University of Colorado at Boulder
As the flagship university of the state of Colorado, CU- Boulder is a dynamic community of scholars and learners situated on one of the most spectacular college campuses in the country. As one of 34 U.S. public institutions belonging to the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) - and the only member in the Rocky Mountain region - we have a proud tradition of academic excellence, with four Nobel laureates and more than 50 members of prestigious academic academies.
CU-Boulder has blossomed in size and quality since we opened our doors in 1877 - attracting superb faculty, staff, and students and building strong programs in the sciences, engineering, business, law, arts, humanities, education, music, and many other disciplines.
Today, with our sights set on becoming the standard for the great comprehensive public research universities of the new century, we strive to serve the people of Colorado and to engage with the world through excellence in our teaching, research, creative work, and service.
CU-Boulder's history is one of vision and determination-useful traits for pioneers dreaming of educational opportunities in the days of the Colorado Territory. In 1876, both the university and the state of Colorado were formally established. Forty-four students formed the first class, taught by three instructors. Situated on a "barren and wind-swept plain," Old Main housed not only the first classrooms, but the president's home, the library, and the janitor's quarters.
In the 135 years since that modest beginning, our university has blossomed in size and quality-attracting superb faculty, staff, and students to our breathtaking campus set against the Flatirons. We have built strong academic programs in the sciences, engineering, business, law, arts, humanities, education, music, and many other disciplines. Over the years, we have also claimed a number of Nobel laureates, MacArthur Fellows, and elected members of prestigious national organizations and academies.
CU-Boulder has one of the most majestic and popular college mascots in all of intercollegiate athletics, a real buffalo named Ralphie. "Ralphie IV" and her handlers lead the football team out on the field at the beginning and second half of each football game
The buffalo first appeared in 1934, three weeks after a contest to select an official school nickname by the Silver & Gold newspaper had come to an end and "Buffaloes" was the winning entry. For the final game of the '34 season, a group of students paid $25 to rent a buffalo calf along with a real cowboy as his keeper. It took the cowboy and four students to keep the calf under control on the sidelines, a 7-0 win at the University of Denver on Thanksgiving Day. For a complete history, visit CUBuffs.com.
Since 1888, CU-Boulder students have proudly worn the official school colors: silver and gold, symbolizing the mineral riches of Colorado. Today, black is often used as a background color to provide greater contrast for the gold.
Graduation Traditions
On June 9, 1935, President Norlin, an articulate speaker, gave a baccalaureate address that has become the traditional charge to graduates of the university. It is now read at each commencement on all four CU campuses.
He said in part: "The university consists of all who come into and go forth from her halls, who are touched by her influence and who carry on her spirit. Wherever you go, the university goes with you." This charge has inspired generations of CU graduates ever since.
Alma Mater Song
Hail, all hail our Alma Mater!
Ever will our hearts be true:
You will live with us forever,
Loyal we will be with you.
We will sing forever your praises,
Ever more our love renew,
Pledge ur whole devotion to you.
Dear old CU!
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