Happy May!

Just like that, we find ourselves wrapping up another academic year. As I look back at this year, I am filled with gratitude for this community. We have come together for big events like this semester’s student celebration, the Through the Student Lens and the ACT Film Festivals, CPD events, and alumni panels. And while these events are exciting and key markers of who we are as a community, perhaps even more foundational to our department are the smaller moments—the great (and sometimes difficult) discussions in the classroom, the chat with a professor during office hours, or the connections you form as you work on a group project. Those moments can be so transformative, and I hope as you move into the slower pace of summer you reflect on both the small and big moments and recognize the good work you have done this semester. 

For those of you who are graduating next week, let me offer you a sincere CONGRATULATIONS! Earning a college degree from one of the nation’s prominent universities takes persistence and endurance. We are proud of your accomplishment and are excited to welcome you to the Comm Studies alumni ranks. Please keep in touch. I’d love to connect with you via LinkedIn so we can continue to celebrate your successes. 

For those of you who are not finishing up, please take a look at our offerings for this summer. It’s a great time for you to focus in on a class or two, get ahead in your studies, and keep your skills sharp. And if you are interning this summer, don’t forget that you can get credit for your internship. Here is information about for-credit internships. 

I wish you a summer full of sunshine, memorable moments, and time to rejuvenate. Take care Comm Studies Rams! 

Elizabeth Williams, Chair
elizabeth.a.williams@colostate.edu

Nick Marx, Director of Undergraduate Studies
nick.marx@colostate.edu

Commencement 2025: Final Details for Graduates

Green promotional image for "Tassel-Turning Energy" event on May 15-18, 2025, featuring bright neon text against dark green background with a white collegiate emblem on the right side.

Graduating next week? Congratulations on your remarkable achievement! As commencement weekend rapidly approaches, don’t miss out on all the exciting events and celebrations planned to honor your success. From the university-wide commencement on Friday, May 16th to our department recognition ceremony on Saturday, May 17th, these final days mark the culmination of your dedication and hard work at Colorado State. For last-minute details about schedules, regalia pickup, guest information, and parking, visit our comprehensive commencement website.

Explore the CSU Commencement website for complete details.

Senior Spotlight: Will Settlage

Senior Spotlight" promotional image featuring a smiling graduate in a blue checkered suit against a wooden background. Left side has a green design with "Will Settlage" and his quote: "CSU has given me a solid place to stand while I imagine who I want to be.

 

Will Settlage, a senior Communication Studies major and Film Studies minor, came to CSU through the Bridge to Bachelor’s transfer program. His contributions include serving as Student Volunteer Coordinator for the ACT Human Rights Film Festival and working with Through the Student Lens. Settlage will be our student speaker at the department recognition ceremony on Saturday, May 17th. His advice to students: “Get to know the people in your department as soon as you can… and do not be afraid to join the conversations in class.”

Read Will’s full story on our department website. Learn from his journey at CSU.

Register for Fall 2025 Courses!

Fall campus scene with a tree-lined path featuring autumn foliage in gold and orange. Two text overlays appear: "Communication Studies" on a purple banner and "Fall 2025 Courses" on a gold banner below it.

Registration is open for fall 2025! Discover how film can spark significant social change in Film and Social Change or explore systems of non-language communication in Nonverbal Communication. Interested in community problem-solving? Collaborative Communication examines decision-making through the lens of deliberative democracy. These courses offer valuable perspectives whether you’re completing your major requirements, pursuing your communication interests, or developing professional skills for your future career.

View our complete fall course offerings and register for classes on RamWeb.

Connect With Us!

Stay updated on department events, student spotlights, and important deadlines by following us on social media:

Instagram: @CSUCommStudies
Facebook: CSU Department of Communication Studies

We regularly share event reminders, student and faculty achievements, internship opportunities, and more. It’s the fastest way to stay connected with our department community between newsletters!

See you in the fall for another edition of Comm Connect!