A DESIRE TO ENGAGE WITH THE WORLD

Dear readers,

Many of us in higher education agree: The start of fall semester is the most exciting time of year! This fall is particularly poignant for me, as an alum, as a longtime employee, and as a two-time Rams parent. A few weeks ago, I helped my second daughter move into the very same residence hall I lived in as a first-year student. It’s been a privilege to wear many different hats since then, and I have an ever-deepening appreciation for the role that our land-grant institution has played for generations of students.

This year’s incoming class is one of the largest, most academically qualified, and diverse classes ever to arrive at CSU. And there’s something else that’s special about this cohort, a group that started their high school careers amid a global pandemic. Their desire to engage with one another and with the world is remarkable. Alongside our returning students, this class is infusing our university with so much fresh energy.

Our campus is wall-to-wall with students who are growing the Ramily stronger each day, engaging with one another, with ideas, and with the broader community. I can’t wait to see all they’ll do as their curiosity is channeled by their faculty and staff mentors. And when these students graduate, we will welcome them into the largest and most engaged alumni network in the state. Whatever these Rams dream of doing, other alums and Rams supporters have been working to clear their paths. Rams are everywhere doing extraordinary work, as this issue of STATE magazine brilliantly brings to light.

Our cover story digs into internationally recognized soil research conducted at CSU – a topic that is increasingly important as farmers and scientists seek to increase food production for a booming global population in this age of climate change. Readers will also learn about two CSU alumni who are leaders of History Colorado and are working to expand the lens of history to include more diverse stories. Also in the magazine: a story highlighting the impressive industry experience that CSU Global professors bring to the virtual classroom and an article exploring how a traditional Mexican dance troupe at CSU Pueblo helps connect the university to its community.

Thank you for being part of the CSU community. We are looking forward to seeing you at Homecoming and other university events this fall.

With gratitude,