In The News
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Outlet: The Mountain Mail
April 25, 2025
Western students are partnering with Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area to help secure long-term funding for the Every Kid in a Lifejacket program, which provides third-graders with lifejackets and water safety education. Their collaboration supports a growing regional effort to make outdoor recreation safer and more accessible for youth living near Colorado’s rivers and lakes. Read about Every Kid in a Lifejacket aims to support youth in water sports
Outlet: Gunnison Country Times
April 23, 2025
Western Biology students marked Earth Day 2025 by calling for renewed focus on climate adaptation, ecosystem stewardship, and environmental policy reform—urging action at both the local and national level. Drawing from their studies and lived experience in the Gunnison Valley, the students emphasized the urgency of rising to meet climate challenges through science, service, and a deeper connection to the land. Read about A call to speak out
Outlet: Denver Post
April 8, 2025
Western alumnus Brayden Espinosa will showcase his vibrant, intuitive paintings alongside notable hip-hop artists in “Side Show, a Visible Planets Pop-up Exhibition” in Denver’s RiNo district April 12–13. The event, curated by Dan Drossman, offers a fresh blend of visual art, music culture, and community—highlighting the creative reach of Western graduates. Read about “Side Show, a Visible Planets Pop-up Exhibition” on view in RiNo
Outlet: Gunnison Country Times
April 2, 2025
Western is proud to host the 2025 Story Catcher Festival on April 9–10, featuring workshops, readings, and a keynote by acclaimed former U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo. This spring gathering of celebrated writers and emerging voices honors the legacy of Mari Sandoz and invites the community to explore the power of storytelling—free and open to all. Read about Story Catcher Festival brings literary stars to Western
Outlet: Gunnison Country Times
April 2, 2025
Western’s Board of Trustees has unanimously approved a new 36-unit housing development to support faculty and staff, addressing one of the region’s most critical barriers to recruitment and retention. Set to open by fall 2026, the project represents a major step forward in making Western—and Gunnison—a more accessible and sustainable place to live, work, and thrive. Read about Western trustees approve housing project
Outlet: Gunnison Country Times
March 26, 2025
Western’s John Hausdoerffer, a leading environmental philosopher and founder of multiple sustainability programs at Western, helped inspire the theme for Vogue’s PhotoVogue contest through his work on kinship and ecological interconnectedness. His influence highlights how philosophy and art can deepen our understanding of humanity’s relationship with the natural world—a vision shaped at Western and now shared on a global stage. Read about Philosophy meets fashion
Outlet: Travel Boulder
March 25, 2025
Western alumna Megan McGinnis is bringing joy to the Boulder community through her business, Hummingbird, which delivers curated gift boxes filled with local, artisanal products. Her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to spreading happiness reflect the values and creativity we’re proud to see in our Mountaineer graduates. Read about Delivering Happiness to Boulder Doorsteps
Outlet: GJ Sentinel
March 23, 2025
Western celebrates alumnus Ross McGee for being named Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Wildlife Officer of the Year, honoring his outstanding service, conservation efforts, and deep community impact in Meeker. McGee’s journey—from studying wildlife management at Western to becoming a respected leader in the field—exemplifies the passion, resilience, and dedication we strive to instill in every student. Read about Statewide wildlife officer of year knew of career plans as local kid
Outlet: The Montrose Daily Press
March 21, 2025
Western is proud to partner with the University of Colorado Boulder to launch a new Biomedical Engineering program in Fall 2025, expanding access to high-demand STEM careers from our Gunnison and Montrose campuses. This collaboration reflects our commitment to hands-on, career-focused education that meets the needs of Colorado’s students and industries. Read about Western, CU launching biomedical engineering partnership in fall 2025
Outlet: WalletHub
March 20, 2025
Western’s Kevin A. Nelson, Professor of Business Administration, was featured as an expert in WalletHub’s breakdown of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card, offering insights into the value of premium travel rewards. His contribution highlights the real-world expertise our faculty bring into the classroom, preparing students to navigate complex financial decisions with confidence. Read about Chase Sapphire Reserve Benefits
