'I want to see every (student) graduate': Justin Schwartz closes out first year as CU Boulder's chancellor
dailycamera.com -- Saturday, August 16, 2025, 7:56:37 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Presidential Campaigns
Justin Schwartz spent much of his first year as chancellor getting to know the University of Colorado Boulder campus and its people while managing significant changes from the federal administration.
Now, he has a clear set of goals for the campus as he prepares to lead CU Boulder into the future.
"We've, of course, had some challenges like higher ed has had, but I think we are in so many ways in a strong position, and we're excited about moving forward," Schwartz said.
When Schwartz was hired last summer to be the 12th chancellor of CU Boulder, he emphasized that one of his top priorities would be sustainability. Since then, the campus has eliminated single-use drink plastics, secured a $10 million gift to expand sustainability curriculum and started the planning process for converting the campus's entire heating system to clean energy.
Schwartz said he plans to continue that sustainability work moving forward, as the campus works toward its goal to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
"We want to be the driving force behind Colorado being the most sustainable state in the country," Schwartz said. "We want to be the place that students go when they want to pursue careers in the (sustainability) space. We want to be known in that way.
Another goal for Schwartz is student success, specifically improving retention and graduation rates. CU Boulder's four-year graduation rate was 59.2% in fiscal year 2024.
"We love to talk about the year-over-year increases in our applications, the fact that (about) 50% of the students we admitted this year have a 4.0 or better out of high school," Schwartz said. "I want to see every one of them graduate. Every single one."
He said a big part of improving retention and graduation rates is looking holistically at how to support students, especially non-academic factors. Factors outside of tuition make total cost of attendance an obstacle, including off-campus housing prices in Boulder, Schwartz said. He aims to find ways to address that, including by finding ways for students to live closer to or on campus. One ongoing effort is continuing construction on Residence One and Residence Two, two new residence halls for students being built near Boulder High School. The university also started a new initiative this spring to enhance student mental health and wellness and promote student flourishing.
Other goals include continuing the university's research and scholarly excellence and maximizing the university's resources.
"One of my big picture goals is to maximize the amount of our resources that go to the direct student mission-driven activities: student success, student support, research support, entrepreneurship and our service to the community," Schwartz said. "That's where the majority of our resources should go, and anything we can do to get more resources into those spaces without removing the support for the people doing the work is best practice."
Schwartz has also spent his first year developing his leadership team, which is a team of administrative leaders who work with him to lead the university. He's filled positions left by vacancies and shifted some positions into new roles. New members of his leadership team include Provost Ann Huff Stevens, Senior Vice Chancellor for Operations Janel Forde, Senior Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives Ann Schmiesing and Vice Chancellor for Sustainability Andrew Mayock.
Despite the changes, Schwartz said the total number of positions has not changed, adding that he believes it's important to keep control over the size of the administration.
The major challenge in the last year, Schwartz said, was the changes from the federal administration under President Donald Trump.
"I think one of the fundamental challenges from the federal transition has been anxiety," Schwartz said. "The uncertainty of budgets, the uncertainty of international students being able to stay, the uncertainty of international students being able to come, the uncertainty of future research functions and endeavors, the uncertainty of the uncertainty that we don't even know what's going to happen next."
As the federal changes continue to be a challenge, Schwartz said, the university is taking any action it can, including posting frequent federal updates for the campus community and providing additional funding for CU Boulder's Immigration Clinic, which provides law students the opportunity to appear in court in defense of non-citizen clients.
"We are going to continue to work with our delegations through the (CU) system office to help our delegation stand up for the research investments that the federal government has been making for 80 years to great impact and great success," Schwartz said.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent article detailing Justin Schwartz’s first year as the chancellor of the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) highlights several key initiatives and goals that resonate deeply with ongoing social struggles related to education, sustainability, and student welfare. By addressing these issues, Schwartz is positioning CU Boulder not just as an institution of higher learning but as a progressive model for universities across the nation. This is particularly important in a political climate that often undervalues education and environmental responsibility.
