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Outlet: The Mountain Mail
March 18, 2025
Western is proud to see alumnus Randy Kapushion leading the Salida High School track and field team with the same passion and purpose he showed as a student-athlete here. His commitment to building team culture and fostering unity reflects the values we instill in all our Mountaineers—on and off the field. Read about Everyone on the team is there for a purpose, Kapushion says
Outlet: Denver 7 News
March 13, 2025
Researchers at Western found that faster-spreading wildfires are causing more severe and lasting damage to forest ecosystems, reducing the likelihood of natural forest recovery. Inspired by Colorado's East Troublesome Fire, the study highlights the urgent need for proactive forest management to protect the landscapes and communities that rely on them. Read about Study: Wildfires are moving faster, forests are less likely to fully recover
Outlet: Aspen Daily News
March 13, 2025
Western professor Jonathan Coop and fire researcher Clare Boerigter presented at the Naturalist Nights series on the benefits of human-ignited fire for forest ecosystems. Highlighting historical Indigenous land stewardship and modern fire management, they emphasized the need for prescribed burns to restore forest health and mitigate catastrophic wildfires. Read about Naturalist Nights: the case for burning
Outlet: The Crested Butte News
March 12, 2025
Western Nordic athletes Graydon Walker and Tyler Hippchen competed at the FISU World University Games in Italy after top finishes at college nationals. Racing against world-class competitors, they embraced the challenge, formed international friendships, and proudly represented Team USA on the global stage. Read about Western skiers compete in World University Games
Outlet: Post Independent
March 9, 2025
Western master’s student Cody Hinkley is leading a federally funded study on bighorn sheep in the Black Canyon and Gunnison Gorge, using motion-activated cameras to track population demographics. Partnering with federal and state agencies, the project aims to support conservation efforts, with Hinkley also securing a grant to produce a documentary highlighting the challenges facing Colorado’s bighorn sheep. Read about ‘I’ll never put my sword down for wildlife’: Graduate student from Garfield County studies health of bighorn sheep herd in Colorado
Outlet: High Country News
March 5, 2025
This heartfelt reflection from a recently disbanded U.S. Forest Service trail crew highlights the often invisible, undervalued labor of wilderness stewards—many of whom share Western’s deep commitment to public lands, sustainability, and interdependence with nature. As a university that prepares students for meaningful environmental leadership, we recognize the urgent need to honor and support those who dedicate their lives to preserving access to wild places. Read about Losing more than a Forest Service job
Outlet: The University of Colorado Boulder
March 5, 2025
Western and CU Boulder are launching a biomedical engineering degree in Gunnison starting in fall 2025, expanding their successful engineering partnership. Focused on functional biomechanics, the program will equip students with hands-on experience in trauma recovery, sports science, and rehabilitation, preparing them for high-impact careers in medicine and engineering. Read about CU Boulder, Western Colorado launching biomedical engineering partnership in fall 2025
Outlet: The Colorado Sun
March 3, 2025
Western’s research with the Gunnison Senior Center revealed significant mental health struggles and service gaps for the county’s aging population. The findings highlight the need for expanded support, reinforcing the senior center’s role in fostering connection and well-being. Read about Western Slope senior center tackles mental health challenges among older adults
Outlet: ABC KJCT News 8
February 28, 2025
A new study from Western finds that wildfires are moving faster, creating large treeless burn areas that hinder forest recovery and increase erosion risks. Researcher Jonathan Coop warns these rapid fires pose significant threats to communities, making evacuation and infrastructure protection increasingly difficult. Read about Wildfires are burning faster and more severely according to research
Outlet: American Spa
February 24, 2025
A recent study has validated the health benefits of the viral 12-3-30 workout, demonstrating its effectiveness in enhancing cardiorespiratory fitness. This research provides scientific support for the workout's role in improving overall health. Read about New Study Confirms Health Benefits of the 12-3-30 Workout
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