Lumina Foundation partnership expands career pathways for students. CU Denver launches ELEVATION campaign. Omar Mendoza's journey from kitchen to classroom. We hope to CU at these upcoming events.
Expanding Career Pathways Through National Partnership
CU Denver has been selected by the Lumina Foundation to help lead a national effort connecting education to meaningful careers. This investment will expand internships, research, and real-world learning opportunities, ensuring students graduate with the skills, experience, and confidence to succeed in today’s workforce.
CU Denver has launched ELEVATION: The Campaign for CU Denver, a comprehensive effort focused on expanding access, strengthening student success, and creating real-world opportunities for learners. Through scholarships, mentorship, and hands-on learning experiences, this campaign is designed to help students like Omar Mendoza (see below) turn ambition into achievement and build meaningful futures.
From Kitchen to Classroom: Omar's Path to Purpose
After nearly a decade in professional kitchens, Omar Mendoza chose a new path through education. With scholarship support and mentorship at CU Denver, he is now pursuing physics, conducting research, and building a future defined by resilience, discovery, and opportunity.
Thanks to the Lynx community for coming together to Make It Real on CU Denver Giving Day 2026! Preliminary numbers show over 300 donors gave more than $69,000, helping empower student dreams and support them at pivotal moments. We are deeply grateful for your generosity.
CU TOGETHER
The Business School hosted its annual Scholarship Luncheon in February, bringing together donors, students, and university leaders to celebrate the transformative power of philanthropy. The event highlighted the meaningful connections between scholarship recipients and the supporters who help make their educational journeys possible.
25th Annual THE CLIMB Pitch Night 2026 Thursday, April 23 | 5:30 p.m. | Jake Jabs Event Center
Six finalists share their most innovative business ideas in front of a panel of distinguished judges and a live audience.
Research and Creative Activities Symposium Friday, April 24 | 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Lola & Rob Salazar Student Wellness Center and North Classroom
Annual showcase of CU Denver undergraduate and graduate students research and creative scholarship.
2026 Economic Forecast National and Regional Insights Thursday, April 30 | 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Jake Jabs Event Center
Join the CU Denver Business School for a presentation by Morgan Stanley's Chief Economic Strategist, Ellen Zentner '95 and Colorado State Demographer, Kate M. Watkins.
CU Denver Spring 2026 Commencement Saturday, May 16 | 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. | Denver Coliseum
Celebrate our graduates and post a message to them on social using #CUDenverGrad