Historically, public universities in the United States were seen as engines of social mobility and innovation. However, in recent decades, shifting governmental priorities have led to reduced funding for higher education and an increase in the financial burden placed on students and their families. The emphasis on student success that Schwartz advocates for is not just a local necessity but is reflective of a broader trend where educational institutions must actively combat systemic inequities. The mention of retention and graduation rates is indicative of a significant challenge; many students, particularly those from marginalized communities, face barriers that hinder their academic success. Addressing these barriers is crucial not only for the students themselves but also for the communities from which they come, which often rely on the educational attainment of their members to foster economic growth and social stability.
Schwartz’s focus on sustainability is also noteworthy in the context of historical environmental justice movements. The drive toward a net-zero emissions goal by 2050 is not merely an aspirational target; it is a moral imperative in light of the climate crisis that disproportionately affects low-income and marginalized communities. By eliminating single-use plastics and planning for a transition to clean energy, CU Boulder is aligning itself with a growing recognition that environmental degradation is often a byproduct of systemic inequalities. The campus's commitment to sustainability reflects a comprehensive understanding of how environmental issues intersect with social justice, providing a learning laboratory for future leaders in sustainability—a field that is increasingly vital in the wake of climate change.
Moreover, Schwartz's initiative to enhance mental health and wellness among students is a timely response to the growing mental health crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Mental health services in educational settings have historically been underfunded and undervalued, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and depression among students. The recognition of mental health as a critical factor in student success signifies a shift in the understanding of education as a holistic experience. It underscores the need for institutions to provide not only academic support but also the essential resources that contribute to a well-rounded and supportive educational environment.
Finally, Schwartz’s commitment to maximizing university resources for student-driven activities speaks to a broader criticism of the neoliberal trends that have permeated higher education in the United States. By prioritizing investments in student success, research, and community service, CU Boulder can serve as a model against the profit-driven motives that have led many institutions to prioritize administrative expansion and fundraising over student needs. This shift in focus can inspire other universities to reevaluate their missions and align them more closely with the ideals of accessibility, equity, and community engagement.
In conclusion, Justin Schwartz’s leadership at CU Boulder represents a critical response to the pressing challenges facing higher education today. By prioritizing sustainability, student success, mental health, and resource allocation, Schwartz is not just addressing immediate issues but is also contributing to a broader dialogue about the role of universities in society. This approach offers a framework for engaging in meaningful conversations about education, social justice, and environmental responsibility, and serves as a call to action for universities across the nation to reconsider their priorities in these tumultuous times.
The article detailing Justin Schwartz's first year as chancellor of the University of Colorado Boulder presents a significant opportunity to analyze the intersection of education policy, sustainability, and student welfare. Schwartz's commitment to enhancing student success and sustainability at CU Boulder reflects broader trends in higher education, where institutions increasingly recognize their roles not just as centers of learning but as community pillars that engage with pressing societal issues. This commentary aims to provide insights into how we can advocate for these values on a wider scale.
Historically, public universities have been seen as engines of social mobility, offering access to education for diverse populations. However, over the past few decades, there has been a troubling trend toward the commodification of education, where financial barriers and rising tuition costs have disproportionately affected low-income students and students of color. Schwartz's focus on improving retention and graduation rates, particularly considering non-academic factors such as housing affordability and mental health, is a crucial step in reversing this trend. If we are to create a more equitable education system, we must rally around policies that prioritize funding for student support services and affordable housing initiatives.
At the heart of Schwartz's agenda is a commitment to sustainability, which he aims to integrate into the university's curriculum and operations. Education for sustainability is not just an environmental issue; it intersects with social justice, economic stability, and health. By emphasizing this interconnection, we can encourage a shift in educational policy that recognizes the need for universities to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable in their fields but also equipped to tackle the complex challenges of climate change and social inequality. As advocates for progressive education, we should push for broader curricular reforms that focus on sustainability and incorporate diverse perspectives, particularly those from historically marginalized communities that often bear the brunt of environmental degradation.
