Jared Verner, UCCS Communique

Opting for a “door opening” ceremony as opposed to the traditional “ribbon cutting” festivities, city and university officials celebrated the opening of UCCS Downtown Sept. 10.

The 3,000-square foot facility, distinct from the surrounding buildings with a large mountain lion graphic above the main entrance, will host non-credit certificate programs, community meetings, and serve as a launching point for UCCS into the downtown Colorado Springs community.

“This is truly a milestone moment for UCCS,” said Chancellor Venkat Reddy. “It’s really a team effort to make something like this happen. We have much to be proud of as we continue on these public-private partnerships.”

John Suthers, mayor, City of Colorado Springs; Mark Waller, district 2 commissioner, El Paso County; and Chris Jenkins, chief executive officer, Nor’wood Development Group; provided comments to the crowd. CU Board of Regents chair Sue Sharkey and Board of Regents member Kyle Hybl ceremonially opened the doors for the first times to welcome the crowd...