Best Of

5 sustainability strides for CU Boulder in 2024

Megan Maneval — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 16:45:22 +0000

5 sustainability strides for CU Boulder in 2024 Megan Maneval Tue, 12/17/2024 - 09:45

As part of CU Boulder’s ongoing commitment to addressing climate change and reducing environmental impact, the campus launched several transformative sustainability projects over the course of the year. These initiatives not only serve as practical steps toward a more sustainable campus but also often align directly with the goals outlined in the Climate Action Plan (CAP), which was finalized in April. They will help increase energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and position the university as a leader in sustainability.

Here’s a look at five major sustainability projects introduced this year and how they will help achieve CU Boulder’s long-term environmental goals.

The addition of 4 electric Buff Buses

In a move to reduce transportation-related emissions, CU Boulder won grants to purchase four new electric buses. These buses are fully electric, replacing older diesel-powered vehicles and reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with campus transportation.

Chancellor Justin Schwartz shared, “Transportation is one of the largest contributors to our campus’s carbon footprint. By switching to electric buses, we are not only reducing emissions but also providing a cleaner, quieter and more efficient transportation option for our students, staff, faculty and visitors.”

Building efficiency projects

Improving energy efficiency in campus buildings has been a critical priority, and this year CU Boulder undertook a large-scale building efficiency project. This initiative involved retrofitting 18 buildings with energy-efficient lighting, optimizing HVAC control systems, upgrading components in the heating system and modifying water fixtures for efficiency. The upgrades will reduce energy consumption by up to 11%.

“We’re committed to transforming our physical infrastructure into more sustainable spaces,” Vice Chancellor for Infrastructure and Resilience Chris Ewing said. “This project not only reduces energy use but also makes our campus more comfortable for students and staff, with the added benefit of lowering operational costs in the long run.”

Geothermal grants

Thanks to two significant geothermal grants through the Colorado Energy Office, CU Boulder is studying whether geothermal energy is feasible for the campus. If successful, this renewable energy solution would help reduce reliance on fossil fuels for heating and cooling, providing a more sustainable alternative that aligns with the CAP’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by no later than 2050.

Schwartz noted, “The geothermal project represents a major step toward reducing our carbon footprint and showcases the university’s dedication to investing in long-term sustainable energy solutions. By harnessing the earth’s natural energy, we are setting a strong example for future generations of students.”

Hiring a new vice chancellor for sustainability

To further strengthen the campus’s commitment to sustainability, Schwartz announced the search for a new vice chancellor for sustainability this year. This strategic move ensures that sustainability is integrated into every facet of campus life and that sustainability goals are met in an effective, measurable way. The vice chancellor will focus on enhancing CU Boulder’s global reputation and impact as a transformative leader in sustainability.

“Our new vice chancellor for sustainability will play a key role in advancing our climate action efforts,” said Schwartz. “With this leadership in place, we will be better positioned to reach our sustainability targets and keep sustainability at the forefront of our institutional priorities.”

On-campus solar array and virtual net metering program

CU Boulder has made strides in expanding solar energy capabilities through two projects. A new solar array will be built on East Campus, which is a 1.1 megawatt (MW) ground-mounted solar array on a 2-acre site east of parking Lot 560.

In addition, the campus has enrolled in a virtual net metering solar program, which harnesses power generated off campus and, after entering the local grid, applies it to our campus portfolio to cost effectively reduce our Scope 2 carbon emissions. In partnership with Pivot Energy, the agreement involves the development of a 5 MW off-site solar array in Weld County.

The combination of on-site and off-site solar power will play a major role in the campus reduction of carbon emissions.

Looking forward: A greener future

With these projects now underway, CU Boulder is working to meet the ambitious greenhouse gas reduction goals outlined in the CAP and making further investments to accelerate that progress. As Schwartz explained, “These initiatives represent just the beginning of a comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship. Our sustainability efforts are not only about achieving measurable results but also about instilling a mindset of sustainability among our students, faculty and staff.”

The collective impact of these projects will be felt across campus, from the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions to the development of a more resilient, energy-efficient infrastructure.

Schwartz envisions CU Boulder taking a leadership position for the state, nation and globe in advancing climate actions—as well as rising in global university rankings, which recently placed CU Boulder No. 11 in the U.S. and No. 61 in the world for sustainability. He noted he is encouraged by the enthusiasm across campus for focusing on sustainability, including the possibility of additional educational opportunities for students.

“Together, we are building a future where sustainability is at the heart of everything we do—ensuring our campus not only meets the challenges of climate change but leads the way toward a more sustainable, environmentally responsible world,” Schwartz said. “As we look ahead to the coming years, our focus will remain on continuing to innovate, collaborate and drive change, keeping sustainability at the core of our mission and working together to create a more sustainable future for all.”

