Celebrate

Distinguished Professor Lee Niswander wins Hazel Barnes Prize

Megan M Rogers — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:27:26 +0000

Distinguished Professor Lee Niswander wins Hazel Barnes Prize Megan M Rogers Wed, 04/29/2026 - 11:27

Bradley Worrell

Lee Niswander, distinguished professor in the 91��ý Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, has been awarded the 2026 Hazel Barnes Prize.

Established in 1991 by former Chancellor James Corbridge to honor the late Hazel Barnes, 91��ý professor of philosophy from 1953 to 1986, the $20,000 Hazel Barnes Prize celebrates the enriching interrelationship between teaching and research. It is the largest and most prestigious award funded by the university.

“Professor Niswander exemplifies the very best of 91��ý through groundbreaking research and a deep commitment to teaching and mentorship,” said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. “Her scholarly impact, departmental leadership and dedication to students reflect both the spirit of the Hazel Barnes Prize and the values Hazel Barnes herself championed. We are proud to honor Dr. Lee Niswander for her lasting contributions to our university and to her field.”

Inside the work of Lee Niswander

Niswander received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from 91��ý, her master’s degree in biochemistry and genetics from University of Colorado Health Sciences Center (now CU Anschutz) and her doctorate in genetics from Case Western University. She received her postdoctoral degree in developmental biology from the University of California San Francisco.

Since 2017, Niswander has served as professor of molecular, cellular and developmental biology (MCDB) at 91��ý. She was the chair of MCDB from 2017 to 2025.

As head of the Niswander Lab, she and her group investigate mouse models of embryonic development to provide insights into fundamental developmental processes, major human birth defects and potential clinical therapies. Her studies have revealed the molecular mechanisms that control formation of the central and peripheral nervous system, as well as lung, limb and neuromuscular development.

Niswander’s current focus is on early brain formation and birth defects that arise when normal brain formation goes awry, like failure of neural tube closure or maintenance of neural progenitor cells, resulting in spina bifida or microcephaly.

The Niswander Lab uses the mouse embryo and human-induced pluripotent stem cells as models of human development. The lab’s studies encompass genetics, epigenetics, environmental factors and live imaging to couple molecular insights to cell behaviors. Through collaborative efforts, Niswander Lab researchers are also exploring the genetic causes of neural tube defects in humans.

Niswander is the recipient of multiple awards and honors, including being named a Pew Scholar in Biomedical Research by the Pew Charitable Trusts and receiving the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers from the U.S. president. Additionally, she was a recipient of the Harland Winfield Mossman Developmental Biologists Award from the American Association of Anatomists in 2002, and she was an investigator of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute from 1997 to 2014.

Niswander was conferred a distinguished professorship by CU President Todd Saliman in 2024.

In 2026, Niswander received an Edwin G. Conklin Medal, which is awarded annually by the Society for Developmental Biology (SDB) to recognize a developmental biologist who has made and is continuing to make extraordinary research contributions to the field and is an excellent mentor, helping train the next generation of outstanding scientists.

In the words of colleagues

In letters supporting Niswander’s nomination for the Hazel Barnes Prize, colleagues noted her many contributions to MCDB and her skills as both a researcher and an instructor.

“(Niswander) embodies the best in teaching, research and scholarship and is wholly deserving of this highest honor,” said Robin Dowell, professor and associate chair of MCDB and the BioFrontiers Institute.

“She is a highly respected vertebrate developmental geneticist who had made major contributions over the years to our understanding of fundamental events in vertebrate embryonic development, including limb and lung development and neural tube closure. What makes her an ideal candidate for the Hazel Barnes Prize is how she integrates her research into her teaching at undergraduate, graduate and post-doctoral levels.”

Tin Tin Su, professor and chair of MCDB, lauded Niswander as a “highly respected developmental geneticist who made major contributions to our understanding of limb and lung development and neural tube closure.”

Su noted Niswander has produced 123 peer-reviewed papers with more than 20,000 citations. Additionally, Su commended Niswander for the 45 graduate and postdoctoral students she trained and for her devoted attention to undergraduate education, including teaching undergraduate classes.

“I am thrilled and honored to receive the Hazel Barnes Prize. I thank MCDB and professors Tin Tin Su and Robin Dowell for the nomination,” Niswander said. “This award represents numerous research discoveries by many students and postdoctoral fellows throughout my career.”

She added that she is pleased that the Hazel Barnes award recognizes her focus on the confluence of teaching and research. One accomplishment she is particularly proud of during her tenure as MCDB chair was the creation of a partnership with Front Range Community College (FRCC) to provide summer research opportunities in 91��ý Life Science labs to support FRCC students transferring to 91��ý to earn a bachelor’s degree.

