May 2025 Commencement Program by UCCS Marketing & Web Services

University of Colorado Colorado Springs

MAY 16, 2025

SPRING 2025 COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY

10:00 A.M. MORNING CEREMONY ORDER OF EXERCISES — PAGE 14

2:30 P.M. AFTERNOON CEREMONY ORDER OF EXERCISES — PAGE 28

BROADMOOR WORLD ARENA MAP AND SECURITY INFORMATION — PAGE 49

REAL-TIME CAPTIONING

All spoken information during both ceremonies will be captioned and made available to follow along in real time from a personal, mobile device. To access this service and follow along during the ceremony, open the browser on your mobile device and enter the following website: uccs.edu/cc. Please keep in mind that data rates from your personal device may apply. Venue Wi-Fi is not available. Captioning Services provided by: Verbit.ai

May 16, 2025

Congratulations, University of Colorado graduates! Today marks a major milestone in your lives and a tremendous achievement. The entire CU community stands behind you, rooting for your continued success. With your CU degree and the many things you’ve learned during your time here, you’re well-positioned for the future, no matter where life takes you.

You’re now part of an extraordinary network of CU alumni making significant contributions to their communities, the state of Colorado, the nation and the world. Like you, I am a proud CU alum. My education has served me well over the years. I know yours will too.

As you worked hard to reach this moment, you undoubtedly received support from others. I encourage you to pay it forward as you make your way in the world. Helping others – in any capacity – is among the most rewarding and important things you can do in life.

On behalf of the CU community, I wish you great success and fulfillment now and in the years to come. Again, congratulations!

All the best,

Todd Saliman President, University of Colorado

May 16, 2025

Today, the entire university community comes together in celebration of the achievements of the class of 2025. We gather to celebrate your academic success and to honor the extraordinary journeys you have undertaken to reach this pivotal milestone. We are confident UCCS has prepared you to thrive in a complex and fast-changing world.

And we know you have not arrived at this milestone achievement alone. Your peers stand beside you and your support system of family and friends will cheer from the stands.

As you step forth into the world as graduates of UCCS, you carry with you the lessons you have learned both inside and outside the classroom. The knowledge you have acquired here is not merely a set of facts and figures; it is a foundation upon which you will build your future. But remember that learning is a lifelong journey, and your capacity to adapt and grow will be your greatest asset.

Your graduation today is not the end; it is the start of a new chapter filled with endless possibilities. After all, “commencement” means “beginning.” Devote yourselves to becoming lifelong learners and creative problem solvers. And remember to always keep a curious mind.

This is your moment, graduates. I have every confidence that you will continue to make us proud as you embark on the exciting journey ahead. Congratulations, Class of 2025!

With pride and great respect,

Jennifer Sobanet Chancellor

The University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) commits to acknowledging the land on which we reside. We honor our Native Indigenous communities past, present, and emerging, and recognize the original inhabitants and traditional guardians of what is now Colorado Springs.

We honor this land as the ancestral home of the ‘Nuuchiu’, which includes the Northern Ute, the Southern Ute, and the Ute Mountain Ute Peoples. The ‘Nuuchiu’ originally referred to Pike’s Peak as ‘Tava-kaavi’, or Sun Mountain, being the first peak of the Shining Mountains to see the sun’s rays.

We also recognize the many Indigenous Peoples in this region, including the Apache Nation, the Arapaho Nation, the Cheyenne Nation, the Comanche Tribe, and the Kiowa Tribe, and their historical and continuing relationships as stewards of this land.

Land acknowledgments do not exist in the past or as historical context. Colonialism is a current and ongoing practice, and thus we remain mindful of its present impacts. As an institution of higher education, we share the responsibility to actively listen, reflect, and center the histories and lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples.

In community, we will work to dismantle the tragic and oppressive systems that displaced Native Peoples and commit to promoting Indigenous visibility and re-indigenizing our spaces.

CU SYSTEMWIDE LANDS RECOGNITION STATEMENT

As we gather, we honor and acknowledge that the University of Colorado’s four campuses are on the traditional territories and ancestral homelands of the Cheyenne, Arapaho, Ute, Apache, Comanche, Kiowa, Lakota, Pueblo and Shoshone Nations. Further, we acknowledge the 48 contemporary tribal nations historically tied to the lands that comprise what is now called Colorado.

Acknowledging that we live in the homelands of Indigenous peoples recognizes the original stewards of these lands and their legacies. With this land acknowledgment, we celebrate the many contributions of Native peoples to the fields of medicine, mathematics, government and military service, arts, literature, engineering and more. We also recognize the sophisticated and intricate knowledge systems Indigenous peoples have developed in relationship to their lands.

We recognize and affirm the ties these nations have to their traditional homelands and the many Indigenous people who thrive in this place, alive and strong. We also acknowledge the painful history of ill treatment and forced removal that has had a profoundly negative impact on Native nations.

We respect the many diverse Indigenous peoples still connected to this land. We honor them and thank the indigenous ancestors of this place. The University of Colorado pledges to provide educational opportunities for Native students, faculty and staff and advance our mission to understand the history and contemporary lives of Native peoples.

INTERNATIONAL STAGE FLAGS

Displayed on the stage are the flags representing the home countries of our international graduates, alongside the tribal flags of our Native American graduates. These flags symbolize the diverse cultural backgrounds and rich heritage of our graduating students. By featuring these flags on stage, we celebrate the global community represented at UCCS and honor the unique identities and contributions of all our graduates. This display reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that recognizes and values the diverse experiences of each student.

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENTS

In 2009, the UCCS administration decided to showcase a graduate as the main speaker during the Spring Commencement ceremonies. They chose to designate the speaker honor to the recipients of the Student Achievement Award.

The Student Achievement Award is an annual award that has been in existence since 1982. It is presented during the annual Campus Awards Ceremony to two students who have excelled in one or both of the following areas:

• Made a significant personal accomplishment in conjunction with earning a degree (e.g., overcame a personal barrier, or undertook a special student research project)

• Made a substantial contribution to the quality of student life at UCCS (e.g. served with a student organization, launched a new program or group)

This year’s speakers are:

Aiyanna Quinones (10:00 Ceremony)

Aiyanna Quinones is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a minor in Women’s and Ethnic Studies. She has left a lasting mark on campus through her involvement in student leadership, advocacy, and community-building. She has been a passionate voice for equity and inclusion, using her lived experiences and commitment to social justice to guide her work.

Aiyanna has served in several leadership roles, including Speaker of the Senate and Speaker Pro Tempore within Student Government Association. She authored and supported legislation focused on accessibility, student safety, and engagement. She also served as Secretary of the Student Health Advisory Board, working to increase campus wellness resources, including supporting initiatives for access to Narcan and fentanyl test strips.

Aiyanna was an integral member of the Office of Student Life and Leadership, where she worked as a Student Activities Administrative Assistant. She co-founded Clyde’s Clothing Corner, a basic needs initiative that provides students with free access to clothing, and co-organized ClydeCon, a large-scale event that connects students to essential resources. Her leadership also extended to the Black Student Union, the Pride Committee, and Black Health Professionals Student Organization.

Aiyanna also contributed to important cultural and educational conversations on campus, serving as a panelist and speaker for events such as the Club Q Memorial Unveiling, Women’s History Month, and Queerness and Disability panels. Known for her compassion, innovation, and ability to connect with others, Aiyanna is especially proud of her work supporting first-year students as an Engagement Leader—mentoring and welcoming new students with empathy, often alongside her beloved service dog, Ebony.

Madeline Metzger (2:30 Ceremony)

Madeline Metzger is a nursing major, with minors in psychology and leadership studies. Madeline is a member of Chancellors Leadership Class, a prestigious scholarship program that fosters leadership development. Since joining in August 2023, she has excelled in academic and leadership pursuits while maintaining impressive academic standing.

Madeline is deeply involved in campus life. She holds leadership positions in Beth-El Student Ethics Ambassador for Daniels Ethics Fund Initiative Collegiate Program, Community Service Director and Student Government Association, Liasson for the Beth-El Student Nursing Association, Executive Board Member of Students Today Alumni Tomorrow, and President of both the Women’s Student Association and Dancing on the Bluffs.

Madeline chaired the Student Health Advisory Board and serves on the Nursing Student Advisory Council as the student representative of her nursing cohort, as well as Clyde’s Cupboard Student Advisory Board. Her leadership spearheaded initiatives that provide free period products; campaigning to increase the UCCS Wellness Center student fee; expanding access to fentanyl test strips; founding a free, non-need based basic needs resource center, Clyde’s Clothing Corner; and expanding overdose prevention measures.

Madeline’s community involvement extends beyond UCCS, with volunteer work at local nonprofits where she accumulated 730+ service hours. Madeline also worked with Dr. Jennifer Zohn on researching state requirements for continued suicide prevention education for nurses, with plans for poster presentations at international conferences and a manuscript publication in the summer.

With a passion for holistic, research-based medicine, Madeline is eager to pursue a career as a registered nurse and plans to return for her doctorate in nursing practice. As a nurse, she intends to apply all her leadership experience and education to make a positive impact in the field.

MISSION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO

The University of Colorado is a public research university with multiple campuses serving Colorado, the nation and the world through leadership in high-quality education and professional training, public service, advancing research and knowledge, and state-of-the-art health care. Each campus has a distinct role and mission as provided by Colorado law.

(Laws of the Regents, Article 1, Part C. Adopted 02/11/2010.)

MISSION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO COLORADO SPRINGS

The Colorado Springs campus of the University of Colorado shall be a comprehensive baccalaureate and specialized graduate research university with selective admission standards. The Colorado Springs campus shall offer liberal arts and sciences, business, engineering, health sciences, and teacher preparation undergraduate degree programs, and a selected number of master’s and doctoral degree programs.

