For their continual efforts in going above and beyond on campus, three UCCS staff and faculty members have been recognized in the Southern Colorado Business Forum & Digest’s “40 Under 40” designation.
The 40 Under 40 Awards are designed to honor the visionaries, volunteers, entrepreneurs and leaders who are paving the way for the next generation. This exclusive showcase highlights 40 outstanding young professionals under the age of 40 who are making waves across industries, driving innovation and shaping the future of the community.
Alex Baker, Catherine Grandorff, Ph.D., and Paige Whitney were all named as recipients of the 40 Under 40 award.
Alex is the Interim Dean of Students at UCCS, dedicating his time to advocating for students and helping them navigate their college journey. Alex was chosen for his many efforts since his start as a Residence Hall Manager in 2015, including leading student support, wellbeing and care initiatives, leading the team in securing nearly $100,000 in funding in a single year to improve student access and basic needs, the implementation of UCCS’s Technology Assistance Program to expand digital access, his community involvement and leadership with Out Loud Colorado Springs Men’s Chorus and much more.
“I’m honored to be named to the 40 Under 40 list and grateful to be part of the UCCS community,” said Alex. “This recognition reflects the incredible work happening across campus to support student wellbeing, access, and belonging. I’m proud of the teams and partners I’ve worked alongside to strengthen care, safety, and resources for students, and I’m excited to keep building solutions that help students thrive.”
Catherine is Assistant Director of the First-Year Rhetoric & Writing Program and a Teaching Professor in the Department of English, along with other initiatives she undertakes on campus. Her research and writing focuses on the intersections of gender, power and language. She is recognized as one of the 40 Under 40 for her program building and faculty leadership within the First-Year Rhetoric and Writing program, leadership and development of the Visiting Author Series (which fosters campus-community engagement and brings nationally recognized writers to UCCS), community-focused humanities work that highlights varied voices and encourages public dialogue and more.
“It’s humbling to be recognized among inspiring professionals dedicated to Southern Colorado’s vitality,” shared Catherine. “My work at UCCS finds its truest expression in collaboration and care, nowhere more so than through the Visiting Author Series, where we create spaces for writers and community members to gather in conversation. These moments weave together literature and lived experience, civic engagement and learning, and remind us that stories and poetry can illuminate both the pages we read and the paths that we walk together.”
Paige serves as the Director of the UCCS HealthCircle Center for Active Living and Senior Clinical Instructor in the College of Nursing and Health Sciences. She has been named as a 40 Under 40 recipient for her efforts in improving community health and wellness, leadership in the sector and continuous work in both advocating for public health and teaching those entering the profession.
“I am honored to be recognized as a 2026 Southern Colorado 40 Under 40 winner,” Paige said. “This recognition reflects my passion for building collaborative partnerships, advancing community wellbeing, and preparing the next generation of health and wellness professionals. I am so grateful to work alongside dedicated colleagues and talented community partners – this achievement would not be possible without their support. Congratulations as well to fellow UCCS colleagues Alex and Catherine on their well-deserved recognition.”