UCCS is proud of the alums who are making a difference in countless fields, and their efforts are profoundly changing the world for the better. More than 64,000 Mountain Lions have earned UCCS degrees since the university opened in 1965.
65 percent of UCCS graduates stay in the Pikes Peak region after graduation. Many others expand their careers and lives beyond southern Colorado, as well. No matter where UCCS alums land, they are changemakers, leaders and skilled professionals.
The stories below highlight the experiences and accomplishments of UCCS alumni as they grow in their professions and pursue their passions. Click here to find more alumni stories.
If you would like to share your success story with us, or know someone you would like us to feature, please contact [email protected].
Deborah Wilfong – Class of 1979
Deborah Wilfong earned her degree in biology from UCCS after serving in the Army’s Chemical Corps and receiving an Army Active-Duty Scholarship. Her education and military background led to a successful career in defense contracting. Following the tragic loss of her son, a public defender, Deborah founded the Fong Cares Foundation to advocate for mental health awareness, especially among veterans and first responders, transforming personal grief into a mission of healing.
Justin Miller – Class of 2014
Justin Miller graduated from UCCS with a degree in finance while playing for the university’s soccer team. His education and athletic experience led him to a career in sports management, where he rose from General Manager to CEO of Rush Soccer, the world’s largest youth soccer organization. Justin credits his success to mentorship, his finance background and the support he received as a student-athlete.
Elizabeth Burgin – Class of 2015
After experiencing life as a military spouse, Elizabeth Burgin shifted her career path and earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from UCCS. The program’s hands-on approach and supportive faculty helped her build a strong foundation in mental health services. Today, she works at the Center for Deployment Psychology, focusing on the unique needs of military families and contributing to national mental health training initiatives.
Adelita Aguirre – Class of 2020, 2022
A first-generation college student from Colorado Springs, Adelita Aguirre earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in public administration from UCCS. Supported by multiple scholarships and leadership programs, she became a campus leader and advocate for inclusive environments. Adelita now works at The Denver Foundation and as a consultant, helping nonprofits and students access resources and opportunities.
Ahmad Najee-Ullah – Class of 2022
Driven by a personal interest in cybersecurity, Ahmad Najee-Ullah chose UCCS for its unique Bachelor of Innovation program and its participation in the CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service. He conducted research on AI-generated misinformation and published a paper on the topic. After fulfilling his federal service commitment, Ahmad continues to make an impact in cybersecurity, blending technical expertise with a passion for innovation.
Kevin Velasco – Class of 2023
A first-generation college student, Kevin Velasco graduated from UCCS with dual degrees in Economics and Political Science. He was a Chancellor’s Leadership Class scholar and president of the Latinx Student Union, earning statewide recognition for his leadership. Kevin continued his academic journey at Georgetown University, where he earned a Master of Public Policy and now leads initiatives focused on Latino policy and economic strategy in Washington, D.C.
Jenny Christen – Class of 2024
Graduating Magna Cum Laude in Data Analytics and Systems Engineering, Jenny Christen overcame personal and financial challenges to pursue her passion for STEM at UCCS. She was an active member of the Asian Pacific Islander Student Union and a recipient of the KPWE Scholarship. Jenny now works as an Operations and Business Intelligence Analyst at the Space Information Sharing and Analysis Center, helping protect the future of space through data-driven innovation.