Carry the Light, UCCS’s annual day of giving, is approaching quickly!
Last year, more than 250 donors gave over $100,000 to the inaugural 2025 Carry the Light campaign, creating a solid foundation for future giving traditions.
The following individuals all “Carry the Light” for UCCS in unique ways. We hope their stories inspire you to participate in Carry the Light, as we work together to foster community and spark meaningful change by supporting funds across campus that provide student scholarships, essential programs and resources.
Michael “Axel” Brown
“During my years at UCCS, I saw firsthand how philanthropy makes a difference. The HEROES Scholarship was a major support for several of my friends who were serving while attending school. The Army’s Tuition Assistance program covers only part of the cost of tuition, and those in the Junior Enlisted ranks don’t make enough to cover the remaining amount. The HEROES Scholarship closed the gap so they could stay on track.”
Sara Khammash
“Scholarships gave me time—something students rarely have enough of. Having that financial cushion meant I didn’t have to work as many hours on top of school. I still held two on-campus jobs, but the scholarship gave me more space to be involved, spend time with friends and family, and make the most of my college experience. Giving back—whether through time or money—is a powerful way to stay connected to a place that shaped me so much. It reminds me of the people and opportunities that helped me grow.”
Steve Parker
“The benefits of philanthropy might not always be immediately visible or measurable to the donor, but they are transformative for the people who receive them. I like to share the story of a person tossing starfish back into the ocean one at a time. When someone asked why—given how many starfish there were on the beach—the person replied, ‘It made a difference for that one.’ That’s what philanthropy is: trying to make a difference for someone else.”
Individual participation on UCCS’s Carry the Light Giving Day can take various forms. Below are several options for giving day activities:
Donate: You can support UCCS’s inaugural giving day by making a gift to one of the 24 designated funds. Contributions of all sizes make a difference. Visit the Carry the Light giving page.
Spread the Word: Follow UCCS on Facebook for updates starting in early April and share them on your social platforms to help us spread the word.
For more information and to stay updated, contact University Development at [email protected].