Ph.D., professor of Anthropology. Since the program’s inception, TAs have supported nearly 19,000 students in courses where 53% were students of color and 58% were first-generation. Herrera has seen how TAs can make a meaningful difference for students. “It can be scary to ask the professor for help, so having a peer to go to makes it a little less scary,” she said. “When you’re able to teach someone something, you also learn things better.” Herrera said being a TA has helped her build communication and teamwork skills, “which in the medical field is super important. I consider myself a healer and have always wanted to use my knowledge to help people mentally and physically. “Everything I’ve learned during my time at MSU Denver has prepared me to do just that.” <

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Giving voice to Colorado’s untold stories BY KAREN GARVEY PHOTOS BY ALYSON McCLARAN

When the call came

offering him widespread fame, a place in Colorado history and a chance to make his voice heard, Crisosto Apache (B.A. ’13) didn’t answer the phone. “I was sitting in my house grading papers, and I saw the call. I thought it was political, so I didn’t answer,” he said. Even later, when he checked voicemail and heard a message from Gov. Jared Polis telling him he’d been named Colorado’s poet laureate, “I didn’t believe it. A couple hours later I went back and listened to it again.” No wonder it took a bit to sink in: Being named the state’s 11th poet laureate was, to put it mildly, a shock. “I didn’t realize I was even nominated,” the Metropolitan State University of Denver alumnus said. He is the first Native American to serve in the role, but not the first MSU Denver graduate. That distinction belongs to Bobby LeFebre, who became Colorado poet

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MSU Denver alumnus Crisosto Apache is the state’s first Indigenous poet laureate.

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“Colorado’s Poet Laureate is our statewide ambassador of the arts, inspiring and uplifting the next generation of artists and poets in our state.” — GOV. JARED POLIS

Connect with Apache on Facebook.

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laureate, and the first Latino named to the position, in 2018. Now, after the honor and all it means has sunk in, Apache fully appreciates the magnitude of the recognition. “It means people are reading my work and know what I’m doing.” “Colorado’s Poet Laureate is our statewide ambassador of the arts, inspiring and uplifting the next generation of artists and poets in our state,” Polis said in the January announcement of the honor. “Crisosto will be a strong advocate for the arts and art education, helping youth discover poetry, and bringing Coloradans together.” Apache succeeds Andrea Gibson, who served from 2023 until their death from ovarian cancer in July 2025. He takes on the role at a milestone moment; Colorado commemorates its 150th anniversary of statehood this year, and the nation marks its 250th birthday. As a Native American — he is Mescalero Apache, Chiricahua Apache and Diné — he is keenly aware of the unique position he is in: commissioned to celebrate Colorado’s statehood while acknowledging that came at terrible cost to Native people.

“Each town, each community has a story behind it.”

“It puts me in an interesting situation, definitely,” Apache said. He said he’s gotten pushback from some Native Americans criticizing him on social media for accepting the post. But he sees it as an opportunity. “I can use it as a teaching moment and address situations that face Indigenous people. “I’m trying to perceive it from a poetic perspective and not make it so much political.” In addition to observing all the trappings of a sesquicentennial, Apache said he’ll focus on working with young people across Colorado. “I want to teach poetry to as many young people as I can,” he said. Toward the end of his tenure, he hopes to publish an anthology “highlighting the young people and young voices.” Along the way, he offers encouragement to aspiring poets and writers. “Times are changing, I can see that. But poetry is a creative outlet — and that’s not to say it can’t be a profession. There is an industry out there for creative writers. You can see that on the internet and in many different communities,” he said. Another goal, one he’s already started on, is visiting all 64 Colorado counties “to look at the different cities and towns and focus on the narrative of these places,” he said. “Each town, each community has a story behind it.” To help residents tap into those stories, he’s teaching workshops in the towns he visits. His own story began in New Mexico; he moved to Colorado to study at Boulder’s Naropa University. He left there and searched for an affordable college that would focus on writing. His spouse, Todd, recommended MSU Denver. At MSU Denver, he majored in English and minored in Native American Studies. He took two classes from retired longtime English Professor Sandra Doe, Ed.D., who remembered her famous former student as a “striking figure.” “What I enjoy about his poetry is the patient but unflinching look at his own Native American culture in some of his poems, using words from his Mescalero Apache and Diné languages,” she said. The multilingual poet has published three collections: “GENESIS,” “Ghostword” — a finalist for the Colorado Authors League award in poetry — and “Is(ness).” He also is a winner of the Betty Berzon Emerging Writer Award. Apache expects to stay pretty busy during his tenure as poet laureate. He is writing; teaching at Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design; editing The Offing literary magazine; wrapping up an anthology project called “The Starry Field: A Gathering of New Two-Spirit and Indigiqueer Poetry,” which is scheduled for publication this fall; and traveling the state. One thing he doesn’t plan to spend any time on: solving the mystery of who nominated him. “I think I’d rather just let that be a secret.” <

— CRISOSTO APACHE

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Years after joining a fraternity registry, Gerardo Villalon donated stem cells to a stranger in need.