Furthermore, Schwartz's intention to maximize resources for direct student support is vital for the future of public education. Historically, funding for higher education has often been diverted away from student services towards administrative costs or capital expenditures. To counter this trend, we must advocate for increased state funding for public universities, alongside policies that ensure those funds are allocated towards student support initiatives. Engaging in grassroots campaigns that highlight the experiences of students affected by financial barriers can help galvanize public support for these necessary changes. It is essential that we leverage Schwartz's vision as a rallying point for broader discussions about public funding and accountability in higher education.
The challenges of mental health and wellness on campuses cannot be understated, particularly in light of the rising pressures students face today. Schwartz's initiative to promote student mental health is reflective of a growing awareness that academic success is inextricably linked to emotional well-being. Advocating for comprehensive mental health services and wellness programs should become a priority for all educational institutions. As individuals and community members, we can support initiatives that call for increased funding and resources for mental health services on campuses and challenge the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
In conclusion, Justin Schwartz's tenure at CU Boulder provides a blueprint for how universities can navigate the complex interplay between education, sustainability, and student welfare. By advocating for policies that support these interconnected issues, we can foster a higher education landscape that prioritizes equity, sustainability, and holistic student success. Engaging with these ideas in conversations with those holding opposing views can provide an opportunity for constructive dialogue about the role of education in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future. Our commitment to these values will ultimately define not only the future of higher education but also the kind of society we want to build for generations to come.
Analyzing the article about Justin Schwartz’s first year as Chancellor of CU Boulder, we can identify several ways individuals can contribute to the university’s goals, particularly around sustainability and student success.
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Advocate for Sustainable Practices:** - Support local businesses that prioritize sustainability. - Reduce personal use of plastics and advocate for policies promoting recyclable materials.
2. **Engage with University Governance:** - Attend public university meetings or town halls to voice support for sustainability initiatives and student success programs. - Join or support student organizations focused on these issues.
3. **Support Mental Health Initiatives:** - Participate in mental health awareness campaigns or workshops. - Advocate for improved mental health services at CU Boulder.
4. **Contribute to Housing Solutions:** - Engage with local government and university housing offices about affordable housing initiatives. - Support or volunteer with local organizations that help students find affordable housing.
### Exact Actions We Can Take
1. **Petitions:** - **Petition for Sustainable Practices:** Start or sign petitions advocating for further sustainability measures at CU Boulder, such as increased recycling programs or renewable energy projects. - **Example:** Change.org has many petitions; you can create your own regarding specific issues at CU Boulder.
2. **Contacting University Officials:** - **Write to Chancellor Justin Schwartz:** - **Email:** chancellor@colorado.edu - **Mailing Address:** - Justin Schwartz, Chancellor - University of Colorado Boulder - 1800 Grant St, Suite 200 - Denver, CO 80203
- **Messaging:** - Express your support for his sustainability initiatives and suggest specific actions or programs to enhance student well-being and mental health. - Example message: > "Dear Chancellor Schwartz, > I appreciate your commitment to sustainability and student success at CU Boulder. I encourage you to consider additional initiatives, such as expanded mental health resources and further housing solutions for students. Together, we can create a supportive and sustainable campus environment."
3. **Engage with Local Authorities:** - **Contact Boulder City Council Members:** - **Example Council Member:** Sam Weaver - **Email:** council@bouldercolorado.gov - **Mailing Address:** - City of Boulder - 1777 Broadway - Boulder, CO 80302 - Message could include support for housing initiatives for students and sustainability projects.
4. **Support Student Organizations:** - Join or donate to student-led groups focused on sustainability and student wellness, such as the CU Environmental Center or student mental health groups.
5. **Attend University Events:** - Participate in workshops, panels, and discussions at CU Boulder that focus on sustainability, student health, and academic success. This not only shows support but also helps you connect with other like-minded individuals.
### In Conclusion
By taking these actions, individuals can contribute meaningfully to the goals set forth by Chancellor Justin Schwartz and the CU Boulder administration. Engaging in advocacy, supporting initiatives, and participating in community efforts can foster a more sustainable and supportive environment for all students.