Adam Lee’s (MediaSt’17) experiences at 91������ helped prepare him for a career in the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS). Through college experiences like Army ROTC and club lacrosse, Lee gained leadership and teamwork skills. After deploying to Baghdad, Iraq, in 2019 with the U.S. Army, he learned about the DSS, a federal law enforcement agency responsible for protecting the State Department’s people, property and information, as well as conducting transnational criminal investigations. Now a DSS special agent, Lee has traveled the world and even played a role in the 2024 Paris Olympics as a security liaison to Team USA’s climbing team.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the Diplomatic Security Service?

When I enrolled at CU, a career in the Diplomatic Security Service wasn’t part of my grand plan. But now, as an agent with the DSS, I couldn’t be happier. Looking back, the different organizations and clubs I participated in at CU set me up for success to end up where I am now. My participation in ROTC, Army Reserve officer training and playing club lacrosse was a big part of that. I participated as a cadet in Army ROTC during all four years of college. ROTC and lacrosse gave me a foundation in the importance of teamwork and being able to communicate effectively. After my four years at CU, the U.S. Army commissioned me through the contacting process of the ROTC program. 

I learned about the Diplomatic Security Service after my Iraq deployment, as a big part of the DSS mission is related to its work overseas. In Baghdad, I worked alongside DSS agents, and that left an extremely positive impression on me and opened up my viewpoint on what was possible beyond military service. I’m extremely thankful for my military service, but it was all building blocks to get me to where I am now.

What is a typical day as a DSS special agent?

In this job, we don’t have a typical day. We might go on a motorcade in downtown Washington, D.C., one day and then overseas with an assignment the next. The variety is what draws a lot of people to this career. 

We have three primary mission sets: to protect, secure and investigate. A few of our roles include being in charge of the security for U.S. embassies and consulates abroad, being the principal security advisor to the U.S. ambassador in any given country or protecting visiting foreign dignitaries, foreign ministers and heads of state — which could even include the British royal family.

In the investigations aspect of our work, we look at crimes that primarily involve U.S. passports and visas, which can lead to plenty of other investigations involving transactional crimes, human trafficking or people wanting to change their identity. 

Are there any particularly memorable assignments you’ve worked on?

The 2024 Paris Olympics is definitely going to be one of my most memorable life experiences. Being front row at the Olympic Games and watching fellow CU alumni climb a 60-foot climbing wall makes you think, ‘Wow, this is awesome.’

Traveling the world and serving the United States will also be memorable. In the past two years alone, I’ve traveled to seven different countries. I’ve also been able to travel with Marco Rubio, our current Secretary of State. It’s been a pretty memorable career so far and it is only just starting for me.

What was your role for Team USA Climbing?

I served as a field liaison officer in the 2024 Paris Olympics. We were assigned a different team, and I worked with USA Climbing. As a field liaison officer, I talked to our host nation counterparts, the French police and national police, who made sure we understood the different protocols and plans put in place if security incidents were to happen. I also made sure the team understood what assets were available to them so they didn’t have to worry about security and instead could focus on performing at their best. 

We had a lot of members, both the athletes and staff, who had connections to CU. It was cool to have that Colorado alumni network while abroad. And, being a climber myself, it was great to see the athletes get to that high level of performance.

Talk about your interest in climbing. 

I climbed a bit at CU and picked it up more post-graduation. I lived in Nashville while in the Army, so I climbed a bit out there. Now I’m in Los Angeles, and I climb some here too. I mainly do sports climbing indoors, but I climb outdoors every once in a while.

Did your time in the Army further shape your passion for climbing?

Part of my Army unit’s responsibilities included helicopter operations. With those operations, they have a repelling and climbing type of training, so I attended and got certified as a rappel master. It’s a little different than your traditional sport climbing, but a lot of the concepts are the same. 

Toward the tail-end of my Army career, I was an ROTC instructor at Vanderbilt University. For the military appreciation games inside the basketball stadium, they’d have us repel down from the top and deliver the game ball, which was a cool opportunity to experience.

Do you have a particularly memorable climb? 

