Thank you for attending the 2024 Annual Alumni Awards Ceremony and Dinner.
Have a remarkable Buff in mind for next year? Submit a nomination now for the 2025 Awards.
Please see below to read about our incredible award winners!
Have a remarkable Buff in mind for next year? Submit a nomination now for the 2025 Awards.
Please see below to read about our incredible award winners!
Benny Shendo Jr. is one of this year’s highly esteemed recipients of the George Norlin Award, recognizing his dedicated service to diverse communities nationwide. Benny’s rich career spans decades, marked by significant contributions as a New Mexico lawmaker, higher education administrator and tribal leader.
Tanya Mares Kelly-Bowry embodies the ideals of the George Norlin Award and her legacy of excellence, advocacy and mentorship continues to inspire those around her. Tanya’s journey from a young Latina student at CU to a prominent lobbyist and community leader is inspirational. Her innovative achievements, lifelong relationships and commitment to public service have left a lasting impact.
With a focus on global citizenship, Paul Beddie's connection and commitment to CU Boulder have remained steadfast throughout his illustrious international career. His service and leadership demonstrate dedication to the university, making him an ideal recipient of the Alumni Recognition Award.
Dr. Penny E. Patterson’s passion for geology, education and service is evident in her leadership and dedication to CU Boulder, making her an outstanding choice for this year’s Alumni Recognition Award.
Joey Arora is the esteemed recipient of the Kalpana Chawla Outstanding Recent Graduate Award, a recognition befitting his outstanding contributions to entrepreneurship, innovation and public service. A keen startup investor and business consultant, Joey’s people-first approach to entrepreneurship rests on a foundation of military service.
D.B. Wilson, a fourth-generation Coloradan and lifelong Buff, displays a legacy marked by selfless devotion to CU Boulder, thoughtful leadership and unwavering support for the university's mission. His contributions have left a lasting impact, making him a deserving recipient of the Leanne Skupa-Lee Award.
Philip P. DiStefano is an accomplished academic administrator and recently served as the 11th chancellor of the ֲý Boulder. Born and raised in Steubenville, Ohio, DiStefano's academic journey began at The Ohio State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science. He later obtained a master of arts in English from West Virginia University and a Ph.D. in humanities from The Ohio State University.
Dr. Reiland Rabaka, a distinguished scholar and educator, is celebrated for his profound contributions to African, African American and Caribbean Studies.
Christopher Pacheco’s dedication to providing access to higher education for first-generation students and students from underrepresented populations demonstrates his commitment to advocacy, extraordinary service to the university and service to the community, making him an outstanding choice for the Robert L. Stearns Award.
Manasa Kolavennu excels at creating a positive impact at CU Boulder. Her leadership roles, volunteer service and community involvement demonstrate her Forever Buffs pride and commitment to advancing the campus community. Her ability to lead and inspire others is a testament to her character and capabilities.
Sydney Strecker represents what it means to be a Forever Buff. As the CU Student Government (CUSG) finance board chair, she showcased her dedication to the university through her leadership and commitment to excellence. She made impactful changes that will benefit students now and into the future.