the symposium

Themes

As a land-grant institution, Colorado State University is deeply committed to excellence and to setting the standard among public research universities in teaching, research, service, and extension. Our foundation rests on the belief that anyone with the desire and skill to earn a college degree should have the opportunity to do so.

In the ever-changing landscape of higher education, we remain dedicated to expanding access to a world-class education, supporting the success of our students and employees, and prioritizing well-being, both within CSU and throughout the communities we serve.

We are excited to announce that this year’s Symposium will feature sessions on the following topics, designed for both students and employees:

  • Opening Doors: Access in Higher Education
  • Reimagining Success: Opportunity, Engagement, and Growth
  • Community in Action: Centering People and Building Resilience

At the 2024 Symposium, we launched a dedicated student educational track to connect participants across the CSU system with resources available on all campuses. This year, we are excited to continue this effort and invite student-focused proposals that engage with the topics listed above.

We welcome members of the CSU System, local partners, and higher education colleagues across the state to submit proposals that address these themes as they relate to students and/or employees. Please review the expanded theme descriptions below; only proposals that align with the stated criteria will be considered for selection.

In addition to the themes below, we encourage proposal submissions that align with and demonstrate an understanding of our Land-Grant mission and CSU’s Principles of Community.  

Opening Doors: Access in Higher Education

CSU is committed to providing access to higher education for all who have the desire and skill to pursue it. We recognize that various barriers, such as finances and accessibility, can impact the student experience. Through comprehensive resources and services, we strive to remove these obstacles and ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed.

Access to higher education extends beyond just students. At CSU, we rely on the expertise and dedication of our employees across the institution, system, and surrounding communities to help support our students’ success. We attract top talent, value the knowledge, skills, and abilities of our faculty and staff, and invest in our employees by providing access to continuing education and opportunities for career advancement.

Proposal Considerations:

  • What strategies can we use to expand and prioritize access to higher education and its resources for students, employees, and communities?
  • How do we ensure that access to higher education not only endures but also expands for students, employees, and communities?
  • What is our responsibility, as members of the institution and broader community, to remove barriers to higher education for students, employees, and communities?

Reimagining Success: Opportunity, Engagement, and Growth

Creating pathways to success for our students is essential from the moment they arrive at CSU. We recognize that academic achievement is just one aspect of preparing the next generation of leaders, and that success is defined differently by each member of our community. For students, this can mean engaging in leadership roles, participating in civic engagement, and pursuing personal growth and development, each contributing to a well-rounded and fulfilling CSU experience.

Employees are encouraged to participate in professional development, engage in cross-departmental collaboration, and build leadership skills as they pursue ongoing growth and success in their careers.  

Proposal Considerations:

  • What opportunities are available for students and/or employees to serve as leaders and active members of the CSU community and beyond?
  • How do we involve students and/or employees in defining and achieving success at CSU and in the broader community?
  • How do we recognize, support, and celebrate the success of our students, employees, and communities?
  • How does investment in the nurturing of communities contribute to student success?

Community in Action: Centering People and Building Resilience

At CSU, we prioritize the well-being of our students, employees, and communities. By supporting mental, emotional, physical, and social wellness, we foster personal growth and cultivate stronger, more resilient networks. Through proactive engagement, education, and equitable access to services, we lay the foundation for thriving, interconnected communities.

Proposal Considerations:

  • How can we better understand and respond to the unique needs of our students, employees, and communities?
  • What resources and initiatives most effectively enhance well-being and foster a sense of belonging for students, employees, and communities?
  • What strategies help us cultivate stronger, more resilient networks through holistic support for well-being?
  • How does understanding of culture and history strengthen our innovation and adaptability towards community well-being?

Symposium 2025 quick reference

DETAILS:

  • Monday-Thursday November 3-6, 2025
  • Virtual presentations and special events in person