Colorado Revised Statutes. Senate Bill 11-204. Section 2. 23-20-101 (1) (c) Approved June 10, 2011.

VISION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO COLORADO SPRINGS

UCCS, a premier comprehensive undergraduate and specialized graduate research university, provides students with academically rigorous and life-enriching experiences in a vibrant university community. We advance knowledge, integrate student learning with the spirit of discovery, and broaden access to higher education for the benefit of southern Colorado, the state, nation and world.

Photo by Gabby Hensley, Staff, 2024

From the baccalaureate address by President George Norlin, of the University of Colorado, June 1935. Portrait of University of Colorado President George Norlin taken by Charles Snow, January 27, 1931 Courtesy, CU Boulder Libraries, Collections of Distinction.

“You are now certified to the world at large as alumni of the university. She is your kindly mother and you her cherished sons and daughters.

This exercise denotes not your severance from her, but your union with her. Commencement does not mean, as many wrongly think, the breaking of ties and the beginning of a life apart. Rather it marks your initiation in the fullest sense into the fellowship of the university, as bearers of her torch, as centers of her influence, as promoters of her spirit.

The university is not the campus, not the buildings on the campus, nor the faculties, nor the students of any one time — not one of these or all of them. The university consists of all who come into and go forth from her halls, who are touched by her influence and who carry on her spirit. Wherever you go, the university goes with you. Wherever you are at work, there is the university at work.

What the university purposes to be, what it must always strive to be, is represented on its seal, which is stamped on your diplomas — a lamp in the hands of youth. If its light shines not in you and from you, how great is its darkness! But if it shines in you today, and in the thousands before you, who can measure its power?

With hope and faith, I welcome you into the fellowship. I bid you farewell only in the sense that I pray you may fare well. You go forth, but not from us. We remain, but not severed from you. God go with you and be with you and us.”

We take a moment to orient the Norlin Charge in the context of its history, which includes harmful ideologies that historically plagued our community, state, and nation. We remind ourselves of the values we stand for and the power of education to combat ignorance and hatred. A UCCS degree not only qualifies our graduates to be leaders in their respective fields but is a mandate to positively influence the world and combat negative forces that seek to divide us.

The University of Colorado has used three seals in its lifetime.

The present seal, adopted in 1908, depicts a classical male Greek figure seated against a pillar and holding a scroll. Laurel branches frame a burning torch beside him. The Greek inscription means “Let Your Light Shine.” The seal’s designer, Henry Reed of Denver, chose the classical motif because Greek civilization “stands as the criterion of culture.” The laurel symbolizes honor or success, the youth of the figure suggests the “morning of life,” and the scroll represents written language.

From 1893 to 1908, the university seal was a copy of Wyon’s medallion, “Science Trims the Lamp of Life.” The classical figure of a Greek woman knelt before a lamp and was flanked by mariposa lilies, which President Baker described as “a true Colorado flower.” Before 1893, a seal was used which essentially copies the Colorado state seal. It was never adopted by the Regents. The official seal of the University of Colorado is used primarily on official documents, such as diplomas and transcripts that have been issued on behalf of the university. The Board of Regents uses the seal in transmitting official business.

THE UNIVERSITY SEAL

A campus commencement tradition began in 2008 when the Chancellor’s Chain of Office was created to recognize and celebrate the Chancellors who have led the University of Colorado Colorado Springs since its founding in 1965. The chain was a gift to the university from Kathy Griffith and other campus leaders. Mrs. Griffith worked in the Chancellor’s Office for 30 years – upon her retirement in 2008, and provided the initial gift to create the chain.

The chain is a traditional part of academic regalia that provides recognition at formal events to the person who currently holds the position of chancellor, as well as those who previously filled the role.

The Chancellor’s Chain of Office is connected with the interlocking CU to symbolize campus ties to the University of Colorado System. The words “Chancellor” and “Colorado Springs” surround the chain’s medallion of the university’s seal. The chain includes links denoting the university’s six colleges; it also includes individual links recognizing all UCCS Chancellors.

The Chancellors listed are:

Lawrence Silverman 1974–1977

Don Schwartz 1978–1982

Neal Lane 1984–1986

Dwayne Nuzum 1986–1993

Linda Bunnell Shade 1993–2001

Pam Shockley-Zalabak 2002–2017

Venkat Reddy 2017–2023

Jennifer Sobanet 2023–present

THE CHANCELLOR’S CHAIN OF OFFICE

The tradition of the academic costume began during the twelfth or thirteenth century in the early European universities. Since the clergy composed the majority of the educated class, academic dress is an adaptation of the cape or mantle which was usually of silk or wool and worn by church dignitaries in religious processions.

Through the years, great diversity in color and in style of cap, gown and hood developed. In 1896, the colleges and universities in the United States adopted a uniform code governing academic dress. Today, the black gown, hood, and mortar board worn by the graduates in most institutions follow this code.

While it is not apparent to the casual observer, the gowns worn by the recipients of the various degrees differ somewhat in design. The sleeves of the gown worn by the baccalaureate candidate are long and pointed, while the sleeves of the gown worn by the master’s degree recipients are square at one end with a slit at the elbow. The doctor’s gown has flowing sleeves with three bars of velvet and facing of velvet down the front of the gown.

Those who receive a master’s or a doctoral degree from the University of Colorado wear hoods lined with the school colors, silver and gold. The hood worn by the doctoral candidate differs in design from that of the master’s as it has side panels and is slightly longer. The velvet border of the hood indicates the degree and usually follows the same code as the color of the tassels.

The oxford cap, usually referred to as a mortar board, is black and has a long tassel which is fastened by a button on the top. Candidates for the baccalaureate degree wear the tassel pendant over the right front of the cap before the degree is conferred, then it is worn on the left thereafter.

Cum Laude candidates wear bronze honor cords. Magna Cum Laude and honors candidates wear silver honor cords. Summa Cum Laude and special honors candidates wear gold honor cords. The color of the tassel on the bachelor’s cap indicates the field of study, with the exception of the BA degrees in Letters, Arts & Sciences whose candidates wear white tassels indicating the arts.

DOCTORATE TASSEL COLORS

Doctor of Philosophy Old Gold

Doctor of Nursing Practice ........... Apricot

Executive Doctor of Business Administration . Drab

MASTER TASSEL COLORS

Master of Science/Sciences (Beth-El) Gold

Master of Social Work Citron

Master of Business Administration Sapphire

Master of Criminal Justice ........... Peacock

Master of Public Administration Peacock

Master of Arts (Education) Light Blue

Master of Sciences (Education) Light Blue

Master of Engineering/Science Gold

Master of Arts (LAS) White

Master of Science/Sciences (LAS) Gold

BACHELOR TASSEL COLORS

Nursing Apricot

Health Care Science ................. Green

Social Work

Citron

Business Sapphire

Criminal Justice Peacock

Education Light Blue

Engineering ....................... Orange

Letters, Arts and Sciences White

ASSOCIATES TASSEL COLOR Black

ORDER OF EXERCISES – 10:00 A.M. CEREMONY

College of Education College of Letters, Arts & Sciences

ASHLEY LAWLESS, COMMENCEMENT MARSHAL

UCCS MARSHAL’S CLUB MEMBER*

PROCESSIONAL

Pomp and Circumstance Military March No. 1 in D, Op. 39, No. 1 ... Arranged by Joseph Prostakoff Lecturer/Pianist Kelly McSweeney Zuercher

CEREMONY

Land Acknowledgment Riley Weisenburger, Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology, Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Environmental Studies

Posting of the Colors UCCS ROTC Color Guard

The National Anthem Visual and Performing Arts Graduate Ellie Myers, Major: Theatre, minor in Music, Directed by Instructor Solveig Olsen

UCCS Chancellor’s Welcome

University of Colorado President's Remarks

Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet

President Todd Saliman

Class of 2025 Gift Greg Abukar-Duru

Bachelor of Criminal Justice, minor in Pre-law

Congratulations from 2025 Student Achievement Award Recipient Aiyanna Quinones BA in Sociology

Recognition of the Class of 1975

CONFERRING OF ADVANCED DEGREES (page 15)

Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet

Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet and Academic Deans

Recognition of Honors Graduates Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Lynn Vidler

CONFERRING OF BACCALAUREATE DEGREES (page 18)

Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet and Academic Deans

CONFERRING OF ASSOCIATE DEGREES (page 26) Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Lynn Vidler

Initiation of Graduates into Alumni and Friends Association

Graduate Cesar Gonzalez Students Today Alumni Tomorrow (STAT) Representative

Norlin Charge to the Graduates Regent Ken Montera

RECESSIONAL

Music ....................................... Lecturer/Pianist Kelly McSweeney Zuercher

To view Virtual Ceremony videos, visit commencement.uccs.edu

*The 2013-14 Faculty Assembly created the UCCS Marshal’s Club; the Club selects a Commencement Marshal for each graduation ceremony starting this year going forward.

CANDIDATES FOR ADVANCED DEGREES

MORNING CEREMONY

The following list of candidates for degrees includes students graduating in May 2025.

