Announcements & Deadlines

Bold ideas from arts, humanities and social sciences backed by new Creative Futures Fellowship

Megan M Rogers — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 14:48:06 +0000

Bold ideas from arts, humanities and social sciences backed by new Creative Futures Fellowship Megan M Rogers Tue, 07/21/2026 - 08:48

Venture Partners at 91��ý has announced the inaugural cohort of Creative Futures Fellows, supporting arts, humanities and social science projects that address challenges facing communities in Colorado and beyond.

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New report showcases 91��ý's ongoing commitment to sustainability

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 16 Jul 2026 19:11:07 +0000

New report showcases 91��ý's ongoing commitment to sustainability Megan M Rogers Thu, 07/16/2026 - 13:11

The 2025 University of Colorado Sustainability Report (PDF) was published in June 2026 and showcases advances in climate action across the entire University of Colorado system, including the Boulder, Colorado Springs, Denver and Anschutz campuses.

The report highlights the momentum here at 91��ý to integrate sustainability across education, operations, research and community engagement while advancing toward a goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.

"At 91��ý, sustainability is fundamental to our mission of educating tomorrow's leaders, advancing groundbreaking research and serving Colorado," said Vice Chancellor for Sustainability Andrew Mayock. "This report demonstrates that meaningful climate action isn't accomplished through a single initiative but through sustained investments, collaboration and innovation across every part of our campus."

The report highlights several key sustainability milestones from 2025, including:

Launching the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Sustainability and welcoming Andrew Mayock as the university's inaugural vice chancellor for sustainability.
Establishing the SPIKE Center for Sustainability Education (formerly the Buckley Center), a $10 million initiative funded by alum Spike Buckley to expand sustainability education through faculty fellowships, student scholarships and curriculum development.
Becoming the administrative and operational home of the new Carnegie Elective Classification for Sustainability, a noteworthy award from the Carnegie Foundation and American Council on Education that recognizes critical investments and approaches to sustainability across higher education institutions.
Releasing an updated Climate Action Plan in 2024 that sets ambitious goals to reduce Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030, reduce feasible Scope 3 emissions by 50% and achieve zero emissions no later than 2050.
Launching the Sustainability Research Initiative to accelerate interdisciplinary research and partnerships that translate innovation into practical climate solutions.
Continuing modernization of district energy plants, geothermal feasibility studies and the addition of a 1.1-megawatt East Campus solar array and a 5-megawatt off-site solar installation beginning in 2026.
Expanding campus sustainability initiatives through the Buff Surplus Store, Green Labs, electric buses and EV charging, elimination of single-use beverage plastics, composting and zero-waste athletics.

"91��ý is proud to be part of a university system that prioritizes sustainability across all of its campuses," said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. "This report reflects how we are advancing that commitment through the research we lead, the students we prepare to make a difference, the investments we are making across our campus and the partnerships that turn knowledge into impact for Colorado and beyond.”

The 2025 sustainability report demonstrates that sustainability at 91��ý extends well beyond campus operations. Through investments in infrastructure, education, research and partnerships, the university is continuing to advance solutions that benefit both the campus community and the state of Colorado while building toward a carbon-neutral future.

Learn more about 91��ý’s goals and vision for sustainability implementation.

The 2025 University of Colorado Sustainability Report highlights 91��ý's progress in advancing sustainability through education, research, campus operations and community engagement.

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Professor takes next-generation battery research global with Fulbright award

Megan M Rogers — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 20:42:47 +0000

Professor takes next-generation battery research global with Fulbright award Megan M Rogers Wed, 07/15/2026 - 14:42

Chunmei Ban, professor of mechanical engineering, has received a Fulbright Global Scholar award to explore the future of energy storage through next-generation battery technologies.

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Lab Venture Challenge applications now open for 2026

Megan M Rogers — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 20:44:24 +0000

Lab Venture Challenge applications now open for 2026 Megan M Rogers Mon, 07/06/2026 - 14:44

CU innovators can compete for grants of up to $125,000 through the Lab Venture Challenge. The program supports research with strong scientific backing, commercial potential and a clear path to market. Deadlines are July 17, July 24 and Aug. 21.

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2 91��ý education scholars earn prestigious early-career honors

Megan M Rogers — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 16:04:54 +0000

2 91��ý education scholars earn prestigious early-career honors Megan M Rogers Wed, 07/01/2026 - 10:04

Doctoral candidate Danielle Aguilar and alum Christopher Saldaña have been selected for two of the National Academy of Education and Spencer Foundation’s most competitive honors for emerging education scholars.

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Colorado recognizes 91��ý's Basic Needs Program with new designation

Megan M Rogers — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:59:36 +0000

Colorado recognizes 91��ý's Basic Needs Program with new designation Megan M Rogers Tue, 06/23/2026 - 08:59

The Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) has awarded 91��ý the Comprehensive Basic Needs Campus Designation, recognizing the university’s long-standing investment in programs that address students’ essential needs, including food security, housing and mental health. The CU Denver and Colorado Springs campuses were also recognized.

