Safety

Commencement: Know before you go

Megan Maneval — Fri, 02 May 2025 14:40:11 +0000

Commencement: Know before you go Megan Maneval Fri, 05/02/2025 - 08:40

The university commencement ceremony is the premier event to recognize the conferral of degrees, celebrate the accomplishments of outstanding graduates and hear the commencement address and congratulatory messages.

This annual tradition officially marks every Buff’s passage into the company of scholars. Buffs graduating in the fall, spring or summer semester are encouraged to participate in the commencement ceremony.

Here’s what you need to know to soak it all in and celebrate.

Ceremony details

The commencement ceremony will begin at 8:30 a.m. MDT on Thursday, May 8, at Folsom Field stadium. No tickets or registration are required for guests of the graduating students.

Arrival and parking

Take a look at parking and on-campus transportation information ahead of time. Guests should plan to arrive early. Parking is free on campus during commencement and recognition ceremony days, but it is limited.

The stadium gates will open at 7 a.m., and we recommend that guests are seated by 8:15 a.m. to watch the student processional into the stadium.

Conduct, inclement weather and safety

To ensure a safe and fun commencement for all, graduates will be expected to abide by the Student Code of Conduct. Disruptions to the ceremony will not be permitted.

Everyone entering Folsom Field will pass through a security screening before entering the stadium. Use these tips to understand what to bring (and what to leave at home) and what to do in case of a weather delay, evacuation or emergency.

The Folsom Field clear bag policy will be strictly enforced. Please keep personal items to a minimum.
In the event of a weather delay or evacuation, listen carefully and follow any instructions provided audibly and on screens throughout the stadium. Commencement marshals and police officers will be available to assist those who need extra help.
No bottles or containers, flags on poles or sticks, unapproved signs or banners, artificial noisemakers, inflatable balls, balloons or other prohibited items will be allowed in the stadium. Learn more about the permitted and prohibited items.
As during any large event held in Folsom Field, there is an in-stadium number individuals can call or text to report issues, including suspicious or disruptive activities. Call or text 720-812-1769.
Call �鶹��Ѱ��Police Department’s non-emergency line at 303-492-6666 for activities that violate campus use policies but do not pose an immediate threat to life or safety.
Call 911 if someone is experiencing a medical emergency, is unresponsive, is engaged in a crime or is displaying behavior that is a threat to themselves or others.
�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder is committed to continuously improving our violence prevention and education efforts to meet the needs of the campus community. We encourage a campuswide culture of reporting through the Don’t Ignore It website. Anonymous tips can also be reported through �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Safe2Tell.

How to watch virtually

Can’t make it to the commencement ceremony? A livestream of the event will be available starting at 8:30 a.m. on the commencement homepage. The livestream will have captions in English and Spanish. The link will be posted on the site the morning of the ceremony.

Congratulations, Buffs, and please enjoy the celebration!

Stay informed

Here’s where to go for any last-minute updates:

Commencement page
Recognition ceremonies page
�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s social media channels (X, Instagram, Facebook)
�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Alerts

Graduating students: Day-of information

Please review this information so you know what to expect and how to prepare for the big day.

7–8 a.m. Gather on Norlin Quad. Refreshments will be available for graduating students. Follow the signs to find your college or school for the procession.
8 a.m. Procession departs from Norlin Quad.
8–8:45 a.m. Students follow the procession to Folsom Field, pass through security and take seats. The ceremony begins as soon as all students are seated.
The ceremony lasts approximately an hour and a half.

Building access during finals week, commencement

With finals week and commencement approaching, the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder campus is preparing to follow different building access protocols. Remember to carry your Buff OneCard, Buffs!

Plan for increased traffic, parking congestion May 8–10

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder and the city of Boulder roadways will be heavily impacted during commencement. Campus community members should plan ahead and leave plenty of extra time.

The annual commencement ceremony at Folsom Field marks the moment when the chancellor officially confers degrees upon graduating students, including all the pomp and circumstance befitting the momentous occasion. Here's what you need to know.

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Plan ahead for increased traffic, parking congestion May 8–10

Megan Maneval — Thu, 01 May 2025 17:50:16 +0000

Plan ahead for increased traffic, parking congestion May 8–10 Megan Maneval Thu, 05/01/2025 - 11:50

It will be several days filled with excitement and celebration. However, �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder and city of Boulder roadways will be heavily impacted.

