As a Boettcher Scholar, Maithreyi Gopalakrishnan (EngrPhys’16) found CU Boulder to be the perfect place to blend her passions for engineering, entrepreneurship, leadership and dance. Today, she channels her entrepreneurial spirit as the founder and CEO of , while also consulting in data science and engineering.  

Her dedication to solving large-scale challenges matches her enduring connection to CU Boulder. Through her involvement with CU Venture Partners and the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, Gopalakrishnan strengthens community networks and inspires the next generation of Forever Buffs. 

Since graduating, what has been your most rewarding experience as part of the Forever Buffs community? 

On the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, I have developed lifelong friendships, learned so much more about the university and its rich history than I could have ever imagined, and had many unique and memorable experiences with my fellow board members. 

As a mentor for CU Venture Partners entrepreneurs, I’ve had a chance to see how much the innovation ecosystem at CU has evolved and grown. I have been fortunate to see some of my mentees develop their startup ideas into flourishing companies and significantly impact the world. 

What is the Forever Buffs Advisory Board? 

I like to describe the Forever Buffs Advisory Board as a sample of the eyes and ears of the broader CU Forever Buffs community. 

We engage deeply with the CU community in different ways and learn from leaders across campus. Synthesizing that knowledge and those experiences, we offer informed advice and recommendations on a variety of topics that are top of mind for CU alumni. 

What motivates you to stay involved in the CU Boulder community? 

CU Boulder works incredibly hard to meet alumni where they’re at and evolve to truly serve the wants and needs of a very diverse body of alumni. CU’s commitment to supporting its alumni in a multitude of ways inspires me to stay involved. 

What would you say to a fellow Buff who’s curious about getting involved?  

Find an aspect of engagement about which you are passionate, and dive in! CU stands out as a university and organization that truly values the engagement of its alumni in any shape or form, and reconnecting with fellow Forever Buffs can impact your life in ways that may surprise you.  

I decided to start volunteering with CU Venture Partners on a whim during COVID-19. Because of this decision, I now have my own CU spinout company and two former mentees making tremendous strides with their ventures! 

What makes you proud to be a Forever Buff? 

I’m proud that every other Forever Buff alongside whom I work, mentor, volunteer, etc., is making an impact on the world in some shape or form across so many different fields. 

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Are you a Forever Buff? All CU Boulder alumni are members of the dues-free CU Boulder Alumni Association, which offers many free resources for alumni like you. From events around the country and career resources to the Coloradan alumni magazine, discover the many ways CU Boulder supports you through every phase and stage of life.

Career Services

Graduating from CU Boulder means you have access to Career Services. Each alum receives two free career advising appointments per calendar year, with additional appointments available at $30 per session. Alumni can also participate in events and networking opportunities, including free virtual tools like Handshake.

Forever Buffs Network

The Forever Buffs Network is CU Boulder’s online alumni community where you can get insider access, grow your professional network and connect with fellow Buffs. Members can participate in a free nine-month mentorship program that launches each fall. The Forever Buffs Network is !

Exclusive Discounts

Save money when you shop with discounts offered to CU Boulder alumni. Check out options to save on hotel stays, insurance coverage and even the CU Book Store. Also, explore alumni-owned businesses on the for even more discounts.

Coloradan Alumni Magazine

Follow along with CU Boulder news, alumni stories and more in the Coloradan, CU Boulder’s award-winning alumni magazine. Alumni receive the magazine for free. Update your contact information to stay updated on your subscription. 

Chapters and Clubs

Find other CU Boulder alumni in your local area! Forever Buffs chapters and clubs host events to help you connect with fellow Buffs and the CU Boulder community. Whether you want to cheer on the Buffs football or basketball teams at a watch party, volunteer in your local community or enjoy an outing with your family, there are plenty of ways to celebrate and connect. 

University Resources

Alumni receive access to other campus resources at free or discounted rates. Colorado residents can apply for online or at the CU Boulder Alumni Association. The CU Rec Center also offer discounted memberships for alumni. 

Take Advantage of Alumni Resources

Being a CU Boulder alum makes you part of a lifelong community that continues to offer support and connection. Embrace the benefits of being a Forever Buff and take full advantage of the ways CU Boulder is here for you every step of the way. 

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For first-generation college graduate Royer Lopez (Mktg'18), the CU Boulder experience has shaped his life long after his time as a student. Lopez, now an advertising professional in Denver, fosters a dedication to higher education in his daily life. His helps give more students access to college, and at CU Boulder, his commitment to mentoring Buffs, hosting alumni events and advocating for diversity at the university serves as a testament to the power of alumni engagement. 

What motivated you to attend CU Boulder?

Growing up, I was a huge football fan, and CU’s football program in the 1990s was a big draw. But it wasn’t only football that attracted me — it was the beauty of Boulder and the campus environment that made me fall in love with CU.

I was also part of a program in middle school that encouraged students to aspire to attend college. With that program, I visited college campuses. Seeing CU Boulder in person made me even more determined to attend. It felt like the perfect place to build my future.

How did your experience at CU Boulder inspire you to stay connected to the university?

