College of Liberal Arts Winter 2024/Spring 2025 News
An update on the latest research, faculty achievements, alumni spotlights, and other recent news from the College of Liberal Arts.
Letter from the Dean: Winter 2024/Spring 2025
Meet our new dean Kjerstin Thorson, read her reflections from her first semester at CSU, and get an update on the Clark project.
Music alumna, Xareny Polanco, named 2025 CMEA Outstanding Young Educator
Colorado State University music education alumna, Xareny Polanco, B.M.E. ‘21, has been awarded a 2025 Colorado Music Educators Association Outstanding Young Educator Award.
The rhythm of love: Yusef Komunyakaa receives Morgan Distinguished Alumni Award
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.”
A historian makes history: John Hirn rings the Old Main Bell
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.
From campus to the courtroom: Col. Steve Ray to ring 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.
CSU is tagging you in on Day of Giving Aug. 22
Tag! You’re in! That’s the message being sent on Aug. 22 as Colorado State University invites you to play the biggest – and most impactful – game of tag ever, during this year’s Day of Giving.
Driving Change Through Creative Motivations
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.
When Opportunity Called Mike Katz Answered
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.
Having a Ball With Leadership and Rams Athletics
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.