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profile By Alison Meyer Photo by Alyson McClaran

Matched for life Gerardo Villalon (B.S. ’19) is terrified of needles. But that didn’t stop him from donating bone marrow to save a stranger’s life. In 2018, Villalon was a student attending a bone marrow registration drive hosted by Nu Alpha Kappa Fraternity Inc., the fraternity he helped establish at MSU Denver. Years later, Villalon got a call telling him he was a match. “I didn’t hesitate,” he said. “This wasn’t about my fears anymore. It was about helping someone stay here on this earth.” According to NMDP, the national bone marrow registry, every three to four minutes someone in the United States is diagnosed with a blood cancer or disorder and needs life-saving donors like Villalon. Eventually, Villalon flew out of state for the bone marrow donation. Patient confidentiality rules mean he can’t say where he went or provide other details. By the end of the procedure, which took about four hours, Villalon said the fear that had once felt overwhelming had been replaced with gratitude. “It made me realize how precious life is,” he said. Though donor and recipient identities remain anonymous for at least a year, Villalon stays connected to the patient through the registry organization. He receives periodic updates on the recipient’s condition and is ready to donate additional blood or bone marrow to them if needed. Once cleared, he also plans to go back on the registry in hopes of helping someone else. Today, Villalon is a partial owner of Zia Pros, a commercial painting company, and remains active with Nu Alpha Kappa. Looking back, Villalon said one small decision at a campus event changed his life in ways he never expected. “You never know whose life you could change,” he said. “I’m just grateful I got the opportunity to help.” <

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ROOM TO RISE

MSU Denver’s first residence hall is reshaping the campus and the student experience before it even opens. BY KAREN GARVEY PHOTOS BY AMANDA SCHWENGEL

Summit House at Metropolitan State University of Denver will be a place for students to sleep, study and build community. Scheduled to open in 2027, the 12-story building will provide housing for 550 students, a new home for the Kemper Classroom to Career Hub, dining and retail space. MSU Denver President Janine Davidson, Ph.D., has called the building, on the north side of campus across from Ball Arena, “the beginning of a transformation” and “a huge step for this University.”

The final beam On June 12, Davidson joined PCL Construction and Columbia Ventures leaders to hoist the final beam onto the rapidly rising Summit House. The topping off ceremony marked a milestone in the construction of the University’s first student residence. In keeping with centuries of tradition, representatives of the University and the project team signed the beam, which was

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topped off with a potted evergreen, a tradition likely rooted in the Scandinavian belief that it brings good luck.

Sustainable structure Summit House will have a lasting impact on the campus and future students, but its carbon footprint will be comparatively small. That’s because PCL Construction, the primary contractor, is using a relatively new material called mass timber on the project. Mass timber is a category of engineered wood products formed by bonding wood layers together to create strong, fire-resistant elements for building large structures. It’s considered environmentally beneficial because it stores carbon dioxide rather than emitting it and requires less energy to produce than concrete or steel. In addition, it’s lighter, which reduces foundation requirements, and its components are often prefabricated off site and arrive ready to assemble, which can reduce construction time and lower labor costs.

photos, top to bottom:

The final beam is raised to put on top of Summit House. David McNabb, right, speaks with MSU Denver student Gage Liddiard, far left. A photo of MSU Denver President Janine Davidson, Ph.D., signing the final beam graces the Summit House site.

Students first

“We recognize the importance of hands-on experience.”

Current students already are experiencing the benefit of the University’s first on-campus — MAURICIO RAMOS residence. Students like Construction Project Management majors Ivan Luna and Gage Liddiard, who are working as interns helping build the residence. Luna said he was grateful for the opportunity not only to contribute to such a milestone project, but for the work experience as well. “The (MSU Denver) Career Fair really helped me,” Luna said. “I fell in love with PCL.” For PCL, offering internships is part of the company’s commitment to developing the next generation of construction professionals, said Mauricio Ramos, vice president and district manager of PCL’s Denver office. “We recognize the importance of hands-on experience in bridging the gap between classroom learning and realworld experience.” For Ramos, supporting local talent and fostering a culture of mentorship and learning within project teams is more than good business. It’s personal. “As someone who began my own career as a PCL intern in 2003, I’ve seen firsthand how impactful these opportunities can be in shaping long-term careers and leadership paths,” he said. Not only that, these students get to be a part of the University’s history. “This definitely changes the whole perspective of MSU Denver, which has always been known as a commuter school,” Liddiard said. “It’s awesome.” < M S U D E NV E R M AG AZI NE | FALL 2 02 6

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OPPORTUNITY

Thanks to the Inclusive Support Services program, aspiring chef Ryan Evans, center, is honing skills in a baking class taught by Stephen Barela, right.

MSU Denver’s innovative program empowers students with intellectual disabilities for life and work beyond the classroom.

TASTING

BY KAREN GARVEY | | PHOTOS BY ALYSON McCLARAN Ryan Evans’ cupcakes rose up high and tall — no small feat for a novice baker at Denver’s altitude. But trouble started when he pulled them out of the oven and tried to pry them out of their silicone pan. When Evans turned the pan upside down, cupcake number one tumbled out in pieces. Frustrated, Evans started dumping the rest. That’s when Stephen Barela, office manager of the School of Hospitality and instructor for the Basic Baking Skills class, rushed over to help.

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“The IHES program here has been a godsend. I can see so much more confidence in him. He’s learned life skills as well as job skills.”