Niswander concluded, “To all who have contributed to my broader success, I am deeply grateful, and this award is shared with you.”

Distinguished Professor Lee Niswander, whose research seeks to provide insights into fundamental developmental processes, major human birth defects and potential clinical therapies, has received 91��ý's most prestigious honor for 2026. The Hazel Barnes Prize each year recognizes a faculty member who exemplifies groundbreaking research and a deep commitment to teaching.

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William Penuel, Jun Ye named newest American Academy of Arts & Sciences members

Megan M Rogers — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 14:11:46 +0000

William Penuel, Jun Ye named newest American Academy of Arts & Sciences members Megan M Rogers Wed, 04/22/2026 - 08:11

The prestigious American Academy of Arts & Sciences has announced its newest members, and they include 91��ý affiliates William Penuel and Jun Ye.

Penuel and Ye join 250 other leaders in academia, the arts, industry, journalism, philanthropy, policy, research and science elected in 2026.

The academy, chartered in 1780, was established to recognize accomplished individuals and engage them in addressing the greatest challenges facing the young republic. The first members elected to the academy include President George Washington, who said—in his first annual message to Congress in 1790, “Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.”

“Election to the American Academy of Arts & Sciences is among the highest honors a scholar can receive, and this recognition speaks to 91��ý’s longstanding strength as a center of ideas and discovery,” said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. "The induction of professors William Penuel and Jun Ye adds to our university’s tradition of faculty recognized among the nation’s most distinguished scholars and affirms 91��ý’s role in advancing knowledge at the highest level.”

William Penuel

Penuel is a Distinguished Professor of Learning Sciences and Human Development in the School of Education and the Institute of Cognitive Science and a faculty fellow at the Renée Crown Wellness Institute at 91��ý.

His research examines how curriculum materials, assessments and professional learning experiences can support teachers in creating equitable and engaging STEM learning environments, particularly in science. He also studies how contemplative practices and critical inquiry help educators cultivate compassionate, inclusive learning environments and schools.

A leading scholar in research‑practice partnerships, Penuel investigates how long‑term collaborations between educators and researchers can address systemic inequities related to race, gender and sexual diversity and language.

Across his research, he works in close partnership with educators and education leaders to build and understand classrooms that honor students’ experiences, broaden whose knowledge is valued and connect instruction to learners’ identities and interests. He uses a wide range of research methods, including one he developed with colleagues called design-based implementation research.

Penuel is an elected member of the National Academy of Education and an American Educational Research Association fellow. He has published two books on research-practice partnerships: “Creating Research-Practice Partnerships in Education” (co-author; Harvard Education Press) and “Connecting Research and Practice for Educational Improvement” (co-editor; Routledge). He co-edited “The Foundational Handbook on Improvement Research in Education” (Rowman & Littlefield).

Last year, he co-authored his most recent book about compassion and dignity as an essential framework for building caring and inclusive schools, “Creating Compassionate Change in School Communities: Leading Together to Address Everyday Suffering in Schools” (Jossey-Bass).

Elected area and field

Class III: Social and Behavioral Sciences
Section 7: Education

Jun Ye

Ye’s election recognizes his extraordinary contributions to physics and quantum science, including pioneering advances in optical atomic clocks, precision measurement and quantum many-body physics.

Ye is a professor of physics at 91��ý and physicist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). He holds the Monroe Endowed Professorship in Physics and is a fellow at JILA. He has revolutionized how scientists measure time, developing quantum technologies that can track the passage of time with never-before-seen accuracy and precision.

Ye leads several quantum research initiatives at JILA. They include the CUbit Quantum Initiative and the Quantum Systems through Entangled Science and Engineering (Q-SEnSE) center funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation.

At JILA, Ye pioneered the design of optical atomic clocks, devices that measure time by tapping the behavior of atoms and electrons. His lab’s clocks would neither gain nor lose a second over billions of years.

Ye and his team have also worked to transform insights into the quantum world into technologies that can improve people’s lives. His lab, for example, built laser-based devices that can analyze samples of human breath, screening people for COVID-19 infections and other health conditions.

He earned his doctorate from 91��ý in 1997, where he trained under Jan Hall, who went on to win a Nobel Prize in 2005. Ye returned to JILA in 1999 and has received numerous awards for his research, including the 2022 Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics.

Elected area and field

Class I: Mathematical and Physical Sciences
Section 2: Physics

"Professors Penuel and Ye are emblematic of the world-class faculty at 91��ý, combining research, scholarship, teaching and service in vital institutes with excellence in their disciplines,” said Provost Ann Stevens. “We are honored by their ongoing achievements and their induction into the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, and our students and the rest of the world are beneficiaries of their unique work."