In efforts to reduce the campus’s environmental impact and address the effects climate change, CU Boulder took on a number of sustainability projects this year: securing funding to add four electric buses to its fleet, studying the feasibility of geothermal energy for campus and more.

Traditional

White

A look back at 2024: 10 stories of discovery and wonder

Daniel William Strain — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 19:26:15 +0000

A look back at 2024: 10 stories of discovery and wonder Daniel William… Fri, 12/13/2024 - 12:26

From developing new technologies to replace worn out body parts to exploring an icy moon of Jupiter to providing solutions for beating “technostress” and making batteries last longer, CU Boulder researchers had a banner year in 2024. Here’s a sampling of what they learned.

A Band-Aid for the heart? New 3D printing method makes this, and much more, possible

Take a look at this ultimate fix for a broken heart: A team at CU Boulder has developed a new 3D printed material that can stick like a Band-Aid onto organs and other body parts. It’s even stretchy enough to withstand the constant beating of the heart.

Image: This 3D printed material is at once strong, expandable, moldable and sticky. (Credit: Casey Cass/CU Boulder)

Mountain chickadees have remarkable memories. A new study explains why

Don’t underestimate the mighty mountain chickadee. This bird may have a brain roughly the size of a pea, but it can remember exactly where it’s buried seeds and other snacks over months. New research gets to the bottom of these amazing memories.

Image: A mountain chickadee, probably remembering exactly where it left its car keys. (Credit: Robert Taylor)

Europa here we come: Colorado space instrument headed to Jupiter’s moon

Europa, meet Ralphie. This October, a space instrument designed and built in Colorado launched for this icy moon of Jupiter as part of NASA’s flagship Europa Clipper mission. Best of all, that gold-plated instrument is etched with an image of everyone’s favorite mascot, Ralphie.

Image: An engineer makes an electrical connection to the sensor head for the SUrface Dust Analyzer (SUDA) instrument. (Credit: NASA/CU Boulder/Glenn Asakawa)

So bad it’s good: Why consumers love the worst entertainment

This one goes out to the fans of 2024’s Madame Web, the campy, poorly reviewed superhero flick and box office bomb. In a new study, researcher Amit Bhattacharjee and his colleagues dug into the enduring appeal of entertainment that’s “so bad it’s good.”

Image credit: Pexels

CUriosity: Why does playing in the dirt feel so good?

As part of our 2024 New Year’s resolutions, the team at CU Boulder Today launched a new story series called CUriosity—answering your questions about humans, our planet and the universe beyond. Dig into this entry on the health benefits of gardening and stay tuned for more in 2025.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

How prisons fall short in protecting the incarcerated from climate disasters

A team from CU Boulder set out to interview people who were formerly incarcerated in jails and prisons across Colorado. The researchers hope their investigation will lead to more humane living conditions for men and women facing blistering heat, wildfire smoke and other extreme weather conditions brought on by climate change.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

Searching for Colorado’s little-known fireflies

Many Coloradans have lived for years in the state and never seen a single firefly, according to a group of researchers led by Orit Peleg. Her team is bringing more attention to the state’s glowing and mysterious insects—and how you can help them thrive.

Image: A firefly coated in pollen sits on a thistle plant near the Boulder Reservoir. (Credit: Owen Martin)

�鶹��Ƶy could lead to longer-lasting EV batteries, hasten energy transition

Are you tired of having to charge your phone all the time? In a new study, engineers examined how lithium-ion batteries degrade over time at a molecular level. Their findings could help keep electric cars running longer and pave the way for new clean energy.

Image: CU Boulder researchers tested lithium-ion battery coin cells for capacity loss over time. (Credit: Jesse Peterson/CU Boulder)

Science confirms it: Love leaves a mark on your brain

If you’re snuggling up close to someone special this holiday season, give a little thanks to dopamine. A new study of prairie voles suggests that this pleasure-inducing hormone may spike in the brain when we’re hanging out with our partners.

Image: Prairie voles are among the 3% to 5% of mammals that mate for life. (Credit: Nico Goda)

How to fight ‘technostress’ at work

Beeeep! If all those alerts and buzzes are stressing you out at work, you’re not alone, according to new research. Jason Thatcher and his colleagues explored how “technostress” at the job can lead to serious burnout. Check out their tips for staying sane amid the pings.

Image credit: Pexels

The last 12 months marked another banner year for research at CU Boulder. Check out these 10 stories exploring a bit of what we've learned.

Zebra Striped

White

CU Boulder engineer Matt Davidson shows off a 3D-printed material that could be used for a variety of medical applications. (Credit: Casey Cass/CU Boulder)

A look back at our favorite photos from 2023

Anonymous — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 15:43:10 +0000

A look back at our favorite photos from 2023 Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 12/21/2023 - 08:43

A look back at CU Boulder in 2023 celebrates the arrival of Coach Prime, the opening of the new Center for African and African American Studies, the beauty of our campus through the seasons and much more.