and a lot of energy and determination. “Take your time,” Barela said. “Don’t shake The program’s funding comes from the pan. Be gentle.” Evans watched, and tuition, grants and donations, Allen said. In learned: The rest of the cupcakes made a past years, it also received grant funding smooth exit. from IN! Pathways to Inclusive Higher EduBaking is not Evans’ thing. Becoming a chef cation and was expecting support from the is. “Cooking is better,” he said. “It’s calming.” Colorado Division of Vocational RehabiliIt’s hard to imagine anything calming the tation. This year, when that money didn’t bundle of energy and perpetual motion that is come, some students’ parents and members this second-year Metropolitan State University of the MSU Denver Foundation helped raise of Denver student. But it’s not hard to imagine enough to cover the shortfall. Evans succeeding as a chef. The effort is worth it, said Allen, an He is one of eight students participating MSU Denver alumna who found a second last fall in MSU Denver’s Inclusive Support career and a calling as a special educaServices. The program enables students with — SYLVIA LUYTEN, tion teacher, first with the Douglas County RYAN EVANS’ MOTHER intellectual disabilities to go to college, taking School District. “This program supports and classes alongside their peers. The classroom enhances the whole University.” expectations are modified for them, and each Charlie Buckley, Ph.D., associate professor of Special Educastudent receives individual support as they work toward tion, said including students with intellectual disabilities in class an Inclusive Higher Education Certificate. Along the way, “elevates the learning for everyone.” and perhaps more important, they gain work experience Buckley said it makes sense for higher education to particiand life skills. pate in programs like ISS. “We’ve been doing this with K-12 eduMany of those life skills come from Cathi Allen’s Self-Adcation forever. Why shouldn’t it continue in college?” vocacy course. Allen, director of Inclusive Higher EducaWhile coursework often is modified for the ISS students, they tion Solutions (IHES) at MSU Denver, spearheaded the ISS are held to high expectations. “We don’t have them in class as program, which launched with help from a $370,000 grant mascots,” Allen said. In addition to coordinating the program, Cathi Allen, director of Inclusive Allen builds personal relationships with all Higher Education Solutions at MSU Denver, works with Frankie her ISS students. And, in her Self-Advocacy Newhart in class. class, she teaches them how to navigate the University’s online learning tool, how to use AI and other skills. On a spring afternoon, as her students settled into a semicircle in the front of the room, Allen announced that day’s lesson would be on executive function. “As you get older, you have more and more to remember,” she reminded them. “You have to pay the bills, buy the groceries, get to class on time. These aids I’m going to tell you about will help you not have to remember so much.” Unlike many instructors who insist students put their phones away, Allen had her class take theirs out. “You all have a calendar on your phone. You have email and reminders. You can use those to remind you of your assignments and where you have to be. As an adult learner, you’re expected to do all these things.” The tools will help in their daily lives and in the working world, she said. Several of

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MSU Denver students Frankie Newhart, left, and Daniel Barbier, of the Inclusive Support Services program, sit at their desks during an Academic Success class as they build life skills and work toward an Inclusive Higher Education Certificate alongside their peers.

Allen’s students have very definite ideas about what they want to do in that working world. Daniel Barbier wants to be an archaeologist and has a passion for ancient Egypt. “He did a project on female pharaohs last semester, and his professor said his was one of the most detailed in the class,” Allen said. Barbier already has archaeology experience. Last summer, he participated in the MSU Denver dig in Central City. José Raul Soto Chacon wants to be a mariachi. Actually, he already is, playing guitar with a local group. Ryan Evans, of course, wants to be a chef. Specifically, he wants to own a restaurant. He’s gotten a good start — he found a restaurant job last summer. But he knows running his own place will take time. “Gordon Ramsay says you need restaurant experience before you can own your own,” Evans said. That’s good enough for Evans. “He’s like the Navy SEAL of chefs,” he said. His favorite thing to cook is pesto chicken with pasta. But as a future restaurateur, he knows he has to expand his horizons. That’s why, throughout the spring semester, he could be found every Thursday afternoon in the Basic Baking Skills class. After the executive function lesson in Allen’s class, her students head across the hall to a computer lab to do homework. As they scatter, Jessica Newsome, M.Ed., academic coordinator for the program, checked in with Barbier. “Have you had lunch? You need to eat today.” Clearly, Newsome, who is pursuing her doctorate, does more than just coordinate the students’ academics. “I’m

with them a lot, and mainly I’m here to communicate with professors and everyone around campus to support them,” she said. “This crew is cool. They’re traditional young adults,” with traditional young-adult interests and issues. Newsome said some faculty members initially were wary of the program. Not because they objected to the students joining their class, but because they weren’t sure they were equipped to provide the students the support they needed. To ease those concerns, Newsome meets with faculty before each semester to discuss the students’ needs. “I talk to professors multiple times a week. And they know they can reach out to me anytime,” she said. Baking might not be Evans’ thing, but over the semester, he got at it, said his instructor, Barela. “He’s really improving. He’s right up there with everybody in the class,” he said. Before coming to MSU Denver, Evans spent a semester at Eastern New Mexico State University in Roswell. “We weren’t aware of MSU Denver’s program,” his mother, Sylvia Luyten, said. “The IHES program here has been a godsend. I can see so much more confidence in him. He’s learned life skills as well as job skills. It’s just been wonderful — the fact that he can join other students who face similar challenges.” Evans enjoys it, too. “I like this program better than the one in Roswell,” he said. “Cathi is always open to helping me and giving me the right information.” Seeing her son own a restaurant would be fabulous, Luyten said. But her main goal for him is “just to be in a place where he’s happy.” <

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The pages of our history 26

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MSU Denver Magazine marks 40 years of chronicling the University’s growth and growing along with it. BY KAREN GARVEY

PHOTOS BY AMANDA SCHWENGEL

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It has come in a variety of sizes and shapes and even gone by different names. But whether it’s called Metropolitan Magazine, Metropolis, Metro, RED or — as we know it now — MSU Denver Magazine, the publication celebrating its 40th birthday this year has always been, as the cover used to announce, “A journal for the alumni and friends of Metropolitan State College of Denver.” Over its four decades, the magazine has artfully, colorfully chronicled the achievements of the institution’s leaders, students and alumni. The magazine was there in 1987 when famed songwriter Marvin Hamlisch debuted the Metro State College school song. And it was there in 2025 when the first shovel of dirt was moved for MSU Denver’s first student residence. And it kept readers up to date on the evolution of Rowdy.

TELL US Tell us your favorite magazine story. Send a letter to the editor at magazine@msudenver.edu to be included in the next issue.