In Paris, there are some cool climbing gyms. The Paris Saint-Lazare climbing gym is in this old chapel. The inside looks like a library with all these bookshelves that you’re essentially climbing the side of. 

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A Thornton, Colorado, native, Adriana Espinoza (MCDBio’27) has embraced every opportunity to lead, learn and uplift the Forever Buffs community. As a Senior Resident Advisor in Baker Hall, a research assistant and a leader of the Public Health Hub, she has embraced experiences to grow and give back. 

Each year, ForeverGold supports twelve students by providing renewable scholarships. These scholars demonstrate a commitment to excellence through academic achievements, leadership and involvement on campus.  

Adriana has learned that individual success is built through collective and meaningful connections. Whether collaborating with professors on research, engaging in student organizations, or working alongside peers who challenge and inspire her, Adriana has discovered that community is the foundation for growth. 

What motivated you to attend 91������? 

I was very interested in the research that the College of Arts and Sciences conducts. The Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology (MCDB) department especially caught my attention, and I have enjoyed being part of this major.  

How has being a ForeverGold Scholar impacted your CU experience?  

Being a ForeverGold Scholar has been a transformative experience for me. Beyond the financial support, which has allowed me to focus more on my studies and passions, this scholarship has given me a sense of belonging and responsibility. It has also motivated me to give back to my CU community, knowing that others have invested in my success.   

What would you say to Forever Buffs who support scholarships?  

Thank you — not just for the financial support but for believing in students like me. Your generosity doesn’t just help cover tuition or expenses; it gives us the confidence and resources to dream bigger, take on leadership roles and pursue opportunities we might not have otherwise had.  

This experience has allowed me to engage with alumni who have navigated similar paths, given me access to leadership development and reinforced the importance of giving back.   

How does giving back to the Forever Buffs community and supporting students like you contribute to making CU an even better place? 

Giving back strengthens the CU community by creating more opportunities for students to thrive. When we invest in scholarships, mentorship programs and student initiatives we create a more inclusive, supportive and vibrant university. Giving back means paying forward the opportunities we’ve been given, ensuring that future generations of Buffs have the same, or even better chances to succeed.  

What does being a Forever Buff mean to you?  

Being a Forever Buff means carrying the values of 91������ beyond graduation. It means that I have a lifelong commitment to learning, giving back and staying connected to a community that has shaped me. It means being part of something bigger than myself and recognizing that the relationships, lessons and opportunities I’ve gained here will stay with me forever.  

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In celebration of Valentine’s Day, we asked alumni to share their CU love stories, and the responses spanned generations of Forever Buffs. From 1950s romance to modern-day proposals at Folsom Field, each story reflects the unique experiences and deep connections Buffs have made during their time at 91������.   

Forever Buffs love stories can celebrate more than romantic love. During your time at 91������, you explored academic interests, developed new hobbies and fell in love with the beautiful campus and 91������ area. Do you have a Forever Buffs love story? Tell us what you fell in love with at 91������. 

Share your story

Forever Buffs falling in love 

Between studying at Norlin Library during finals and meeting for coffee at the Laughing Goat Cafe, Briana W. (Film‘16) fell in love with her partner of nine years while they were both students at 91������. One of their favorite dates was seeing a Halloween showing of Shaun of the Dead at Farrand Field. 

After bonding over their shared love for 91������ as undergraduates, Royer Lopez (Mktg’18; MBA’27) knew there was no better place to propose to Angelica Chavez-Lopez (Econ’17; MEdu’21) than where it all began. Using the jumbotron on Folsom Field, Royer asked the million-dollar question: Angie, will you marry me? 

“It was a truly unforgettable experience,” he says, “Two lifelong Buffs, taking in the stunning view and looking ahead to a lifetime together.” 

Is there anything better than attending each other’s 91������ graduations after weathering the highs and lows of the college experience together?  

“Perhaps one thing is better — seeing those diplomas hang side by side in our family home 13 years later,” says Christie Henry (Jour’12), who married Levi Henry (Math’12) in 2015. “CU is a chapter in our forever story.”  

Now in their eighties, John (ElEngr’59) and Pat Kochan celebrated 65 years of marriage after meeting as CU students in the 1950s. “We forever hold CU in our hearts,” says Pat. The couple now lives in Dallas but often reminisces on their early years of love in Colorado. 