“This designation is a culmination of years of investment in building strong, student-centered support systems,” said Hannah Wilks, assistant dean of students. “91��ý has worked hard to develop a comprehensive approach to addressing basic needs, and this recognition reaffirms our commitment to creating equitable, supportive environments on our campus and across Colorado—sharing best practices and helping all students thrive.”

CDHE evaluates colleges and universities on 13 basic needs service areas, including food security, mental health, legal services and career support. The designation has two levels: Cornerstone Campus, for institutions meeting core requirements across six foundational areas, and Comprehensive Campus, for those that meet all Cornerstone criteria plus at least three additional service categories.

Both levels focus on reducing barriers, alleviating stress and improving retention and graduation outcomes. This recognition consolidates prior initiatives—such as the Hunger Free Campus designation 91��ý earned in 2020—into a single, holistic framework. It is part of CDHE’s Social Determinants of Student Success initiative, which emphasizes that access to essential resources is critical for academic and life success.

91��ý’s basic needs support program is a critical part in the Division of Student Life’s mission to create an inclusive student-ready community centered on student success, holistic well-being and self-advocacy. The Basic Needs Center collaborates and coordinates with several departments across Student Life to support students beyond the classroom, including food and housing security, legal services, health and well-being resources, career services and much more.

Wilks has also elevated this effort beyond 91��ý, so that students around Colorado can thrive. In 2020, she cofounded The Colorado Higher Education Basic Needs Coalition, which works to reduce stigma and expand access to essential supports for students statewide through collaboration, advocacy and data-informed strategies. Its efforts align with 91��ý’s commitment to student success, including launching a statewide basic needs insecurity survey in fall 2026, with participation from about 20 institutions. 91��ý developed the survey and will analyze the data in partnership with the CDHE to better understand student needs across the state and inform resources, funding and policy decisions.

For more information on 91��ý’s student support resources, visit the Basic Needs Center.

The Colorado Department of Higher Education has awarded 91��ý the Comprehensive Basic Needs Campus Designation, recognizing the university's long-standing investment in programs that address students' essential needs, including food security, housing and mental health.

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91��ý joins CU spinout Infleqtion, other innovators in America's Quantum Space Initiative

Greg B Swenson — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 18:02:47 +0000

91��ý joins CU spinout Infleqtion, other innovators in America's Quantum Space Initiative Greg B Swenson Mon, 06/22/2026 - 12:02

91��ý has joined Infleqtion’s newly launched America’s Quantum Space Initiative as a founding innovator, helping advance the development and deployment of quantum technologies for future space systems.

The initiative, led by 91��ý spinout Infleqtion, brings together Voyager Technologies, Monarch Quantum, Armada and 91��ý to foster collaboration across industry, academia and government, accelerate innovation, expand opportunities for quantum technologies in space and strengthen U.S. leadership in next-generation technologies.

91��ý brings internationally recognized expertise in both quantum science and space research to the initiative. Home to one of the nation's leading university-based space research enterprises and a long-standing leader in quantum research and workforce development, 91��ý has helped advance scientific discovery from the laboratory to space missions across the solar system.

"91��ý has a long tradition of tackling society’s most complex scientific and technological challenges through bold research and collaboration," said 91��ý Chancellor Justin Schwartz. "Quantum science will enable transformative advances that touch every segment of society. As quantum technologies move from the laboratory to real-world applications and space becomes increasingly critical to economic competitiveness and national security, 91��ý is proud to help advance the convergence of these two transformative fields."

Beyond the story

Our quantum impact by the numbers:

60-plus years as the regional epicenter for quantum research
4 Nobel prizes in physics awarded to university researchers
No. 11 quantum physics program in the nation and co-leader on the new Quantum Incubator facility

Follow 91��ý on LinkedIn

Through the initiative and its planned Quantum Space Hub, founding innovators will help identify opportunities for technology development, demonstration and deployment and accelerate the transition of quantum technologies from pioneering demonstrations to real-world space applications.

"We are entering a defining moment for both quantum technology and space innovation," said Matt Kinsella, chief executive officer of Infleqtion. "The opportunity ahead is bigger than any one company, institution, or discipline. By bringing together innovators from across the ecosystem, we can help unlock the next frontier at the intersection of quantum and space."

America's Quantum Space Initiative builds on more than a decade of progress advancing quantum technologies for space applications. Infleqtion contributed to NASA’s Cold Atom Laboratory aboard the International Space Station and is a key partner on NASA's Quantum Gravity Gradiometer Pathfinder mission, expected to become the world’s first quantum gravity sensor in space.

Through America's Quantum Space Initiative, participants will seek to accelerate the transition of quantum technologies from demonstrations to real-world space applications, advance quantum-enabled capabilities for future space systems through collaboration across industry, academia and government, and strengthen U.S. leadership in quantum and space technologies through innovation, workforce development and strategic partnerships.

Within its first year, the initiative plans to convene leaders from industry, government, academia and the space sector; establish the Quantum Space Hub; and identify opportunities to accelerate the development and deployment of quantum technologies for space applications.

Read the Original Infleqtion Press Release

91��ý has joined Infleqtion’s newly launched America's Quantum Space Initiative as a founding innovator, helping advance the development and deployment of quantum technologies for future space systems.

