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Dale (AeroEngr’93) and Kristen Farrand (Psych’92) are making a lasting impact at ��ƷSM����ӰƬ through a planned gift in their will. Their generous commitment will support programs that assist underrepresented populations, promote leadership and innovation, and enhance student experiences, including the Army ROTC, aerospace student projects, the School of Education, Athletics DEI initiatives and the Parent Fund.

The Farrands’ commitment to philanthropy stemmed from their experiences at ��ƷSM����ӰƬ, where their lives were profoundly shaped both academically and personally. Now, they’re aiming to ensure future generations of students receive the same support and opportunities that made a difference to them.

A lifelong connection to ��ƷSM����ӰƬ

As a high school student in Michigan in the late 1980s, Kristen was eager to explore a new community. After researching colleges at her local library, she chose ��ƷSM����ӰƬ — sight unseen. It did not disappoint. 

Kristen embraced life in Boulder, spending her college years exploring all Colorado had to offer. However, the support she received from faculty solidified her loyalty to the university. Initially a journalism major, Kristen soon realized it wasn’t the right fit. After some exploration, she landed in psychology, later adding an elementary education certificate. 

“I was able to do all this exploring at CU and also participate in the Semester at Sea Study Abroad Program because of the care and flexibility that CU provides for its students,” she said.

Dale chose ��ƷSM����ӰƬ because of its renowned aerospace program and ties to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and space exploration. Growing up in Montana as a skier, he was also attracted to Boulder’s proximity to the Rocky Mountains. After one visit, he was hooked. 

The two met in Boulder, a connection that would change their lives forever. Now married for over 30 years, the couple has three daughters — two of whom attended ��ƷSM����ӰƬ.

Though they now call the Washington, D.C., area home, their ties to ��ƷSM����ӰƬ remain strong. Over the years, they returned for football games and other events. They also sought out Forever Buffs communities where they lived, proudly wearing CU Buffs gear and hearing “Sko Buffs!” around the world.

Investing in future Buffs

When it came time for the Farrands’ children to choose a college, ��ƷSM����ӰƬ was the obvious choice. In 2020, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Farrands’ daughters were in their first and second years of college. That experience highlighted the critical role of emotional, academic and social support programs — resources ��ƷSM����ӰƬ’s Parent Fund helps sustain. These programs provided valuable guidance during an anxious and uncertain time to help their daughters thrive.

The Farrands also learned that the state of Colorado provides less funding for public universities than many other states. Reflecting on their own needs as students, as well as their children’s, they decided to deepen their commitment to ��ƷSM����ӰƬ by exploring additional ways to give back.

After careful consideration, the Farrands chose to make a planned gift through their will, believing it would allow them to make a lasting impact across several key areas. The Farrands’ commitment to philanthropy demonstrates how alumni can give back to the university. Through a planned gift, they will support programs that reflect their values and honor their family’s loyalty to ��ƷSM����ӰƬ.

A call to action for alumni

The Farrands shared their belief that giving time, talents and treasures allows alumni to enhance their relationship with the university and help students have a positive and enduring memory of their time at ��ƷSM����ӰƬ. As philanthropists and volunteers, alumni can connect with a community of like-minded individuals and engage directly with CU while deciding how to best impact the student experience today and into the future.

“Attending CU changed the direction of my life. I met my wife and many of my closest friends. My experience opened my eyes to a larger and more diverse world,” Dale said. 

“Boulder, the University of Colorado and the ecosystem they create are a perfect storm of critical and creative thinking, technological innovation, appreciation of our natural resources and the importance of global compassion and responsibility. It is the perfect place to springboard into adult life, and so far, our two Forever Buffs daughters agree!”

Alumni have many options to invest in ��ƷSM����ӰƬ, including with a gift in your will or trust. Learn more about how to engage in the programs that represent your values and passion through .