Off

Traditional

White

Taking in 2022: The year at CU Boulder

Anonymous — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 17:31:51 +0000

Taking in 2022: The year at CU Boulder Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 12/23/2022 - 10:31

A look back at 2022 shows a community that leaned into national and international events. Buffs finally got to resume one of the campus's most joyous traditions in person: commencement. The community rallied together around Marshall Fire survivors; adopted a land acknowledgement; set itself on the global stage co-hosting the Right Here, Right Now Global Climate Summit; enjoyed moments with fury friends; said goodbye to CU Boulder's beloved Triceratops; welcomed Deion "Coach Prime" Sanders; and much more.

Warm welcomes, fond farewells

Regents name Todd Saliman sole finalist for CU president

CU Boulder’s beloved Triceratops returning home to Smithsonian

CU Boulder welcomes 1st officially registered historically Black fraternity

Deion ‘Coach Prime’ Sanders makes debut as CU’s head football coach

Forces for good

MLK Day donation drop-off event to benefit Community Food Share

A message from the chancellor: Becoming the change we want to see

Campus distributes more $44 million of student pandemic relief

CU police join other Colorado agencies to protect lives in Ukraine

New Thrive Grants to help pre-tenure faculty impacted by COVID-19

CU Boulder recognized for efforts to increase student voter participation

Remarkable community, remarkable individuals

Students

Kedrick Armstrong, Anthony Green among Washington Post’s ‘composers and performers to watch’

Buffs’ Evan Battey embodies all that is good about college athletics

Zoe Drigot, Rose Summers earn prestigious Goldwater Scholarships

Alexandra Gladkova, Maya Palmer named Astronaut Scholars

Student leaders of the year: Joshka Gustav, Jake McGrath, Emma Pearson, Areyana Proctor, Brant Smith and Logan Turner

Amy Hoagland wins national award for art about climate change

Beth Rossman awarded prestigious Udall Scholarship for work in water resources

Rose Summers receives prestigious Marshall Scholarship

Kelly Trang named student-employee of the year for 2022

Faculty and staff

Announcing the 2022 Marinus Smith Award recipients

Waleed Abdalati appointed to NASA Advisory Council

Distinguished Professor Mark Ablowitz wins 2022 Hazel Barnes Prize

S. James Anaya appointed by Biden to education sciences board

Christina Cain, Heather Cracraft, Jasimine Evans and Debbie Yehreceive receive chancellor’s Employee of the Year recognition

CU Boulder’s Lori Hunter joins White House advisory group

Adam Kaufman wins Breakthrough New Horizons in Physics Prize

Mathematician Dan Larremore earns nation’s highest early-career award for COVID research

Margaret Murnane wins Isaac Newton Medal and Prize

Sriram Sankaranarayanan wins Coursera innovation award

Wyatt Shields wins Packard Fellowship for microscale robotics

Honoring inclusiveness

CU Boulder to reflect, celebrate as Juneteenth becomes official state holiday

Land acknowledgment honors contributions of Indigenous peoples, history of land

Campus administrators: Culture survey finishes strong

Understanding bias, engaging with people with disabilities the focus of new police training

5 goals for building a more inclusive campus community

Guest speakers share their perspectives

Tom Costello

John Curtis and Joe Neguse

Pride of Olympic proportions

Buffs at the Beijing Olympics

Kyle Taulman, former student Spencer Wood to compete at Paralympics in Beijing

Examining national and international events

5 things you need to know about the Russia-Ukraine war

With Russia invading Ukraine, what’s the threat of nuclear war right now?

5 questions: Understanding the magnitude of Biden's pick—Ketanji Brown Jackson

Panelists share tips for preventing, coping with gun violence

Can we avert the next mass shooting? Yes, and here’s how

How the end of Roe v. Wade could shape women’s futures

Supporting the Iranian women's revolution: A panel discussion Nov. 30

Rallying together

Ongoing CU research explores impacts, solutions after Marshall Fire

9 ways to support someone who lost their home to a fire

One year later: Healing from the embers of the Marshall Fire

Ongoing CU research explores impacts, solutions after Marshall Fire

Dedicated in memory

Campus tree stands in memory of victims

Addressing costs, supporting our people

Returning undergraduates to see tuition, fee decrease; employees to see compensation increase

Improving the graduate student experience with our strategic plan as our guide

CU Boulder implements Colorado’s Equal Pay for Equal Work Act

CU Boulder expands Bright Horizons benefit to include back-up care

Faculty promotion and tenure raises approved

Change to parental leave policy broadens employee eligibility

Furry friends

A tale of two tails: Dog actors make debut at Colorado Shakespeare Festival

Wanted: Dogs with arthritis to help test a novel pain therapy

5 things to know about Ralphie’s handlers

Taking the global stage on climate

CU Boulder, UN Human Rights to co-host Right Here, Right Now Global Climate Summit

