It’s a season of gratitude, a season of giving, and a season to reflect on the people and things that bring us joy. In that spirit, our 2021 LYNX UP Ambassadors—a group of colleagues from across campus who lead CU Denver’s annual faculty and staff giving campaign—have come together to share what it means to them to be a part of the Lynx community.
A New Vision for Community
“Being a member of the CU Denver community means being a part of a mission-driven organization,” says Sarah Buller, director of organizational effectiveness and engagement, “part of a team that expands beyond our campus and into the wider community.”
Buller has been closely involved with the development and implementation of CU Denver’s 2030 Strategic Plan, which reimagines what “community” means at CU Denver—from our internal commitment to equity and creating a culture of belonging, to our external partnerships and our impact on the great social challenges of our time.
Vice Chancellor of Advancement Melisa Baldwin reminds us that “each and every one of you is working just as I am to make the world a better and different place that is equitable for all and where we can all pursue our dreams.”
Creating a Sense of “Home”
Sam Walker, PhD, who has taught philosophy at CU Denver for over 25 years, says, “Before coming here I taught at several colleges and universities. But when I came here, I felt like was coming home.”
Walker is committed to creating that same sense of “home” for the students and colleagues around him. He’s been a longtime supporter of scholarships and student success; a staunch advocate for instructional, research, and clinical faculty; and an influential voice for LYNX UP, inspiring countless fellow faculty and staff members to give back to the CU Denver community.
“…And I Give Back”
“I’ve been here for 26 years,” Walker reflects, “… and I give back.” The LYNX UP Ambassadors close their video with some thoughts on what it means to reinvest in the Lynx community. “I give back,” Baldwin says, “because I believe in what we’re trying to accomplish and what we are accomplishing here at CU Denver.”
Please take a moment to listen to their words of warmth for the community we’re all a part of, and please consider joining our LYNX UP Ambassadors in making a gift to the CU Denver fund of your choice. Thank you for all you do every day to make the CU Denver community a little bit stronger.
Watch: What CU Denver Means to Me
LYNX UP today by making a gift or setting up a payroll deduction.