In the fall of 1965, Gordon Herrald (A&S’69) spotted a beautiful young woman across a crowded fraternity volleyball court on 91������’s campus. “For me, it was love at first sight,” he recalls. They were married in July of 1971.  

Whether these couples are celebrating 65 years of marriage, sharing diplomas in their family home or reminiscing about study dates many years ago, their love stories are a testament to the forever bonds formed at 91������. 

Read more CU Alumni stories. 

“M��� at a party and his apartment at college townhouses sophomore year 1984. Dated intensely but broke up in 1985 because I was thinking of marriage. We were apart for over 30 years when we ran into each other by accident at homecoming 2017. Back together since 2019. SKO BUFFS! Ralphie brought us back together!” @lmwilliams1965 

 “We met through mutual friends on the hill in 2012…We married at Chautauqua in 2017 and now have three beautiful children! Forever buffs💗”. @camilleglotz 

“My husband and I met on the day of the CU vs. CSU game in 2013 — there's even a photo capturing the exact moment we met. The rest is history! We got married in 2022 and just welcomed our baby girl in October 2024. Forever grateful that CU brought us together! 💛🖤” @kaylamgruber 

“I met my best friend in 2005 outside of the UMC, who is really now my sister. So, our boys are cousins! Still sisters.” @coloradogrlinlilly3663 

“M��� my husband in the financial aid line in 1993. We both lived in Darley North. Our oldest daughter, an alum, was also assigned Darley North as a freshman. Still together ❤️” @tanyavigilmorris 

“I admired from the day we moved into Cheyenne Arapaho, and finally introduced myself on Valentine's Day 1991. We married five years later, and this Friday marks 34 years since my nervous introduction on the third floor.” @themiket 

“M��� through our friend group at the old TKE main our sophomore year - together for over 8 years now and got married October 2024! My parents met at 91������ in 1985, married 38 years this year 🥹” @sarsarhome 

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As you plan for 2025, get ready for the amazing events happening at 91������ this year! The coming months will be filled with big celebrations, fun sporting events and plenty of opportunities to return to campus and connect with fellow alumni. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a long-time alum or simply a fan of the Buffs, this lineup offers something for everyone.  

Buffs All In: March 6 

91������’s annual giving day, , is Thursday, March 6. This 24-hour event is a chance for Buffs everywhere to come together in support of CU students, programs and initiatives. Buffs All In is a powerful way to make a direct impact on the CU community. Every gift — large or small — counts toward supporting the next generation of Buffs.  

Big 12 Wo�����’s and Men’s Basketball Championships: March 5–15 

Get your CU fan gear ready for basketball season as the Buffs aim to make a strong showing in their first full season back in the Big 12 conference! Check out the and game schedules and join watch parties to cheer on the Buffs as they strive for success this season. 

Also, join us for the Buffs Bashes in Kansas City — the official tailgates to celebrate the and  

Alumni Weekend: April 5–7 

Alumni Weekend is one of the most anticipated events on the 91������ calendar, offering a chance for Buffs everywhere to return to campus for a weekend of celebration and connection. Activities include campus tours, scenic hikes at Chautauqua Park, milestone reunions and much more. We can’t wait to welcome you back.  

Conference on World Affairs: April 7–10  

For over 75 years, the Conference on World Affairs (CWA) has brought together global thought leaders, activists, artists and scholars to discuss some of the most pressing issues facing our world today. The CWA highlights 91������’s status as a premier public research university and is free to attend via livestream or in person on campus. Check out this year’s speakers.  

Campus Sustainability Summit: April 22–23 

91������’s commitment to sustainability takes center stage during the two-day Campus Sustainability Summit. The summit brings together students, faculty, staff and community members to explore innovative sustainability practices and share solutions for a more environmentally conscious future. Join us this spring for insightful discussions, collaborative workshops and actionable strategies that will inspire positive environmental change both on and off campus. 