From COP27, CU Boulder joins others in announcement of commitments

Vetting of human rights commitments next step in global climate summit

Stewarding sustainability

CU Boulder set to deploy first 2 electric Buff Buses

CU Boulder kicks off development of Climate Action Plan

Buffs earn ‘most innovative’ award in Pac-12 Zero Waste Challenge

S'ko Buffs

CU student-athletes continue outstanding student success

CU Athletics unveils new diversity, equity and inclusion strategic plan

CU women's basketball team wins Pac-12 quarterfinal to advance

Jenny Simpson to be inducted into Pac-12 Hall of Honor

Mya Hollingshed becomes 1st CU women’s basketball player selected in 1st round of WNBA draft

CU Athletics restores hall of honor and creates new legacy wing

Tad Boyle becomes winningest coach in CU men's basketball history

Breaking ground, building community resources

Basics Needs Center addresses food insecurity, provides resources

Renée Crown Wellness Institute tackles mental health, wellness through integration of science, community

Menstrual hygiene products more widely available across CU Boulder campus

Number of all-gender bathrooms expands on campus

CU Boulder finalizes Lactation Space Policy

Emergency alerts available in Spanish, Chinese and Hindi, addition language under review

COVID-19

Comebacks

BolderBoulder Memorial Day race

Chancellor’s State of the Campus

Commencement

CU on the Weekend

Dead & Company shows at Folsom Field

New Venture Challenge

Navigating life with the virus

How the CU community tackled COVID-19 on campus and beyond

Here’s where (and how) you are most likely to catch COVID—new study

At-home COVID testing 101: A Q&A with virologist Sara Sawyer

Should you wear a mask on a plane, bus or train when there’s no mandate? 4 essential reads

3 things to know about COVID in 2022

4 easy ways to reduce your risk of severe COVID-19

Reaching milestones

New research in health, climate, space

New Colorado space instrument part of flagship mission to Europa

Astronauts may one day drink water from ancient moon volcanoes

Cities of the future may be built with algae-grown limestone

Plastics of the future will live many past lives, thanks to chemical recycling

Even minor exposure to light before bedtime may disrupt a preschooler’s sleep

Another monkey virus could be poised for spillover to humans, new study shows

CU scientists shine light on what comes up when you flush

Campus records and impacts

CU Boulder attracts record $658 million for research in space, climate, more

Campus drives $3.3B in economic impact

CU Boulder commercialization drives $8B impact nationwide

Can’t get enough?

Our best tips in 2022

10 stories of exploration and discovery you may have missed in 2022

A snapshot of 2022 in photos

College of Engineering and Applied Science: Top 10 highlights of 2022

Traditional

White

Our best tips in 2022

Anonymous — Thu, 22 Dec 2022 20:31:00 +0000

Our best tips in 2022 Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 12/22/2022 - 13:31

Drumroll, please, for the campus community's favorite pro tips of 2022! Designed to be helpful and memorable, our tips series are among our most-read articles. Supplied by campus sources like Student Affairs and Health & Wellness Services, and covering everything from dating to depression, here's what the community was eager to clue into.

3 dating tips everyone should know

Before the next storm: What you need to know about delayed starts, closures, new campus protocols

5 signs of depression you shouldn’t ignore

Tips for viewing the lunar eclipse, Leonids meteor shower

5 tips to handle daylight saving time change

7 tips to help you prepare for ski season

Test-taking tips to ace your finals

4 tips to improve your résumé and stand out from the crowd

Tips for living with roommates off campus

5 essential hiking tips and places to go around Boulder

3 tips for better mental health in 2022

5 tips for staying healthy in Colorado

Designed to be helpful and memorable, our tips series are among the most-read articles on campus. Supplied by sources like Student Affairs and Health & Wellness Services, and covering everything from dating to depression, here's what the community was eager to clue into.

Traditional

White

10 stories of exploration and discovery you may have missed in 2022

Anonymous — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 22:05:03 +0000

10 stories of exploration and discovery you may have missed in 2022 Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 12/16/2022 - 15:05

In 2022, researchers at CU Boulder continued to excite the imagination, probe the deepest mysteries of the universe and gain new insight about our planet and ourselves. This year alone, scientists at the university attracted $658 million in funding. They helped to unearth the lost history of the transatlantic slave trade. They sent trillions of cells of humble baker's yeast on a voyage to the moon and back, and they asked, "What's really in your weed?"

Take a look back at a year of groundbreaking science at CU Boulder.