My time at CU Boulder wasn’t traditional, but that’s part of what made it so meaningful. I started at CU in 2011, but because of financial challenges, I had to go part-time while working full-time at Wells Fargo. I spent six years balancing work and school, which was challenging but gave me invaluable experience. I could apply what I was learning in real time, which made my education even more relevant.

During that time, I also realized I needed a bit more support. That’s when I joined a fraternity in the Multicultural Greek Council, which helped me connect to a more diverse community and find the extra encouragement I needed. I also found community through the , which ultimately helped me land a job before I even graduated.

My brothers and my wife, Angelica Chavez-Lopez (Econ’17; MEdu’21), also graduated from CU, which has been such a pivotal part of our lives. Now, I want to give back to the university that gave me so much. My experiences at CU Boulder drive me to stay connected and help enrich the university and its community.

How are you currently involved at CU Boulder?

It’s important to me to stay connected to CU Boulder. I’m an at-large member of the Forever Buffs Advisory Board, where I help support and promote alumni engagement. I also serve as the director of communications for the Leeds Gold Board, which focuses on graduates of the last decade.

I mentor through the Leeds Professional Mentoring Program. I’ve even started an internship program at my agency, bringing in students from Leeds to give them hands-on experience.

I’m also a part of ForeverGold, CU’s alumni giving program, and I’ve been able to host events like the Multicultural Greek reunion during Homecoming. That event helped create a space where alumni from diverse backgrounds could come together and reconnect with CU. We had 75 people show up in the first year, and it was amazing to see how many were inspired to get more involved with the CU community.

On a personal level, I’m a season ticket holder for CU football and enjoy attending games and tailgating with fellow alumni. My wife’s involvement with CU also helps keep me connected. Overall, I try to engage in ways that benefit me and help strengthen the CU Boulder community for future Buffs.

What does it mean to be a Forever Buff?

Being a Forever Buff means much more than just my connection to CU Boulder — it’s about the impact we can have on others. It’s not just about having a degree or a connection to the university; it’s about helping future generations of Buffs succeed. The possibilities of what we can accomplish as Forever Buffs are limitless. I believe it’s our responsibility to share what we’ve learned and allow others to be part of this amazing community. 

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The CU Buffs’ 2024 football season brought renewed excitement for alumni and fans with a winning record, showstopping plays and superstar moments. Check out these top highlights from the season. 

1. The Buffs finished the 2024 season with a winning record of 9-4 overall and 7-2 in Big 12 conference play.

2. Travis Hunter as the top player in college football this season. He is only the second Heisman winner in CU Boulder history.

3. Colorado scored an average of 34.5 points per game with 15 rushing touchdowns and 35 passing touchdowns for the season.

4. The Buffs returned to a bowl game, playing in the on Dec. 26, against Brigham Young University.

5. The Buffs brought home the rivalry win against Colorado State on Sept. 14, with an impressive interception from Travis Hunter and a final score of 28-9.

6. Shedeur Sanders had a 43-yard touchdown pass to LaJohntay Wester against , which sent the game to overtime.

7. Buffs everywhere joined . Fans in the stadium sang “Happy Birthday” to the Buffs’ biggest fan, and the Fox Big Noon Kickoff featured Peggy.

8. Colton Hood made a pivotal play against Kansas State on Oct. 12, with a fourth-quarter interception and a 59-yard run to help shift the momentum in the game.

9. After a season of runs, Ralphie traveled 16 hours and 928 miles to run at the Valero Alamo Bowl.

10. The Buffs shut out Oklahoma State on Nov. 29, with a final score of 52-0. 

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It has been 1,430 days — almost four years — since the Colorado Buffaloes played in a bowl game. During that time, CU Boulder welcomed a new football coach, a new chancellor and a roster of star players. With all these changes, it’s time for a refresh on CU football facts going into the Buffs’ first bowl game since 2020. Here’s everything you need to know about this transformative season and why Buffs fans are buzzing. 

Travis Hunter Chasing Heisman History

Travis Hunter, Colorado’s star, two-way player, has been named the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner. Travis stood out with ability to perform at a high level on both sides of the ball and was a highlight machine throughout this past season. He put his whole heart into the game and his representation of the Buffs on and off the field has been exemplary. We are so proud to have him on our team. Congratulations, Travis!  

A Big 12 Return

Colorado made a dramatic return to the Big 12 conference this year. Many of this season’s opponents had not clashed with the Buffaloes in well over a decade. 

Colorado isn’t alone in their conference realignment — over a dozen other schools joined large conferences this year. College football looks very different to what it has in previous years. 

Laying a Foundation of Success

This year, the expanded 12-team college football playoffs launched. While the Buffs didn’t clinch a playoff appearance this season, they’ve shown they have what it takes to compete at a high level. This was a season with high expectations for the Buffs. In many ways, they met those expectations, and scoring an average of 34.5 points per game. This massive turnaround placed the Buffs in a four-way tie for first place in our new conference — something Buff fans could only dream about not even two years ago. 

Defying Bowl Game History

The Buffs earned their 31st bowl game appearance this fall. A bowl victory would give the CU the 13th bowl win in school history. This year’s bowl game could be the perfect stage for a statement victory, cementing a cornerstone season in Colorado football history. 