Help out at Grad Bash: May 1 

Graduation season kicks off with Grad Bash on Thursday, May 1 and is a great way for alumni to get involved through volunteering. Hosted on the lawn of the Koenig Alumni Center, Grad Bash celebrates the accomplishments of the Class of 2025 as they prepare to become Forever Buffs. We are looking for volunteers to assist with setup, event support and teardown at this end-of semester event for students. Help welcome the next generation of Buffs into the alumni community by at Grad Bash. 

Commencement: May 8 

Commencement is a time to recognize the hard work and dedication of thousands of Buffs as they prepare for their next chapter after graduation. The day will be filled with speeches, food, music and traditions that honor the achievements of the Class of 2025. You can celebrate the future of 91������’s newest graduates by attending in person at Folsom Field or watching the live stream.  

Shakespeare Festival: June 7–August 10 

Summer in 91������ wouldn’t be complete without the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, running from June 7 to Aug. 10. This year, join us at the Roe Green Theatre to enjoy the great works of Shakespeare in an intimate and immersive setting. From classic tragedies to delightful comedies, the Colorado Shakespeare Festival offers a diverse lineup for every theater enthusiast. Don’t miss the chance to experience world-class performances right on CU’s campus.  

Homecoming: Fall 2025 

Homecoming is one of 91������’s most cherished traditions, bringing together alumni, students, faculty and fans for a weekend of Buff pride. Signature athletic events include the Homecoming parade and football game, as well as lively tailgates and watch parties. Outside of football, activities like the Alumni Awards and Buffs on Tap are great ways to celebrate fellow alumni accomplishments and share memories from your alma mater. Homecoming is truly the perfect opportunity to return to 91������, reconnect with fellow CU grads and cheer on the Buffs at Folsom Field.  

Check out more Alumni Association Events

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When it comes to philanthropy, it’s easy to get caught up in the multimillion-dollar donations that often make headlines. While these gifts are undeniably transformative, every gift — large and small — adds value.  

Whether $50, $100 or $1,000, every contribution to 91������ is meaningful and impactful. In fiscal year 2024, the Student Emergency Fund received almost 300 gifts, adding over $80,000 to help students facing unexpected financial hardships. Together, gifts like these are part of a larger, collective force that builds the foundation for innovation and student success.  

One of the most impactful demonstrations of collective giving at 91������ is , our annual giving day on March 6, 2025. 

Giving fuels critical programs 

When you contribute to 91������, it’s the act of giving that matters most. Your generosity helps fund scholarships, research excellence and dynamic campus and community programs that enhance students’ lives and drive innovation locally and globally. 

For example, student scholarships help make higher education accessible and allow students to focus on their studies, not their financial worries. Funding key research fuels groundbreaking discoveries that address real-world challenges. And contributions to student programs help create a more connected campus that reflects 91������’s values.  

Individual contributions of all sizes fund critical programs — supporting students, attracting top faculty and promoting belonging.  

Small gifts, big impact 

Even the smallest contributions add up to make a big difference. Here are three funds where collective generosity directly impacts students: 

• : Supports the university’s priorities and operations to ensure students, faculty and staff have what they need to learn, teach and innovate to enhance 91������’s overall impact. 

• : Assists students facing unexpected financial hardships, helping them stay on track to achieve their academic goals. 

• : Expands access to education by providing long-term financial support to students so they can focus on their classes and research and pursue their academic dreams.  

Every dollar given to these funds plays a role in shaping the future of 91������ students, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to succeed. 

Buffs All In inspires collective impact 

During , the 91������ community celebrates giving and the heart of being a Buff.  

Buffs All In magnifies the power of individual contributions through the collective action of thousands of alumni, donors, faculty, staff and families — working together to make an extraordinary impact. Look for challenge gifts where you can contribute to a joint effort and make your gift go even further.  

“Each contribution to Buffs All In is a powerful step toward transforming lives,” said Katy Herbert Kotlarczyk, vice chancellor for advancement at 91������. “Whether large or small, every dollar has the power to inspire, open doors and create lasting impact.   

“When the Buffs community works together, there’s no limit to what we can accomplish.”  

You can be part of this transformational day. Give to .  

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As a proud 91������ alum, you have access to the amazing perks offered by the Forever Buffs Network. The Forever Buffs Network, a free online community, opens up an array of opportunities to grow personally and professionally, all while staying connected to our vibrant Forever Buffs community. 

