On October 15, 2025, CU Denver hosted its annual Donor Celebration at Coohills restaurant in LoDo, bringing together campus leadership, generous supporters, and inspiring students for an evening of gratitude and connection. The event featured a cocktail reception and a brief program, allowing guests to socialize and hear about the impact of their support and the university's plans for the future.

Philanthropy and Student Success

Student Government Association President Mitchell Mauro and Chief of Staff Laura Zabaleta (pictured at right) emceed the evening’s program, which kicked off with remarks from CU President Todd Saliman. Saliman thanked donors for the fundraising success the University of Colorado enjoyed in 2024-25, which amounted to more than $500 million systemwide, including more than $26 million for CU Denver alone—a campus record.

Chancellor Ken Christensen (pictured at left) delivered remarks centered on CU Denver’s refreshed strategic plan and his bold vision for student success. He emphasized CU Denver’s goal of becoming the acknowledged higher education partner for Denver as well as the university’s commitment to transforming student outcomes. “Student success is not just in the classroom. Student success is financial wellbeing, mental health and physical wellbeing, feeling like you belong on our campus, ensuring that students are following the right paths through their academic pathways to reach the success they want to have. We’re taking a holistic approach in this regard,” Christensen said, adding, “We can’t do the things that we’re all committed to doing as faculty, staff, or leadership without the financial support that you provide.”

Christensen also noted the unique value proposition CU Denver offers its students as the only “highly accessible” public university in the state of Colorado (as categorized by the Carnegie Student Access and Earnings Classification) whose graduates average more than $2 million in lifetime earnings. “We are so proud to be the only public university in the state that is having that sort of impact,” Christensen said, eliciting applause from the guests.

A Story of Sacrifice and Belonging

Remarks from student speaker Mehar Sidhu (pictured at right), a Reisher Scholar and double major in Computer Science and Cybersecurity, proved to be a highlight of the evening. Sidhu talked about her journey between India and Denver, her family’s sacrifices, and her own determination to succeed. “My parents had moved here without financial backup, and I didn’t want them to carry the burden of my tuition. I questioned whether it was actually possible, or if I was just chasing an impossible dream,” Sidhu explained.

Sidhu said she felt fortunate to receive a Reisher Scholarship, which provides not only financial assistance, but academic and social support as well. "The truth is, the Reisher Scholars Program gave me more than a scholarship. It gave me confidence, a community, and a sense of belonging,” she said. “It's a place I know I belong, where I have mentors guiding me through college and even beyond. It’s a huge deal to have such a supportive community that’s solely dedicated to the success of each and every scholar.”

Every Gift is a Catalyst

Once again, CU Denver’s Donor Celebration served as a powerful reminder that every gift is a catalyst for change. The generosity and belief of its donor community are what shapes the university’s future, the futures of its students, and our communities, and CU Denver is committed to a bright future for all. “Hold us to a high standard,” Christensen told the guests. “We’re going to meet and exceed that standard. And when we do, I hope you’ll still be with us, helping support the fantastic students that we have because Denver, as a growing maturing metropolis, needs a higher ed partner to be successful. We look forward to you being partners in that mission.”