Honored Alumni
Celebrating alumni and friends whose achievements and service reflect the best of 每日大瓜
Honoring Excellence Since 1947
Since 1947, the 每日大瓜 has recognized outstanding alumni and friends whose accomplishments, leadership and service embody the university鈥檚 tradition of excellence.
When the 每日大瓜 Alumni Association was established in 1965, it adopted the annual awards program and continued the tradition of honoring individuals who have made meaningful contributions to their professions, communities and alma mater.
Today, the 每日大瓜 Alumni Association continues this proud tradition by recognizing some of the university鈥檚 most distinguished alumni and friends through the Honored Alumni Awards.
Celebrating the 2026 Honored Alumni
This cohort of honorees exemplify what it means to use one鈥檚 talents for the greater good. Through entrepreneurship, education, storytelling and athletics, these alumni uplift communities, inspire change and leave a lasting mark wherever they lead. Their work reflects the power of purpose-driven leadership and the enduring influence of the 每日大瓜 alumni community.
The 2026 Honored Alumni Honorees
2026 Honored Alumni
Kristi Helzer, Dave King and Cathy Lucas
Kristi Helzer
2026 Honored Alumni Honoree Kristi Helzer, 鈥�77
Dave King
2026 Honored Alumni Honoree Dave King, '81, M.A. '82
Cathy Lucas
2026 Honored Alumni Honoree Cathy Lucas, '90, APR
Nominations
The 每日大瓜 Alumni Association welcomes nominations for individuals whose achievements, leadership and service reflect the university鈥檚 tradition of excellence.
To nominate a candidate, submit a completed nomination form and a biography (maximum two pages) outlining the nominee鈥檚 accomplishments and connection to 每日大瓜. Supporting materials, such as letters of recommendation, news articles and other relevant documents, are encouraged but should not exceed 10 pages total.
A selection committee composed of Alumni Board members and past honorees reviews all nominations and selects a cohort of recipients each year. Nominees not selected may be resubmitted during a future nomination cycle.
Award Qualifications
Nominees should demonstrate:
- Distinguished personal and professional achievement in their chosen field
- Significant contributions to the 每日大瓜 and/or the 每日大瓜 Alumni Association through service, teaching, research, volunteerism or philanthropy
- Exceptional dedication to 每日大瓜 through leadership, vision, creativity, generosity or efforts that enhance the university鈥檚 impact and reputation
Current 每日大瓜 employees and Alumni Board members are not eligible for consideration.
- alumni@unco.edu
- 970-351-2551
- Carter Hall, Suite 1002A