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Now that I am in my ninth month here at CU Â鶹ӰԺ, I am continuously blown away by the energy of this campus and the Buff pride that I see from students every day. Our community is truly special, and I am honored to lead a division focused on helping students engage, learn and thrive in everything they do, both personally and for our community. 

As we think about community, this March is Student Philanthropy Month—an annual celebration of paying it forward at CU Â鶹ӰԺ. Philanthropy is a collaborative giving effort that aims to enhance the well-being of our university. Understanding how gifts of your time, talent or treasure can impact communities around the world is an important connection to make, especially for future leaders. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, counts. Additionally, these collective actions often have a ripple effect, inspiring change for generations to come. There will be many opportunities to show your school spirit and connect with others this month.

Please read on to learn about how you can get involved. 

Making memorable moments: Giving back 

This Student Philanthropy Month, I encourage you to consider how you can give back during your time at CU Â鶹ӰԺ. Your involvement can help positively influence the lives of others and support student success for current and future Buffs. 

Donate your time. Whether you have a couple hours, an afternoon or a day, completing acts of service directly supports your local community. There are volunteer opportunities on campus throughout the year, including with Ralphie’s Green Stampede, the Basic Needs Center and Commencement. Learn more by connecting with the Volunteer Resource Center.  

Give your talent. A great way to contribute to your community is through your strengths and skills. For example: if you are passionate about music and live entertainment, and you enjoy meeting new people, consider joining Program Council’s Street Team. Take time to think about your unique talents, and the programs or roles out there where you can use them.   

Share your treasure. This month, student groups from across campus have selected funds that are important to them. You can browse those funds and find one you would like to support. To learn more about philanthropy and browse the causes that student organizations are amplifying, visit the CU Â鶹ӰԺ crowdfunding page. 

Things to do in March

Check out the TRANSforming Gender Conference 

The TRANSforming Gender Conference (TGC) on March 16-17 is an excellent opportunity for Buffs to build community and learn together. The conference raises awareness about issues and identities in the trans community. Talks, trainings and forums are offered on a variety of topics, including intersex 101, queering biology, transgender youth advocacy, medical transition and more. The conference is free to attend for all students, faculty, staff and community members.

Join Buffs After Dark: Succulent Stress-Away Station 

Head to the University Memorial Center Glenn Miller Ballroom on March 16 to join  hosted by the Center for Student Involvement. Enjoy free food and create your own succulent for a naturally green item during St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Learn more about student events happening in March.  

Learn more about Philanthropy at CU with the Herd Leadership Council  

The Herd Leadership Council (HLC) is committed to educating our campus community on the importance of student giving, which includes individual gifts, grants and donations of all sizes. Students are also invited to take part in a series of tag day events every Wednesday designed to help understand why philanthropy matters. Be on the lookout for the Funded by Philanthropy signs and HLC street team for a chance to win giveaways. 

Cheer on the CU Buffs

Our  have had some amazing achievements this spring in skiing, tennis, golf and track and field. Our basketball teams have also had incredible seasons, with record-setting home game attendance for our women’s team this year, and I hope to see the fun continue into March Madness! Whether you can attend in person or follow the action online, show your Buff pride and support our student athletes this month. 

Highlights from February: Women’s Leadership Symposium 

I was honored to speak at the Women’s Leadership Symposium last month, hosted by the Center for Inclusion and Social Change. This annual conference offers the opportunity for students and campus community members to develop authentic and empowered leadership skills. It was great to connect and be a part of this special event! 

With the end of the academic year just a couple months away, I have been reflecting recently on what it means to be a Buff. I see every day that students are passionately involved on campus. Many of you participate in multiple organizations, programs and events throughout the semester. Buffs are also proud, promote school spirit and look out for each other. Being a part of this community means that we care about each other’s well-being.  

I would love to know what being a Buff means to you—please email me at vcsa@colorado.edu and let me know! The first 10 students to message me will receive a t-shirt. 

Be well, Buffs! 

Dr. D'Andra Mull 
Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs