Volunteering

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Thom and Mary Rabaglia

Anna Tolette — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 16:14:39 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Thom and Mary Rabaglia Anna Tolette Mon, 08/17/2026 - 10:14

Keeley Haynes

As new Buffs move into residence halls to begin their Ģ��Ӱ�� journeys, their possibilities feel endless. A simple greeting can turn into a lifelong friendship. A casual invitation to the dining hall can lead to unforgettable conversations. And in the case of Forever Buffs volunteer Mary Rabaglia (EPOBio’77), an innocent prank can be the start of a generational love story.

In the fall of 1973, two weeks after moving into Hallett Hall, Rabaglia was in the mood for some late-night mischief.

“I had taken a bunch of butter pats from the cafeteria because I was going to make some popcorn in my dorm room,” said Mary. “It got late, and no one wanted popcorn, so I started buttering the doorknobs on my floor.”

That’s when Thom Rabaglia (CivEngr’77) became her partner in crime.

“Thom saw what I was doing and started to help me,” said Mary. “The rest is history. We just celebrated our 50th Wedding Anniversary.”

Now, the two share their love with Ģ��Ӱ�� by giving back.

Read on to learn how Thom and Mary use volunteering to reminisce about their first dates and five decades together.

Favorite shared Ģ��Ӱ�� memory

Watching the Buffs beat Notre Dame and become national champions at the 1990 Orange Bowl in Miami. Thom was on the field; I was in the stands. John Parker, the former Ralphie Program director, asked Thom to be on the field. We made several flags that John arranged to have run on the field with Ralphie at every game. It was always a thrill to see our flags on the field, and a few times, Thom ran the largest 10 feet by 14 feet flag.

Who or what inspires you?

Currently, Coach Deion Sanders. We have been consecutive season ticket holders for over 50 years. The energy and excitement Coach Sanders brings to the football program and the broader Boulder community is amazing and so wonderful. Both of us have read Sanders’s book, “Elevate and Dominate,” which is filled with so many inspirational messages.

What is your favorite way to volunteer for Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder?

We help set up events on campus and at away games. Our favorite on-campus event is Buffs on Tap at the Koenig Alumni Center during Homecoming weekend. We also set up the Buff Bashes anytime we travel for away games.

What have you learned about yourself through volunteering with Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder?

Now that we are retired, it is wonderful to have the time to help others. I volunteered very little while focusing on my career, so now I am glad I can give back, especially to an institution that gave me so much. Both of us are who we are today because of Ģ��Ӱ��, and now we love all the fellow Buff alums we have the honor to meet at the events where we volunteer.

Where is your favorite spot to go to in Boulder, either on or off campus?

Folsom Field will always be a special place for us. We had one of our first dates watching a football game in the student section, and we just celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary with a party on the Rooftop Terrace. Off campus, our favorite spots are Eben G. Fine Park, Pearl Street and the trails around Boulder Creek.

Learn how to become an alumni volunteer

Mary and Thom Rabaglia on their 50th anniversary

For Forever Buffs volunteers Mary (EPOBio’77) and Thom (CivEngr’77) Rabaglia, an innocent prank can be the start of a generational love story. Read on to learn how Thom and Mary use volunteering to reminisce about their first dates and five decades together.

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July Buff of the Month: Shu-Wei Tseng (DMA'10)

Anna Tolette — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 17:53:36 +0000

July Buff of the Month: Shu-Wei Tseng (DMA'10) Anna Tolette Mon, 08/03/2026 - 11:53

Shu-Wei Tseng

Forever Buff Shu-Wei Tseng (DMA'10) is an acclaimed musician celebrated for her outstanding technique and musicality. She has performed in prominent concert halls across four continents, demonstrating her skills as a soloist and chamber musician playing piano and cello. She serves on the faculty of the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music.