GRADUATE SCHOOL

Hillary Fouts, Dean

P h D – EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP RESEARCH & POLICY

James Brian Mattox

“STEM Degree Attainment Among Military-Affiliated Undergraduate Students”

P h D – APPLIED SCIENCE

Mohamed Nouri

“The Relationship Between Second Language Proficiency and Second Language Achievement, Years of Study, Language Immersion, and Demographics for Service Academy Cadets”

Outstanding Students of the Year: Ghanem Alatteili, Ally Roxburgh

Ghanem Alatteili (Emphasis in Physics)

“Development of numerical model for spin wave band structures in generic artificial spin ices”

P h D – PSYCHOLOGY

Anna Christine Symington (Emphasis in Clinical Geropsychology)

“Examining the Relationship Between Sleep Disturbance and Depression Moderated by Diabetes and Age”

Alison Hailey Roxburgh (Emphasis in Physics) “Modeling of spin waves in magnetic metamaterials”

Sarah Aileen McInerney (Emphasis in Trauma Psychology)

“Remission of Suicidal Ideation: An Evaluation of Recovery from Suicidal Crisis Using Nonlinear Methods”

*Summer 2025 graduate walking in Spring 2025 ceremony following successful defense of dissertation; internship completion Summer 2024.

COLLEGE OF LETTERS, ARTS & SCIENCES

Constance Staley, Interim Dean

THE DEGREE MASTER OF ARTS IN APPLIED GEOGRAPHY

Samantha Rose Kathleen Bailey

Garrett Alexander Boord

Katherine Anne Lanerie

THE DEGREE MASTER OF ARTS IN COMMUNICATION

Bryan Willaims Becze

Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year: Elizabeth Helen Canright

Elizabeth Helen Canright

Marissa Deborah-Ann Cardenas

Lauren Rose Corarito

Kate Hedlund

Cameron Michael Kennedy

Sasha Brooke Miller

Alicia Vanlandingham

Jennifer Joy Wilkinsin

THE DEGREE MASTER OF ARTS IN HISTORY

Outstanding Graduate Students of the Year: Tara Lynne Sarah Harvey, Zachary Henson, Bradley Joseph White

Frank Carber

Craig Daniel Cormier

Kaitlyn Marie Hanson

Tara Lynne Sarah Harvey

Zachary Henson

Laura Risheill

Erin Marie Rogers

Cody J. Saunders

Bradley Joseph White

THE DEGREE MASTER OF ARTS IN PSYCHOLOGY

Outstanding Graduate Students of the Year: Britta M. Beck, Christina Delmar Lopez Gonzalez, Zara Kenigsberg, Paige Danielle Klein, Samantha Leslie Umland

Clarissa Elise Ashton

Brigitta M. Beck

Katelyn Marie Bindbeutel

Moussa Bel-Hadj Diarra

Joseph Aaron Bono

Lani L. Harris

Zara Kenigsberg

Paige Danielle Klein

Tess Jean Leftwich

Christina Delmar Lopez Gonzalez

Cynthia Mallette

Elli MacLean Spanier

Samantha Leslie Umland

THE DEGREE MASTER OF ARTS IN SOCIOLOGY

Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year: Katy Ann Patterson

Katy Ann Patterson

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN APPLIED MATHEMATICS

James William Martin

Outstanding Graduate Students of the Year: Sean Redlinger

Sean Allan Redinger

Melanie Linda Schmocker

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCES IN BIOLOGY

Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year: Ashley Marie DeGeorge, Abigail Lynn Shultz

Ashley Marie Degeorge

Heron Lenz

Abigail Lynn Shultz

Michael Brandon Titus

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCES IN BIOCHEMISTRY

Julia Franziska Baroth

Ana Barovic

Jennifer Burrows

Abigail Ann Senne

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCES IN CHEMISTRY

Laurique Nicole Hughes

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN ECONOMICS

Jaylen Christopher Blount

Elisia Kay Collins, With Distinction Presley Cooper

Cesar Ramon Gonzalez

Blaise David Jay

Edson Jair Madrid

Shea Daniel Marko

Nathaniel Lee Ruiter

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN ENGLISH

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: McKenna Argo, Spencer Cearlock, Alex Keyston, Kate Marlett, Brenna Martin, Lea Partipilo, Jamie Villarreal

Amelina Serwaa Akoto

McKenna Annmarie Argo***, With Honors

Emma Grace Bartlett

Kristian Hunter Ryou Beech*

Janel Patricia Beedle

Jenna Marie Brewer

Abigail Marie Brooks

Lauren Elizabeth Castellon*

Spencer Jameson Cearlock**, With Honors

Lian Marion Chase

Ireanee Grace Deveyra**, With Honors

Courtney Patrick Fisher

Emma Gilman

Nicholas Ray Grobecker**

Angelica Ann Guevara**, With Honors

Tristan B. Hinkley

Mandy Lucile Horvath

Brianna Jackson*

Tiauna Jones

Alexandra Keyston**, With Honors

Nathan Lamar Schmidt Love**, With Honors

Kate Evelyn Marlett***, With Honors

Brenna Ashlyn Martin**, With Honors

Madelyn Abigail Mayer

Clay James McDonald***

Ruby Anahi Medina*

Joseph Gunhyung Pak

Lea M. Partipilo***, With Honors

Lauren Elizabeth Pauly**, With Honors

Mason Peters**, With Honors

Trinity Elaine Ross

Hailey Marie Shoemaker**, With Honors

Dakota Smith*

Lindsey Nicole Unger

Brandi M. Villagrana**

Jamie Marie Villarreal***, With Honors

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN GEOGRAPHY AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: Andrew Lee Haworth, Grace Long, Isabella Schuster, Destiny Thurman, Rebeckah Vaughn

Kelsey Bailes***

Jaimie Brooke Boese-Rhinesmith*

Rachel Veronica Bump*

Jeramy Byrd

Emma Faith Dahl**

Mae Faglier**

Andrea M. Freeland

Gabriel Garcia

Holden Jon Gellner

Andrew Lee Haworth***

Nicole McLean Jackson

Brynna Sheridon Krause

Ashton Michael Longwell

Rory Shotlow Nixon*

Henry Scott Pullen**

Cheyenne N. Rosinski

Robert Richard Schoendorf

Isabelle Schuster***, With Honors

Edward Peter Sutherland

Destiny Nichole Thurman***

Aysha Semira Turner

Michaela Lynn Vacco

Rebekah Noel Vaughan

Riley Weisenburger***

Mitchell Ralph Wright**

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN HISTORY

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: Paetyn Grace Burrell, Noelle Calhoun, Kyle A. Frakes, Matthew Hunter Reese

Haylee Badgley**

Samirah Gabrielle Badillo

Daniel Christopher Bolding***

Richmond John Boone

Jaedyn Nam Hee Brown

Paetyn Grace Burrell***

Noelle Calhoun***

Quincy Wayne Campbell

John Alexander Cinnamon**

Kedrick Anthone DeWeerd*

Riggs Michael DeYoung

Grace Ann Doehler*

Kyle A. Frakes***

Lillian Sarah Gumpf***

Lucas Christopher Hansen

Jane E. Houchin

Jacob David Isue**

Alfonso LuDell Jones

Samuel Martin Jones

Jenna Laber

Avery Elizabeth Lamson

Andrew William Le Laurien Laurie**

Dawn Marie Manley***

Chastity Victoria Montalvo**

Jane E Radzanowski

Matthew Hunter Reese***

Andrew Steven Russo

Cole J. Seyller

Jazel Cherie Speights

Jordan Sutton

Katelynn Lee Tillery

Emily Laneice Vidal**

Explanation of Honors: *Cum Laude - 3.5 - 3.69; **Magna Cum Laude - 3.7 - 3.89; ***Summa Cum Laude - 3.9 or above

Latin Honors are calculated based on a student’s CU Cumulative GPA. For the commencement ceremony, including honor cords and the program, final semester grades may not be included in this calculation. Latin Honor designations are recalculated once all grades are posted and will be displayed on official diplomas and transcripts.

THE DEGREE BACHELOR

Kristian Hunter Ryou Beech*

Abigail Katharin Cotner, With Honors

Joshua L. Abernathy**

Noah Cardozo

Jadon Neil Cruzan***

OF ARTS IN INTERDISCIPLINARY

Lark Qing Davis**

Gilbert Anthony Griego

STUDIES

Kelly Denise Scott*** Annaleisa Rebekah Valela***

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN MUSIC

Aaron Kevin Gohkle

Cooper Benjamin Gorospe***

Laura Jill Stephens

Akyl Jahi Wilburn

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN PHILOSOPHY

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: Mustafa Al Shihab, Maria Bianca Alcala

Mustafa Al Shihab

Maria Bianca Alcala*

Jaedyn Nam Hee Brown

Juliana Egan**

Brenner B. Gollier*

Alexandra Nicole Haygood**

Tierney Racheal Helberg

Veronica Anne Lucchesi*

Madelyn Abigail Mayer

Samantha Padgett

Jacob Ian Peterson

John Paul Ryan

Caden Lee Salladay***

Solielh Starks

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN POLITICAL SCIENCE

Outstanding Undergraduate Students Award: Lauren Pauly, Caden Salladay

Alissa Marie Beehler**

Nathan Tyler Breban

Crystal Marie Caruana***

David Embrey

Ewan Lee Estrada-Tsosie**

Felice Carolina Henderson***

Abigail Katelyn Kinsey*

Joshua Lanier

Lacy Elizabeth Leichty**

Veronica Anne Lucchesi*

Elizabeth Michael

Isabella Marie Miteff*

Maleni Munguia

Lauren Elizabeth Pauly**

Jesse Paul Liberty Pearson, University Honors***

Caden Lee Salladay

Aliyah Danielle Sarber

Liam Peter Sheridan

Danielle Torres*

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN PSYCHOLOGY

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: Karen Ahumada Villanueva, Makenzie Lauren Baca, Gabby Andrea Faggionato, Caleb Roger Moyer

