Colorado State University Pueblo

Colorado State University Pueblo stands as a proud public, Hispanic-Serving Institution with a rich history deeply intertwined with the community of Pueblo, Colorado. Its origins trace back to the depths of the Great Depression, a testament to the resilience and vision of local leaders like Eric T. Kelly. What began as Southern Colorado Junior College (SCJC) in 1933, offering classes to 63 determined students in three vacant rooms of the Pueblo County Courthouse, quickly grew into a vital educational hub for Southern Colorado.

This institution was born from a collective desire to uplift a region facing immense economic hardship. Its early years were characterized by a close-knit environment, where a dedicated staff nurtured the academic growth of its pioneering students, culminating in the graduation of its first class of 17 students in 1935. The collaborative spirit of the community, from land donations by the Colorado Fuel & Iron Corp. to funding from the Works Progress Administration, ensured the construction of its first dedicated 55,000-square-foot arts building, laying the foundation for a permanent campus.

Today, Colorado State University Pueblo, led by President Armando Valdez, continues this legacy, offering a vibrant learning experience to nearly 4,000 students. For prospective students and families, CSU Pueblo offers not just an education but a connection to a school with a powerful story of perseverance, community support, and a commitment to accessible education and student success.