Since 2024, Shu-Wei has been part of the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, a volunteer group offering strategic advice to the Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder Alumni Association. Representing the university’s alumni, they work to foster pride and increase engagement with Forever Buffs.

Besides her musical and teaching pursuits, Shu-Wei has a keen interest in science, especially neuroscience. Her MS in psychology complements her music degrees and deepens her interest in the connection between music and scientific research, enriching her music teaching approach.

What led you to choose Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder for your doctoral degree in Musical Arts?

While researching where to pursue my DMA, I came across a music recital program featuring a Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder graduate. That chance discovery led me to learn more about the university, and I was immediately drawn to its strong reputation in both music and the sciences. Combined with Ģ��Ӱ��'s breathtaking landscape — often referred to as the "Switzerland of America" — Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder offered the perfect environment in which to complete my final degree.

What is your favorite Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder memory?

Attending faculty concerts with my new friends was one of the highlights of my time at Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder. These performances were among the most inspiring experiences of my student years. Unlike my experience in Europe, where students often have to seek out their professors' concert schedules and pay their own travel expenses to hear them perform, Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder offered the remarkable opportunity to experience world-class faculty performances right on campus. Two of my professors (Doris and Ozwald Lehnert) helped launch the college’s popular Faculty Tuesdays recital series in 1999.

Watching professors demonstrate on stage the very techniques, artistry and musical ideas they taught me each week was both inspiring and humbling. Seeing their teaching come to life in performance deepened my understanding of the music and reinforced everything I was learning in the studio. It also gave me an even greater appreciation for their extraordinary artistry and musicianship.

Having such exceptional performances woven into campus life was a rare privilege — one that profoundly enriched my education and left a lasting impression on my further development as both an artist and an educator.

If you could pick one song to capture your Forever Buffs experience, what would it be?

“Stand Up for Something,” the song written by Common and Diane Warren, performed by Common and Andra Day.

What inspired you to stay connected with the university beyond graduation?

My time at Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder was an emotional journey — one filled with challenges, but also with meaningful relationships and unforgettable experiences. Along the way, I met extraordinary mentors and lifelong friends who enriched my journey and helped shape both my personal and professional growth. I have remained involved because I value those connections and believe the experiences, perspectives and skills I gained can help support and inspire current and future Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder students.

You’ve conducted workshops and masterclasses across four continents. What has been the most surprising thing that you’ve learned in teaching the next generation of musicians?

The amount of information and the wealth of resources available today far exceed anything we could have imagined just a generation ago. While this unprecedented access offers remarkable opportunities, it also presents new challenges. In a culture that prizes speed and efficiency, we should be cautious about equating faster with better. One thing that has particularly surprised me is how rarely students ask themselves why — the question at the heart of meaningful musical interpretation.

The real challenge is finding a balance: embracing the efficiency of modern tools and physical stamina, while allowing learning to unfold deeply, thoughtfully and organically.

What advice would you give to fellow Buffs about building a professional music career?

The priorities of your education should evolve with each stage of your life. As an undergraduate, choose a professor who has the time to mentor you, rather than one whose frequent travel results in inconsistent lessons or substitute teachers. These formative years are when close mentorship has the greatest influence on your growth as both a musician and a person.

For postgraduate study, broaden your horizons. Study in different cities or countries, explore diverse musical traditions, research historical contexts and learn from teachers and peers whose backgrounds differ from your own. These experiences cultivate not only artistic maturity but also a broader perspective on the world. By embracing different cultures, pedagogical approaches and ways of thinking, we become more thoughtful musicians and more compassionate global citizens.

Music is a universal language, and with that comes a responsibility to learn, question, explore, exchange ideas, teach and pass on knowledge. In doing so, we honor both the composers whose works we perform and the audiences with whom we share them.

How can Forever Buffs support you, or how can they check out an upcoming performance?

My website and social media platforms are regularly updated, including my new Instagram, to share upcoming projects and opportunities.

Forever Buffs can support these efforts by helping me connect with students, alumni and prospective Buffs who may be interested in collaborating or simply meeting up. Together, we can create meaningful events and experiences for the entire Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder community and accomplish wonderful things.

Connect with Shu-Wei and our other Forever Buffs Advisory Board members.

Explore the Forever Buffs Advisory Board Directory

Shu-Wei Tseng

Forever Buff Shu-Wei Tseng (DMA'10) is an acclaimed musician who has performed in prominent concert halls across four continents, demonstrating her skills as a soloist and chamber musician playing piano and cello. Since 2024, Shu-Wei has been part of the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, a volunteer group offering strategic advice to the Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder Alumni Association.

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Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Judith Glyde

Anna Tolette — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 16:27:31 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Judith Glyde Anna Tolette Fri, 07/17/2026 - 10:27

Keeley Haynes

For more than 20 years, Judith Glyde shared her passion for music with Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder’s College of Music students as a professor of cello and chamber music and the Strings Department Chair. Now, she continues to bring joy and expertise to the Ģ��Ӱ�� community as a Forever Buffs New York alumni chapter board member.

From producing specialty holiday performances amidst the COVID-19 pandemic to promoting cultural events around New York City, Judith strengthens bonds among Ģ��Ӱ�� alumni and deepens her personal enrichment through volunteering.

“We grow from knowing the students and, hopefully, they grow from knowing us,” said Judith upon receiving the College of Music’s Distinguished Service Award in 2022. “To be able to continue a relationship with our alums, supporting their music and their dreams, is a rare privilege.”

Read on to learn how Judith transfers her wisdom from teaching to volunteering and continues to make an impact on the youth of today.

What is your favorite Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder memory?

Remembering every student I had the pleasure of teaching (some of whom are in NYC with me now) and every colleague I had the pleasure of performing with at Faculty Tuesdays. My favorite memory as a volunteer, however, is when Dawn Barone and I produced a Holiday Christmas celebration in December 2020. We held live stream performances by 13 Ģ��Ӱ�� alumni, with an introduction by emeritus chancellor Phil DiStefano. Hearing these professional presentations during a time of disconnection was truly inspirational.

Who or what inspires you?

I am inspired by the passion and energy Ģ��Ӱ�� alums bring to NYC to follow their dreams. I am so proud of any alum who comes to New York City — a city that can be quite demanding. A great deal of patience is required.

Why do you volunteer?

I love young people! I have carried into retirement the important idea that we are never too old to learn from the younger generation. It’s delighting to collaborate with Ģ��Ӱ�� alums and help them adjust to life in the city. All of this is surely the ‘icing’ on the proverbial ‘retirement cake.’

What is your favorite way to volunteer for Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder?

I was asked to be on the Forever Buffs NY Board to promote culture for the sportier alums in the city. Specifically, I keep an eye out for productions that highlight and involve our alumni. These events can take place on large or small stages, or in the pit of a Broadway show. I also love to help Scott Snyderman at our Judy Z’s Watch Parties!

Where is your favorite spot to go to in Boulder either on or off campus?

I believe at one point Boulder was known as “America’s Foodiest Town.” Many of my favorite eateries (The Dark Horse, for one) are no longer around, but my ‘favorite spot’ had to be wherever I met up with my colleagues for a great meal and conversation. I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention the Rocky Mountains — ideal for a hike in the hills.

How else do you give back to your community?

I am on the board of Friends of Chigiana, a non-profit organization based in NYC. Our mission is to promote the Accademia Chigiana in Siena, Italy. We provide scholarships that grant talented musicians the opportunity to study abroad in Siena, thus making a lasting impact on their lives and cultivating a unique cultural exchange between Italy and the United States.

What drew you to teach at Ģ��Ӱ��?

Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder’s College of Music has an incredible history of chamber music with the Pro Arte and Takacs Quartets. Being a chamber musician (I was with the Manhattan String Quartet for 23 years), I could not think of a better environment to teach and perform. In addition, I have always loved the mountains. I probably have every book written about Mt. Everest, K-2 and the North face of the Eiger.

Why should other Forever Buffs volunteer?

Volunteering is the perfect way to keep in touch with fellow alums and to remember the stories and joys that stay with you after leaving Boulder.

Learn more about alumni volunteering

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Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Colonel Rebecca Lange (PolSci’00)

Anna Tolette — Mon, 18 May 2026 20:42:39 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Colonel Rebecca Lange (PolSci’00) Anna Tolette Mon, 05/18/2026 - 14:42

Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder alumni Ben Donberg, Rebecca Lange, Brock Lange and Emily Gebo.

Keeley Haynes

Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder alumni Ben Donberg, Rebecca Lange, Brock Lange and Emily Gebo.

Col. Rebecca Lange (PolSci’00) embodies what it means to be a Forever Buff.

After commissioning through Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder’s Air Force ROTC program, she became an intelligence officer within the US Air Force. She served four overseas deployments, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and UN Peacekeeping missions.

But even thousands of miles from campus, the Buff Spirit never left Lange. While deployed in Iraq in 2010, the Ģ��Ӱ�� cheerleaders visited the base where she was deployed on a USO Tour. When she heard the Ģ��Ӱ�� Fight Song’s opening trumpets, her school pride shined through.

“I was at my desk, heard the Fight Song, grabbed my flag and found the team!” said Lange.

Now, wanting to give back to the institution that made her feel like she belonged, Lange acts as Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder’s Air Force ROTC commander and Aerospace Studies department chair.

“When I was a captain, the only reason I wanted to be a colonel was to return to Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder and command the Air Force ROTC unit,” said Lange.

Through her volunteer work with Ģ��Ӱ��’s Air Force ROTC unit, Lange witnesses how Ģ��Ӱ��’s spirit of service trains and professionalizes future lieutenants she feels confident in.

Read on to learn where Lange’s volunteer journey began and how it shaped her into the leader she is today.

What’s your favorite Ģ��Ӱ�� memory?

Every day, I appreciate the campus’s beauty. While walking to class as a student, I looked at the Flatirons and thought, I will never take this for granted. Now, as a faculty member, I say the same thing. The view never gets old.

Lange volunteering with Honor Flight, an organization that brings veterans to Washington D.C. to see the war memorials.

Who or what inspires you?

My mom is an extraordinary example. Growing up, I saw her “do good and disappear.”

She would show strangers random acts of kindness and be satisfied that she helped someone who may never know. Her goodwill and humility inspire me to give back and make the world a better place.

Why do you volunteer?

Since 2002, I have volunteered as an advisor for the Forever Buffs Air Force ROTC Detachment 105. I strive to inspire the next generation to say yes to Boulder in hopes that young Americans will further get to know themselves, believe in their capability and make forever friends.

What have you learned about yourself while volunteering through Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder?

Each volunteer opportunity teaches me how much we can give regardless of how much we have. As a college student, I volunteered with Ģ��Ӱ�� Night Ride and the Volunteer Clearing House. I struggled financially at the time, but volunteering brought me peace among chaos. I did not need money to help others and feel fulfilled.

How has your experience serving in the military shaped your willingness to volunteer?

For me, it was the other way around: my love of volunteering led to my military career. After high school, I joined AmeriCorps to serve my country and belong to an organization bigger than myself. We built houses with Habitat for Humanity, tutored in schools, widened trails to the American Disability Act standards, worked with Special Olympics and food banks and much more. It was the change I needed to give back, earn money for college and find out who I was outside of my home. After a year of volunteering, I joined Air Force ROTC to continue a career in service.

Col. Lange with Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder cheerleaders traveling with USO tour.