Inspired by palm trees, scientists develop hurricane-resilient wind turbines

Just off of Highway 93, engineers at CU Boulder, the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and their partners are testing out lighter designs for wind turbines—which, like tropical trees, can bend and flex in gusty conditions.

What’s in your weed? The label doesn't tell you much, study suggests

Researchers analyzed 90,000 samples of cannabis, including commercial strains with names like Girl Scout Cookies and Gorilla Glue. They're calling for a weed labeling system akin to the nutrition facts panels you find on bags of chips and other snacks.

Interactive map gets closer to pinpointing African origins erased during slave trade

Few records exist of where people in Africa lived before they were forced onto slave ships in the 19th Century. Now, CU Boulder historians and statisticians are going back in time to better understand the legacy of slavery on the continent.

Yeast bound for moon will provide clues on how radiation impacts astronauts

In November 2022, NASA's Orion spacecraft blasted off for the moon as part of the historic Artemis 1 mission. Tucked under a seat in the capsule were trillions of unlikely hitchhikers: microscopic cells of humble baker's yeast.

Exposure to great outdoors reduced risk of depression, anxiety during pandemic

New research from CU Boulder suggests that cities and states should strive, whenever possible, to keep their neighborhood parks and other green spaces open—especially during times of "extraordinary stressors."

Theater-based vocal empowerment programs increase self-authorship, civic engagement

In 2018, one CU Boulder researcher traveled to the cities of Alexandria and Aswan in Egypt. There, she led groups of women through exercises that helped them speak more freely, and come up with solutions for the problems they cared about.

Colorado's quantum revolution turning state into new Silicon Valley

Welcome to the world of quantum physics—where electrons can exist in several places at once, particles tunnel through solid matter and hop out the other side and atoms tick like tiny pendulums quadrillions of times per second.

To study impacts of longer, hotter summers, ecologists haul 5,000 pounds of sand up a mountain

For five years, a small team of scientists has hiked up to the 10,000-feet-high Niwot Ridge near Nederland, Colorado, where they are pursuing a critical question: How will mountain ecosystems fare in a changing climate?

Ocean currents have sheltered the Galápagos from global warming. Now it’s time to protect them

The Galápagos Islands are home to giant tortoises, penguins and marine iguanas. So far, they've also been protected from the worst impacts of climate change—but this oasis won't last forever.

How pollution changes a baby’s gut, and why it matters

A first-of-its kind study by CU Boulder researchers finds that exposure to air pollution in infancy impacts a child's developing gut microbiome in ways that boost risk of allergies, obesity and diabetes and may influence brain development.

Kick back with a blanket and a mug of hot cocoa to remember a year of groundbreaking science at CU Boulder—and reflect on what lies in store for 2023.

Traditional

White

Best of 2021: Instagram top 9

Anonymous — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 17:56:00 +0000

Best of 2021: Instagram top 9 Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 12/21/2021 - 10:56

That’s a wrap on 2021. On @CUBoulder Instagram alone, we posted 149 photos and received more than 5K comments and 748K total likes! There’s never a dull moment on our beautiful campus. Want a chance to be featured as a top nine next year? Be sure to tag us in your photos!

15,015 likes | Sept. 3
“That first game of the season feeling”
See on Instagram

13,046 likes | July 12
“Have a case of the Monday’s?”
See on Instagram

12,958 likes | May 24
“...too beautiful for a single square”
See on Instagram

12,298 likes | Oct. 10
#ViewsFromCU
See on Instagram

12,191 likes | Sept. 24
“Colorful Colorado”
See on Instagram

11,736 likes | June 28
“The Twins” tree and plaque dedication
See on Instagram

11,545 likes | Sept. 3
“Wow. Just wow...”
See on Instagram

10,749 likes | Dec. 10
“No snow no longer!”
See on Instagram

10,664 likes | June 14
“Double tap if you’d rather be hiking...”
See on Instagram

That’s a wrap on 2021. On @CUBoulder Instagram alone, we posted 149 photos and received more than 5K comments and 748K total likes!

Traditional

White

Taking in 2021: Reflecting on the year at CU Boulder

Anonymous — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 16:45:52 +0000

Taking in 2021: Reflecting on the year at CU Boulder Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 12/21/2021 - 09:45

A look back at 2021 shows a community of perseverance. Buffs safely made a number of COVID-19 comebacks with favorite traditions; showed dedication to inclusive excellence; worked toward healing in the midst of heartbreak and injustice; welcomed newcomers such as Ralphie VI; won prestigious awards for scholarship and expertise; cheered on Olympians and remarkable student-athletes; listened to the perspectives of a variety of guest speakers; and more.