Karen Ahumada Villanueva***, With Honors

Susana Cristina Almeida-Fife**

Alissa Elena Amoroso***

Costiana J. Aragon-Vasquez*

Ashley Jordan Arno**

Makenzie Lauren Baca**, With Honors

Andrew Bates

Michelle B Bennett*

Campbelle Olivia

Michele Blomquist***

Irene Yifuyou Bombria***

Celyn Paige Bourdeau***

Evan L. Bowers

R. Blake Briggs

Mia Brue***

Lauren Nicole Burns**

Carson Kai Burrage

Abigail Burton**

Jenna Kay Caldwell***

Annalise Mary Carr***

McKayla E Chavez

Shine Myung Choe***

Benjamin Christ***

Victoria Joy Christensen**

Serenity Collier

Courtney Cook**

Shelby Cornett

Shaina Rhianne Courtney**

Jacob Dane

Katarzyna Dziewiecien***

Madison Renea Edmonds**

Juliana Egan**

Jazz-Rae Einette-Rose Escribano

Gabrielle Andrea Faggionato***, With Honors

Kaylin W. Finch

Matthew Marshall Frank***

Abigail Amanda Frisbie

Brenner B. Gollier*

Lexi Cassandra Gonzales

Explanation of Honors: *Cum Laude - 3.5 - 3.69; **Magna Cum Laude - 3.7 - 3.89; ***Summa Cum Laude - 3.9 or above Latin Honors are calculated based on a student’s CU Cumulative GPA. For the commencement ceremony, including honor cords and the program, final semester grades may not be included in this calculation. Latin Honor designations are recalculated once all grades are posted and will be displayed on official diplomas and transcripts.

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN PSYCHOLOGY cont

Zachary Groffman*

Samantha Claudia Guerrero***

Jyoti Gurung

Reagan Lauren Hagerty*

Ashley Elizabeth Hale*

Valerie Hernandez**

Neena Holmes

Bryn Alister Horner***

Jade Laabs

Sara Lanham***

Jonelle Verna Lanoue

Jean Paul Laurenceau**

Dana Lefkowitz***

Stephen Randolph Lorenz

Lydia M. LoSasso

McKenna Kymberly Love**

Alejandra Magallanes*

Elizabeth Camille Mairs

Alyssa Maria Martinez*

Madelyn Lois McCollum

Seth Aubrey McLaney*

Abigail Cree Miska

Ivonne Molina

Elisa Giuray Montgomery**

Caleb Roger Moyer***, With Honors

Antonio Mozian

Helena Ngoah

Olympia C. Nye***

Emily Aaliyah Orozco

Julie Romela O’Toole

Nicholas Michael Paczolt

Pat Pakkarato

Megan Parker*

Sky’Ler Trenity Patterson

Alexis Marie Patton*, With Honors

Adrienne Olivia Payne***

Cristal Pena Jaramillo

William Scott Pollard

William Anthony Pranchak

Katie Preciado

Stanley George Prince

Galilea Rico**

Alicia J. Ross***

Mikayla Danae Ross

Samuel Vincent Rubio

Jackson Blake Russelavage***

Alyssa Russell*

Gabriella Samsel

Emma Scheibe

Mackenzie Jo Schleiff*

Shyanne Rene Jean Shea*

Nikkia Quowshawn Sherry

Avishi Singh***

Leilani Sumay Sloan

Courtney Smith**

Amaya Estefana Snowden

Hazzel Somoza Palacios

Sydney Rosetta Spieker

Robert Arthur Stahl**

Solielh Starks

Emily Alessandra Stewart*

Denise Stiles

Mackenzie Lira Swain

Justin Curtiss Tasca**

Lizbeth Ubiera

Jaime Lynn Valdez**

Daniella Antoinique Van Der Merwe

Melissa Walker

Briar Cole Webb***

Meghan Lucille Weiss**

Angelique Jakaiyah Niaomi Weston***

Jasmine Vivian-Leigh Williams*

Makaila Woller

Logan Heath Young

Andrew Yun

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN SOCIOLOGY

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: Karen Ahumada Villanueva, Yesenia Cruz Garduno, Tahirah Jackson,Aiyanna Quinones, Morgan Serafun

Karen Ahumada Villanueva

Anahí Mililani Aken

Hailey K. Bohn

Brenden Patrick Carroll

Serenity Collier

Yesenia Cruz Garduno**

Gabriela Marie Flores

Nicole Ann Grady***

Alexus Hargrove

Tahirah Jackson**

Alyssa Maria Martinez*

Haylei Miller

Jaliyah Zsavaun Phillips*

Sekina Lynette Phillips

Aiyanna Marissa Quinones*

Cristal Ayleen Reyes

Morgan Renee Serafin**

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN SPANISH

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: July Davila Jimenez, Ella Marie Simon

July I. Davila Jimenez

Ella Marie Simon

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN TECHNICAL COMMUNICATION AND INFORMATION DESIGN

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: Monica Gecozo Dinh, Taylor GraceKey

Monica Gecozo Dinh***, With Honors

Jenna Foster

Taylor Grace Key***, With Honors

Amez Azad Khidr*

Monica Montoya

Peyton Ochs*

Conner Patric Spangler*

Megan Grace Stehle

Explanation of Honors: *Cum Laude - 3.5 - 3.69; **Magna Cum Laude - 3.7 - 3.89; ***Summa Cum Laude - 3.9 or above

Alissa R. Ervin**, With Distinction

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BIOCHEMISTRY

Kaleb Tilahun Fekade***, With Distinction

Ciara Marie Gavin***, With Distinction

Carlos Gabriel Gonzalez Cruz**, With Distinction

Joseph Richard Hamilton***

Emma Jo Harvey

Taylor Rae Hutter*

Logan Andrew Jones*

Morgan Kathryn Lee**, With Honors

Summer K. Levis*, With Distinction

Khoi Quoc Minh Nguyen*

Alexander David Ruiz

Avishi Singh***, With Honors

Sophia Rose Slane

Isaiah Dominic Solorio

Alexa Leanne Unger***, With Honors

Cynthia Alexis Vino**, With Distinction

Samuel Bryant Welch

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BIOLOGY

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: Marissa Kayla Benavidez, Paul Dang, Kiana Mizuki Kirkham, Khoa Nguyen

George E. Adeyelu

Anja Vanessa Allenspach**

Gina Marie Anderson

Isabella Grace Anderson

Savannah Lynn Barrett

Marissa Kayla Benavidez**

Zachary Adam Berghorst

Ailea A. Blahm

Adrianna Iris Blickhan

Audrey Marie Bono, University Honors**

Meghan Renee Brown

Corey Grayson Cartrette**

Mila M. Cook*

Misty Jenell Cordova

Quiana Coria-Lopez

Morgan Elizabeth Cox

Kate Aaleah Cronin**

Matthew Scott Curtis**

Tiba Sabah Hussein

Mohmmed Daffaie

Paul Dang***

Tristan Kendrick Dwyer

Azahra Dakota Forst**

Jonathan Gachuzo Gonzalez

Ciara Marie Gavin***

Sair Reese Gavzy

Danielle Hayes**

Cody Joseph Johnson**

Kian Mohammad Kazemi

Lauren M. Kennedy*

Gabrielle Nicole Kern*

Kiana Mizuki Kirkham***

McKenzie Madge LeBlanc

Madilyn Heddie Lee**

Jazmin Lopez**

Dasha Magar

Jake Aaron Marcotte*

Emely Medrano Yanez

Briana Skye Mesa**

Ashley M. Nguyen

Khoa Nguyen***

Alexa Jolie Pietrzak**

Gabriel Antonio Prada

Madison Shae Pugh

Cody E. Reed

Quinn Alan Reynolds**

Tatyana Alexys Rogers

Amber Kathleen Salinas

Jacquelynn Jae Siefken

Annalee Rose Sigel

Courtney Smith**

Nicholas Smith

Kenneth Nikolai Stammer

Margaret Lynn Krinke Thompson

Reece Madelyn Wagers**

Andrew Austin Williams

Spencer Kenneth Wright**

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CHEMISTRY

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Kailene Fae Black

Kailene Fae Black***, With Honors

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MATHEMATICS

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: Mark Stevenson, Kenny Takada

Karen Castañeda

Amara Rae Demetrelis*

Mathis Mege

Catalina Aurora Saenz Moheit*

Addison Myles

Mark Joseph Stevenson***

Kenneth Andrew Takada***

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICS AND ENERGY SCIENCE

Warren Brokaw

Buddy Diamond

Hope Grudle

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: Lawrence Scarfuri, Hannah Taff

Noah Knight Harris**

Nikodemos Hughes, With Disinction

Chris Matthews**

Tyler James Nagle

Lawrence Aleksandr Scafuri***

Hannah Karla Taff***

Explanation of Honors: *Cum Laude - 3.5 - 3.69; **Magna Cum Laude - 3.7 - 3.89; ***Summa Cum Laude - 3.9 or above

CANDIDATES FOR ASSOCIATE DEGREES

MORNING CEREMONY

Clover Rose Bernard

Heather Louise Brooks

Joseph Philip Cavanaugh

Alexandria Christensen

Alexander Denney

Holly Fleming

Sydney-Mae Ruth Hanks

Matthew Humphrey

Patrick Russell McClellan

Sierra Andrea Moreno

Jesse Mackenzie Reynolds

Genea Trieste Williams

Associate of General Studies degree: UCCS welcomes the third class of Associate of General Studies degree recipients to these Commencement exercises, as part of the State of Colorado Re-Engaged (CORE) Initiative. The CORE Initiative enables four-year higher education institutions to award earned associate degrees to eligible former baccalaureate students who have met specific criteria including the course requirements defined by the four-year institution. https://cdhe.colorado.gov/students/attending-college/colorado-re-engaged-core-initiative

DISTINGUISHED

Stephanie Finley Fortune

The Colorado University Board of Regents presents awards the Distinguished Service Award to recognize those whose achievements and contributions are particularly associated with the state and/or nation. Stephannie Finley Fortune has been posthumously given this award to honor her remarkable contributions to UCCS, Colorado, and the nation.