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Help reduce nutrient and E. coli contamination in Boulder Creek

Anonymous — Thu, 01 May 2025 13:57:17 +0000

Help reduce nutrient and E. coli contamination in Boulder Creek Anonymous (not verified) Thu, 05/01/2025 - 07:57

At �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder, we are fortunate to have beautiful waterways, including Boulder Creek, integrated into our campus ecosystem. However, keeping these waterways healthy requires our collective effort.

Boulder Creek is considered an impaired waterway by the state of Colorado due to excess amounts of Escherichia coli bacteria (E. coli). While Boulder Creek is not currently considered impaired by nutrient pollution, raising awareness about nutrients is key to help prevent future impairment.

Nutrient pollution: What is it and why should we care?

Nutrient pollution occurs when excess compounds of nitrogen and phosphorus enter our waterways, often from sources like fertilizers, pet waste and improperly disposed organic material. These nutrients can be washed off lawns and gardens during rainfall or irrigation, flowing directly into storm drains and, ultimately, into our stormwater systems. Once in the water, they can cause algal blooms, which deplete oxygen levels, harm aquatic life and degrade water quality.

E. coli contamination in Boulder Creek

In addition to nutrient pollution, E. coli, a common bacterium from multiple sources, also impacts Boulder Creek. Urbanization reduces the number of porous surfaces and increases contamination sources that wash into the storm sewer, promoting bacterial growth. The university is actively investigating and addressing the sources of E. coli in stormwater discharges.

How you can help reduce nutrient pollution and E. coli loading

Fertilizer use: Avoid over-fertilizing lawns and gardens, and never apply fertilizers near storm drains.
Organic waste: Properly dispose of lawn clippings, leaves and other organic material instead of letting them wash into storm drains.
Pet waste: Always clean up after your pets. Pet waste contributes to both bacteria and nutrients that pollute stormwater.
Trash disposal: Place all garbage in waste containers, and avoid feeding wildlife, which can increase waste in waterways.
Report issues: If you see illegal dumping or clogged storm sewer inlets on campus, contact Facilities Management at 303-492-5522.

As a large, eco-conscious community at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder, we have a great opportunity to work together to protect our stormwater resources and contribute to the university’s sustainability goals. By adopting simple habits like cleaning up after pets, properly disposing of waste and being mindful of fertilizer use, each of us can make a positive impact.

For more information, visit the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) stormwater guidelines webpage or contact EH&S at 303-492-6025 or ehs@colorado.edu.

At �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder, we are fortunate to have beautiful waterways, including Boulder Creek, and keeping these waterways healthy requires our collective effort.

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Know before you go to the spring game April 19

Anonymous — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 19:22:52 +0000

Know before you go to the spring game April 19 Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 04/16/2025 - 13:22

The annual Arrow Electronics Black and Gold spring game is back on Saturday, April 19. Come rain, shine or—as the case may be during springtime in the Rockies—snow!

If you go

Parking lots open 10 a.m.
Gates open 12:30 p.m.
Game starts 2:30 p.m.

Resources

The Buffaloes will scrimmage on Folsom Field, with parking lots opening at 10 a.m. Gates open at 12:30 p.m., and the game itself starts at 2:30 p.m.

The spring game will be televised on ESPN2.

This year, the focus is on football, as Buffs fans anticipate the team’s third season under Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders. Come and get a glimpse of the team, and enjoy unique activities for the whole family.

This year, fans can get their picture taken with the Heisman Trophy won by Travis Hunter last December.

Other activities include Field Day at noon on Franklin Field: Test your skills with student-athletes, enjoy games and more.

Clear bag policy will be in effect, and there will be no re-entry into Folsom Field. Read on for Folsom Field policies, regulations and fan behavior guidelines.

Logistics

Colorado Avenue will be closed at 10:30 a.m. from Folsom to 18th Street. Vehicle inbound and outbound routes will be altered throughout the day to facilitate ingress and egress.

Stadium policies, regulations

Designed to be practical and functional and to allow for the safety of everyone, please review before you go and follow these policies to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Fan behavior

At �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder, everyone is welcome to our herd! Our herd embraces everyone from all walks of life and lives by the motto “shoulder to shoulder.” To live this value to its fullest, we want to remind everyone to be considerate of those around them.

Drinking safely, respecting this shared space that is our campus, and taking care of one another allows our herd to thrive and our students, alumni, fans and visitors to have a great, and safe, experience. We all win when we respect one another!

Embodying and practicing positive behavior benefits everyone. Remember that prohibited activities include, but are not limited to: abusive conduct, underage drinking, damage to property, illegal use of drugs, having a fake ID and other crimes. We thank you for remembering this as you prepare for and enjoy game day.

Come out and support the Buffs in what promises to be an exciting spring game!

