Student Profile

Student Spotlight: From Color Guard to Singing the "Alma Mater"

Anna Tolette — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 20:16:11 +0000

Student Spotlight: From Color Guard to Singing the "Alma Mater" Anna Tolette Mon, 03/10/2025 - 14:16

Lauren Elbert (Mktg’27) loves the traditions of student life — from color guard to singing the alma mater.

A Day as a Buff

“As a resident advisor, it’s super convenient to go to class next door in the Koelbel building. After class, I usually head to my barista job. It is the best part of my day, because I get to make coffee and talk to people who come in from around Boulder. Then, I normally hit up The Rec to run or take a cycle class. After that, I go to color guard practice and usually have meetings for the Leeds Scholars Program, Herd Leadership Council or a residence hall staff meeting, depending on the day. Later, I head back to my room, get some homework done, read a bit and go to bed. It’s a busy life, but it’s a good one!”

Favorite CU Tradition

“The Golden Buffaloes Marching Band is steeped in tradition and spirit for the campus. After each game, we sing the alma mater together, regardless of the turnout or how tired we are.”

CU’s Influence

“�� has shown me how creativity and business can intersect. The collaborative projects in my classes and my involvement in the Leeds Scholars Program have helped me develop a vision for combining marketing, technology and sustainability. I’m inspired to pursue a career focused on impactful storytelling and responsible innovation.”

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Photo courtesy Lauren Elbert

Quick Facts

Studying marketing, with a minor in creative technology and design.

Expected Graduation May 2027

From Franktown, Colorado

Works at Drogo’s Coffee Bar

Color guard in the Golden Buffaloes Marching Band

Resident advisor in Kittredge Central

Buff Lauren Elbert shares her favorite �� traditions.

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Spring 2025

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Q&A with Filip Wahlqvist, Defending National Ski Champion

Julia Maclean — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 17:59:23 +0000

Q&A with Filip Wahlqvist, Defending National Ski Champion Julia Maclean Mon, 03/10/2025 - 11:59

Andrew Daigle

All-American skier Filip Wahlqvist (Fin’27) won the NCAA Championship in slalom and helped lead the Buffs to their 21st National Championship in his first year at Colorado. The Norway native reflects on college skiing’s surprises, small margins when racing, and trusting in himself.

You won four slalom races in 2024, including the national championship. What surprised you about your first year skiing for CU?

Before I got here, I didn’t think college racing was a big deal. I spent three years trying to go pro in the World Cup after high school. I assumed college facilities were smaller and had fewer resources. When I got here, I was blown away. What we have at CU is 10 times bigger than our Olympic facilities in Norway where the professionals train. You can’t compare it. CU has personal trainers, nutritionists, tutors and advisors. Everything is incredibly organized and professional.

Does defending the National Championship add pressure to this season?

Not really. Every time I’m on the start gate, I’m going for a victory.

You can’t compare it. CU has personal trainers, nutritionists, tutors and advisors. Everything is incredibly organized and professional.

You race both slalom and giant slalom (GS). What differentiates the two disciplines and how you ski them?

The main difference is the distance between the gates. Slalom is shorter between gates, while GS has longer distances. In slalom, we use shorter skis, knee pads and arm guards. You’re hitting the gates more in slalom, while in GS you go around them more. Slalom skis are 165 centimeters [65”] and GS skis are 193 centimeters [76”]. There’s more action in slalom. The gates come fast, and you need to be precise and focused. Super small margins. You might race for just 50 seconds but cross 60 gates.

How do you balance speed and precision?

GS speed can be about 80 km/h [50 mph], while slalom is like 65 km/h [40 mph]. Speed depends on conditions: icy or soft, the turns, straight or longer courses. But skiing is super technical. It’s probably 80 percent technique, 20 percent speed. If I overthink things, that creates its own stress. You only have two runs (two minutes total of skiing), and one small mistake can cost you.

Is staying calm and confident more from experience or disposition?

I worked with psychological coaches when I was younger because I would ski well in training sessions, but not so much in races. But I’m not sure that worked for me. What helped the most was gaining more skiing experience and finding my mental rhythm. Pressure to win doesn’t have to mean nervousness. About four years ago, all the unnecessary stress just wasn’t there anymore. In alpine skiing, it can be hundredths of a second between 1st and 12th place. I aim to remember that.