Learn more about volunteering through Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder

Col. Rebecca Lange (PolSci’00) embodies what it means to be a Forever Buff. After commissioning through Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder’s Air Force ROTC program, she became an intelligence officer within the US Air Force. She served four overseas deployments, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and UN Peacekeeping missions. Read on to learn where Lange’s volunteer journey began and how it shaped her into the leader she is today.

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Congratulations and welcome to your Forever Buffs family

Anna Tolette — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:45:41 +0000

Congratulations and welcome to your Forever Buffs family Anna Tolette Tue, 04/21/2026 - 11:45

Congratulations, Class of 2026! Your big moment is finally here, and we couldn’t be prouder of everything you’ve accomplished.

While preparing for graduation and soaking up your final moments on campus, remember that graduation isn’t goodbye. As a Forever Buff, you’re now part of a robust global network of more than 380,000 alumni, and Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder will be here to support and celebrate you long after you walk across the stage.

Here’s a look at the benefits waiting for you as you step into life as an alum.

🌎 A global network of Forever Buffs

As a Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder graduate, you’re instantly connected to more than 380,000 alumni across the globe. This powerful network is here to help you grow personally and professionally. Whether you’re moving to a new city or exploring your next big opportunity, the Buff community is always within reach and ready to help you stay connected.

💼 Free career support

Even after you’ve graduated, you can continue to get career support as a Ģ��Ӱ�� alum. New graduates receive free career advising for one year after graduation and then two free appointments every year for life. This benefit ensures that you have continued access to guidance, resources and professional development support wherever your journey takes you.

🎉 Signature events to celebrate and reconnect

The fun events don’t end with commencement. Forever Buffs are invited to attend exclusive events like Homecoming, Buffs Bashes, alumni panels and career networking fairs. Whether you’re an avid Buffs sports fan or interested in professional growth, there’s something for everyone. These events are a great way to stay involved, build your network and celebrate what it means to be a Buff, long after graduation.

📫 Exclusive Forever Buffs Network perks

Your Forever Buff status comes with more than just memories. You’ll get access to the Forever Buffs Network, an online hub for job listings, alumni communities and mentorship opportunities. For even more benefits, you can join ForeverGold at half the regular cost as a new grad, unlocking VIP perks like free drink tickets, complimentary tickets to athletic events and special discounts just for Buffs. Sign up now!

With all the excitement of graduation, don’t forget to take one simple step to stay connected: update your contact info. It’s the best way to make sure you receive news, event invites, career resources and exclusive alumni perks.

Congratulations, Class of 2026! We are so excited to be a part of your next adventure!

Stay in Touch with Ģ��Ӱ��

Congratulations, Class of 2026! Your big moment is finally here, and we couldn’t be prouder of everything you’ve accomplished. While preparing for graduation and soaking up your final moments on campus, remember that graduation isn’t goodbye. As a Forever Buff, you’re now part of a robust global network of more than 380,000 alumni, and Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder will be here to support and celebrate you long after you walk across the stage.

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Celebrating National Volunteer Month with Rochelle Maki-Williams (Psych’96; ExecMBA’11)

Anna Tolette — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:18:57 +0000

Celebrating National Volunteer Month with Rochelle Maki-Williams (Psych’96; ExecMBA’11) Anna Tolette Tue, 04/21/2026 - 10:18

April is Buffs Give Back month, a time to celebrate the impact of Forever Buffs who give their time in meaningful ways. For Forever Buff Rochelle Maki-Williams, Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder is where everything began, and where she continues to give back.

Rochelle met her husband, T.H, in the Cheyenne Arapahoe residence hall and built a close-knit group of friends who remain “her people” today. Years later, her connection to Ģ��Ӱ�� has come full circle, as her daughters now join in on campus festivities and football games.

She still finds joy in walking around campus and soaking in the nostalgia. And if there’s any doubt about her Buff pride, her black and gold-filled closet says it all.