The Black and Gold Day spring football game is back this month—come rain, shine or snow. Here's everything you need to know: ticketing, parking info and more.

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�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder names new chief of police

Megan Maneval — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 18:01:55 +0000

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder names new chief of police Megan Maneval Fri, 04/11/2025 - 12:01

For the first time in nearly seven years, the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Police Department is welcoming a new chief of police. Following a national search, Ashley Griffin will begin serving in the leadership role beginning on July 1. Griffin is expected to be sworn in this fall.

Griffin comes from the University of Texas at Austin, where she has served as assistant chief of police since January of 2024. Previously, Griffin was inspector and training coordinator at UT System Police for nearly eight years. She has been with the UT Austin Police Department since 2007, rising through the ranks from officer to sergeant before transitioning to the university system and then her current role as assistant chief.

“I am deeply honored to be selected to serve as the chief of police at �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder and be part of the Division of Public Safety,” Griffin said. “I am excited for this new endeavor and will focus on developing relationships with the �鶹��Ѱ��community, working collaboratively with all stakeholders and fostering an environment where students, staff, faculty and visitors are safe.”

Griffin is a graduate of the FBI National Academy. She holds a master’s degree in public safety from the University of Virginia and a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies from Indiana University, where she started her law enforcement career as a part-time officer. It was through that experience that Griffin said she saw firsthand the importance of establishing trust within the community she patrolled.

“Ashley Griffin is deeply committed to �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s holistic approach to public safety and will work to immediately understand and strengthen existing partnerships and procedures,” said Marlon Lynch, �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s vice chancellor for public safety.

“We were fortunate to have four viable finalists with varying backgrounds and experiences. Ashley’s direct experience in the university setting and proven ability of having a collaborative approach were attributes that contributed to her selection as our successful candidate,” Lynch added.

CUPD’s new chief comes from the flagship campus of the University of Texas system. UT Austin is a public research university with approximately 53,000 students, including about 10,000 graduate students.

Similar to �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder, UT Austin police staff many large events across campus. Griffin oversaw various divisions as assistant chief, including recruiting and special events.

“I am looking forward to supporting �鶹��Ѱ��and the special events that are increasing on campus and to continuing the strong partnership with surrounding law enforcement agencies,” Griffin said. She will also focus on recruitment, training and wellness for first responders.

CUPD is a nationally accredited police agency operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Doreen Jokerst previously served as CUPD’s chief, before she left to become chief of police in Overland Park, Kansas, in October 2024.

Lynch thanked Interim Chief of Police John Monahan for serving in the role during the transition period, ensuring no disruption of public safety services to the campus community.

The �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Police Department will welcome Ashley Griffin as its new chief of police. The public safety leader comes from the University of Texas at Austin and will begin on July 1.

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Understanding strategies and resources to de-escalate conflict, request support

Megan Maneval — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 19:22:45 +0000

Understanding strategies and resources to de-escalate conflict, request support Megan Maneval Wed, 04/09/2025 - 13:22

Conflict can be a natural part of campus life, but how we respond to it can determine whether it becomes an opportunity for learning or a situation that spirals. As faculty and staff, understanding and applying de-escalation strategies can help ensure students express themselves while maintaining a safe and productive learning environment.

Before attempting to calm a situation, it is important to understand why tensions rise in the first place. Escalation often stems from a perceived inability to have one’s needs met, overwhelmed feelings, a sense of hopelessness or feeling trapped. In these cases, the following techniques can be useful.

De-escalation techniques

When addressing an escalating situation, staying composed is crucial.

Keep your voice calm but assertive, and resist the urge to match an aggressive or frustrated tone.
Be mindful of your body language—gestures like smiling at inappropriate times or pointing a finger can inadvertently make a situation worse.
If you are supporting a student at a front desk, an event or another situation with multiple staff available and are feeling overwhelmed, it may be best to switch staff to maintain control of the conversation.
Avoid trying to rationalize with someone who is highly emotional or attempting to prove that you’re right. Raising your voice, or asserting control through forceful language can escalate tensions further.
Focus on de-escalating by responding selectively—answer questions that provide useful information but ignore insults or provocations. Providing choices where possible can also help, as it shifts some control back to the student in a productive way.
- For example, rather than saying, “You have to leave now,” try, “Would you prefer to step outside to continue this conversation, or take a few minutes to collect your thoughts first?”

Creating a constructive path forward

Once a situation is under control, it’s important to clearly outline expectations and next steps.