COVID-19 comebacks

Photos: Class of 2021 gears up for graduation

CU Art Museum re-opens with new shows, artist-in-residence

Buffs Back Together event celebrates faculty, staff and grad students’ return to campus

Enrollment bounces back in fall 2021

Classes of 2020, 2021 reunite for a Night on Norlin

The Buffalo Bicycle Classic is back Sept. 12

Attend the inaugural Culture Crawl Oct. 7

Get ready for Homecoming Nov. 4–6

Photos: Degrees conferred on fall class of 2021

Remarkable individuals

Students

3 CU Boulder students offered 2021–22 Fulbright awards

2 CU undergrads named prestigious Goldwater Scholars

CU student named Truman Scholar

CU Boulder graduate earns prestigious Schwarzman Scholarship

Faculty

CU Boulder violist Richard O’Neill wins Grammy

Professor Barbara Demmig-Adams wins 2021 Hazel Barnes Prize

Jun Ye wins Breakthrough Prize in Fundamental Physics

6 CU Boulder faculty members become distinguished professors

Champion of blue-collar monsters Stephen Graham Jones keeps racking up awards

Patricia Limerick elected to American Academy of Arts & Sciences

Christopher Bowman elected to National Academy of Engineering

National Academy of Inventors recognizes Mark Rentschler, Greg Rieker and Tin Tin Su

National Academy of Inventors honors Richard Noble, Theodore Randolph

Astrophysicist Jack Burns elected to International Academy of Astronautics

Growing in our commitment to inclusive excellence

Chancellor Philip DiStefano announces $25 million investment pool to support diversity initiatives

CU Boulder announces Center for African and African American Studies; Center for African and African American Studies to have home in Macky Auditorium

CU Boulder paves way for Pac-12 schools to increase women in policing

CU regents approve renaming of 2 campus buildings

Chancellor names Sonia DeLuca Fernández senior vice chancellor for diversity, equity and inclusion

Upward Bound celebrates 40 years at CU Boulder

Forces for good

CU Boulder campus sees high COVID-19 vaccination rate among members

Despite tough year, CU Boulder students earn honors for high voting rate in 2020

Students pay survey incentives forward to tune of combined $25,137

Buffs show up to clean up University Hill, support community

Warm welcomes, fond farewells

Ralphie VI Set To Debut This Friday Night

Saying goodbye to the Old Main cottonwood

Healing in the midst of heartbreak, injustice

Campus remembers shooting victims

Twin trees planted to honor CU Boulder’s beloved Peggy Coppom, the late Betty Hoover

One year later: How George Floyd’s death changed us

Prioritizing mental health and wellness

The Week in Photos: Health and Wellness Summit

Embedded clinician rides along to help students facing mental health challenges

Musicians’ Wellness Program flourishes in expanded Imig Music Building

Your top 10 favorite pro tips

The dean’s list of advice: 3 tips for Halloween weekend

4 practical tips for dating during a pandemic

Living off campus or commuting to Boulder? Tips and reminders

Tips to help you create a better sleep schedule

5 tips to help you prepare for ski season

3 tips to create an at-home gym (for free)

4 tips for meeting people and connecting if you’re an introvert

3 tips for finding and scheduling a COVID-19 vaccine appointment

Daylight saving time ends: 6 tips to fall back this weekend

3 travel tips before fall break

Addressing costs, advocating for the campus community

CU Boulder to cover fees, increase stipends for graduate students on appointment

Chancellor advocates for state funding for renovation projects

S’ko Buffs

CU announces Colorado Athletics Visibility Award

CU Athletic Hall of Fame to welcome 9 new members during Homecoming events Nov. 4–6

Alumna Sage Hurta honored as co-Pac-12 woman of the year

Cassidy Gray wins NCAA championship, Buffs skiing third after day 1

McKinley Wright IV invited to NBA Draft Combine

Olympian and Buff Magnus Boee is National Nordic Skier of the Year

Cross-country sweeps men's and women's Pac-12 titles, along with one individual title

Sage Hurta wins NCAA championship in Indoor Mile

Pride of Olympic proportion

CU alum Flora Duffy adds page to comeback story with historic Olympic win

Morgan Pearson anchors Team USA to silver medal

To watch this weekend: Melissa Stockwell at the Paralympics

Guest speakers share their perspectives

Commencement speaker: Nita Mosby

Space Force Gen. Thompson

Neil DeGrasse Tyson

Building campus resources

CU Boulder College of Music unveils long-anticipated building addition

Alumnus Tandean Rustandy makes surprise 7-figure gift announcement at ribbon-cutting

Stewarding sustainability

Chancellor names inaugural members of University Sustainability Council

Campus adds 16 electric vehicle stations including Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant spaces

CU Boulder wins national solar decathlon challenge; First-place solar decathlon winners receive visit from US secretary of energy, US senator

Teams finish installing compost collection bins in nearly all campus restrooms in academic, administrative buildings