Rochelle has been part of Denver Forever Buffs since 2011. She served on the advisory board, formally the Ģ��Ӱ�� Alumni Advisory Board, now known as the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, and held leadership roles for five years. She also currently serves on the Buffalo Belles board and stays closely connected to Ģ��Ӱ�� through game days, events and volunteer efforts.

Her volunteer work has made a lasting impact. Rochelle has shaped key programs, including the Alumni Awards and fundraising efforts for the Forever Buffs Denver Scholarship, both of which she’s especially proud.

“We simplified the application process and opened the nomination window earlier to encourage broader participation,” she said. “It’s a great reminder that small changes can create real, meaningful impact. I’m also incredibly proud of what our chapter has built collectively, raising thousands of dollars in scholarships to support Denver-area high school students on their way to Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder. That one hits close to the heart.”

For Rochelle, giving back wasn’t sparked by a single moment, but a growing sense of gratitude for Ģ��Ӱ��.

“Ģ��Ӱ�� had given me so much, and I genuinely wanted to give something back,” she said. “What keeps me coming back is the people. There’s something truly special about Buffs showing up for each other, and my motto says it best: “Buffs look after Buffs.” It’s meaningful, it’s energizing, and honestly, it’s just a lot of fun.”

One moment that stands out came during a volunteer project in partnership with Denver Health.

“A small group of elderly women pulled up and unloaded several boxes of handmade quilts for the Newborns in Need program, now the Hello Little One program,” she said. “It was such a simple, quiet act of kindness and a powerful reminder that impact doesn’t have to be grand to matter. Being part of something that directly supports newborns and their families really stayed with me.”

Forever Buffs volunteers are at the heart of so many programs. Rochelle describes them as dedicated, purposeful and unstoppable.

“Forever Buffs is one of the most welcoming communities you’ll ever walk into. You’ll meet incredible people, feel instantly at home and probably wonder why you waited so long.”

Getting involved starts with a single step. Attend a Forever Buffs event, check out the Forever Buffs Volunteer Hub or join the Forever Buffs Network to discover meaningful ways to connect, give back and make an impact alongside a community that’s ready to welcome you in.

Learn more about Forever Buffs volunteering

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Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Heather Nuanes Tabano (Ebio’08)

Anna Tolette — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:21:37 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Heather Nuanes Tabano (Ebio’08) Anna Tolette Fri, 04/10/2026 - 09:21

Sara Muderick

Heather Nuanes Tabano, a 2008 graduate in ecology and evolutionary biology, continues to carry forward the same sense of excitement in her volunteer work with Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder that defined her first day as a Buff. Whether fostering connections through the Alumni Association and Forever Buffs Latinx or simply reflecting under the trees at Norlin Quad, Heather’s Ģ��Ӱ�� journey continues to shape both who she is and how she shows up for others.

What’s your favorite Ģ��Ӱ�� memory?

I have so many great memories of my time at Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder, but the first day on campus will always stick with me. I remember feeling so much hope and excitement for the future.

Who or what inspires you?

My North Star is my son, Luca. He inspires me everyday. He pushes me to find answers to questions I don’t yet know and understand complex issues so I can help explain the world to him. He motivates me to be better and to do more.

Why do you volunteer?

I volunteer my time and effort because it not only makes me feel good but also helps strengthen my community. Everyone has something to offer, whether it’s talent, knowledge or simply their time, and those contributions help make more good things possible.

What is your favorite way to volunteer for Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder?

My favorite way to volunteer for Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder is through the Alumni Association and Forever Buffs Latinx. It’s an awesome experience to connect with other groups to plan and promote Homecoming and Alumni Weekend events. We’ve also had the opportunity to support our future alumni — current students — through a variety of campus initiatives. Helping with the Latiné Buff Meetup this year was especially memorable; seeing such a strong sense of support and community on campus was truly heartwarming.