Fortune served in the White House as a member of George H.W. Bush’s advance team and on Capitol Hill working for Congressman Scott McGinnis. She later served as chief of staff for Colorado Lt. Gov. Jane Norton.

At the University of Colorado Colorado Springs, she held roles as director of State Government Relations and executive director of University Partnerships and Advocacy. Fortune’s leadership was instrumental in securing the $120 million City of Champions award for Colorado Springs and the Memorial Hospital lease with UCHealth.

Her community involvement included roles with the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce, United Way, the Colorado Springs Conservatory and as an elected member of the Colorado Springs City Council.

Fortune received numerous accolades, including the 2009 and 2012 Person of Influence awards from the Colorado Springs Business Journal and the Girl Scouts Woman of Distinction award.

Fortune posthumously received the UCCS Alumni and Friends award in 2024 as recognition of her volunteerism and philanthropy that created community pathways to higher education through mentorship and workforce readiness programs.

Since her death from cancer in 2023, her service and leadership is greatly missed, and her legacy won’t be forgotten.

ORDER OF EXERCISES – 2:30 P.M. CEREMONY

Helen and Arthur E. Johnson Beth-El College of Nursing and Health Sciences College of Business and Administration College of Public Service College of Engineering and Applied Science

DR. MONICA FUREY, COMMENCEMENT MARSHAL

UCCS MARSHAL’S CLUB MEMBER*

PROCESSIONAL

Pomp and Circumstance Military March No. 1 in D, Op. 39, No. 1 ... Arranged by Joseph Prostakoff

Lecturer/Pianist Kelly McSweeney Zuercher

CEREMONY

Land Acknowledgment Kane Ruiz, Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

Posting of the Colors ......................................... UCCS ROTC Color Guard

The National Anthem Visual and Performing Arts Graduate Ellie Myers, Major: Theatre, minor in Music, Directed by Instructor Solveig Olsen

UCCS Chancellor’s Welcome .................................

Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet

Class of 2025 Gift ................................................. Greg Abukar-Duru Bachelor of Criminal Justice, minor in Pre-law

Congratulations from 2025 Student Achievement Award Recipient Aiyanna Quinones BA in Sociology

Presentation of Distinguished Service Award to Stephanie Finley Fortune, poshumously ..........................

Recognition of the Class of 1975

CONFERRING OF ADVANCED DEGREES (page 29)

Regent Illana Dublin Speigel

Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet

Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet and Academic Deans

Recognition of Honors Graduates Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Lynn Vidler

CONFERRING OF BACCALAUREATE DEGREES (page 34)

Initiation of Graduates into Alumni and Friends Association ...........

Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet and Academic Deans

Graduate Cesar Gonzalez Students Today Alumni Tomorrow (STAT) Representative

Norlin Charge to the Graduates .................................... Regent Elliott Hood

RECESSIONAL

Music

Lecturer/Pianist Kelly McSweeney Zuercher

To view Virtual Ceremony videos, visit commencement.uccs.edu

*The 2013-14 Faculty Assembly created the UCCS Marshal’s Club; the Club selects a Commencement Marshal for each graduation ceremony starting this year going forward.

HELEN AND ARTHUR E. JOHNSON BETH-EL COLLEGE OF NURSING AND HEALTH SCIENCES

Kevin Laudner, Dean

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ATHLETIC TRAINING (MSAT)

Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year: Rosemary Morrissey

Ellen Joanne Adams

Margaret Bernadette Baird

Jennifer Mary Anderson

Brittany Dawn Bove

Christine Cabalic

Kristin Chizmar

Marie DeShazo

Jacqueline Rachel Fell

Annabel Gonzalez

Brittany Gorham

Erin Conley Harner

Yvette Beltran Guzman

Joshua YongXin Loh

Kyra Marylee Miles

Rosemary Morrissey

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING

Brad Matthew Hertzog

Kayla Jean Jones

Kristen Mary Lendt

Nicole Marie Martin

Laura Ashley Mash

Haley Miller

Erin Hope Norris

Kristi Lynn Ogren

Ubaka David Ojiba

Marcelle Yvette Owens

Mary Baird Sebes

Lisa Marie Stephens

Nino Nguyen Sykes

Michele J. Voss

Erin Marie Wyatt

Madeline Rae Yaffe

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCES IN APPLIED PHYSIOLOGY

Naomi Janelle Bram

Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year: Naomi Janelle Bram

Skye Ciccarelli

Katie Rainsberger

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCES IN HEALTH PROMOTION

Outstanding Graduate Students of the Year: Luka Cecic, Valerie Colvard, Lana Denise Gomez

Luka Cecic

Valerie Colvard

Lana Denise Gomez

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCES IN NUTRITION AND DIETETICS

Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year: Jennifer Swendsen

Valentina Helena Vanessa Fey

Laurel Hagen

Clark E. Moats

Tia Christine Muilenburg

Madison Platt

Jennifer Swendsen

Kyrsten Adrianna Taylor

Jordyn Danae Van Hee

Morgan Alexis Van Houten

COLLEGE OF PUBLIC SERVICE

Jonathan Caudill, Interim Dean

THE DEGREE MASTER OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Danna Paola Ceja

Caitlin Mae Cunningham

Caroline Rose Marquez Galetti

Brianna Garcia-Decime

Amy E. Ghrayyeb

Zachary Allen Hill

Robert Mark Morley

Abigail Nicole Tillman

Maggie Mae Valdens

Blessings Renee Wilkerson

THE DEGREE MASTER OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION

Outstanding Graduate Student Awards: Tamara Saunders, Renee Wilkerson

Dillon Diego Lasalle Andrews

Pattie Lynn Benger

Aaron S. Esparsen

Evan Ryan Fields

David Charles Grusch

Shawn Elizabeth Hood

Mitchell Dean Howard

Dorothy Elizabeth Huber

Shannon Sue Rishky

Tamara Saunders

Abigail Nicole Tillman

Blessings Renee Wilkerson

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK

Outstanding Graduate Student Awards: Kate Taylor, Aaron Vitone

MacKenzie Allen

Nakeon Barrow

Chloe Beaubien

Casey Jeanette Beyer

William Charles Bluejacket

Lillian Brown

Sarah Bouchard

Antrod Campbell

Amy Carlson

Perla Gwyneth Chavira

Jon Clark

Tracey Lynn Coppock

Carrie Fay Cornish

Stephen R. Crahan

Charissa Maria Czarniawski

Michelle P. Erwin-Pohl

Kyle-Leigh Shawnte Fitzwater

Victoria Leigh Fobes

Ashlynn Michelle Garcia

Tara Gardner

Nicole Hill

Kara Allison Gilbert

Daniel Greenberg

Emmagin Goldman

Christopher Steven Harrison

Megan Harrison

Olivia Kimberley Hernandez

Jocelyn Hernandez Garcia

Par Hnem

Makayla Shakara Hollifield

Amanda Johnson

Sydney Marie Johnson

Zoe Nicole Jumper

Lilly Anne Kelkenberg

Ketti Lane Lemon

Calli Ann McNabb

Faith LeAnne McNitt

Kierra Audrey Nash

Teemaeh Huynh Ngo

Kellyn Louise Orick

Madison Pellow

Jacob Peiffer

Destiny Ann Robinson

Jaeleen Raeann Rodriquez

Shelly Rena Sieligowski

Ava Marie Simone

Maverick Samson Sipili

Kaylee M. Snyder

Aubrey Tamietti

Kaitlin Marie Taylor

Paige Taylor

Kyle D. Toon

Anyssa Lizette Vela

Madison Vickroy

Aaron Mark Vitone

Mattelyn Wadley

Marley Jean Waltert

Katelyn Werner

Lexi Rae Williams

Russell Williams

Lily Amanda Zarecky

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND APPLIED SCIENCE

Ying Shang, Dean

THE DEGREE MASTER OF ENGINEERING | CYBERSECURITY

Pranav Chandramouli

Dalton James Fowler

Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year: Kiley Zytka

Sourav Purification

Kiley Zytka

THE DEGREE MASTER OF ENGINEERING | ENGINEERING MANAGEMENT

Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year: Aaron James Sutherlin

Sarat Chandra Chakravadhanula

Aaron James Sutherlin

THE DEGREE MASTER OF ENGINEERING | SPACE OPERATIONS

Jeffrey Christian Deutsch

Tayera Ellis

Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year: Agnes Kobusinge

Nathaniel Robert Essington

John Guenther

Agnes Kobusinge

Frank Rafael Molinari

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE | GAMES AND MEDIA INTEGRATION

Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year: Connor Wilson

Connor Wilson

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE

Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year: Alexander Joseph Herman

Mohan Kumar Baleathiguppe

Chandrashekar

Aditya Bisoyi

Alexander Joseph Herman

Anuranjan Jakku

Raja Raghunadh Chowdary Kantheti

Sherman Douglas Kettner

Zhenyu Lin

Rohit Menon Cherubala

Naga Basi Reddy Nanduluri

Emily Lienhua Ng

Eugene Saghi

Khushali Samderiya

Gouthami Sanugomula

Sai Girish Reddy Vadlathala

Dillon Wilson

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

Chris Tota

THE DEGREE MASTER OF SCIENCE IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Taylor Nicole Phair

Autumn Reed

#Degree was awarded at UCCS Summer/Fall Commencement, December 2024.

