CC Welcomes New Faculty

As Block 1 draws to a close, I am reminded of how our excellent scholar-teachers impact our students every day. Just over 200 faculty members teaching approximately 2,000 undergraduates in the intensely-focused Block Plan characterizes the CC academic experience.

This year, we welcome 11 new tenure-track faculty members and two Riley Scholars-in- Residence. I am energized by what they will add to our intellectual community!

CC Loves Music!

It was a big music weekend at CC! On Saturday, four student bands played at Blues & Shoes, our annual music festival on the Quad.

Then on Sunday, CC’s Bluegrass Ensemble was featured as one of four bands at the Patty Jewett Porchfest. Hundreds of community members and a dozen food trucks gathered around four porches in the Patty Jewett neighborhood for this music fest.

It’s fantastic to see our student musicians building community on campus and throughout Colorado Springs! Thanks to Vivian Nguyen ’20 for the great photos.

2017-18 President’s Council

Last week, I met with President’s Council for our first meeting of the academic year. I am grateful for the helpful insight I receive from this advisory group of 35 student leaders.

President’s Council began their year with a teambuilding retreat facilitated by Professor Steve Hayward (English). The students started out in the new Tutt Library Event Space with brainstorming activities that got their creative juices flowing, pitching movie ideas and developing superhero alter egos. Then, in the afternoon, the students put their problem solving and collaboration skills to the test in an escape room activity.

The professional development and bonding was a great way for President’s Council to kick off the year. Their thoughtful engagement helps me stay connected to the needs and priorities of our students!

CC’s Annual Harvest Banquet

Every summer, students work on the CC Farm behind the President’s House. The produce is used in Rastall and to feed the farm’s supporters at the annual Harvest Banquet at Stewart House.

The banquet was held on Wednesday night, where I snapped a photo of this year’s summer interns – Rebecca Glazer ’18, Abby Williams ’20 and Rachel Frizell ’19 (as well as Jules Olliff ’20 who has been helping at the farm out this fall).

Musicians Abigail Washburn ’99 and Béla Fleck Play on Campus

Last week, the CC community was treated to a concert by Grammy-winning musicians Abigail Washburn ’99 and Béla Fleck. Mohrman Theatre was packed, as a mix of students and community members gathered to listen to the banjo duo. It was fun to hear Abigail tell stories about her time at CC, including explaining how her Asian Studies major has influenced her music.

In addition to their wonderful performance, Abigail and Béla also spent time with students over lunch and in the classroom. They visited with students in the FYE course, Emotion and Meaning in Music, and an Asian Studies class. The passion and creativity the duo continues to spark in our campus community is inspiring!