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Donna Fowler (’80 Journalism) was there at the birth of the now-middle-aged publication as it transformed from a newsletter to an engaging, colorful chronicle of all things MSU Denver. Or Metro State College, as it was then. Soon, Fowler, her skeleton staff and contributors were delving into heavy, hotly debated topics like controversies around organ donation, caring for aging parents, what to do about kids who commit crimes and more than a few topics that seem familiar in 2026, including a 1997 cover story on political differences that asked: “Battle Ground or Common Ground? Searching for answers in a divided society.” Her aim as editor was to build connection and showcase alumni achievements. “One of my bosses said, ‘When it’s coming from Metro, you’re already promoting the institution.’ So we were able to expand a bit on what we covered, but we always had some connection to the college.” Occasionally, they made fur fly. One cover, showing an adorable bunny inches from being pulverized by what appears to be a construction vehicle’s enormous tire, got a lot of attention, not all of it good. The image graphically illustrated the dangers posed when earth movers invade wildlife habitats. But many readers saw only a cuddly bunny about to be crushed, and Fowler and her staff got an earful — or a mailbag full — from outraged readers. “I don’t remember how we came up with that,” Fowler said. “And we never in a million years thought we’d get that kind of response. We got so much flak for that!” But, she emphasized, “No bunnies were harmed in the making of that photo!” Fowler stuck around as editor for more than 25 years, largely, she said, because she valued the people she worked with and the people the magazine wrote about. As an alumna, she still receives, and still reads, MSU Denver Magazine. “I think it’s pretty great. As an alum myself, I love reading about other alums who’ve gone on to do cool, creative things,” she said. “I come from a generation of alums who had a bit of a chip on our shoulder. I think one of the reasons (MSU Denver) is such a success is that mission to give all students a chance.” <

NE XT LEVEL Meet four MSU Denver alumni who’ve reached new heights in their careers.

Unlike their desert namesakes, Metropolitan State University of Denver Roadrunners often take flight — in some cases literally. Whether they become poets or pilots, therapists or teachers, or athletes who turn pro, our graduates build on their MSU Denver foundations to soar. We caught up with four of the many super successful Roadrunners to learn how they took their careers to the next level.

IN THIS SECTION:

WELDON HENDERSON

A foot in the door at Coach 32

NICOLAS ESCOBEDO

Michelin star master 34

CHRESTEN WILSON

Forty years of flying the friendly skies 36

JULIAN GARCIA

A major league case of persistence

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Outside the Fifth Avenue Coach store in New York City, Weldon Henderson holds the first pair of shoes he designed for the luxury brand.

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efore his sneakers appeared in a Manhattan Coach showroom, Weldon Henderson had been a tattoo artist, backpacker, rock climber and a state arm-wrestling champion. “I didn’t go to college right after high school,” he said. “Instead, I explored life. … If I set my mind to something I’m going to do it.” His desire to understand how to create, sharpen his skills and learn discipline led him to the MSU Denver’s Industrial Design program. The program “gave me space to let my creativity roam but also to build the technical foundation I still use today. It also taught me that I can use creativity to build something that makes someone else’s life easier or better,” he said. “You start to realize every detail is intentional.” Henderson has put this philosophy into practice as a design assistant By Shania Rea /// for men’s footwear at Coach. His work Photos by Amanda Schwengel spans everything from dress shoes and boots to sneakers. At Coach, his role is technical, inventive and iterative. He’s part of a team helping write a new chapter for Coach that honors the heritage of the iconic fashion house while introducing fresh perspectives. One of his favorite projects is the Match sneaker released in fall 2025. “I pulled inspiration from soccer footwear. I wanted something practical and comfortable but still different,” he said. “A lot of the techniques I used on that shoe came from what I learned at MSU Denver,” he said. His path from MSU Denver to Coach was defined not by a single breakthrough, but by persistence. “I look back at my time at MSU Denver, and I loved every second of it,” he said. “The professors were what made the difference. Their belief in me meant a lot.” Now designing for one of fashion’s most recognizable brands, Henderson still measures success by the same standard: “I’ve always thought that good enough sucks,” he said. “If I know something can be better, I can’t leave it alone.”

A FOOT IN THE DOOR AT COACH

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MICHELIN STAR MASTER By Karen Garvey /// Photo by Alyson McClaran

itting in a coding class during his second year as a computer science major, Nicolas Escobedo had a revelation. “I realized I was going to be working at a computer all my life,” he said. At that moment, he knew that path wouldn’t be right for him. “I got up and walked out.” He took a year off, dabbled in a business major, but nothing felt right. Eventually, he realized that taking care of guests, as his parents did when he was growing up, was what he enjoyed, too. He returned to MSU Denver with a purpose and a new major: Hospitality Leadership. Escobedo graduated in 2025, and almost before the ink dried on his diploma, he had a job as general manager of a Michelin-starred restaurant. BRUTØ, a tiny but airy Lodo space, works with farms in Colorado and Wyoming to get fresh, sustainably raised ingredients and bakes with heritage grains it mills itself. For its commitment to sustainable practice, it has also received a Michelan Green Star. “We think of this as a research institution,” Escobedo said, extending an arm toward the restaurant’s oven and prep area, where a couple of chefs were working with Palisade peaches, a kitchen torch and a few other ingredients. Years before he graduated, Escobedo already was working among the stars. In 2022, he started working at The Wolf’s Tailor. He didn’t have a degree yet, but he did have restaurant experience and a lot of persistence.

