The Colorado State University Pueblo Foundation will honor outstanding community leaders, alumni, and partners during the 2026 CSU Pueblo President’s Gala on May 9, recognizing individuals and organizations whose impact reflects a strong commitment to education, community, and the University.
This year’s honorees include:
President’s Distinguished Service to the Community: Mike A85 & A92 and Dotsy Baxter
Mike Baxter, former CEO of Parkview Medical Center, dedicated more than two decades to advancing health care in Pueblo while remaining deeply engaged in community leadership and service. Together, Mike and Dotsy Baxter have supported numerous organizations and boards, demonstrating a lasting commitment to improving the quality of life across the region.
President’s Distinguished Service to Education: Samuel Ebersole
Dr. Samuel Ebersole devoted nearly four decades to teaching and mentoring students in media communication while also building a distinguished professional career in broadcast and documentary production. His work has earned national recognition, including two Emmy Awards, and has had a lasting impact on both students and the field.
President’s Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award: Sherri Baca A98
Sherri Baca has built a career centered on expanding access to knowledge and opportunity through her leadership of the Pueblo City-County Library District. Her work has strengthened the library’s role as a hub for education, workforce development, and community connection across Pueblo County.
President’s Distinguished Service to the University: Canvas Credit Union
Canvas Credit Union has been a dedicated partner of CSU Pueblo since 2022, bringing financial services, education, and investment directly to campus and the broader community. Through its ongoing commitment, including scholarship support and financial literacy programming, Canvas continues to help students build a stronger financial future.
“These honorees represent the very best of what it means to support students, strengthen community, and invest in the future,” said Todd Kelly, President and CEO of the CSU Pueblo Foundation. “Their leadership and generosity continue to open doors for CSU Pueblo students and create lasting impact across our region.”
CSU Pueblo President, Dr. Rhonda Epper said, “Each of the honorees this year reflects a different, but equally powerful way of showing up for others. Whether it’s through education, health care, public service or partnership, they have chosen to invest their time, talent and resources in ways that expand opportunities for our students and strengthen the Pueblo community. Their impact is not only measured by what they have achieved, but in the doors they have opened for those who will follow.”
The President’s Gala is CSU Pueblo Foundation’s signature fundraising event, with proceeds supporting student scholarships, academic programs, and university initiatives. The event brings together alumni, donors, business leaders, and community members for an evening focused on celebrating impact and advancing student success.
For more information about the President’s Gala or to learn how to support CSU Pueblo students, call James Muller at 719-549-2307 or visit www.csupueblogala.com