Fleet of e-scooters provides new way to get around east Boulder

CU’s indoor pool first in US to include phthalate-free liner

5 takeaways from the 2021 Campus Sustainability Summit

Gifts for posterity

Chicanx and Latinx Endowed Library Collections Fund launched

Visionary philanthropist Roe Green invests $5 million in CU theater program

New research in health, climate, space

5-minute breathing workout lowers blood pressure as much as exercise, drugs

Air pollution exposure during pregnancy may boost babies’ obesity risk

Is your body clock off schedule? Prebiotics may help

CU Boulder to lead new NASA Space Tech Research Institute

Emirates Mars Mission to reach Martian orbit on Feb. 9

Extreme heat, dry summers main cause of tree death in Colorado’s subalpine forests

Common plants and pollinators act as anchors for ecosystems

Campus records and accolades

CU Boulder designated as a Hunger Free Campus

CU Boulder attracts record $634.4 million for research

CU Boulder named 2021 Innovation Award winner by APLU

Startups see success

CU Boulder spinoff company develops technology that could treat COVID-19 complications

Groundbreaking innovators awarded $1.5 million in grants at Lab Venture Challenge Finals

From vaccines to plants: New Venture Challenge finalists focus on saving lives

Beyond Boulder

First student benefits from Colorado American Indian tuition law

Students testify for test optional bill at Colorado House

Philip DiStefano, Rick George discuss name, image, likeness rules

CU Boulder applications rise 13% during Colorado Free Application Day

What we’re looking forward to in 2022 and beyond

Can’t get enough?

Instagram top 9 in 2021

Research stories from 2021 that will keep on giving in the new year

Top 10 highlights of 2021 from the College of Engineering and Applied Science

Ring in 2022 with these 5 climate resolutions

A look back at 2021 shows a community of perseverance. Buffs safely made a number of COVID-19 comebacks; showed dedication to inclusive excellence; worked toward healing in the midst of heartbreak and injustice; welcomed Ralphie VI; won prestigious awards; cheered on Olympians and remarkable student-athletes; and more.

Traditional

White

Research stories from 2021 that will keep on giving in the new year

Anonymous — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 19:32:58 +0000

Research stories from 2021 that will keep on giving in the new year Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 12/14/2021 - 12:32

In 2021, CU Boulder researchers tackled challenges ranging from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic to space exploration and climate change. They examined social trends, such as the power of Black Twitter, the impact of the growing singles population and why kindergarteners from low-income schools sit for longer stretches than students at wealthier schools. And they explored opportunities, such as new energy sources and customizable lullabies.

As you prepare for the holidays, take a look back at CU Boulder research from 2021 that will shape the year ahead.

Mutation-mapping tool could yield stronger COVID boosters, universal vaccines

Researchers at CU Boulder have given humans a new edge in the race against pathogens like SARS-CoV-2. The team developed a platform that maps out the common mutations in viruses that may allow them to evade the body's immune system.

New cereal box-sized satellite to explore alien planets

A new, pint-sized satellite named CUTE will explore the volatile physics in a class of far-away planets called hot Jupiters. CUTE is the first NASA-funded "CubeSat" mission to set its sights on worlds beyond Earth's solar system.

How therapy, not pills, can nix chronic pain and change the brain

One in five Americans suffer from chronic pain. Now, a new study shows that a non-drug, psychological treatment may help people to rewire their brain, providing them with potent and durable relief.

Increased winter snowmelt threatens western water resources

A new analysis of 40 years' worth of data has found that, in the West, the boundary between winter and spring has been steadily disappearing. Snow is melting sooner each spring at measuring stations from the Mexican border to Alaska.

The single population is growing, and it’s time to grow with it

Nearly half of the adult U.S. population is single. Yet, society still focuses on marriage and relationships as the endgame. Marketing and psychology Professor Peter McGraw offers a new perspective on how we see solos.

Research-backed custom lullabies connect Colorado parents, babies

“Little Zoe River, with your friends you go and play. Full of life and laughter, you’re sure to find the way!” In a new project, researchers and musicians at CU Boulder partnered with expectant parents and guardians to write and sing personal lullabies for their babies.

What the history of camping can tell us about inclusion, homelessness and protest culture

There's nothing like sitting around a campfire and roasting s'mores. In her new book, historian Phoebe Young challenges readers to think about why some forms of camping became mainstram in the U.S., while others have been marginalized.

How Black Twitter has become the new ‘Green Book’—and more

Fifty-five years after a Black postal worker produced the inaugural issue of The Green Book to help African Americans navigate a racist society, Black Twitter is playing a similar and even broader role in the U.S., suggests a new CU Boulder study.