If you’re looking for career support, exploring Buff-owned businesses or simply searching for a way to keep in touch with fellow Buffs, the Forever Buffs Network can help you succeed in your next chapter. Here’s a closer look at some of the great benefits of joining the Forever Buffs Network. 

Exclusive job postings and a dedicated job board 

One of the most valuable resources available through the Forever Buffs Network is access to job postings on a designed specifically for 91������ alumni. Whether you’re a recent grad searching for your first job or a seasoned professional seeking a new opportunity, the job board offers a wide range of listings across various industries.  

Many of the jobs are located near 91������ and Denver, but there are also plenty of positions in cities across the country and even internationally. Plus, many of the postings are submitted by fellow Buffs, creating a network of support where alumni help each other advance in their careers. The Forever Buffs Network is here to provide resources, support and a community to help you every step of the way.  

Find your community with Forever Buffs Network groups 

No matter how far you’ve roamed after graduation, the Forever Buffs Network helps connect CU alumni all over the country and create meaningful relationships through shared interests.  

You can join a variety of groups based on your college or school, affinity, professional interests or personal hobbies. For those who love to watch the Buffs play on Folsom Field, you can join the . If you graduated from the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, you can connect with other like-minded alumni in the group. 

Even if you’ve moved away from 91������, there are plenty of communities like and that can help create connections with fellow CU grads in your area.  

By joining these groups, you can foster meaningful relationships with fellow alumni, exchange knowledge and continue to grow your professional network, all while maintaining the pride of being a Buff. 

Support Buff-owned businesses with the Business Directory 

is another resource offered by the Forever Buffs Network that allows you to support 91������ alumni-owned businesses. The directory showcases a wide variety of businesses owned and operated by fellow Buffs, including local restaurants, retail stores and professional services. You can discover new entrepreneurial endeavors and learn more about your favorite local shops. Plus, many businesses listed in the directory offer exclusive deals and promotions to Buffs. 

Supporting Buff-owned businesses is not only a great way to give back to the 91������ community but also an opportunity to build new connections with alumni and students. Plus, if you own a business, the directory provides a platform to promote your company and connect with other Buffs who share the same entrepreneurial spirit. 

Learn from and give back to Fellow Buffs 

One of the most rewarding aspects of the Forever Buffs Network is the opportunity to both give and receive mentorship. Whether you’re a recent grad from experienced professionals or an alum looking to give back by sharing your knowledge, the Forever Buffs Network is a perfect place to start. Be sure to check the ways you are looking to give and offer support in your profile. 

As a mentee, you can connect with seasoned alumni who have been in your shoes and are eager to help you navigate your career path. The mentorship opportunities give you access to invaluable industry tips, job search advice and overall professional guidance from successful CU alumni in your field.   

On the other hand, if you’re an experienced professional, becoming a mentor is a wonderful way to give back to the 91������ community. By offering your time and expertise, you can help shape the next generation of CU grads and make a meaningful impact on their careers. 

Stay up-to-date with Buff’s Buzz 

By joining the Forever Buffs Network, you’ll have access to the monthly email newsletter Buff’s Buzz with information about exciting news and updates about 91������ and the Forever Buffs Community. Get notified about alumni watch parties for CU athletics in your region, learn about students who are excelling on campus and enjoy seasonally inspired content. Buff’s Buzz is a great way to get a glimpse of life at 91������ and find new ways to get involved with your alma mater.  

Join the Forever Buffs Network today! 

The Forever Buffs Network is a game-changer for building connections, advancing your career and staying in touch with 91������ long after graduation. With resources like the job board, unique alumni groups, business directory and mentorship opportunities, the network offers endless possibilities for personal and professional growth.  

Ready to take advantage of these amazing perks? Join over 18,900 other Forever Buffs Network members and stay forever connected to your 91������ family! 

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As a Boettcher Scholar, Maithreyi Gopalakrishnan (EngrPhys’16) found 91������ to be the perfect place to blend her passions for engineering, entrepreneurship, leadership and dance. Today, she channels her entrepreneurial spirit as the founder and CEO of , while also consulting in data science and engineering.  