Asking cognitive rather than emotional questions, such as, “Can you explain why this situation is frustrating for you?” instead of, “How are you feeling?” can help redirect the conversation to problem-solving rather than venting.

Empathize with a student’s emotions while reinforcing behavioral expectations. When necessary, refer back to policies as a neutral framework for decisions, rather than making it seem personal.

De-escalation is not authority or control, it’s about guiding tense situations toward a resolution that allows students to feel heard while maintaining campus safety and order. When handled effectively, moments of conflict can become opportunities for learning and reflection.

By staying calm, setting clear expectations, and offering constructive solutions, campus professionals can foster a culture where expression and respect go hand in hand.

When situations escalate and stronger intervention is needed

Support and guidance

Call CUPD at 303-492-6666 to report disruptions.
Call 911 to report emergencies and/or threats to life/safety.

If the situation continues to escalate, or you need additional support for a classroom disruption or event, you should immediately call CUPD at 303-492-6666 to report the incident and request support from law enforcement. While any activities that disrupt university teaching, research or administrative functions are a violation of the university’s Campus Use of University Facilities policy, it’s imperative to prioritize the safety of everyone involved in such an incident.

In some situations, such as physical violence, threats of physical violence, or other scenarios where you are worried about your physical safety, the above de-escalation techniques are not appropriate. If you experience an emergency, call or text 911 for an immediate response.

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s Division of Public Safety also encourages all faculty and staff members to watch the CU: Run, Hide, Fight virtual active harmer course once each semester, to refresh their knowledge and better recognize and respond to situations where you may need to rely on your own actions to ensure your safety. Learn more and access the course here. Additional training opportunities will be shared with the campus as they become available.

As always, during emergencies, confirmed information and safety instructions are shared on the �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder Alerts site.

Options and resources exist to help during times of tension. Be aware of strategies and support that’s available when conflict arises.

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Campus delays and closures: What you need to know

Anonymous — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 22:05:27 +0000

Campus delays and closures: What you need to know Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 04/04/2025 - 16:05

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s campus closure policy clarifies delays and closures caused by extreme weather, power outages and other emergencies. Here are the top things campus community members need to know.

Knowing operational status

Campus officials are typically able to announce delays or closures by 5:30 a.m.
Notifications of delays and closures are sent out via �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alerts, campus social media channels and, often, local broadcast media.
You can also view the university’s website for any change in operating status or call Buff Info at 303-492-INFO (4636), as well as read complete information on campus closing procedures.

Class cancellation and administrative closures

In the event of a campus closure due to severe weather, the alert will specify a class cancellation, administrative closure, or both.

When a class cancellation is issued, all in-person and remote (synchronous) classes are canceled for the day. Asynchronous online classes, which don’t have meeting times, will continue without cancellation.

Are you signed up for �鶹��Ѱ��Boulder alerts?

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder students, you are automatically registered using your @colorado.edu email address. We ask that you add a mobile number during course registration periods and update as needed in Buff Portal. Get instructions on how to do so.
�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder faculty and staff, you are automatically registered using your @colorado.edu email address. Manage your mobile alerts number, and update as needed in your MyCUInfo portal. Get instructions on how to do so.
�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder partners with @cu.edu, @cufund.org, @cusys.edu, @ucdenver.edu or @cuanschutz.edu email domains must still register and maintain their information.

When an administrative closure is issued, administrative functions of the campus are closed, which may include campus events, facilities and venues. Essential services, unless otherwise noted, will continue to operate.

Administrative closures without course cancellations would be rare but may be issued during weekends or academic breaks when there are no regularly scheduled classes.

Delayed start

Sometimes, due to adverse conditions judged to be hazardous to normal campus operations, the campus will delay its opening.

For example, if the campus were to have a delayed start at 9:45 a.m., this would mean all in-person or remote (synchronously taught) classes, recitations, labs, etc. scheduled to begin before 9:45 a.m. would be canceled. Faculty would take steps to make up material and assignments missed during that time in a later class period. All classes, labs, recitations, etc. scheduled to begin at or after 9:45 a.m. would be held as normal. Students with questions about making up assignments should talk to their instructor.

How does a delayed opening apply during the 2024–25 academic year?

Any in-person or remote (synchronously taught) class or lab scheduled to start at or after a delayed start time will meet as usual.
In-person and remote (synchronously taught) classes and labs that begin before the delayed start time are canceled, including those continuing past the delayed start.
Online classes taught asynchronously, without a specific start time, are not affected by the delay.

