By Rosie Contino, 1st year Puksta Scholar, International Relations

Cozy with coffee and assorted breakfast pastries, Puksta scholars from across the state gathered on September 22 at Anderson Academic Commons for a biannual intercollegiate retreat.  This event marked the beginning of yet another year of impactful undergraduate research and community work, made possible by the Center for Community Engagement to advance Scholarship and Learning (CCESL) and the Puksta Foundation.

Scholars from University of Colorado-Denver, University of Colorado-Boulder, Metro State University, and the University of Denver (DU) networked and connected over their shared passion for social justice and civic engagement. The event was centered on resiliency and, through meditation activities and powerful lectures by seasoned professionals, participants were inspired to practice resiliency not only in their Puksta work, but also in their day-to-day lives. Highlights of the event include: stirring remarks made by Executive Director, John Mulstay, which highlighted both the importance of fellowship in the Puksta community and the many accomplishments of the Puksta Foundation; a motivational study of resiliency, presented by key-note speaker Dr. Abbie Beacham; and, of course, an unforgettably delicious taco lunch catered by local restaurant, Illegal Pete’s.

The success of the Puksta’s Intercollegiate Fall Retreat has created a sense of fellowship and positivity within the CCSEL community and has certainly set the tone for another year of groundbreaking community work.