CANDIDATES FOR BACCALAUREATE DEGREES

AFTERNOON CEREMONY

The following list of candidates for degrees includes students graduating in May 2025.

HELEN AND ARTHUR E. JOHNSON BETH-EL COLLEGE OF NURSING AND HEALTH SCIENCES

Kevin Laudner, Dean

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN EXERCISE SCIENCE

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: Claudia Catherine Bennett, Meagan Elizabeth Brones

Cheri Allen*

Davis Joseph Barill

Claudia Catherine Bennett

Meagan Elizabeth Brones**

Isabella Melinda Brooker*

Jasmine Imani Cole

Savannah M. Coleman**

Justin Condit

Jasmine Marie Costa*

Remington Craghead

Dylan Scott Davis*

Iris Cecile Eisele

Roman Ortivez Evangelista**

Alexander Fernandez

Brad Daniel Fonck

Adrianna Lee Garcia

Brittney Glanville

Ashlyn Graves

Jace William Graves***

Samantha Grace Jackson**

Margaret Kathryn Hostein Jenkins

Grace Ruth Anna Kissinger

Alexandra Avery LaGrasta**

Gustav Nii Tetteh Lomotey

Nathan Mejia

Taylor Mohler**

Edith Morrow,

University Honors**

Brooke Moss*

Cheyenne Jean Murphy***

Joshua S. Noble

Cora Marie Petersen

Scott Petersen**

Megan E. Rehders**

Raul Alejandro Rivera**

Abner David Rodriguez-Reyes

Ashlee Wilder Rowley***

Isaiah Kahekili Siaris

Mitchell Steele*

Katherine Tansill**

Ariane Torres Peralta

Kaitlyn M. Townsend

Cam Dinh Tran

Zackary Washco

Austin Michael Webster

Hazel Anna Wright

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN HEALTH CARE SCIENCE

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Katherine Rene Mullett

Kylie L. Allen

Suraya Nicole Asfar*

Reilly Jane Babcock

Renzel Roe Auguis Bautista

Kelly Noel Cox

Mackenzie Brooke Davis***

Adrianne Del Castillo***

Mariela Escarcega

Ava Lynn Goodnature**

Zoe Hartfield*

Mathew Hensley**

Hoang Phuong Vy Ho

Brittany Lynn Houdeshell

Gage Ilias Katrana

Emma Brianna Kurtz**

Jadyn Olivia Le Doux*

Hannah Shea Marden

Chelsea Odaakoor Claire Mills

Katherine Rene Mullett***

Alyssa Abygail Munoz

Hannah Rowena Siethoff*

Junnell Martinez Tolentino***

Riley Elizabeth Webb**

*Cum Laude - 3.5 - 3.69; **Magna Cum Laude - 3.7 - 3.89; ***Summa Cum Laude - 3.9 or above Latin Honors are calculated based on a student’s CU Cumulative GPA. For the commencement ceremony, including honor cords and the program, final semester grades may not be included in this calculation. Latin Honor designations are recalculated once all grades are posted and will be displayed on official diplomas and transcripts.

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY AND NUTRITION

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Madison Marie Kafel

Cameron Edward Anderson**

Chaelin Jae Aurand**

Elvis Kwame Bogyah

Kathryn Elisabeth Bond, University Honors**

Emelia Arden Hall

Ethan Scott Heflen**

Albert Lamar Hicks*

Rebekkah Jewel Huertas**

Madison Marie Kafel**

Alyssa Francesca Lopez

Vadim Olegovich Onishchuk*

Autumn Rose Rybarczyk, University Honors**

Alexandra M. Rydland**

Andrew Mahmood Salek

Kadeejah Nisa Santiago*

Deanna Seng*

Katahna Leigh Swank

Avery Malia Waters***

Emilee Elise Wells

Kyle J. Wertz**

Aidan White*

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NURSING

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: Abigail Barhydt, Avery Faith Somma, Sanavi Sindhu Pillai

Parker Eli Adam***

Cynthia Amos**

Kalob Owen Amrine***

Susanna Argue**

Emilia Ataian**

Iman Azhar Atkins**

Karla Avila Gutierrez*

Kristin Babb***

Abigail Barhydt***

Kyra Bridgette Beck***

Mary Grace Bell***

Aidan Ryan Bewley*

Kagney Alexandra Bird***

Hanah Keren Samson Blakely**

Christopher Joseph Bocci*

Ryen Ashley Bonfield***

Kindle Jane Bongibault**

Natalie Claire Bozeman**

Samantha Carriere**

Claire Cartwright*

Kelsey Grace Chu*

Sophia Victoria Clements**

Brooklyn Malea Coddington***

Haylie Nicole Crosby*

Zara De La Torre*

Kyli Mei Decker**

Jeremy Kyle Denning**

Angel I. Dominguez***

Miciah Anthony Donahoo**

Carolyn Aspen Drake*

Sarah Elliott**

Courtney Jo Ferris**

Madison Nicole Fontenot***

Karly Fountain***

Elena Franco

Mary Leann Grace Fremont**

Anthony Paul Gsell*

Courtney Sue Ann Hajde**

Lauren A. Hoerl*

Winda Gyliana Hood**

Abigail Paige Humphries*

Grace Hannah Imel**

Grace Ingebritson***

Juana Jaime Duran

Katherine Jean Joiner**

Julia Lee Klinefelter**

Amanda Kathleen Koos*

Oliver B. Krell***

Jasmine Laube***

Dion Marek Leclaire***

Samya Lepko*

Leikela Josephine Lunt**

Bharati Mahat**

Joyce Stefanny Marquez***

Karissa Martinez**

Maesa Lyn May**

Amber Amanda McClintock**

Christian Michael McCoy*

Tawnie Natalia Medina*

Madeline Michelle Metzger**

Samantha Marie Montgomery

Jennifer Mortensen**

Ana Cecilia Mota Rodriguez***

Kris Alan Moyer

Madeleine Keely Neider*

Sage Elizabeth Nelson**

Chloe Elizabeth Null**

Rachel Yemeserach Pacheco

Sanavi Sindhu Pillai*

Raisyaidina Anindya Pratama***

Jessica Ramos*

Christina Sophie Ravelojaona,

University Honors**

Jessica Lynn Rittenhouse**

Antonio Alberto Rivera

Leslie Rodriguez**

Jacob Lawrence Schott***

Grace Caroline Schrock***

Jasmine Alexandra Selitsch*

Daniel Gage Sharp

Kaylyn Jessika Shay**

Bailee Jean Shostrom*

Crystal Melonie Sikora***

Avery Faith Somma**

Autumn Grace Spencer*

Patricia Angel Swager**

Junelle-Michelle Tamayo*

Sarah Abreu Teixeira***

Tiffany Amber Thacker*

Julia A. Thompson**

Abriam Gabrielle Tovar***

Alexander Victor Troianov***

James Jonathan Ulrich*

Brandi Amoruso-VanGalder***

Isabel Lauren Van Horn**

Luke Colter Wagner**

Brooke Marie Waller

Patricia Annette Ward**

Tossaporn Siraart Wells**

Katelynn Rose Wertz**

Michelle Yanez Beltran

Morgan Noel Zachman**

Anahi Del Rosario Zambrano

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND ADMINISTRATION

Thomas Aicher, Dean

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF INNOVATION IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

Gavin Beckmann***

Kasey Lee Campbell**

Jerrod Julian Dalupan

Hayden Felts*

Kyra Brooke Goetz*

Aidan Michael Keating***

Kylie Ann Wingfield*

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BUSINESS

Distinguished Academic Achievement Awards: Ellie Lansdown, Valor Richter

Rebecca Ashley Ainsworth***

Sadi Allen**

Luke Atkinson

Emilee Deanne Baker

Alicia Elena Barela*

Haley Barker

Jake Adam Bath

Hunter Battig

Brenton Patrick Battista

Luke Charles Baumgardt**

Jacob Henry Beal

Lindsay Amber Beavers**

Joshua Tyler Belzer

Abigail Rose Berta

Madison Lynne Beyer*

Mason Louis Blume

Jordan T. Bovey**

Madison Marie Bradshaw***

Aaron Jenks Brakel

Antonio O. Briggs

Darius Anthony Brown

Jacob Michael Burnett

Connor Robert Callahan

Caleb Ryan Chance**

Amanda Taylor Chavez

Cameron Charles Clarke

Noah Daniel Coddington

Benjamin Robert Coe

Sarah Cohen

Anna Grace Crisi

Natalie Dabeet**

Brett Robert Daggett***

Jonathan Filbert Dimawea

Jordan Grace Diomede

Justin Loyd Dixon*

Jordan August Dobrick**

Marketa Lashell Draper

John Stephen Errickson

Joanna Elizeth Espinoza Hernandez

Mason M. Ewing**

Caleb Andrew Farmer

Ethan Patrick Fernandez

Vanessa Lysette Franco

Hailee Rae Franke*

Nathan Gordon Frankmore

Jack Gardner**

Kaela Geis

Timothy Daniel Genoshe-Morrell

Payton R. Gifford

Carolyn Gomez

Kirsten Ashley Green

Tyler Charles Gregg**

Trevor Robert Grenier***

Abraham Gutierrez

Riley Joseph Haglund

Krystina Hagood

David Hwan-Hee Han

Jacob Timothy Hardman*

Thorben Hast**

Lauren Grace Hendrickson*

Alexes K. Hernandez

Casey Christopher Hernandez

Andres Hernandez Derma

Erin Nicole Hersey

Michaylah Jean Hinkle

Olivia MaryJeanne Hocrath***

Explanation of Honors: *Cum Laude – Overall GPA: 3.3 - 3.49 with COB GPA: 3.5 - 3.69; **Magna Cum Laude – Overall GPA: 3.5 - 3.69 with COB GPA: 3.7 - 3.89; ***Summa Cum Laude – Overall GPA: 3.7 or above with COB GPA: 3.9 or above

