05/14/2026
Dear faculty and staff,
As we conclude the spring semester and academic year, I want to thank you for the dedication and care you have shown throughout an undeniably challenging time for higher education and for our campus community.
This semester has carried stress, uncertainty and difficult conversations. Through it all, you have continued to show up for our students and for one another with an unwavering commitment to our mission.
Amid these challenges, your work continues to make a profound impact. There is much to be proud of this year, including:
- For the second year in a row, UCCS has been named a First Generation-Serving Institution by the Colorado Department of Higher Education.
- Our second annual Carry the Light Giving Day raised over $115,000, eclipsing last year’s inaugural campaign, which raised just over $100,000.
- Our Center for Student Research celebrated its sixth year, supporting more than 330 student researchers across every college.
- We announced our very own Air Force ROTC Operating Location at UCCS. We also earned our eleventh straight Military Friendly Gold ranking, once again making the Top Ten list as well as being recognized as a Military Spouse Friendly School.
- And in sports, our Mountain Lions have truly had an exceptional year. Last fall, UCCS was ranked the number one institution in NCAA Division II in the Learfield Directors’ Cup. We’ve earned seven RMAC Championships this year, and eight of our teams have competed in the NCAA postseason.
- In the arts, Theatreworks’ production of Cabaret served as a powerful exploration of tolerance, free expression, and civic responsibility. The production was the best‑attended in the 50‑year history of Theatreworks and drew more than 500 UCCS students—a post‑COVID attendance record.
From supporting student success and advancing research and creative work to strengthening operations and building community across campus and Southern Colorado, your contributions shape the experience of every student who walks through our doors. Watching our graduates cross the stage at commencement is a powerful reminder of that impact and of the many lives changed because of your work.
As we move into the summer months, I hope you are able to find moments to restore, rest and reconnect with the people and activities that sustain you.
Thank you again for all you do for UCCS and for our students.
Have a great summer!
Sincerely, from our Chancellor,
Jennifer Sobanet