University Branding Project FAQs

UCCS is going through an assessment process to explore whether aligning more closely with the CU System brand, specifically through the potential use of CU Colorado Springs, could strengthen our long‑term sustainability, visibility, and market position.  

No decision has been made to change the university’s name. We are in an exploratory phase focused on gathering data, listening to stakeholders, and evaluating potential benefits, risks, and financial impacts. 

Recent strategic planning, including the 2025 Strategic Enrollment Plan and the Healthy Campus Initiative, identified branding and institutional identity as areas that could influence enrollment, student success, and long‑term financial sustainability. Feedback from campus surveys also highlighted interest in examining how system alignment might support these goals. 

“CU Colorado Springs” is the name under exploration because it aligns more directly with CU Boulder, CU Denver, and CU Anschutz. This exploration seeks to understand whether greater alignment could improve recognition, student recruitment, especially out‑of‑state and employer awareness. 

Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community stakeholders all play a critical role. Focus groups and a broad campus/community survey in Spring 2026 are key steps in ensuring that any decision is informed by meaningful engagement. 

UCCS is hosting a series of focus groups and launching an online exploration survey open to campus and community members. This webpage also includes a feedback form for ongoing input. 

A name is more than a brand; it reflects identity, history, and community. Because “UCCS” carries significant meaning, any potential change must honor and protect those elements. Broad input is essential to fully understanding how different naming options align with the university’s values and aspirations. 

No. If a change were approved, it would follow a gradual, multi‑year transition that prioritizes financial stewardship. Many updates, like signage, athletics branding, and merchandise, would be timed with natural replacement cycles to minimize costs. 

This exploration is being approached with financial caution and transparency. Any proposal would require a clear, evidence‑based return‑on‑investment case and alignment with the broader goals of financial stability and sustainable enrollment growth. 

There is no predetermined timeline for a decision. The university will complete data gathering, engagement, and financial modeling before evaluating whether a recommendation should move forward. 

This webpage will serve as the central hub for updates, research findings, engagement opportunities, and next steps. 

Because UCCS is only exploring the possibility of adopting “CU Colorado Springs,” no costs have been incurred and no spending decisions have been made. As part of this exploration, the university is evaluating estimated short‑, mid‑, and long‑term costs associated with any potential name alignment. This includes areas such as digital updates, signage, legal considerations, athletics branding, marketing materials, and merchandise. Many of these items already follow natural replacement cycles, meaning they would only be updated at their scheduled maintenance or turnover times to minimize expenses. Financial stewardship is a core part of this assessment, and any proposal to move forward would require a clear, evidence‑based return on investment before any action is considered. 

No. This exploration is only about evaluating the potential use of the name “CU Colorado Springs.” It does not include changing Clyde the Mountain Lion or replacing the Mountain Lions identity. The mascot is an important symbol of campus pride and community spirit, and there is no plan or proposal to change it.  

Exploring a transition to CU Colorado Springs supports both our Healthy Campus Initiative and our differentiator work. This shift has the potential to strengthen our financial foundation while leaning into what makes us distinctive: powered by people, grounded in research, and connected to Colorado.