Alert: Plaza Building Is Closed

Learn More

Honoring CU Denver’s Aurarian Past and Future With a Focus on Ninth Street

At CU Denver, we study, teach, and work at a special place rooted in deep history. From the Indigenous Peoples who first settled here to the Aurarians who built a thriving neighborhood starting in the 1870s, we must honor those who came before us.

And we are. In 2023, we acknowledged the 50th Anniversary of CU Denver’s founding, and we also marked the same anniversary of the displacement of our former Aurarian neighbors.

Building on our progress to expand the Displaced Aurarian Scholarship Program, we embarked on an important project with our AHEC partners to preserve and renovate historic homes along Ninth Street—as well as define their usage—as one important way to honor and celebrate our history as we build our collective future.

For CU Denver, this critical work is being facilitated by Nolbert Chavez, an alum, our chief of external initiatives, and a CU Regent.

The Centennial House at 1050 Ninth Street was the first of the houses to begin renovations, and it has recently seen significant updates and improvements to the infrastructure of the home. We will continue to provide updates, milestones, and opportunities for community engagement as the project evolves.

Snow on Ninth Street
Progress tour of the Centennial House renovation.
Ninth Street Home
CU Regent Nolbert Chavez discussed renovation plans.

News & Information

Ribbon Cutting at Renovated Centennial House

Project Update: Ribbon Cutting at Renovated Centennial House

Celebrating CU Denver’s 50th Birthday at the Centennial House

Watch: Celebrating CU Denver’s 50th Birthday at the Centennial House

Renovating the Centennial House

Project Update: Renovating the Centennial House

chancellor-marks

Expanding Our Commitment to Our Aurarian Past & Future

“A Heart Found Its Way Home Again” Poem

Project Update: “A Heart Found Its Way Home Again” Poem

Watch: CU Regent Nolbert Chavez Speaks about the History and Legacy of Ninth Street

Watch: CU Regent Nolbert Chavez Speaks about the History and Legacy of Ninth Street

A Family Affair: A Special Blessing at Centennial House on Ninth Street

A Family Affair: A Special Blessing at Centennial House on Ninth Street

Families of displaced Aurarians, in front of a historical row home on 9th St.

Honoring Displaced Aurarians and Their Families, Now and Into the Future

The Displaced Aurarian Scholarship Expands to Increase Access to College Education

The Displaced Aurarian Scholarship Expands to Increase Access to College Education

CMS Login