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“I must have emailed the general manager a dozen times” asking for a job, Escobedo said. He started there as a server, then bartended and became maitre’d before he was promoted to guest experience coordinator. At the time, The Wolf’s Tailor had one Michelin star. “I was tasked with helping the team earn a second star,” Escobedo said. As challenging as waiting on tables can be, the duties of guest experience coordinator seem comprehensive and never-ending. Escobedo said he was responsible for pretty much everything, from the way the restaurant sign looked on the property to making sure its Open Table page was inviting and easy to use. And of course, making customers feel special. The point, he said, is not to just serve a meal. “We have the opportunity to create an unforgettable experience.” The Wolf’s Tailor got that second star. Now, as general manager of a second establishment with Michelin credits, Escobedo’s mission is the same. “We want our guests to say later, ‘Oh, my gosh, remember when we dined at BRUTØ?’” He may be a star master, but Escobedo isn’t finished learning yet. He plans to be among the first cohort to earn MSU Denver’s new Master’s in Hospitality Leadership. Eventually, he can see himself teaching future Hospitality students. In the meantime, he has advice for anyone looking to achieve the kind of success he has: “Fail fast and hard. Then figure out why and grow from it.”

Nicolas Escobedo at the Michelin-starred restaurant Brutø in Denver where he works as general manager.

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Capt. Chresten Wilson has been a pilot with United Airlines since 1985.

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The Northern Lights. The Himalayas. Betty White. In a career spanning over four decades flying for United Airlines, Capt. Chresten Wilson (B.S., ’84) has seen those, and many more, spectacular sights from her cockpit vantage point. These days, she’s taking them in as the first woman in the airline’s 100 years to become its most senior pilot. “Any time you’re the first at anything, there’s a lot of pressure to be really good at it,” said Wilson, who flies Boeing 787s out of San Francisco to New Zealand and Australia. “My focus has been to try and do that on every flight.” Wilson’s dream of becoming a pilot took off at 9 years old, after joining her father for a flight to shoot aerial photographs, and was bolstered by her parents’ belief that she could accomplish anything. Wilson wasn’t discouraged by female pilots being a rarity

then. “Nobody ever told me women couldn’t be airline pilots,” she said. The Professional Pilot program at what was then Metropolitan State College prepared Wilson to fulfill her dream. She said that while there were few women in her classes, they were treated with respect. Hired by United in 1985, Wilson has worked with many former classmates and fellow alumni. “The interview process back then was pretty competitive because pilots were plentiful,” said Wilson, noting that many MSU Denver peers hold senior positions with their airlines. “It’s a testament to the program preparing us for the job.” In her more than 12 million flight miles, Wilson’s jaw-dropping experiences have included looking down on the North Pole and being flanked by Swiss Air Force F-5 fighters during a military charter flight over the Alps. But Wilson’s proudest moments have been when her parents, sister and partner have flown with her to see the results of their support and encouragement. Wilson is more in love with flying than ever as she approaches retirement By Lynne Wintery /// Photo courtesy of United Airlines next year. She’s excited to visit friends she’s met over the years and continue exploring the world — only this time, she’ll be traveling from a passenger seat in the cabin. But it won’t make the view any less spectacular. “There are so many wonderful things to see out the window, and I love that — I still smile about it.”

FORTY YEARS OF FLYING THE FRIENDLY SKIES

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Julian Garcia made his major league debut with the Reds in June.

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A MAJOR LEAGUE CASE OF PERSISTENCE By Karen Garvey /// Photo by Ethan Rand, Courtesy of the Cincinnati Reds

June 23, Julian Garcia made personal, and MSU Denver, history when he stepped onto the mound for the Cincinnati Reds and became the first alumnus to play in a Major League Baseball game. The milestone got even sweeter when the 31-yearold right-hander notched his first major league strikeout, sending Joey Oritz of the Milwaukee Brewers back to the bench. But the road from Assembly Athletic Complex to Cincinnati’s Great American Ballpark was hardly a straight, swift one. Garcia first made MSU Denver history in 2016 when he was drafted in the 10th round by the Philadelphia Phillies — making him the highest-drafted Roadrunner ever. That didn’t surprise anyone who’d followed his MSU Denver baseball career. During his sophomore season in 2016, Garcia rewrote the Roadrunner record book, setting a school record with 95 strikeouts. Garcia always dreamed of playing major league ball. His pitching career started off strong, but a broken wrist his senior year scared off many college recruiters. But MSU Denver coaches promised opportunities for him to be a hitting pitcher. When a missing math credit forced him to redshirt his first year, Garcia said the experience had benefits. “I realized I needed to grow up and become a man. And figure out how to pitch even better.” He must have figured something out, because once he got on the mound for the Roadrunners, he was practically unstoppable. He was, as he put it, “striking out the world.”

And the world heard about it. Major league scouts started showing up at MSU Denver games. In 2016, he signed with the Phillies organization, but as any fan or aspiring major leaguer knows, that doesn’t guarantee a major league career. He bounced around, playing minor league ball for the teams like the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, the Williamsport Crosscutters and the Jersey Shore Blue Claws. Then, in 2022, the Reading Fightin’ Phils — part of the Phillies organization — released him. After six years in the minor leagues, it looked like baseball might be finished with Garcia. But he wasn’t finished with baseball. “I spent the whole summer calling teams,” he said. But few called back. “I was mentally exhausted and I thought my dream had been taken away.” But he didn’t give up. “I kept working, trying to figure out how to be a better pitcher,” he said. Eventually, he signed on with the Kansas City Monarchs, where, he said, he got his confidence back and he found the champion he needed. That champion was Coach Joe Calfapietra, who never stopped working to get Garcia up to the majors. “I owe him everything,” Garcia said. In Denver with the Reds for a late-July series against the Rockies, Garcia stopped by his old MSU Denver athletic complex haunts, signing jerseys and baseballs the University will showcase. He’s loving his new baseball life — but he knows that in the world of competitive Major League Baseball, a player’s status can change with the swing of a bat. “I can’t get comfortable. I just need to continue to pitch well,” he said. “I’m taking it day to day and enjoying every single one.” <

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Let’s celebrate what’s next, together.