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Laura Bruns (EnvSt’99, MA’05)

Anna Tolette — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:28:23 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Laura Bruns (EnvSt’99, MA’05) Anna Tolette Mon, 03/23/2026 - 10:28

Sara Muderick

Laura Bruns (EnvSt’99, MA’05) knows that Buff pride doesn’t end at graduation. Through her volunteer work, Laura helps keep Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder’s alumni community strong while giving back to a place that means so much to her. Whether welcoming new graduates or supporting alumni initiatives, she believes even small acts of service can make a long-lasting, meaningful impact.

As a member of the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, Laura works alongside a group of dedicated volunteers who represent Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder’s diverse alumni community and encourage engagement among Forever Buffs. The board strives to be an inclusive and representative voice for alumni, expanding the reach and impact of the Forever Buffs community.

Laura is also a Forever Buffs Denver board member, where she helps the local group plan Game Watches and other engaging and innovative events. She also helps fundraise for the Forever Buffs Denver Scholarship Fund each year.

Read on to learn more about Laura’s contributions to Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder and why giving back remains such a rewarding part of her Forever Buffs journey.

What’s your favorite Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder memory?

I will never forget the first time I saw snow dusted on the Flatirons with the sun shining brightly in the sky. Growing up in the Midwest, cold and sunny simply do not go together, so the moment felt unbelievable. In my first 18 years of life, I had never felt simultaneously cold and happy. There was snow on the ground, the air was crisp and the sun was shining. It was such a wild phenomenon, and it is one that will forever keep me in the state of Ģ��Ӱ��.

Who or what inspires you?

Every two years, I am immensely inspired by the Olympics, especially the athletes whose journeys include training through war-torn infrastructure or overcoming profound personal loss. Hearing their stories and watching them compete on the world’s biggest athletic stage always puts things into perspective for me. While they certainly possess incredible physical talent, what truly sets them apart is their mental fortitude.

Why do you volunteer?

It is important to me to try to make a positive difference in the world whenever I can, even if that difference is small. Volunteering is incredibly fulfilling, and in a world that can sometimes feel out of control, it reminds me that there are still meaningful ways to contribute and make things just a little bit better.

What is your favorite way to volunteer for Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder?

For the past five years, I have served on the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, which has been rewarding in so many ways. One of the more memorable experiences recently was volunteering at Grad Bash. Despite the rainy weather, the event was filled with so much joy and hope. Seeing students celebrate such an exciting milestone made it clear that maybe the kids really are going to be all right.

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Scott Snyderman (IntBus’85)

Anna Tolette — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 22:57:53 +0000

Forever Buffs Volunteer Spotlight: Scott Snyderman (IntBus’85) Anna Tolette Thu, 01/08/2026 - 15:57

Keeley Haynes

When recent graduates leave Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder’s campus for the first time, they may feel uncertain about life after college, but Scott Snyderman (IntBus’85) ensures they know they’re not alone.

As the chair of the Forever Buffs New York alumni chapter, Snyderman helps welcome over 500 new Buffs to New York City each year. The volunteer-led chapter organizes football and basketball Game Watches, networking events and mixers in the city, which connect recent graduates to over 8,000 other Forever Buffs in the area. He also coordinates with Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder’s off-campus career exploration and immersion trips, such as the Leeds School of Business’s Wall Street Treks, to expand current students’ New York network. network.

Read more about what drives Snyderman to volunteer and how he keeps the Buff spirit alive.

What’s your favorite Ģ��Ӱ�� memory?

A few years ago, I returned to Folsom Field and watched the Buffs beat Nebraska. Seeing us take down the Cornhuskers and celebrating with fellow Ģ��Ӱ�� fans in person was something I got to check off my bucket list. I’ll never forget it.

Who or what inspires you?

I like to live by the motto: “Do to others as you want done to you, your friends and your family.” I try to replicate the kindness I’ve been shown in the past and the respect I want my loved ones to be treated with. This helps me be the best person I can be.

Why do you volunteer?