The new class joins academy members elected before them, including Benjamin Franklin (elected 1781) and Alexander Hamilton (1791) in the 18th century; Ralph Waldo Emerson (1864), Maria Mitchell (1848) and Charles Darwin (1874) in the 19th; Albert Einstein (1924), Robert Frost (1931), Margaret Mead (1948), Milton Friedman (1959), Martin Luther King, Jr. (1966) and Jacques Derrida (1985) in the 20th century.

This century, members include: Madeleine K. Albright (2001), Antonin Scalia (2003), Jennifer Doudna, who did postdoctoral research under 91��ý Nobel Laureate Tom Cech while a graduate student (2003), Esther Duflo (2009), John Legend (2017), Anna Deavere Smith (2019), Salman Rushdie (2022), Xuedong Huang (2023) and José Andrés (2025).

“We celebrate the achievement of each new member and the collective breadth and depth of their excellence—this is a fitting commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Academy President Laurie Patton. “The founding of the nation and the academy are rooted in the inextricable links between a vibrant democracy, the free pursuit of knowledge, and the expansion of the public good.”

Induction ceremonies for new members will take place in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in October 2026. Learn more about the American Academy of Arts & Sciences and its history.

The prestigious American Academy of Arts & Sciences has announced its newest members, and they include 91��ý affiliates William Penuel and Jun Ye.

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91��ý announces inaugural Community Belonging Award recipients

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 20:09:35 +0000

91��ý announces inaugural Community Belonging Award recipients Megan M Rogers Fri, 04/17/2026 - 14:09

91��ý is proud to announce the first recipients of the Community Belonging Awards, a new campuswide honor recognizing exceptional contributions by students, staff and faculty to fostering belonging within and across 91��ý communities.

The Community Belonging Awards were established this spring at the recommendation of CU Student Government, with the endorsement of the Boulder Faculty Assembly, Staff Council and the Graduate and Professional Student Government. The awards celebrate individuals whose actions help others on campus feel seen, valued and supported—whether through teaching, leadership, service, collaboration or quiet, behind-the-scenes care. Together, they reflect a shared commitment to recognizing the meaningful ways belonging is built across campus.

“These awards reflect both who we are and who we are striving to become as a campus,” said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. “The recipients of our first Community Belonging Awards remind us that meaningful change happens when people lead with care and a deep commitment to shared community.”

The four recipients—one undergraduate student, one graduate or professional student, one staff member and one faculty member—were selected for their demonstrated, meaningful impact on fostering belonging within a specific 91��ý community or across campus more broadly. This work has included efforts that strengthen connection and inclusion, advance social justice, or support one or more of 91��ý’s diversity, equity and inclusion goals. Each recipient receives a one-time monetary award of $5,000.

Recipients were selected by four separate committees, one for each award category, representing shared governance groups and campus partners. “We received nominations from students, staff and faculty in departments and offices across the university,” said Senior Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives Ann Schmiesing, who oversaw this year’s process.

“I am deeply inspired by the creativity, generosity and commitment shown by all four inaugural recipients,” Schwartz said. “They are models for all of us—showing how powerful individual actions can be in shaping a campus where everyone feels they belong.”

The Community Belonging Awards will be presented annually to recognize and elevate the people whose actions strengthen connection, care and community across 91��ý.

2026 Community Belonging Award recipients

Undergraduate student

Daniel Pagatpatan
College of Engineering and Applied Science, Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering

Daniel creates a culture where every student, whether in a rural high school or a large lecture, feels a genuine sense of acceptance and value.”

Graduate student

Olivia Felton
College of Engineering and Applied Science, Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering

Liv stands out among our graduate student population for her steadfast willingness to serve her community, volunteering her time and creative energies to improve the CU experience for her fellow grad students.”

Staff

Carla Eugene
Assistant Director, Faculty & Staff Assistance Program (FSAP)

Through her work with FSAP and the CU Cultural Collective, Carla has created inclusive spaces where faculty and staff feel seen, supported and connected through shared exploration of mental health, identity and community.”

Faculty

Carmen Pacheco
Scholar in Residence, Director of Food Engineering Graduate Certificate, Design and Food Engineering
College of Engineering and Applied Science, Paul M. Rady Department of Mechanical Engineering

Through her teaching and leadership, Carmen fosters a sense of belonging by creating inclusive, relatable learning and community spaces where students and colleagues feel welcomed, valued and engaged.”