COLLEGE OF PUBLIC SERVICE

Jonathan Caudill, Interim Dean

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Gregory Nevile Muhummad

Abukar-Duru*

John Paul Tychuan Aguilar***

Ashley Jordan Arno**

Brandon Gregory Benson***

Isaac James Borchert**

Celyn Paige Bourdeau***

Mia Brue***

Gary Alan Cameron***

McKayla E Chavez

Benjamin Christ***

Brandon Combs**

Yesenia Cruz Garduno**

Kira Marie Davis

Brenna Victoria Deighton*

Mary Kaia Dossey***

Marissa Rose Duran*

Lexie Laura Edwards

Juliana Egan**

Kiley Christine Ehnstrom Pott*

Gerrit Brian Erickson**

Jazz-Rae Einette-Rose Escribano

Rheanna Jade Galusha*

Norma Alejandra Garcia Carvajal

Lauryn Gardner***

Alexis R. Gleason*

Sydney Joyce Glover

Justin Joe Gonzales**

Rachel Claire Goodrich***

Sana Iskandar Hamad***

David L. Hayes*

Paiton Louise Hickman**

Neena Holmes

Katie Wen-Jing Johnson

Sara Johnson

Aidan Kohler

Michael Lake***

Lydia M. LoSasso

Alejandra Magallanes**

Victoria Tulei Malaki

Jennifer Mangino**

Elisa Giuray Montgomery**

Sage Elizabeth Montgomery

Hailey Myers

Rose Kasal Nseya

Julie Romela O’Toole

Arne Ethan Oas*

Cristal Pena Jaramillo

Dezirae Maxine Pina**

Caprisha Elizabeth Ragas

Brendan Reardon

Cayden Elliot Reiniger*

Cristal Ayleen Reyes Galilea Rico**

Erica Rivera

Victoria L. Romero***

Kane Ruiz**

Zoe M. Sailer

Jennifer Leigh Sides

Kira Annette Sorby*

Robert Arthur Stahl**

Emily Alessandra Stewart*

Marin Faith Wasinger

Angelique Jakaiyah Niaomi Weston***

Jasmine Vivian-Leigh Williams*

Cheyenne Jade Wilson*

Jaryn Winston

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SOCIAL WORK

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Awards: Hayley Christine Crist, Ahmed Adel Zien

Kayden Albert***

Dazzia Alicia Archuleta

Michelle Elizabeth Barrett**

Chyann Beacham

Hannah Ruth Braudaway***

Joshua Kent Burgess***

Elizabeth Kathryn CalvacheChacon***

Serenity N. Campbell

Aailani Ambryn-Remedio Cedeno*

Hayley Christine Crist

Yuri Suleidi Cuellar***

Alondra Duarte Garcia***

Maya Jeanette Meibi Essmeier**

Abigail Felipe*

Abbigale Frees***

Melisa Gambino***

Brooklyn Ashleigh Garcia**

Dallas Green***

Alexis Rose Jacobo***

Nakur K. Jeter*

Christian Matthew Keys***

Maddie Lang-Silva*

Seanna Renee Mackey**

Jessica Ann Magri***

Jelana Lee Marquez**

Ashley Nicole Martinez**

Sean Patrick McEntee*

Lauren Mertens

Paige Miller*

Talia Ruth Miller*

Allison Elizabeth Moore

Courtney Phallon Moore*

Zoe Eleanor O’Donnell**

Chantel Marie Osteen*

Sandrine Juliette Ostrow***

Victoria Ashley Pincelli**

Olivia N. Rentfro*

Daniel Cody Rinn

Katelyn Danielle Roane

MacKenzie Elizabeth Rodgers

Jaxon Lyn Rogers*

Erika Sue Rosseau

Ermelinda Ruiz***

Ella Z. Ryan**

Patrice Chantal Schnierle**

Alexis Kewina James Sharp**

Brady Singer

Theodora Rachel Stein***

Khristopher Jermaine Thomas

Rachel Renee Thompson**

Kimberly Mora Toomey**

Jordan David Wagman

Rachel Renee Walraven

Michelle Weldon*

Yenela Wright

Ahmed Adel Zien***

*Cum Laude - 3.5 - 3.69; **Magna Cum Laude - 3.7 - 3.89; ***Summa Cum Laude - 3.9 or above

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND APPLIED SCIENCE

Ying Shang, Dean

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF ARTS IN COMPUTER SCIENCE

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Olivia Bach

Abdulaziz Munif Alghamdi

Olivia Lucia Bach***

Alejandro Barragan Solis*

Daniel Christopher Bolding***

Kimberly Star Call***

Andrew Scott Douangprachanh*

Robert G. Drone

Ryan James Fuller*

Lucas Jennings Haas*

Cole Hajde*

Alexander Anatoli Hoovestol

Carson Jenkins

Tandon Kelvon Jenkins

David Thomas Jones**

Takaiya Nichole Jones

Carson Leo King

Aman Kumar

Aidan Gage Meshberg

Jacob Thomas Quinn*

Irving Reyes Bravo

Pamela Naomi Rodriguez*

Christopher Xavier Romo**

Brendan Chase Sullivan**

Brett Walton

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF INNOVATION IN COMPUTER SCIENCE

Katelin Irene Barbosa

Trey DeaBueno**

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Trey DeaBueno

Jeffrey Ian Simonoff

Noah K. Storms**

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF INNOVATION IN COMPUTER SCIENCE & SECURITY

Alec Christopher Ankrum

Elise Lillian Clark

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Ryan Montgomery

Randall Allen Godinez

Ryan Jeremy Montgomery***

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF INNOVATION IN GAME DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT

Wrigley Scout DeSimone*

ISean’Dre’ Ezekial Ezell

Luke Gregory Hrovat**

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Chanel Paek

Dillon Steven Hutchinson**

Cayman Charles Kline**

Keaton D. Miller

Cameron William Dellacasa Morris**

Chanel Mia Paek***

Alexander James Sharpe

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

Jennifer Janelle Bishop**

Nicholas Mehdi Hamzezadeh

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Dale Mueller

Dale Mueller***

Daniel White Otter

Tyson Andrew Stark

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER ENGINEERING

Jasem Almnayea

Andrew Andrija Barovic

Brenardo Sue Garcia Marti* Brody Alexander McLaughlin

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Tommy Pham

Tommy Huu Pham

Adam Roy Smith, University Honors***

Zachary Richard Snyder**

James Robert Starner*

Norman Russell Stites

Chandler Ray Waller**

Explanation of Honors: *Cum Laude - 3.5 - 3.69; **Magna Cum Laude - 3.7 - 3.89; ***Summa Cum Laude - 3.9 or above

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Zhenqi “Jason” Liu

Tarek Hisham Ahmed Fouad**

Maryna Alsip***

Gunnar James Anderson*

Brayden Kelly Arriaga

Kaylee Rochelle Barcroft***

Nicholas Chase Bennings

Gleb Berkez

Daniel J. Buck

Jordan Harrison Camden***

Osvaldo Eric Canales Rojas

Tyler Carroll

Abigail Therese Conway

Piper Delaney DeHoyos***

Luke Matthew Delzer***

Alejandro Diaz Paredes

Damon Nathaniel Domke*

Zachary Donnelly

Mattie Michael Fuller, With University Honors*

Cade Gregory Givens

Brian Glen Goins*

Tristen Rose Goode

Scott David Grybos**

Jacob Joseph Hartt***

Ronan Aaro Hella**

Jonathan David Hickey*

Erica Nicole Jesse

Cameron Johnson

Ashley Barbara Judson**

David Michael Klunk

Isaac Andrew Laffely*

Craig Samuel Lillemon

Zhenqi Liu***

Camilla Elisabeth Lucero**

Carl Leonard Markowski**

Samantha Matthews

Oscar Sebastian Mavila

Zachary Liam Middleton**

Rohan Mital*

Conner E. Nelson***

Hanh Thi Hong Nguyen, With Honors

Trung Tin Nguyen

Jacob Matthew Nichols

James Bradley OHara*

Daniel White Otter

Morgan Todd Parker*

Kasper Ramirez***

Greyson Duncan Roach

Brennan Gabriel Romero***

Deven Caleb Rood

Hasdi Ryan

Zachary Michael Rytting*

Paxton Cole Schreiber

Kenji I. Smith*

Kenyou Teoh*

Jagger Zlotoff*

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN DATA ANALYTICS AND SYSTEMS ENGINEERING

Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award: Christopher Mueller

Brendan Scott Campbell

Shannon Elizabeth Chafe

Abigail Yu Ting Drennan

THE

Justin C. Mannar**

Christopher Mueller***

Andrew Garrett Stokey** Bogdan Verdernikob

DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

Daniel S. Barbotko*

Jason Bockelmann

Joshua Bogumill*

Dawn M. Dixon**

Grant Alexander Drennan**

Andrew Grant Houghton

Zachary Christopher Iaconis**

Bryan Archer Kennedy**

Benjamin Aaron Kimball

Tyler Dane Mahaffey*

Zachery Mitchell

Jeovanni Castañeda Pérez

Zane Gregory Steckline**

James Andrew Tiller

THE DEGREE BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

Morgan Anthony Altherr*

Leah Marie Bailey

Adam Casey Barbour

Jennifer Janelle Bishop**

Adam Eugene Blevins*

Evan Bryan Brunton

Diego Armando Castro

Dalton Lee Chambers

Bryson William Chittum

Michael David Edwin DeLoach

Jack Von Donze**

Joshua Woodson Farmer

Nathan Francis Fields

Emma Caitlyn Finchum

Nathan Eric George

Noah David Grebe***

Jonathan Joel Favela Guillen

Cathryn Grace Hendrickson**

Christopher Lawrence Hunt*

Kimberly Lena Jones, WIth University Honors*

William Christopher Kilcrease

Blake Mitchell Kinkennon

Logan S. Kugler*

Brent Low

Randy Alan Mack*

Tess Amelia Maline

Gavin Todd Miller*

Edgan Jared Montiel**

Mark M. Murray

Kaid Nasser

Blake Paul Ohlson

Daniel White Otter

Jacob William Owens

William Gabriel Parsons

Scott David Prieve**

Josiah J. Rothwell

David Wallace Schoenberger**

Joshua Daniel Todd Scott*

Jennifer Marie Valente

Kit Larsen Wigington**

Samantha Alexis Wilmoth

David Wojnar

1966

First UCCS student graduates; walked in the Boulder Commencement and listed in the Boulder program.