It is all about connecting our Buff family in New York. When Buffs first graduate and arrive in New York, we’re their first impression of the city and post-grad life. You only get one chance to make a first impression, so I volunteer to help ensure NYC Buffs know that they have a community and a support system behind them. I love when a new Buff shows up to an event we are hosting and they find out that there is a whole group of Buffs here. They usually run into a friend or two that they didn't know lived here. That's the magic of being a Buff for life.

What is your favorite way to volunteer for Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder?

We host Buffs Football Game Watches, which are always lots of fun. When 300 to 500 Buffs gather to watch a game, it is just madness. We’re always loud and proud; it’s a great time.

What does being a Forever Buff mean to you?

It means being part of a family. No matter where you are in the world, if you meet a Buff, it’s an immediate connection. You’re instantly met with a familiar Boulder smile and the typical excited “Sko Buffs!” It’s comforting to know we have community everywhere.

Learn more about alumni volunteering

As the chair of the Forever Buffs New York alumni chapter, Snyderman helps welcome over 500 new Buffs to New York City each year. Read more about what drives Snyderman to volunteer and how he keeps the Buff spirit alive.

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Forever Buffs Impact Story: Lily Cox (IntlAf, MediaPd’27)

Anna Tolette — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 21:10:32 +0000

Forever Buffs Impact Story: Lily Cox (IntlAf, MediaPd’27) Anna Tolette Mon, 12/08/2025 - 14:10

As an outreach and social media student assistant at the Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder Basic Needs Center, Lily Cox (IntlAf, MediaPd’27) has shaped her Buff journey around a commitment to making a difference. Her passions in global affairs, media and student support fuel her drive to share meaningful stories and highlight how the Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder community supports students.

Read on to learn more about Lily, the Basic Needs Center and the many ways Forever Buffs can strengthen resources for students today.

What brought you to Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder? 

I wanted to challenge myself by going out of state and experiencing something completely new. I’m originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, but I have family in Ģ��Ӱ��, which made the transition manageable and gave me a sense of support while still stepping outside my comfort zone. I also fell in love with Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder’s campus, the access to the outdoors and the opportunities that come with attending a large university.

What are you hoping to do after graduation? 

I’m interested in roles that will allow me to make an impact. I am passionate about global affairs, producing media and storytelling. I would love to start my career abroad — whether that’s through nonprofit work, the Peace Corps or multimedia marketing for an international company.

What is the Basic Needs Center, and what does your role entail?

The Basic Needs Center (BNC) is an on-campus organization that supports students by connecting them with resources related to food, housing and overall well-being. Our mission is to provide essential services for our campus community and advocate systemic change to address barriers to access for basic needs. In my role as a social media and outreach student assistant, I manage the center’s social media presence, sharing information about campus events, programs and available resources. I also help to coordinate and execute our on-campus outreach, including tabling, event planning and building partnerships with student groups to better support students.

Why is the mission of the Basic Needs Center important to you?

Three out of five students experience food or housing insecurity, yet these experiences are often stigmatized and left unaddressed. The Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder community has the resources needed to make sure no Buff ever goes hungry, without shelter or struggles in solitude. The Basic Needs Center plays an essential role in getting those resources in the right hands. 

How can Forever Buffs support the Basic Needs Center? 

There are many ways for Forever Buffs to support the basic needs of current students:

Donate non-perishable food or personal care items to help stock the BNC's Buff Pantry, our on-campus food pantry located in the basement of the University Memorial Center.

Volunteer to help run the Buff Pantry and monthly Mobile Food Pantries.

Check out the Amazon Wishlist for Buff Pantry and Emergency Housing needs.

Support the BNC financially with a direct contribution to help support our services.

What does being a Forever Buff mean to you? 

Being a Forever Buff means holding a shared sense of pride in the community that is created on this campus — past, present and future.  

Support the Basic Needs Center

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What brought you to Ģ��Ӱ�� Boulder? 

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