Can you tell us more about skiing internationally before you came to CU?

My brother and I were racing in the European Cup. I wasn’t on Norway’s national team, and my club team back home was in other races, so I was on my own a lot. But my brother and I were lucky because we had our dad. He was a World Cup coach for Norway and the U.S. He would set courses for us and go to Italy, France and Germany for races. I had some really good results while racing. After nearly making the national team three times, I decided to race in college and get an education.

What made you want to come here?

My dad went to the University of New Mexico when they had a ski program. He said incredible things about CU. The big three schools for college skiing are Colorado, University of Utah and University of Denver. But Colorado is the best. People help you in both academics and athletics. It was an easy choice when [head alpine coach] Ian [Lochhead] called to ask if I was interested.

Can you share something you’ve learned from coach Lochhead?

To trust in my decisions. I’m far away from home, so I have had to grow up faster and figure things out for myself. If I ask Ian for help, he’s going to do his best to make sure I succeed, but I appreciate how he’s supported me to find trust in myself.

What goals do you have for your future years as a Buff?

To take in the whole college experience: learn as much as possible, make new friends, invest in myself. I love being in the Leeds School of Business. And, of course, with skiing, to do better than last year. Winning the GS. Doing a double — which is winning GS and slalom in one meet — but only if Colorado wins. We all support each other as teammates.

When you’re off the slopes and not training, what do you like to do?

My mom and dad own a golf course in Norway. When I’m home in the summertime, it’s all about golf. As a student-athlete, you’re always busy, so I haven’t played much golf in Colorado — only three times — but I brought my clubs from home.

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Photos by Matan Coll

CU skier Filip Wahlqvist won the NCAA Championship in slalom and helped lead the Buffs to their 21st National Championship last year.

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Spring 2025

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Travis Hunter Wins Heisman Trophy

Julia Maclean — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 17:23:05 +0000

Travis Hunter Wins Heisman Trophy Julia Maclean Mon, 03/10/2025 - 11:23

During a ceremony in New York City on Dec. 14, 2024, Travis Hunter (Psych’26) became the second Buff to claim the Heisman Trophy, widely considered the most prestigious recognition in college sports. CU running back Rashaan Salaam (Soc ex’96) won the award in 1994.

During the 2024 regular season and bowl game, Hunter played cornerback and wide receiver for the Buffs. On defense, he played 748 snaps and recorded four interceptions and 11 pass breakups. On offense, he played 712 snaps, which included 96 receptions and 15 touchdowns.

After thanking his fiancée, parents and several others in his acceptance speech, he turned to coach Deion Sanders and quarterback Shedeur Sanders (Soc’25) and declared, “You changed my life forever.”

He is projected as a top-five pick in the NFL Draft this April.

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Photo by Heisman Trophy Trust

In 2024, Travis Hunter became the second player in CU history to win the Heisman Trophy.

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Spring 2025

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Setting Up Success: A Q&A with CU Volleyball's Taylor Simpson

Anna Tolette — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 17:16:52 +0000

Setting Up Success: A Q&A with CU Volleyball's Taylor Simpson Anna Tolette Tue, 11/12/2024 - 10:16

Andrew Daigle

Taylor Simpson (Fin’25) is in her final season as setter for CU women’s volleyball. While she calls the plays and touches the ball on nearly every point, Simpson says she is only one of “19 leaders on the team,” and that life after graduation might have to include some volleyball.

As a senior, how do you lead and mentor your teammates?

Communication is key. We have a high standard of holding each other accountable, whether it’s something we want to celebrate or something to improve. We have 19 leaders on the team — a freshman or sophomore can hold a senior accountable. Leadership is cyclical. We’re all kind of leaders, all with different roles and strengths.

Off the court, what helps the team to gel together?

We like to spend as much time together off the court as possible. We eat every meal together — seriously, I’ve eaten every meal in the last three years with my teammates. We appreciate each other as friends, whether that’s hanging out, going to the pool, watching a movie, whatever.

What stands out to you about this year’s team?

We are so close. We have 19 girls who are best friends, and that’s hard to come by. We have a lot of fun. We’re here to work, but we don’t forget our personalities. Last spring, our head coach Jesse Mahoney started “task Tuesdays.” We would get a paper with three tasks on it. Two would be volleyball related and one would be funny. One time, the third task was “Start dancing after you get a kill.” That stuff helps the team stay close.

