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.
When Colonel Steve Ray (B.A., ’71) transferred to CSU in his junior year, he had no idea he would experience some of the most tumultuous times in campus history. That experience would inspire him to return to campus later in life to help support ROTC cadets and alumni. On November 15, Col. Ray will ring the Old Main Bell for the Bronze Boot Game and in honor of Veteran’s Day.
September 14 marks the first time CSU will host the Rocky Mountain Showdown since 1996, and the game is set to be both exciting and memorable. To kick things off, CSU alum Mike Rosser (B.S., ’64) will ring the Old Main Bell and give the Rams some good luck as they take on the CU Buffs.
From his early days at Colorado State University to his pivotal role in revitalizing Denver’s Five Points neighborhood, Norman Harris III (B.A., ‘99) has made significant strides in community engagement and cultural preservation. As the Executive Director dedicated to restoring this historic area, Harris is also the driving force behind the nation’s largest Juneteenth celebration, blending his passion for heritage with dynamic event planning. Discover how Harris’ journey has led to profound impacts on both his community and the enduring legacy of Juneteenth.
If Mike Katz (B.A., ’00) could offer any advice it would be pretty simple: Take the biggest swings, bet on yourself, and when opportunity calls, always answer.
Raised in Fort Collins to a family of die-hard Rams fans, Kathleen Pitre (B.A., ’00; M.S., ’04) has always been “green and gold from the word go,” and makes it a point to stay until the very last second of every home Rams game. While she loves the thrill of the game, it’s CSU and its community that keeps her so closely connected to her alma mater.
Throughout her time at CSU, Reham Abdunabi (B.A., ’24) has been a strong proponent of student leadership and advocacy. That’s just one of the reasons why she’s been named this years recipient of the Albert C. Yates Student Leadership Award.