1965

1975 & 1976

Graduates were honored with a “recognition ceremony” on-campus.

1977 – 1992

Until 1977, UCCS graduates marched in CU Boulder’s Commencement. UCCS held its first official Commencement at the BROADMOOR International Center on May 17, 1977. Later ceremonies moved to the original BROADMOOR World Arena.

1998

First PhD in Computer Science graduates.

1998

First Distance MBA Degree graduate.

1999 – PRESENT

May Commencement held at new World Arena.

1976 – 1985

Graduates wore gold regalia from 1976 (centennial year of the University) to 1985.

1977 – 2005

Professor Paul Ballantyne was the featured vocalist at every UCCS commencement.

1984 – 2013

May Commencement Marshal is the previous year’s Outstanding Teacher Award Recipient.

1988

First PhD in Electrical Engineering graduates.

1993 – 1998

Commencement held on campus in former parking lot in front of Engineering Building.

2006

Stephen Ludwig (’93) becomes the first UCCS alumnus to serve on the CU Board of Regents and attend Commencement in that role.

2007 – 2013

December Commencement

Marshal is that year’s Faculty Award for Excellence in Research recipient.

2007 First PhD Psychology graduate.

MAY 2008

First graduates under reworked PhD in Engineering.

MAY 2009

First Doctor of Nursing Practice graduates.

DEC 2009

First Bachelor of Innovation™ graduate.

MAY 2012

First recognized Golden and Silver graduates.

MAY 2013

First concurrent high school/UCCS graduate –earns BS in Biology.

2014

The 2013-14 Faculty Assembly created the UCCS Marshal’s Club;the Club selects a Commencement Marshal for each graduation ceremony starting this year going forward.

DEC 2015

First ceremony to be livestreamed.

MAY 2020 – MAY 2021

Virtual Ceremonies (in-person ceremonies cancelled due to COVID-19).

2025

Over 61,000 alumni.

2007

First December Commencement for Summer and Fall graduates held at the Pikes Peak Center on December 14, 2007. Moved to the World Arena in 2009.

MAY 2009

Student Achievement Award recipients are first introduced as May Commencement speakers.

DEC 2009

Distinguished Alumnus first introduced as December Commencement speaker.

MAY 2010

First PhD in Educational Leadership Research & Policy graduates.

MAY 2011

First PhD in Applied Science graduate.

2013 – PRESENT

Increasing numbers of graduates prompts a need for two May Commencement ceremonies; separated into LAS and all other colleges.

2024

College of Education moved to the morning ceremony as a result of increasing numbers.

2024

First Executive Doctor of Business Administration (EDBA) graduates.

MacCoil (well-known New York musician), and Russell Cheney (renowned painter) spent time and regained their health at Cragmor. Upon his death Solly was memorialized as a world class physician who had brought the Colorado Springs community to global acclaim for its outstanding health facility. Ironically, the world forgot Solly as Cragmor became even more established under the direction of new leaders in health care: Gerald B. Webb, Alexius M. Forster, Otto Einstein, and George J. Dwire.

The 1930’s stock market crash brought financial disaster to many of the Cragmor Sanitorium’s exclusive clientele. The facility was adapted to serve the health needs of less affluent patients. Alexius Forster’s death in 1954 (took charge of Cragmor in 1910 at age 29) found Cragmor at a loss for medical and financial leadership. The last decade of the sanitorium’s homeopathic life was to become tied to the Bureau of Indian Affairs

as Navajo Indians were flown in to Cragmor. This was one of the first public health programs launched by the newly formed U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare (HEW). The first Indian patients arrived at Cragmor in 1952 with the signing of a government contract between the Cragmor Foundation and HEW. The institution would be guaranteed a permanent base of financial support. In return, Cragmor would provide for the medical needs of hundreds of tuberculous Navajos. George Dwire, Managing Director, oversaw the decade of fiscal recovery for the institution. He created a dynamic program which not only provided for the health needs of hundreds of Navajos infected with tuberculosis but also expanded to include educational and occupational therapy. As the health crisis of the Navajo people subsided so did the Federal funding for Cragmor. By April of 1962, remaining patients were being transferred to other facilities.

Circa 1980s, Main Hall

Courtesy, Kraemer Family Library, UCCS Archives

As early as the 1920s, the University of Colorado offered courses at numerous Colorado Springs locations including Colorado College and various storefronts. By the mid-1960s, community leaders were pressing for a full-fledged University of Colorado presence in the community. In his negotiations with then-Governor John Love, Hewlett-Packard (HP) co-founder David Packard, a Pueblo native, wanted a permanent University of Colorado campus in Colorado Springs to support the educational needs of company employees. The combination of the state’s desire to attract HP to Colorado Springs and George J. Dwire’s sale of the defunct 80-acre Cragmor Sanatorium property for $1 led to birth of the Colorado Springs Center of the University of Colorado. June 15, 1964, commemorated the funding and legislation signed by Governor Love allowing the University of Colorado to assume custody of Cragmor. In 1965, the Colorado Springs Center of the University of Colorado opened on the south side of Austin Bluffs, an area which showcased a spectacular panoramic view of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods; tuition was $13 per credit hour. Professor offices in Cragmor Manor (now Cragmor Hall) were equipped with small kitchenettes and private bathrooms, due

to the building’s previous use as a nursing home (Cragmor Manor was added to the Sanitorium in the 1950s). A few offices were still outfitted with this unique piece of history as late as 2002; Cragmor Hall was completely remodeled and reopened in January 2004.

From 1965 to 1972 the Colorado Springs Center operated as a division or extension of the Boulder campus. It became the first permanent home for a growing following of scholars. Colorado Constitutional Amendment 4, approved at the 1972 Colorado General Election, designated the Colorado Springs campus and two other centers as distinct campuses of the University of Colorado. Dwire Hall opened as the first solely academic building on campus in 1972; it was completely remodeled in 2007. In 1974, the University of Colorado reorganized into four campuses – Colorado Springs, Boulder, Denver, and the Health Sciences Center in Denver. The two Denver campuses later consolidated administratively in June 2004; the model was reversed in 2014 for each campus to again have its own chancellor. 1974 also marked the establishment of the first Chancellor of the Colorado Springs campus, with ties to the

Circa 1995, Spring Commencement On-Campus Courtesy, Kraemer Family Library, UCCS Archives

Boulder campus being changed to have the campus directly reporting to the President of the University. UCCS grew over the years, and in 1996 the first on-campus student housing opened. The next year a community referendum merged the city-owned Beth-El College of Nursing with the campus. During the 2010-2011 new branding campaign, “at” was removed from the official UCCS name – University of Colorado at Colorado Springs – to become University of Colorado Colorado Springs.

Because of the ties to HP, initial university programs focused on engineering and business. Today, 60 years after its beginning, UCCS offers 55 bachelor’s, 38 master’s, and ten doctoral degrees in six colleges. The initial university programs of engineering and business still serve as pillars of the university, and are joined by a broad range of degree programs offered in the liberal arts and sciences, as well as professional programs in nursing, education and public service to meet the needs of Colorado’s second-largest metropolitan area and beyond. In 2012, Colorado Springs voters again added to the UCCS campus by agreeing to lease city-owned Memorial Hospital to University of Colorado Health. As part of the agreement, an administrative branch of the CU School of Medicine is in the University Hall at UCCS.

Meaningful partnerships with the National Cybersecurity Center cast an eye toward the future. From its original 80 acres, UCCS has added 450 additional acres along Austin Bluffs Parkway and North Nevada Avenue. North Nevada Avenue continued growth with the opening of the William J. Hybl Sports Medicine and Performance Center adjacent to the Margot and John Lane Academic and Health Sciences Center in the summer 2020. Most recently, UCCS opened the Anschutz Engineering Center in February 2024.

UCCS spring commencement ceremonies have been held at the old BROA DMOOR Ice Arena, a campus parking lot where the Osborne Center for Science & Engineering now stands, and The BROA DMOOR World Arena. The first December commencement ceremony for summer and fall graduates was held on December 14, 2007 at the Pikes Peak Center. After only two years, the December graduates outgrew the Pikes Peak Center, and now all yearly ceremonies are held at The BROA DMOOR World Arena. The COVID-19 pandemic caused the May and December 2020 and May 2021 Commencements to be the firstever in-person ceremonies to be cancelled. Since the first UCCS commencement in 1975, over 61,000 students have graduated from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs.

Photo by Gabby Hensley, Staff, 2022