Built for What’s Next From alumni receptions and networking opportunities to athletics, the Alumni Awards Luncheon and the annual Roadrunners 5K, Homecoming 2026 is your chance to reconnect with the community that helped shape you. Learn more and get tickets at msudenver.edu/homecoming 38

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PHOTO COURTESY OF EMMY JACOBSON

“We both love to dance, and we wanted to have a big dance party. And what if we can do that and do it for a cause?”

PARTY WITH A PURPOSE mmy Jacobson and Chris Felton had dated just over two years when they decided to commit to a lifetime together. From there, the choice of where to celebrate was obvious: Metropolitan State University of Denver. Jacobson, a 2000 graduate of what is now the Aviation and Aerospace Science Department, built a career in aviation services, and Felton, who attended MSU Denver before embarking on a career in healthcare, wanted to throw a party that was about more than themselves. So, instead of gifts, they asked guests who attended the May gathering to make donations to the University. Most of the money raised will benefit the University’s endowment. But some will pay for the Aeronautics team plane’s annual inspection. MSU Denver Magazine spoke with Emmy Jacobson about the decision, the party and the couple’s tradition of giving back.

What made you decide to have your commitment ceremony at MSU Denver? Chris and I both have ties to MSU Denver. MSU Denver has always been part of our lives together. He actually does a lot of volunteer work as well for MSU Denver, at the (Gina and Frank Day) Health Institute. So, when he asked me to be his life partner, I was like, yeah, let’s do this. We wanted to have a big dance party. And what if we can do that and do it for a cause? We’re both older. We don’t need a new toaster. So, if people want to come to our party, they can give back to the University. Talk a little about that day. What else was important for you and how was the experience? The important part was just to have a gathering of our friends and family. That meant a lot to us. We didn’t stand up there and exchange vows. We actually did that a few weeks prior. But it was very important that my daughter was there to celebrate that with us. She has seen how impactful Chris has been on my life.

All the food was made by the School of Hospitality; we had two kegs of student-brewed beer, and the special drink was a gin concoction Hospitality came up with. We really wanted the attendees to know that this is what they are contributing towards, and people loved the food! Why is giving back so important to you? I guess it was just instilled in me during my childhood and while I was growing up. My great-grandma instilled in her kids that giving back to the community should be one of their priorities. So, observing that, it was like it’s second nature. I would say it kick-started when I became a parent, and I wanted to be involved in her life. But I’ve always been involved, volunteering here and there. I’ve been coming back to MSU Denver to volunteer almost every semester since I graduated. So, it’s just been a part of life. editor’s note: Questions and responses have

been edited for clarity and length.

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class notes

1980s

TERRY BARCUS (B.S. ’82)

Send us your news Are you celebrating a new job, degree, publication, marriage, birth, retirement or other milestone? Scan the QR code or email magazine@msudenver.edu and let us know!

earned a master’s degree in Systems Engineering from Johns Hopkins University and has spent much of his professional life working on air traffic control enterprise architecture initiatives. Most recently, Peraton selected Barcus to lead the effort to upgrade the new air traffic control system in Washington, D.C. ROBERT O’GORMAN (B.S.

’85) has retired after 20 years with Hewlett Packard Enterprise. O’Gorman now lives in Vancouver, Washington, with his wife, Kathleen. 1 LISA DERRICK (B.S. ’89) has worked as a flight instructor and private airline pilot. She is a Seattle-based captain at Horizon Airlines.

Lisa Derrick

1990s BOBBY ANDERSON (B.M.E.

’97) taught music for 25 years in Denver Public Schools, the Cherry Creek School District and the Douglas County School District. After retiring from teaching in 2022, Anderson transitioned to the insurance industry, where he works today.

Jacintha Kruc

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decorative finishes along with new work such as murals and custom architectural finishes. 3

Kathleeen Van Voorhis

ANGELA KELLY (B.A.’99)

is working at Wake Forest University while earning an MBA from Western Governors University.

KATHLEEN VAN VOORHIS,

Ph.D., (B.A. ’09) was named one of Denver Business Journal’s 20 Under 40 in 2025. In 2021, she founded Community Investment Alliance, a nonprofit that has grown into a $2.1 million organization serving communities across Colorado and New Mexico through housing and homelessness initiatives while advocating for policy reform. In the past year, Van Voorhis launched a congregational housing initiative and designed Santa Fe’s only senior bridge housing program.

Education doesn’t end at graduation. As an MSU Denver alum, you can continue investing in your future with a 50% discount on professional development courses through Innovative and Lifelong Learning. Whether you’re looking to advance your career, build new skills or explore a new interest, use promo code MSUALUM50 at checkout when registering for eligible courses.

PAUL MIRTS (B.A. ’91) spent

the past 26 years at Microsoft building a career that allows him to travel and see the world.

2010s MARK TESTROET (B.S. ’11)

2000s MARY O’HALLORAN (B.S. ’06) began her career with the city of Lakewood in February 2003 and now is purchasing supervisor for the Finance Department. 2

JACINTHA KRUC (B.A.

’09) runs Preservation & Decorative Arts, a small Philadelphia studio specializing in the conservation of historic painted surfaces and

is chaplain for the North Dakota State Penitentiary, where he is part of a team committed to transforming lives, influencing change and strengthening community by helping residents identify and overcome the reasons they came to prison. SAMMANTHA J. TILLOTSON

(B.S. ’11), a former student body president and recipient of the Metro State Student Leadership Award, was recently elected partner at BakerHostetler, a national

Explore programs at msudenver.edu/innovativelifelong-learning

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class notes

Socktober

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Treat your feet this October with a gift showing Roadrunner pride down to your toes.

