The Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) has awarded CU Boulder the Comprehensive Basic Needs Campus Designation, recognizing the university’s long-standing investment in programs that address students’ essential needs, including food security, housing and mental health. The CU Denver and Colorado Springs campuses were also recognized.

“This designation is a culmination of years of investment in building strong, student-centered support systems,” said Hannah Wilks, assistant dean of students. “CU Boulder has worked hard to develop a comprehensive approach to addressing basic needs, and this recognition reaffirms our commitment to creating equitable, supportive environments on our campus and across Colorado—sharing best practices and helping all students thrive.”

CDHE evaluates colleges and universities on 13 basic needs service areas, including food security, mental health, legal services and career support. The designation has two levels: Cornerstone Campus, for institutions meeting core requirements across six foundational areas, and Comprehensive Campus, for those that meet all Cornerstone criteria plus at least three additional service categories.

Both levels focus on reducing barriers, alleviating stress and improving retention and graduation outcomes. This recognition consolidates prior initiatives—such as the Hunger Free Campus designation CU Boulder earned in 2020—into a single, holistic framework. It is part of CDHE’s Social Determinants of Student Success initiative, which emphasizes that access to essential resources is critical for academic and life success.

CU Boulder’s basic needs support program is a critical part in the Division of Student Life’s mission to create an inclusive student-ready community centered on student success, holistic well-being and self-advocacy. The Basic Needs Center collaborates and coordinates with several departments across Student Life to support students beyond the classroom, including food and housing security, legal services, health and well-being resources, career services and much more.

Wilks has also elevated this effort beyond CU Boulder, so that students around Colorado can thrive. In 2020, she cofounded The Colorado Higher Education Basic Needs Coalition, which works to reduce stigma and expand access to essential supports for students statewide through collaboration, advocacy and data-informed strategies. Its efforts align with CU Boulder’s commitment to student success, including launching a statewide basic needs insecurity survey in fall 2026, with participation from about 20 institutions. CU Boulder developed the survey and will analyze the data in partnership with the CDHE to better understand student needs across the state and inform resources, funding and policy decisions.

For more information on CU Boulder’s student support resources, visit the Basic Needs Center.