Kindergartners from low-income schools wait more, move less than wealthier school peers

Researchers traveled to 32 kindergarten classrooms to discover how kids spend their time during a typical day at school. The results reveal how the educational experiences of children in the U.S. can diverge before they reach first grade.

New wearable device turns the body into a battery

In an innovation right out of The Matrix, engineers at CU Boulder developed a new device that you can wear like a ring or bracelet and that harvests energy from your own body heat.

Look back on the year in research at CU Boulder: from custom lullabies to "cute" spacecraft, melting snow in the West and more.

Traditional

White

Taking in 2020: Reflecting on the year at CU Boulder

Anonymous — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 14:23:22 +0000

Taking in 2020: Reflecting on the year at CU Boulder Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 12/22/2020 - 07:23

In looking back on 2020, COVID-19 stands out for many. In the face of sorrow and difficulty, Buffs came together, worked to protect our herd and helped curb the coronavirus through research and community resources. Prior to and during the pandemic, there have been moments of growth, greatness and celebration as well. The community sharpened its commitment to anti-racism and inclusive excellence. Individuals accomplished academic, scholarly and personal feats. Researchers furthered our understanding of science on Earth and in space. We broke records; invited a variety of guest speakers to share their stories; and bolstered entrepreneurism and sustainability. We took time for self-care, including virtual "pawffice hours" with four-legged friends, and more.

Buffs together, protecting our herd

COVID-19 Updates & Resources

Remarkable individuals

Helping curb COVID-19

Defining moments, resilience

Growing in our commitment to anti-racism and inclusive excellence

Welcoming new and returning Buffs

Stewarding sustainability

Honoring community through art and culture

Your top 5 favorite pro tips

Pause for Paws

Pause for Paws brought a series of virtual programming for students in need of some extra pawsitivity. Activities included voting for the most valuable pet, Pawffice Hours—Zooming with librarians and meeting their furry family members—and more.

Startups see success

Standouts in space

Back on Earth, more in research: 10 research discoveries from 2020 you won't want to miss

5 new master’s degrees

Outdoor recreation economy
Teacher leadership
Corporate communication
Two degrees in data science

S’ko Buffs

Guest speakers share their perspectives

Bolstering entrepreneurism

Breaking ground and building campus resources

Take a virtual tour of the expanded Imig Music Building
New bridge links Main Campus, neighborhoods north of Boulder Creek
Projects in progress in 2020 included the business-engineering expansion and work on the Renée Crown Wellness Institute. Completed were the Fleming Tower renovation and Ramaley Biology Building expansion.

Making the most of life in the virtual world

Traditional

White

Best Of

5 sustainability strides for CU Boulder in 2024

On-campus solar array and virtual net metering program

Looking forward: A greener future

Related Articles

A look back at 2024: 10 stories of discovery and wonder

Related Articles

A look back at our favorite photos from 2023

Off

Taking in 2022: The year at CU Boulder

Warm welcomes, fond farewells

Forces for good

Remarkable community, remarkable individuals

Honoring inclusiveness

Guest speakers share their perspectives

Pride of Olympic proportions

Examining national and international events

Rallying together

Dedicated in memory

Addressing costs, supporting our people

Furry friends

Taking the global stage on climate

Stewarding sustainability

S'ko Buffs

Breaking ground, building community resources

COVID-19

Reaching milestones

New research in health, climate, space

Campus records and impacts

Can’t get enough?

Related Articles

Our best tips in 2022

Related Articles

10 stories of exploration and discovery you may have missed in 2022

Related Articles

Best of 2021: Instagram top 9

Related Articles

Taking in 2021: Reflecting on the year at CU Boulder

COVID-19 comebacks

Remarkable individuals

Growing in our commitment to inclusive excellence

Forces for good

Warm welcomes, fond farewells

Healing in the midst of heartbreak, injustice

Prioritizing mental health and wellness

Your top 10 favorite pro tips

Addressing costs, advocating for the campus community

S’ko Buffs

Pride of Olympic proportion

Guest speakers share their perspectives

Building campus resources

Stewarding sustainability

Gifts for posterity

New research in health, climate, space

Campus records and accolades

Startups see success

Beyond Boulder

What we’re looking forward to in 2022 and beyond

Can’t get enough?

Related Articles

Research stories from 2021 that will keep on giving in the new year

Related Articles

Taking in 2020: Reflecting on the year at CU Boulder

Buffs together, protecting our herd

Remarkable individuals

Helping curb COVID-19

Defining moments, resilience

Growing in our commitment to anti-racism and inclusive excellence

Welcoming new and returning Buffs

Stewarding sustainability

Honoring community through art and culture

Your top 5 favorite pro tips

Pause for Paws

Startups see success

Standouts in space

5 new master’s degrees

S’ko Buffs

Guest speakers share their perspectives

Bolstering entrepreneurism

Breaking ground and building campus resources