For every gift of $30, you’ll receive one pair of limitededition socks Sock details AND one pair will Name: 0722_Campus Stop_MSU_Ankle Athletic_NT_Proof-01be donated to a Style Code: CS-AA student in need.

sock - DESIGN PROOF

Gender: Unisex

Packaging: Clear Bag Only

Sock DIMENSIONS Sock Cuff: 1.5cm x 7.5cm Foot Length: 23cm

PMS COLORS USED

law firm of more than 1,000 attorneys. She represents clients in high-stakes litigation and coverage matters, and has extensive experience managing complex trial and appellate cases. ANGELO AFANOU (B.S. ’15)

works as a Salesforce and AWS cloud architect, leading large-scale digital projects for federal agencies, state governments and Fortune 500 companies. Most recently, he has overseen architecture and delivery for platforms supporting critical operations, including systems used for hundreds of thousands of Air Force relocations.

LOGO

Get yours at msudenver.me/ socktober-2026 Alexis Campos

MS U DENVER MAGAZ IN E | FA L L 2 02 6

SEAN PETERS (B.S. ’17) opened

Peak View Brewing Co. in 2019, building it into a successful and award-winning brewery before selling it in 2024. In 2022, he rejoined the military as a Medical Service Corps officer with the Air National Guard in Cheyenne, Wyo. Peters also works full time as a healthcare administrator. 4 ALEXIS CAMPOS (B.S. ’18) designed “Waiting in Character,” a conceptual graduation photo series exploring the emotional contradictions of transitioning from college into adulthood and a professional life.

ROADRUNNER

Crossword Send a photo of your completed crossword to magazine@msudenver.edu, along with your name and mailing address. The first 10 responses will receive a pair of MSU Denver + Goodr “Get Rowdy” sunglasses. 17. MSU Denver’s first student resident hall (two words) 18. Longtime editor who launched MSU Denver’s alumni magazine into a full publication (two words)

DOWN 1. Traditional soup recipe found in this issue 3. Organization that drafted Roadrunner baseball player Julian Garcia 4. Last name of Colorado’s current poet laureate and MSU Denver alumnus 5. Hospitality students crafted this beverage for alumni celebration 6. Political Science professor featured for Roadrunner Roosts (two words) 7. Michelin-starred restaurant where alumnus Nicolas Escobedo works 10. MSU Denver Magazine celebrates this milestone anniversary 11. Roadrunner mascot ACROSS 2. Fraternity that inspired Gerardo Villalon to join bone marrow registry (three words) 8. Eyewear company co-founded by alumnus Stephen Lease 9. Inclusive Support Services students earn this credential

12. Aviation and Aerospace alumna featured in “Party with a Purpose” (two words)

11. Fundraising campaign that surpassed $100 million (two words)

13. Airline for which alumna Chresten Wilson became most senior pilot

14. Christine MárquezHudson prefers this East Coast city over Los Angeles (two words)

15. Former Colorado governor who donated his papers to MSU Denver (two words)

16. MSU Denver Women’s Soccer coaches share this name

HINT: Answers can be found in the pages of this issue!

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class notes

Sandra Reisman

Kat Conte, center

Mariely Tellez

5 SANDRA REISMAN (MSW ’18) works with Boulder Housing Partners as part of the Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters program. She also serves as a board member representing low-income residents in Boulder County. 6 MARIELY TELLEZ (B.S. ’19) An experienced mental health and crisis provider, Tellez has published a children’s book, “Adeline La Alpaca.” The story

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teaches the Spanish alphabet and celebrates language, culture and self-discovery while supporting the Spanish-speaking community.

pursue additional professional certifications and licenses.

2020s

KYLER KRAMER (B.S. ’24) works as a high-performance computing support technician for Aspen Systems, providing customer support for government, college and scientific data centers, building and setting up computing clusters, and repairing and replacing defective systems and hardware.

WILLIAM QUINN (B.S. ’20) is working toward his Certified Risk and Compliance Management Professional designation, with plans to

SHARON MICHELS (B.A. ’22) recently moved to San Antonio, Texas, where she works as an accountant.

in memory

KAT CONTE (B.A. ’25) helped lead the MSU Denver Debate Team to a first-place finish at the 2026 Sierra Sustainability Summit, held in Yosemite National Park at the UC Merced research center. Conte, the team’s vice president, competed alongside debate team president Simon Bernhard under the guidance of faculty coach John Rief, Ph.D. Teams were challenged to develop solutions for increasing public access to national parks while prioritizing conservation amid budget cuts. After presenting their proposal to a panel of park system leaders, the MSU Denver team earned the top award, its first victory since the program’s revival in 2019. 7

OGECHI EDOZIEM (B.S. ’23; M.S. ’25) is completing her internship through the Illinois State University Distance Dietetic program and working toward sitting for her Registered Dietitian exam in summer 2026.

Faculty, staff and MSU Denver community members

1960s JAMES SHEETS (B.S. ’67; B.S. ’69)

History Professor

1970s

CHARLES ANGELETTI, Ph.D.,

an MSU Denver faculty member for 50 years who was known for embracing uncomfortable conversations, died June 4 at 87. Angeletti joined the faculty in 1967 and retired in 2017. His legacy includes creating an African American History course and the Urban Interface class, which challenged students to navigate the city with just $1. He also was a Fulbright exchange professor in Turkey during 1997-98 and 2003-04. Angeletti took pride in teaching first-generation college students, veterans, working adults and immigrant families, championing the perspectives and dignity of ordinary people. Family, friends and former students said Angeletti inspired those around him to question everything and never stop asking why. A self-described cynic, socialist, atheist and admirer of the late historian Howard Zinn, his teaching philosophy is described as “history told from below, from the margins, from the mouths of those the textbooks forgot.”

Alumni & Students

MARVIA VALDEZ (B.A.

