1870 Club

Leading the Way

Members Make it Possible

1870 Club members are the foundation of our donor community. Annual gifts made by 1870 Club members go to work immediately to provide access, promote excellence, and make a difference to every one of our students, faculty, and staff.

Named for the year CSU was established, the 1870 Club recognizes and celebrates a very special group of people: loyal supporters – those donors who share a commitment to the advancement of CSU. Through annual support at the leadership level, these donors become essential partners in Colorado State’s quest to become one of the world’s leading comprehensive research universities.

Your gifts provide greater opportunities and access through scholarships, promote excellence through innovative research, and make a difference through programs that provide critical support. 

Old Main, 1886. CSU Libraries, University Historic Photograph Collection

Provide Access Through Scholarships

For many students, scholarships may be the deciding factor in whether they pursue a degree at all. CSU is Colorado’s school of choice for new high school graduates, and your scholarship gifts ensure everyone with the talent and motivation to earn a college degree can do so at CSU.

Watch how CSU’s dedicated students strive to achieve excellence.

Promote Excellence Through Innovation

Your gifts make it possible for Colorado State University to be recognized as one of the nation’s premier research institutions. CSU has exceeded $300 million in research funding every year for the last 10 years, making it possible for today’s innovators – such as researchers at the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences – to solve tomorrow’s biggest challenges.

Watch how CSU’s animal cancer discoveries help treat children.

Make a Difference Through Programs

Gifts that support Colorado State’s programs and centers are the very core of the mission of the 1870 Club. These gifts, such as the ones that support the Middle School Outreach Ensembles, enhance classroom experiences, provide hands-on learning experiences, and inspire and encourage the people living and working in our community.

See how CSU’s programs inspire future generations.

1870 Exclusive

On May 5, 2023, members of the 1870 Club had an exclusive opportunity to attend Maestro Wes Kenney’s final performance at Colorado State University: A Monumental Close, featuring Gustav Mahler’s gigantic Symphony No. 3, performed by the University Symphony Orchestra with combined choirs.