Simone Ross (B.A., ’04; MBA, ’14) is redefining what leadership looks like. From scaling complex organizations to delivering a powerful TEDx talk on authentic leadership, Ross blends operational strategy with a deeply human lens. Now CEO of the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce, she challenges traditional corporate culture and encourages leaders – especially women – to show up fully and unapologetically.
Sean and Nikki Moran’s CSU roots run deep. From their days as student-athletes in the ’90s to cheering on their son Jack from the stands today, the Morans embody Ram pride. This fall, they’ll ring the Old Main Bell together – celebrating a legacy that’s come full circle.
Beloved dean, mentor, and storyteller, Ann Gill spent nearly four decades shaping lives at CSU. On Sept. 27, her family will ring the Old Main Bell in her memory – celebrating her warmth, generosity, and enduring impact on the Ram community.
Clint Oldenburg (B.A. ’06) went from the NFL to video game development, where he now leads in developing major sports titles like Madden NFL and College Football.
Yulissa Chavez, a first-generation Latina student, found more than an education at Colorado State University; she found a community that empowered her identity and leadership.
Inspired by his education at CSU, Keith McLellan (B.A., ’06) took digital marketing to the next level for the popular Whataburger chain, leading the franchise to increased popularity and an award-winning customer experience.
For Melissa Broughton (B.A., ’98), lavender isn’t just the crop that she farms for her June Bloom Lavender business, it’s a way of life. Like lavender, and through the inspiration of her rancher dad, her resilience and ability to thrive in the most adverse conditions has given her the opportunity to provide well-being for others.
Suzi Karrer (B.S., ’00) was recently appointed as the Chief Communications Officer for the Colorado Judicial Branch which encompasses the Colorado Supreme Court, Colorado Court of Appeals, limited-jurisdiction county courts, and general-jurisdiction district courts.
During Homecoming and Family Weekend, Yusef Komunyakka (M.A., ’81) received the William E. Morgan Distinguished Alumni Award for his work as a Pulitzer prize winning poet. Though he was unable to attend the ceremony, University Distinguished Professor Camille Dungy accepted the award on Komunyakaa’s behalf and described his “rhythm of the work.”
You might not know CSU Athletics historian John Hirn (B.A., ’93) personally, but you have been able to experience a CSU tradition or memory because of him. On November 29, Hirn went from historian to history maker when he rang the Old Main Bell.