Why did you choose ��?

An initial reason was CU being in the Pac-12, because I grew up on the West Coast. But honestly, I could totally see myself here when I came to visit. It’s so beautiful. Plus, the team culture has made it a home away from home. And now, with the move to the Big 12, I am excited to see new places. The conference switch has been great for the university.

What is something you’ve learned from coach Mahoney?

It’s hard to pick one. Coach Jesse is one of the most patient people I’ve met. Being patient is something that I’ve struggled with. He’s calm and collected. That attitude reflects onto the players. That’s helped me a lot in games when I’m frustrated or not playing my best.

How does the setter position work?

People compare the setter to a football quarterback. You run the court. You’re the one controlling everything. Ideally, you touch the ball every play. I find the best hitters to set the ball to and hope we can get a kill.

How do you communicate plays to your teammates?

My coaches pretty much give me free rein with play calls. We have about 20 plays, each with a different hand signal. I call them before serving. If it’s a chaotic situation, the hitters adjust to something simpler. We also watch a lot of film on our opponents — if they’re weak at blocking on the outside, we’ll set the outside as much as possible. Same if we see weaknesses in other areas.

In a match, you might have to set the ball up to 100 times. What kind of training program do you follow to sustain your health and strength?

We’re doing strength, cardio, circuits, power lifts, jumping. Working all parts of our bodies helps keep us in top condition. Nothing is getting too stiff. Nothing is getting weak. Communication with our trainers is so important. If I do something 100 times and it feels off once, I’m communicating that. Recovery and treatment are key as well.

What is your favorite part about playing volleyball?

I love the sport. It’s awesome how rapidly it’s growing. I met all my best friends through volleyball. I’m so grateful for this opportunity. I started playing when I was 9, and it’s hard to imagine my life without it.

How does your team maintain such positive energy on the court?

Staying positive and supportive is one of the hardest skills to learn, even though it’s not physical. It’s something a lot of us have worked on. We do team workshops with our sports psychology staff to learn how to be better teammates. We are truly a family. These are my sisters. We want the best for each other.

What do you like to do off the court?

I love the ocean. The beach is my escape, my happy place. And I love to laugh with friends. It’s super important to joke and have fun.

Do you have plans for after graduation?

I have a wealth management internship. I’ll be taking exams once I graduate to get my financial planner license and my financial advisor license, along with a few others. Right now, that’s my plan. But I could see more volleyball in my future. I don’t know if I’ll be ready to give it up. Ask me in six months.

Interview by Andrew Daigle

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Photos by the University of Colorado

Taylor Simpson (Fin’25) is in her final season as setter for CU women’s volleyball. While she calls the plays and touches the ball on nearly every point, Simpson says she is only one of “19 leaders on the team,” and that life after graduation might have to include some volleyball.

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Fall 2024

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Shedeur Sanders Readies for Second Season

Anonymous — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Shedeur Sanders Readies for Second Season Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 07/16/2024 - 00:00

Andrew Daigle

On April 27, 2024, Buffaloes quarterback Shedeur Sanders (Soc’25) made a welcome return to Folsom Field for the team’s annual Black and Gold Game. Sanders finished 10-14 for 116 yards and a touchdown in the rain-shortened scrimmage.

“We were comfortable, seeing everything eye-to-eye. Everybody got to showcase their talents today,” said Sanders.

Sanders was one of 57 transfers to join the Buffs in 2023. While this offseason has had similar turnover with more than 40 transfers, the difference is elevated personnel.

“We have a plethora of receivers, and I cannot wait to see them work together this summer. Shedeur is going to be the happiest man in the building,” said head coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders.

Four months stand between the Spring Game and August 29 opener against North Dakota State, giving Shedeur Sanders the opportunity to connect with new receivers and a revamped offensive line.

“I talk a lot to the receivers about the reads and progressions. I hang out with my offensive linemen. We go eat. We cook. We do everything together. That’s where we build our bond,” said Sanders.

Sanders, projected to be ranked as high as No. 1 in the 2025 NFL Draft after throwing for 3,230 yards and 27 touchdowns in 2023, is intent on improving his off-the-field leadership.

“I can become more vocal. On the field, they know what they’re getting. But off the field, you need to let guys know they’re always valued,” said Sanders.