91��ý is recognizing four inaugural Community Belonging Award recipients whose actions are strengthening connection, care and community across campus.

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Prestigious NSF fellowship awarded to 40 graduate students

Megan M Rogers — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:05:10 +0000

Prestigious NSF fellowship awarded to 40 graduate students Megan M Rogers Wed, 04/15/2026 - 11:05

The Graduate Research Fellowship Program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students in a wide variety of science-related disciplines.

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Buffalo Chip: 91��ý, Sweet Cow serve up a sweet celebration

Megan M Rogers — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 12:51:57 +0000

Buffalo Chip: 91��ý, Sweet Cow serve up a sweet celebration Megan M Rogers Sun, 04/12/2026 - 06:51

What is black and gold and sweet all over?

Meet Buffalo Chip—91��ý’s first-ever officially licensed ice cream flavor, created in partnership with Colorado favorite Sweet Cow.

Launched April 6 at all seven Sweet Cow locations across Boulder, Denver and beyond, Buffalo Chip is more than just dessert—it’s a celebration of 91��ý’s 150th anniversary. The flavor was crafted with input from students and alumni, blending nostalgia and innovation into one delicious scoop.

So, what’s inside? A rich brown sugar butter ice cream swirled with dark chocolate and butterscotch chips. The black-and-gold chip combination is a nod to CU’s iconic colors, where the butterscotch honors 150 years of history and the dark chocolate adds a bold, modern twist. In short: It’s Buff pride in a cone.

MooMobile on campus April 14

The Sweet Cow MooMobile will be at Koenig Alumni Center (1202 University Ave.) from noon until 4 p.m. on Tuesday, April 14, serving $1.50 scoops.

“Buffalo Chip is a joyful, delicious tribute to 91��ý’s 150-year story,” said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. “It reflects the creativity of our students, the dedication of our alumni and the deep connections that make this university such a vital part of Colorado.”

The partnership is personal for Sweet Cow founder Drew Honness, a 91��ý history alum who got his start scooping ice cream as a student. Today, Sweet Cow is a Colorado staple, known for its long lines, signature stickers and community vibe. Many Buffs have worked at Sweet Cow over the last 16 years, making this collaboration a natural fit.

And here’s the sweetest part: A portion of Buffalo Chip sales will support 91��ý scholarships, helping future students chase their dreams. The flavor is also joining Sweet Cow’s lineup of 10 core flavors, complete with a custom black-and-gold menu placard.

“Being able to create a flavor that celebrates CU’s 150th anniversary and gives back to students feels like everything coming full circle,” Honness said. “We hope Buffalo Chip becomes a favorite for Buffs everywhere.”

There's a new ice cream flavor in town! Buffalo Chip is a black-and-gold scoop celebrating CU's 150 years and supporting student scholarships. Try a $1.50 scoop on April 14, when the MooMobile stops by campus.

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91��ý recognizes Student Employee Supervisors of the Year

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 13:41:24 +0000

91��ý recognizes Student Employee Supervisors of the Year Megan M Rogers Fri, 04/10/2026 - 07:41

Nominated by student employees, the Student Employee Supervisor of the Year program recognizes supervisors who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to mentoring, supporting and developing student employees.

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Beverly Kingston, Samuel Ramsey awarded for advancing societal impact

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 19:57:02 +0000

Beverly Kingston, Samuel Ramsey awarded for advancing societal impact Megan M Rogers Thu, 04/09/2026 - 13:57

Two 91��ý researchers are among the recipients of the 2026 Center for Advancing Research Impact in Society Awards, which recognize outstanding research with societal impact.

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CU Athletics honors student athletes' academic success

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:59:23 +0000

CU Athletics honors student athletes' academic success Megan M Rogers Thu, 04/09/2026 - 12:59

The University of Colorado Department of Athletics celebrated another banner year for student athletes, who excelled and set records in the classroom.

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91��ý honors 2026 Student Employees of the Year

Megan M Rogers — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:12:09 +0000

91��ý honors 2026 Student Employees of the Year Megan M Rogers Tue, 04/07/2026 - 14:12

Learn about this year's Student Employee of the Year recipients, with two students earning national recognition and one named the Overall National Student Employee of the Year.

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22 faculty recognized as exceptional mentors

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 17:20:29 +0000

22 faculty recognized as exceptional mentors Megan M Rogers Thu, 04/02/2026 - 11:20

The Exceptional Graduate Faculty Mentor Award recognizes the work that faculty mentors do to improve the graduate student experience.

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Celebrate

Distinguished Professor Lee Niswander wins Hazel Barnes Prize

Inside the work of Lee Niswander

In the words of colleagues

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