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Know key academic dates for fall 2026

Megan M Rogers — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 16:17:32 +0000

Know key academic dates for fall 2026 Megan M Rogers Fri, 06/12/2026 - 10:17

Be in the know—mark your calendars for these key academic dates for the fall semester.

Thursday	Aug. 20	First day of classes
Monday	Sept. 7	Labor Day (university closed)
Thursday	Oct. 8	Midsemester reading day (no classes/no exams)
Monday–Friday	Nov. 23–27	Fall break (no classes)
Thursday–Friday	Nov. 26–27	Thanksgiving holiday (university closed)
Friday	Dec. 4	Last day of classes
Saturday–Sunday	Dec. 5–6	Reading days (no classes/no exams)
Monday–Friday	Dec. 7–11	Final exams

Note: Colorado Law follows a different academic calendar. See the complete fall 2026 academic calendar.

Mark your calendars for these key academic dates for the fall semester.

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Mary Rippon theater reopening with Colorado Shakespeare Festival

Megan M Rogers — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:48:55 +0000

Mary Rippon theater reopening with Colorado Shakespeare Festival Megan M Rogers Thu, 06/04/2026 - 06:48

Photo by Steve Wiesenthal

After a two-year renovation as part of the Hellems project, the Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre is ready to welcome audiences back. Long a centerpiece of 91��ý’s cultural life, the theatre has hosted generations of performances and remains home to the Colorado Shakespeare Festival, founded in 1958 and now the nation’s second‑longest‑running Shakespeare festival. Its reopening comes during 91��ý’s 150th anniversary year, connecting this milestone to a broader celebration of the university’s history, growth and enduring impact.

“Colorado Shakespeare Festival’s return to Mary Rippon is an exciting moment for CU Presents and for our entire community,” said Andrew Metzroth, executive director of CU Presents. “We are thrilled to welcome audiences back to this iconic venue and to launch a new season of performances that celebrate storytelling, connection and shared experience under the Colorado sky.”

The Colorado Shakespeare Festival returns to the newly renovated Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre beginning June 7 with Shakespeare’s comedy "Twelfth Night."

Updates to the space focused on improving accessibility, including upgraded restrooms, new indoor and outdoor gathering areas and better ADA access and seating. These improvements are woven thoughtfully into the building’s historic character, preserving its identity while enhancing its function. The project also restores historic elements and ensures the theatre can serve students, performers and the community for decades to come.

The reopening honors the legacy of Mary Rippon. In 1878, she became CU’s first female professor, and one of the first women in the nation to teach at a state university. During her more than 30 years at CU, she earned deep respect from students and colleagues alike. In 1936, the university dedicated the outdoor theatre in her name, recognizing her lasting impact on the arts and humanities.

The reopening marks not just the return of performances, but also a renewed investment in the arts and humanities, which are core to the university’s mission and student experience.

“The Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre has always been a place where ideas, creativity and community come together,” said Daryl Maeda, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “Its reopening ensures that students, performers and audiences can continue to experience the power of the arts in a setting that honors our history while supporting the future of learning.”

Photo by Steve Wiesenthal

Photo by Steve Wiesenthal

After two years of renovations, the historic Mary Rippon Outdoor Theatre is ready to welcome audiences back for storytelling under the Colorado sky. Its reopening during 91��ý's 150th anniversary highlights the theater's longstanding place in campus life.

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Gov. Jared Polis signs higher education bills at 91��ý

Elizabeth Lock — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 22:00:28 +0000

Gov. Jared Polis signs higher education bills at 91��ý Elizabeth Lock Mon, 06/01/2026 - 16:00

Karalyn Canada

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis visited 91��ý on Monday for a bill-signing ceremony, highlighting three higher education measures aimed at expanding student access and strengthening Colorado's colleges and universities.

Among the bills Polis signed was HB26-1078, a CU-initiated measure focused on expanding off-campus courses and concurrent enrollment opportunities for Colorado students. The bill, known as “Off-Campus Courses and Concurrent Enrollment Programs,” is designed to increase access to higher education pathways by supporting partnerships between colleges, universities and K-12 schools across the state.

Polis also signed HB26-1006, which creates thriving institution designations for higher education institutions, and HB26-1016, which continues Colorado's Open Educational 91��ý Program to help reduce textbook and course material costs for students.

The ceremony included brief remarks from Polis, CU system President Todd Saliman and bill sponsors: Representatives Lesley Smith and Eliza Hamrick. 91��ý Chancellor Justin Schwartz was in attendance alongside Chancellor Jennifer Sobanet, Chancellor Kenneth Christensen, Regent Elliott Hood and Regent Ilana Spiegel.

CU system's Office of Government Relations is a full-time resource, helping build partnerships between the university and external stakeholders. Alongside 91��ý's Office for Outreach and Community Engagement, it can assist campus community members with inviting state or federal officials to campus, meeting with legislators, fulfilling requests from elected officials, preparing for legislative testimonies and more.

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis visited 91��ý on June 1 for a bill-signing ceremony, highlighting three higher education measures aimed at expanding student access and strengthening Colorado's colleges and universities.

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Announcements & Deadlines

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