Taylor Bennett-Begaye
(MA '22)

Chair, Indigenous Alumni Affinity Network

“I’ve always found joy in supporting and serving our DU Indigenous/Native alumni and community because it allows me to connect with others and create a space for future generations of leaders and alumni.”

Taylor Bennett-Begaye (she/her), a proud Diné citizen and chair of DU’s Indigenous Alumni Affinity Network, is a dynamic leader driving by a passion for building community and connection. Her work celebrates culture, strengthens bonds and champions belonging for Native students, alumni and allies alike. From leading DU’s Blanket Wrapping Ceremony to honor graduates to guiding the Native Student Alliance’s powwow and community events, Taylor’s dedication and leadership shine. Her efforts create spaces where traditions and relationships flourish, inspiring a stronger, more inclusive DU community.

Corey T. Nyman
(BSBA '03)

Leader, Las Vegas Alumni Network

“DU gave me so much during my undergraduate years, so I’ve made it my mission to support a place I truly love. It’s all about sharing your time, effort, and energy — Once a Pioneer, always a Pioneer.”

As leader of the Las Vegas Alumni Network, Corey Nyman (he/him) cultivates connections and strengthens the bond between alumni, prospective students and friends of DU. His commitment to cultivating community extends beyond his leadership, as Corey also serves on the Fritz Knoebel School of Hospitality Management Executive Advisory Board, mentors students and hosts events that bring the DU spirit to life in Las Vegas and beyond.

Corey ensures Pioneers stay connected and supported no matter where life leads them.

Fay Matsukage
(JD '79)

Chair, Sturm College of Law Alumni Council

“Volunteering allows me to pay forward the gratitude I have for my legal education and the valuable connections I made while at DU.”

Fay Matsukage has dedicated decades to giving back to DU’s Sturm College of Law as a mentor, leader and advocate. She currently serves as Chair-Elect of the University Alumni Council and is a member of the law school’s Dean’s Advisory Board, where she provides invaluable guidance to enhance alumni engagement and strengthen student support.

Fay’s dedication stems from her belief in the power of connection, mentorship and service. Through her efforts, she not only uplifts the law school community but also inspires others to continue the tradition of giving back.

Andrea Smith
(BA '85, JD'88)

Co-Chair, DU Latinx Alumni Affinity Network (DULAA); Member, University Alumni Council

“My volunteer work at DU has improved my sense of belonging and allowed me to be a better ambassador for the University.”

Andrea Smith (she/her/ella) has devoted over 20 years to volunteering at DU, leading with compassion, connection and a commitment to advocacy. As the founder of the DU Latinx Alumni Affinity Network (DULAA), Andrea has created a platform for fostering community and celebrating culture.

Beyond her work with DULAA, Andrea serves on the University Alumni Council, champions scholarship fundraising and mentors students, ensuring that support and opportunity are available for future generations.

Nicole Black
(BA ’07, BSBA ’07, JD '11)

Chair, Sturm College of Law Alumni Council; Member, University Alumni Council

“Supporting DU as a professional in the Denver community is living and leading the values we were instilled while students and helping develop those opportunities for the next generation of students.”

Nicole Black exemplifies leadership and commitment through her service as Chair of the Sturm College of Law Alumni Council and as a member of the University Alumni Council. Dedicated to fostering relationships that empower others, she mentors students through the law school’s Michael G. Massey Professional Mentoring Program and works to strengthen the DU Law community.

Nicole’s passion for building connections and creating opportunities reflects her belief in the power of service and the value of giving back.

DU Student Volunteers Lead the Way

Volunteering with the campaign launch was meaningful for me not only because of the interactions I had and connections I made with a range of wonderful people in the DU community, but also because it helped me clarify for myself the things I love about our university and the areas where I’m excited to see us continue to grow and improve.’

- Kabe Aberle, fourth-year DU student, psychology and biology

Avarie Faulkner

Mathematics
Fourth year
Women’s Triathlon Student-Athlete

Rylie Mundell

BA ’24, Physics
Graduate Certificate Student, Geographic Information Systems
Fifth year
Women’s Gymnastics Student-Athlete

Kabe Aberle

Psychology
Fourth year

Micah DenBraber

International Studies
Fourth year

Avarie Faulkner, Rylie Mundell, Kabe Aberle and Micah DenBraber, illustrate impact by DU students through action. These passionate student volunteers brought the heart and energy of DU to The Denver Difference Regional All-Call and VIP events in New York City, the Bay Area and Chicago.

They shared their personal journeys and spoke about how DU's 4D student experience, scholarship opportunities and campus life have been transformative. Their heartfelt stories forged meaningful connections, inspired generosity and highlighted how DU is a university like no other.

By balancing their academic, athletic and co-curricular commitments with their volunteer work, they showcase their resilience and leadership that define the DU spirit. These qualities will undoubtedly serve them far beyond their time on campus.

These student volunteers brought the magic of DU to alumni and supporters nationwide, offering a glimpse of the life-changing opportunities that define our community.

Taylor Bennett-Begaye (MA '22)