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Welcome (Back) to CU Boulder: Your 2025–2026 School Year Just Got a Little Brighter

juneteenth

Hello, Beautiful People! 

We see you, we welcome you, and we're rooting for you, whether you're a first-year graduate student still figuring out the quickest route from JILA to the Engineering Center or a seasoned PhD candidate on the verge of whispering sweet nothings to your dissertation. 

We are the Office of Graduate Access and Retention, also known as GAR. We are part of the Graduate School, and we are here to assist you with anything STEM-related that is welcoming, affirming, and helpful. We're like your academic hype team, but instead of pom-poms, we provide you with the programming, coaching, and funding you need to succeed. 

What We Do (And Why You Should Know Us) 
GAR is more than just another office with attractive flyers. Our goal is to make STEM more accessible, equitable, and enjoyable. We are developing systems that will allow every student, particularly those from historically and purposefully excluded backgrounds, to thrive rather than just survive. These systems will assist undergrads in gaining admission to graduate school while also providing mentoring, professional development, and advocacy services. 

We do not want to fit in. We want to change the rules of the game. Our programs focus on equity, community, and structural change. And we do it all with a little extra joy, because fighting for justice does not require you to leave your sense of humor at the lab door. 

Get to Know Your GAR Team 
Dr. Christina Alston is GAR's Director, a proud STEM equity advocate, and the person who will make much of the magic happen this year. She leads with vision, compassion, and a strong desire to improve systems and snacks (have you attended any of our events?). 

Dr. Sanchez Rolle 
The new Assistant Director of GAR. Dr. Rolle has been soaking up CU Boulder like a sponge for the past month, learning, making connections, and reflecting on things. He stated: 



"I want to be a dependable and approachable presence for students to count on. My goal is to highlight and improve the resources available to students at CU Boulder, while also making the campus a welcoming environment that supports their identities and gives them a stronger voice. I intend to lead with honesty, openness, and compassion. Finally, I want my students to feel noticed, encouraged, and capable of achieving any goal they set for themselves." 


Get Involved! 
 

  • Mentoring and storytelling 

  • Workshops for professional development that won't make you sleepy 

  • Financial assistance (as Ramen is not a personality). 

  • Hidden curriculum sessions (an honest discussion about how graduate school works) 

  • Activities that build community. 

We always keep the good times going and the door open. 


Welcome (or welcome back) to everyone at GAR. We have been waiting for you.