Celebrate with Buffs Nation

As the Buffs gear up for their bowl game, fans have plenty of ways to join the excitement. Heading to the game? Don’t miss Buffs Bash, where alumni and fans will gather for the ultimate pre-game celebration. Want to go even bigger? Support the program by joining the and help propel Buffs Athletics to even greater heights.

From Travis Hunter’s Heisman chase to the team’s remarkable turnaround, this season has been nothing short of legendary for Colorado football. So, let’s give the Buffs one final, thunderous “Sko Buffs!” and get ready to cheer them on to bowl glory! 

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Looking for the perfect holiday gifts for the Forever Buffs in your life? Make gift-giving even more meaningful with our curated holiday gift guide. From stylish CU Boulder gear to unique finds from Forever Buffs-owned businesses, we’ve got something for every Buff on your list. 

The Sports Buff

Kyle Cavan Jewelry 

Take your Buffs pride up a notch with CU Boulder-inspired jewelry from Kyle Cavan Jewelry. They have options for every budget — choose from CU Buffs earrings, Colorado cufflinks, Buff pendant necklaces and many other designs. When you shop CU Buffs designs, 10% of each purchase goes to support CU Boulder scholarships.

CU Book Store

What’s better for a Buffs fan than CU Boulder gear? The CU Book Store has everything a sports fan needs for game day. Whether you need a foam finger or Buffs jersey, you’ll find the perfect option. Not only that, but CU Boulder alumni receive a 20% discount on one full-priced CU logo item, either in-store or online — just use code “Alumni” at checkout.

CU Athletics tickets

Give the gift every sports Buff will love — tickets to a sporting event at CU Boulder! You can choose from single ticket options, multiple game packages or season tickets. Share your CU Boulder pride and celebrate the Buffs this holiday season.

The Foodie Buff

Sauce Leopard

Find this year’s hot gift from CU Boulder alum and Denver-area musician Shaun Goodwin’s Sauce Leopard, featured in Season 18 of the popular YouTube series Hot Ones. Order the award-winning hot sauces as a gift pack or in individual bottles. Your favorite foodie Buff will love a gift that supports a fellow Forever Buff and sets their taste buds on fire.

The Sink

Celebrate with The Sink, a Boulder institution for over 100 years! Whether local to Boulder or wanting to reminisce about college, you’ll find a gift that hits the spot. The Sink offers gear and gift cards, including e-gift cards for last-minute shoppers. Bring those college days home this holiday season!

St. Hildie’s

Introduce your favorite Forever Buffs to St. Hildie’s spiked tonics. Forbes hyped these pure botanical libations as “best canned cocktails.” Select from variety packs, merchandise and gift cards. 

The Beauty Buff

Silk by Laura

Your favorite beauty buff will appreciate Silk by Laura’s body butter to keep their skin healthy through the dry Colorado winter. This all-natural whipped shea butter is hand-whipped and hand-jarred with a unique blend of essential oils. The Signature Butter Box is an excellent gift for every Buff.

Eossi Beauty

Whether your favorite Buff lives in Colorado or beyond, Eossi Beauty’s skincare line will brighten their holiday with CBD-infused beauty products. Choose from standalone product options or a gift bundle. 

Syll Botanics

Syll Botanics’ plant-based products make a great gift for Buffs who love a simple beauty routine. Born out of a desire to create a safe skincare product during pregnancy, Syll Botanics developed products with sustainable and skin-nourishing ingredients. 

The Cozy Buff

Books by CU Buffs

Choose a book by a CU Boulder alum to give to your favorite Buff this holiday season. Explore books for every age and interest, from research topics to heartwarming fiction. Check out our list below, then purchase books from your favorite bookseller. 

Explore books by CU Boulder alumni

Liberty Puzzles

Nothing says cozy like a jigsaw puzzle: Liberty Puzzles makes beautifully designed and whimsical wooden puzzles. The Forever Buffs puzzle offers the perfect gift for your favorite alum. Plus, each purchase supports the CU Boulder Alumni Association! 

Letter Weather

Check out varsity letter sweaters from Letter Weather. These vintage-inspired sweaters offer a cozy and unique way to display your Buffs pride. Produced in small batch drops using chenille varsity letters, these are the perfect option for stylish Buffs everywhere.  

The Last-Minute Buff

CU Presents

Give the gift of a live performance on the CU Boulder campus with a CU Presents gift certificate. You can purchase the gift certificate online, and it will be sent directly to the recipient’s email address. The recipient can choose from musical, theater or dance performances.

Roaming Buffs

Elevate your gift-giving with a Roaming Buffs trip. You can share your love for adventure by booking a trip for the new year. From domestic travel to special events, like The Masters or The Kentucky Derby, to international explorations across the globe, you can choose from a wide selection of trips at different activity levels. 

Browse upcoming Roaming Buffs trips

Fiske Planetarium

Celebrate the space Buffs in your life with a gift membership to Fiske Planetarium. Members receive discounted event tickets, free admission to member-only events and other perks. Memberships are good for one year, with options for students, individuals, families and extended families. 

Shop Fiske Planetarium memberships

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