’68; B.A. ’70) LINDA NIELSEN (B.S. ’72) MARILYN STARRETT (B.A. ’73) GLORIA LUCERO (B.S. ’74) JOEL HUMPHREY (B.S. ’75) BOB HARRELL (B.S. ’77) RICCARDO PACINI (B.S. ’77)

Charles Angeletti

Born in Greenwood, Arkansas, Angeletti earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Tulsa and his doctorate in American Studies from the University of Denver in 1968. His scholarly interests focused on history, world religion and higher education. A devoted fan of Denver sports and the blues, Angeletti’s passions included history, social justice, sports, music, art and a personal library curated to reflect his curiosity about the world. He is survived by his sister, niece, nephew and cat, Wolly.

SANDRA SEADER (B.S. ’77)

1980s JAMES BLACK (B.S. ’82) RONALD COONTZ (B.S. ’82) SCOTT LEE (B.S. ’84) ROSALIE KEITH (B.A. ’85) LILLIAN VELASQUEZ (B.A. ’86) TODD GOLDBERG (B.S. ’88) KURT VAAG (B.S. ’88)

1990s DANIEL FELTEN (B.S. ’90) KRISTIN JOY (B.S. ’90) SCOTT MASON (B.S. ’91) LEE BABCOCK (B.S. ’94) JOHN ANDERSON JR. (B.A. ’95) JOYCE ALLEN (B.S. ’96) CAROLYN ATHERTON (B.S. ’98)

2000s JENNIFER REECE (B.S. ’07)

2010s JANELLE ORSBORN (B.S. ’16)

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roadrunner roosts ROBERT PREUHS, PH.D. Chair of the MSU Denver Political Science Department

BY KA R E N GA RVE Y | P HOTO BY ALYSON Mc CLARAN

1 Poster. Preuhs has been a Wilco fan since the days some members of the band were still best known as “the guys who used to be Uncle Tupelo.” The music fan first saw the then-new band in Chicago in the ’90s. “There were maybe 100 other people there,” he recalled.

Robert Preuhs, Ph.D., has been many places, met many famous people, collected many awards and, not surprisingly for an authority on democracy, politics and public policy, has read many books. The dean of the MSU Denver Political Science Department also has been part of the University long enough — 19 years, to be exact — for evidence of his adventures to be collected and on display in his spacious office.

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2 Bike tire. For Preuhs, cycling isn’t merely a matter of transportation, it’s an art form. Literally. In addition to colorfully painted wheels, his office is home to a framed bicycle chain that does double duty as — if viewed from the correct angle — an outline of a bicycle.

3 Photo. The professor hasn’t always been a tweedy academic chair. Once upon a time, he played football — offensive lineman — for Hamline College in St. Paul, Minnesota. He keeps the evidence in his office, Preuhs said, “mostly to show student athletes they can be students, too.”

4 Memorabilia. cards. Preuhs defies the wrath of Broncos fans by brazenly displaying Green Bay Packers memorabilia — although his prized Bart Starr autograph stays safely at home. “You can take the guy out of Wisconsin, but you can’t take Wisconsin out of the guy, I guess,” he said.

5 Journals. As a young scholar earning his master’s in public policy at the University of New Mexico, Preuhs befriended a professor. When that professor retired, he bequeathed his collection of the professional journal American Political Science Review. Preuhs is now guardian of the journals, which date to 1932.

6 Soap. American politics has always been a rough game. Maybe not as divisive as it is now, but never for the fainthearted. That point is made clear on souvenirs, including the bar of soap that pledges to scrub the White House clean after Bill Clinton leaves.

4 6

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By chef Jennifer Watson, Ph.D., featured in the “Let Them Cook” cookbook by the School of Hospitality at MSU Denver

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

• 2-3 Yukon gold potatoes

1. Peel potatoes, cut into ¾-inch cubes and boil in salt water until tender. Drain and set aside.

• 1¾ cup sauerkraut, drained • 3 bay leaves • 6 peppercorns • 3 allspice berries • 1 yellow onion, medium dice • 1 bratwurst, ¾-inch pieces • 4 strips bacon, medium dice • 2 tbsp butter • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour

2. Squeeze the juice from sauerkraut into a pot. Chop the sauerkraut and add to the pot with peppercorns, bay leaves and allspice. Cover with water and simmer for about 15 minutes. 3. Chop onion, bacon and sausage (or similar meat). In a large pan on medium heat, melt the butter and stir-fry the onion, bacon and sausage. Dust with flour and stir in the cream. 4. Bring to a simmer, then add the mixture to the sauerkraut with boiled potatoes. Add more water if needed, just to cover everything. Simmer for another 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add a little sugar if it’s too sour. 5. Garnish each portion with a minced herb or green of your choice and sour cream.

• Salt and pepper to taste

Pro tip: If you don’t have bratwurst, any European-style sausage will work, or use a nonmeat substitute such as mushrooms, vegan sausage, tempeh or seitan.

• Sugar to taste

.........................

• 1 cup cream or milk

• 2 tbsp sour cream

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SERVES 4

ANDERS BENSON

KYSELICA (Sauerkraut Soup)

Download “Let Them Cook”

ALYSON McCLARAN

PARTING SHOT Members of the MSU Denver Archery Club practice at Bear Creek Lake Park. The club emphasizes accessibility and welcomes archers of all experience levels.

Campus Box 86 P.O. Box 173362 Denver, CO 80217

Every Roadrunner has a story. BirdTalk brings the MSU Denver alumni community to life through engaging conversations and unexpected insights. Every season features a new lineup of accomplished Roadrunners sharing the experiences, lessons and adventures that shaped their journeys after graduation.

Catch up on past episodes and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Listen now at msudenver.edu/alumni/birdtalk