Her dedication to solving large-scale challenges matches her enduring connection to 91������. Through her involvement with CU Venture Partners and the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, Gopalakrishnan strengthens community networks and inspires the next generation of Forever Buffs. 

Since graduating, what has been your most rewarding experience as part of the Forever Buffs community? 

On the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, I have developed lifelong friendships, learned so much more about the university and its rich history than I could have ever imagined, and had many unique and memorable experiences with my fellow board members. 

As a mentor for CU Venture Partners entrepreneurs, I’ve had a chance to see how much the innovation ecosystem at CU has evolved and grown. I have been fortunate to see some of my mentees develop their startup ideas into flourishing companies and significantly impact the world. 

What is the Forever Buffs Advisory Board? 

I like to describe the Forever Buffs Advisory Board as a sample of the eyes and ears of the broader CU Forever Buffs community. 

We engage deeply with the CU community in different ways and learn from leaders across campus. Synthesizing that knowledge and those experiences, we offer informed advice and recommendations on a variety of topics that are top of mind for CU alumni. 

What motivates you to stay involved in the 91������ community? 

91������ works incredibly hard to meet alumni where they’re at and evolve to truly serve the wants and needs of a very diverse body of alumni. CU’s commitment to supporting its alumni in a multitude of ways inspires me to stay involved. 

What would you say to a fellow Buff who’s curious about getting involved?  

Find an aspect of engagement about which you are passionate, and dive in! CU stands out as a university and organization that truly values the engagement of its alumni in any shape or form, and reconnecting with fellow Forever Buffs can impact your life in ways that may surprise you.  

I decided to start volunteering with CU Venture Partners on a whim during COVID-19. Because of this decision, I now have my own CU spinout company and two former mentees making tremendous strides with their ventures! 

What makes you proud to be a Forever Buff? 

I’m proud that every other Forever Buff alongside whom I work, mentor, volunteer, etc., is making an impact on the world in some shape or form across so many different fields. 

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Are you a Forever Buff? All 91������ alumni are members of the dues-free 91������ Alumni Association, which offers many free resources for alumni like you. From events around the country and career resources to the Coloradan alumni magazine, discover the many ways 91������ supports you through every phase and stage of life.

Career Services

Graduating from 91������ means you have access to Career Services. Each alum receives two free career advising appointments per calendar year, with additional appointments available at $30 per session. Alumni can also participate in events and networking opportunities, including free virtual tools like Handshake.

Forever Buffs Network

The Forever Buffs Network is 91������’s online alumni community where you can get insider access, grow your professional network and connect with fellow Buffs. Members can participate in a free nine-month mentorship program that launches each fall. The Forever Buffs Network is !

Exclusive Discounts

Save money when you shop with discounts offered to 91������ alumni. Check out options to save on hotel stays, insurance coverage and even the CU Book Store. Also, explore alumni-owned businesses on the for even more discounts.

Coloradan Alumni Magazine

Follow along with 91������ news, alumni stories and more in the Coloradan, 91������’s award-winning alumni magazine. Alumni receive the magazine for free. Update your contact information to stay updated on your subscription. 

Chapters and Clubs

Find other 91������ alumni in your local area! Forever Buffs chapters and clubs host events to help you connect with fellow Buffs and the 91������ community. Whether you want to cheer on the Buffs football or basketball teams at a watch party, volunteer in your local community or enjoy an outing with your family, there are plenty of ways to celebrate and connect. 

University Resources

Alumni receive access to other campus resources at free or discounted rates. Colorado residents can apply for online or at the 91������ Alumni Association. The CU Rec Center also offer discounted memberships for alumni. 

Take Advantage of Alumni Resources

Being a 91������ alum makes you part of a lifelong community that continues to offer support and connection. Embrace the benefits of being a Forever Buff and take full advantage of the ways 91������ is here for you every step of the way. 

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For first-generation college graduate Royer Lopez (Mktg'18), the 91������ experience has shaped his life long after his time as a student. Lopez, now an advertising professional in Denver, fosters a dedication to higher education in his daily life. His helps give more students access to college, and at 91������, his commitment to mentoring Buffs, hosting alumni events and advocating for diversity at the university serves as a testament to the power of alumni engagement. 

