Three CU campuses receive state’s new Basic Needs Campus Designation
Three University of Colorado campuses are among those receiving the state’s new Basic Needs Campus Designation, which recognizes campuses leading the way in supporting the essential needs of students so they can succeed in college and beyond.
CU Boulder, UCCS and CU Denver are members of the first cohort of higher education institutions to receive the Comprehensive Designation as announced June 9 by the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE).
The Basic Needs Campus Designations highlight institutions that have made a strong, coordinated commitment to addressing student needs such as food security, housing stability, mental health support and access to critical resources. Designations are awarded at two levels, Cornerstone and Comprehensive, based on the depth and breadth of services provided, and the institution’s demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement.
Institutions earning the Comprehensive designation demonstrated a fully integrated, campus-wide approach to basic needs, including cross-departmental coordination, data-informed strategies and robust partnerships with community organizations.
The Basic Needs Campus Designation reflects CDHE’s broader focus on improving student outcomes by addressing the real-life challenges students face while pursuing a credential. Research shows that basic needs insecurity directly impacts retention rates, with 79% of students who stop out citing basic needs challenges or financial issues as primary reasons for leaving.
What the campuses are saying:
CU Boulder: “This designation is a culmination of years of investment in building strong, student-centered support systems,” said Hannah Wilks, assistant dean of students. “CU Boulder has worked hard to develop a comprehensive approach to addressing basic needs, and this recognition reaffirms our commitment to creating equitable, supportive environments on our campus and across Colorado – sharing best practices and helping all students thrive.” Read more in CU Boulder Today.
UCCS: “Building a culture of care is central to who we are at UCCS,” said Alex Baker, dean of students. “This designation recognizes our collective commitment to supporting the whole student by ensuring access to the resources and services that help students persist, thrive and feel like they belong here. We are proud to be among the inaugural institutions receiving Colorado’s Comprehensive Basic Needs Campus Designation and remain committed to creating a campus community where every student has the opportunity to succeed.” Read more in UCCS News.
CU Denver: “Supporting students’ basic needs is not separate from student success – in fact, it is essential to it,” said Genia Herndon, associate vice chancellor for student affairs. “This designation reflects CU Denver’s ongoing commitment to ensuring students have the resources, support and sense of belonging they need to persist, thrive and achieve their educational goals.” Read more in CU Denver News.