With Colorado returning to the Big 12 this season, Coach Prime has promised a talent overhaul and a bowl game to famed CU superfan Peggy Coppom (A&S’46).

"[We have] another caliber of player, a player that truly expects to go to the next level," Coach Prime said. “They want the physicality, they want all the smoke.”

But the offseason is far from over.

"This summer is definitely going to be a grind," said Sanders.

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Photo courtesy University of Colorado

As football’s QB1 gears up for a second year leading the Buffs, he’s focused on embracing change and building on a transcendent debut season.

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Becoming a Boulder Climber

Anonymous — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Becoming a Boulder Climber Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 07/16/2024 - 00:00

Chris Weidner

I woke up in my VW van parked behind the Boulder Rock Club and started making coffee, map in hand, plotting the drive to Eldorado Canyon. I’d arrived a week earlier from my home in Seattle to spend the summer guiding for the Boulder Rock School. It was my first day, and I was nervous — not about the climbing (though I’d be leading clients up routes I’d never climbed before), but about the drive.

It was July 2001 (when paper maps were still a thing), and I didn’t know Broadway from Baseline. And though I’d been guiding in Washington since the mid-1990s, I feared being “found out” as an outsider in Colorado. Nothing scared me more than getting lost en route to one of the country’s most famous climbing areas with a van full of clients paying good money for local knowledge.

To my immense relief, all went well that day. So well, in fact, that by the time another week had passed, I’d ditched the map and had logged dozens of routes in Eldo (mostly “onsight” guiding), Boulder Canyon, the Flatirons and on Longs Peak. I couldn’t believe the volume and variety of climbing so close to town. I would guide in the morning, climb with friends in the afternoon and repeat. I’d never climbed so much in my life.

Admittedly, I used to roll my eyes whenever I heard Boulder being called the “Center of the Universe” for American climbing. It couldn’t be that good. But by the end of that summer, my skepticism had turned to pride: I owned 14 guidebooks covering thousands of climbs, all within 90 minutes of Boulder. I felt like I was just getting started.

So I did that classic Boulder thing: I never left.

I stayed because being a climber in Boulder feels limitless; it means as many different things as there are climbers. We’re scramblers and ice hogs, first ascensionists and gym rats, alpinists and Olympians. We’re young and old, fast and slow, inexperienced and elite. We’re of every color, gender, shape and size, and yet somehow we’ve all chosen climbing as our medium to face fears, challenge our beliefs and build meaningful friendships.

Above all, being a climber in Boulder means taking part in a wild and wonderful community invigorated by our unique vertical playground. Here, there’s a synergy at work — a motivating power that strengthens relationships well beyond the “Off belay!” on top of a climb.

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Photo by Jon Glassberg, Louder Than Eleven

Local climber and writer Chris Weidner reflects on his first months participating in Boulder's incredible outdoor climbing scene.

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Student Profile

Student Spotlight: From Color Guard to Singing the "Alma Mater"

A Day as a Buff

Favorite CU Tradition

CU’s Influence

Quick Facts

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Q&A with Filip Wahlqvist, Defending National Ski Champion

You won four slalom races in 2024, including the national championship. What surprised you about your first year skiing for CU?

Does defending the National Championship add pressure to this season?

You race both slalom and giant slalom (GS). What differentiates the two disciplines and how you ski them?

How do you balance speed and precision?

Is staying calm and confident more from experience or disposition?

Can you tell us more about skiing internationally before you came to CU?

What made you want to come here?

Can you share something you’ve learned from coach Lochhead?

What goals do you have for your future years as a Buff?

When you’re off the slopes and not training, what do you like to do?

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Travis Hunter Wins Heisman Trophy

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Setting Up Success: A Q&A with CU Volleyball's Taylor Simpson

As a senior, how do you lead and mentor your teammates?

Off the court, what helps the team to gel together?

What stands out to you about this year’s team?

Why did you choose ����������?

What is something you’ve learned from coach Mahoney?

How does the setter position work?

How do you communicate plays to your teammates?

In a match, you might have to set the ball up to 100 times. What kind of training program do you follow to sustain your health and strength?

What is your favorite part about playing volleyball?

How does your team maintain such positive energy on the court?

What do you like to do off the court?

Do you have plans for after graduation?

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Shedeur Sanders Readies for Second Season

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Becoming a Boulder Climber

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Why did you choose ��?