Employee guidance

Administrative leave is granted to all regular employees for their scheduled work hours during the period of administrative closure. Employees may reference the Inclement Weather Guidance from Human Resources for more information, including requirements and guidance for essential and critical services employees who may be required to work during a delay or closure per the updated Campus Closure Policy.

Most faculty and staff are not expected to work during an administrative closure or delayed start regardless of work modality. In the event that multi-campus, virtual meetings not pertaining to the closure are scheduled, communication will be sent to impacted employees as early as possible. All other meetings are canceled, regardless of modality (i.e., virtual).

Secure connection from anywhere

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder's VPN service provides a secure connection to the campus network from any location, as long as the device has an internet connection.

Safety tips

Clearing the way

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s snow removal webpage now includes a snow webcam livestream and snow removal map.

Plan ahead, give yourself sufficient time and plan your route. Traffic moves slowly in snowy conditions; leave early to arrive on time. Rushing can lead to accidents or slips and falls.

Wear shoes or boots that provide traction on snow and ice. Opt for boots or shoes with a sturdy and slip-resistant outsole.

Use special care when entering and exiting vehicles, climbing or descending stairs, entering or leaving buildings. Hold on to a handrail on stairs, and hold on to your vehicle while exiting and entering it.

Walk on designated walkways. Don’t take shortcuts over snow piles or areas where snow and ice removal is not feasible. You may have to use different routes than usual.

Walk safely on snow or ice. Take small steps: Keep your steps small and shuffle your feet rather than taking long strides. This helps maintain balance and reduces the risk of slipping.

Walk flat-footed. Instead of walking with your weight on your heels or toes, distribute your weight evenly across your foot with each step.

Resources

�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s Division of Public Safety, Facilities Management, the city of Boulder and the Colorado Department of Transportation offer several helpful resources and reminders for when freezing temperatures arrive and snowflakes start flying.

Buff Bus riders should check the Transit app for campus bus updates and reroute alerts. Commuting students, faculty and staff riding to/from campus via RTD bus routes are encouraged to sign up for RTD Rider Alerts.
Facilities Management offers an interactive site where you can view current snow levels on campus, report problem areas and more.
�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder’s Department of Emergency Management, part of the Division of Public Safety, features several weather safety tips on its website.
The city of Boulder’s snow and ice response page features key things you can do to stay informed and be prepared for a snow event.
The Colorado Department of Transportation includes winter driving safety tips, reminders and road-condition updates on its website.
The latest Boulder weather forecast information can be found on the National Weather Service website.

Springtime along the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains can bring volatile weather conditions. Learn more about campus operations during weather events.

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5 things everyone should know about sexual assault

Anonymous — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 06:00:00 +0000

5 things everyone should know about sexual assault Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 04/01/2025 - 00:00

Health and Wellness Services

Sexual assault is all too common and can have lasting impacts on individuals and communities. As we recognize Sexual Assault Awareness Month this April, here are five things everyone should know about sexual assault.

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Free overdose prevention supplies available

Megan Maneval — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 16:43:54 +0000

Free overdose prevention supplies available Megan Maneval Thu, 03/20/2025 - 10:43

Free naloxone and fentanyl test strips are available around campus. Learn more from Health & Wellness Services.

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Register your party, avoid potential drama and tickets

Anonymous — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 19:36:33 +0000

Want to host a party without worrying about noise complaints or expensive tickets? Register your party with Off-Campus Housing and Neighborhood Relations and the Boulder Police Department.

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Safety

Commencement: Know before you go

Ceremony details

Arrival and parking

Conduct, inclement weather and safety

How to watch virtually

Building access during finals week, commencement

Plan for increased traffic, parking congestion May 8–10

Related Articles

Plan ahead for increased traffic, parking congestion May 8–10

Related Articles

Help reduce nutrient and E. coli contamination in Boulder Creek

Nutrient pollution: What is it and why should we care?

E. coli contamination in Boulder Creek

How you can help reduce nutrient pollution and E. coli loading

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Know before you go to the spring game April 19

Logistics

Stadium policies, regulations

Fan behavior

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�鶹��Ѱ�����Boulder names new chief of police

Related Articles

Understanding strategies and resources to de-escalate conflict, request support

De-escalation techniques

Creating a constructive path forward

When situations escalate and stronger intervention is needed

Related Articles

Campus delays and closures: What you need to know

Knowing operational status

Class cancellation and administrative closures

Delayed start

Employee guidance

Secure connection from anywhere

Safety tips

Resources

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5 things everyone should know about sexual assault

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Free overdose prevention supplies available

Related Articles

Register your party, avoid potential drama and tickets

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�鶹��Ѱ��Boulder names new chief of police