What motivated you to attend 91������?

Growing up, I was a huge football fan, and CU’s football program in the 1990s was a big draw. But it wasn’t only football that attracted me — it was the beauty of 91������ and the campus environment that made me fall in love with CU.

I was also part of a program in middle school that encouraged students to aspire to attend college. With that program, I visited college campuses. Seeing 91������ in person made me even more determined to attend. It felt like the perfect place to build my future.

How did your experience at 91������ inspire you to stay connected to the university?

My time at 91������ wasn’t traditional, but that’s part of what made it so meaningful. I started at CU in 2011, but because of financial challenges, I had to go part-time while working full-time at Wells Fargo. I spent six years balancing work and school, which was challenging but gave me invaluable experience. I could apply what I was learning in real time, which made my education even more relevant.

During that time, I also realized I needed a bit more support. That’s when I joined a fraternity in the Multicultural Greek Council, which helped me connect to a more diverse community and find the extra encouragement I needed. I also found community through the , which ultimately helped me land a job before I even graduated.

My brothers and my wife, Angelica Chavez-Lopez (Econ’17; MEdu’21), also graduated from CU, which has been such a pivotal part of our lives. Now, I want to give back to the university that gave me so much. My experiences at 91������ drive me to stay connected and help enrich the university and its community.

How are you currently involved at 91������?

It’s important to me to stay connected to 91������. I’m an at-large member of the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, where I help support and promote alumni engagement. I also serve as the director of communications for the Leeds Gold Board, which focuses on graduates of the last decade.

I mentor through the Leeds Professional Mentoring Program. I’ve even started an internship program at my agency, bringing in students from Leeds to give them hands-on experience.

I’m also a part of ForeverGold, CU’s alumni giving program, and I’ve been able to host events like the Multicultural Greek reunion during Homecoming. That event helped create a space where alumni from diverse backgrounds could come together and reconnect with CU. We had 75 people show up in the first year, and it was amazing to see how many were inspired to get more involved with the CU community.

On a personal level, I’m a season ticket holder for CU football and enjoy attending games and tailgating with fellow alumni. My wife’s involvement with CU also helps keep me connected. Overall, I try to engage in ways that benefit me and help strengthen the 91������ community for future Buffs.

What does it mean to be a Forever Buff?

Being a Forever Buff means much more than just my connection to 91������ — it’s about the impact we can have on others. It’s not just about having a degree or a connection to the university; it’s about helping future generations of Buffs succeed. The possibilities of what we can accomplish as Forever Buffs are limitless. I believe it’s our responsibility to share what we’ve learned and allow others to be part of this amazing community. 

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The CU Buffs’ 2024 football season brought renewed excitement for alumni and fans with a winning record, showstopping plays and superstar moments. Check out these top highlights from the season. 

1. The Buffs finished the 2024 season with a winning record of 9-4 overall and 7-2 in Big 12 conference play.

2. Travis Hunter as the top player in college football this season. He is only the second Heisman winner in 91������ history.

3. Colorado scored an average of 34.5 points per game with 15 rushing touchdowns and 35 passing touchdowns for the season.

4. The Buffs returned to a bowl game, playing in the on Dec. 26, against Brigham Young University.

5. The Buffs brought home the rivalry win against Colorado State on Sept. 14, with an impressive interception from Travis Hunter and a final score of 28-9.

6. Shedeur Sanders had a 43-yard touchdown pass to LaJohntay Wester against , which sent the game to overtime.

7. Buffs everywhere joined . Fans in the stadium sang “Happy Birthday” to the Buffs’ biggest fan, and the Fox Big Noon Kickoff featured Peggy.

8. Colton Hood made a pivotal play against Kansas State on Oct. 12, with a fourth-quarter interception and a 59-yard run to help shift the momentum in the game.

9. After a season of runs, Ralphie traveled 16 hours and 928 miles to run at the Valero Alamo Bowl.

10. The Buffs shut out Oklahoma State on Nov. 29, with a final score of 52-0. 

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