CMUnow Podcast

President John Marshall hosts a tele town hall for students and parents to discuss the upcoming Fall 2025 semester

Join us in celebrating Black History Month at Colorado Mesa University! CMU President John Marshall interviews first-generation, African American student Liban Shongolo. From a refugee camp in Kenya to CMU student-athlete, Liban shares his journey, highlighting the power of sacrifice, resilience and community support. Let's cheer him on as he plans to pursue law school and become a voice for marginalized communities as a prosecutor!

In this special edition of the CMUnow podcast, President Marshall welcomes Dr. Joyce Brooks. Dr. Brooks shares her inspiring journey from being born in rural Arkansas to becoming one of the first black teachers in a desegregated school. As an advocate for multicultural education, Dr. Brooks emphasizes the importance of building relationships and communities, encouraging listeners to appreciate differences in one another and work towards a stronger, united America.

Culture of Belonging by Colorado Mesa University

Join Colorado Mesa University President John Marshall, Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser and community leader Heidi Hess in a thought-provoking discussion about the progress and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Grand Junction, Colorado. Explore how community connections, acceptance and inclusivity have evolved, making Pride celebrations and LGBTQ+ events more vibrant and accessible on the Western Slope. Gain insights into the intersection of civil rights, relationships and the importance of creating welcoming spaces for everyone.

In this episode of the CMUnow Podcast, Colorado Mesa University Instructor of Music and Director of Vocal Ensembles Dirk Johnson discusses his musical journey, starting with playing the violin in the fourth grade, his exposure to classical music and his transition to choral singing and conducting. He reminisces on growing up in a musical environment as a childhood and now how he's implemented it in his own household. Johnson shares his teaching experiences with various age groups and skill levels, highlighting the importance of selecting suitable music for choirs. He also talks about his recent move to Colorado, his renewed interest in playing the violin and his experiences as a composer.

Colorado Mesa University's Dylan Jones, PhD, discusses the study of chemistry that underlies life's existence and how it impacts everything from breathing and muscle function to emotions and food needs. Jones explains how biochemistry is accessible and relevant to daily life, shares insights on topics such as the effects of salt on a slug, absorbing vitamin D from sunlight and the role of biochemistry in mental health. He emphasizes the importance of empathy, patience and respect in teaching, and encourages students to embrace learning through mistakes and discovery.

Catherine Whiting, PhD, discusses her passion for astronomy and the importance of studying the cosmos. She highlights the sense of awe astronomy instills, its practical applications in technological advancements and the involvement of students in her research on exoplanets. Whiting emphasizes the interconnectedness of the universe and the impact it has on our understanding of ourselves.

Colorado Mesa University Director of the Department of Health Sciences Lucy Graham, PhD, shares how a trip to South Africa inspired her to pursue a career in nursing after witnessing the impact of a British nurse working in a clinic. She emphasizes her passion for social justice, working with vulnerable populations and combating burnout in healthcare. Graham also discusses her transition from acute care nursing to public health, highlighting the importance of self-care and addressing the challenges of rural healthcare.

On today's episode of the CMUnow Podcast Colorado Mesa University Instructor of Nursing Kristy Emerson shares her journey from growing up in a small town to becoming a nurse and emphasizes the importance of prevention in healthcare. Emerson incorporates her background in public health to empower students and address healthcare challenges in rural communities. Learn more about the nursing profession, the value of empathy and the diverse career opportunities available in the healthcare industry. Don't miss this engaging conversation about making a difference in people's lives through education and compassionate care.