For Parents & Families of Admitted Students

On this page

• Welcome to CC
• The Block Plan
• CC Vibes
• Outcomes
• Alumni Profiles
• Parent Profiles
• Covering the Cost of CC
• Belonging
• Location
• Logistics/Transition to CC
• Wellness
• Safety
• Academic Support
• Accessibility Resources
• Gap Years and Semesters

Welcome to CC!

Interim President Dr. Manya Whitaker

Dear Parents, Families, and Student Supporters, 

Congratulations on your student’s admission to Colorado College! I’m delighted to invite you to be part of this wonderful community. This is a moment of pride and excitement, not only for your student but for your family, too.

I have been at Colorado College for over 13 years. In addition to my administrative roles, I’ve spent much of that time as a Professor of Education, teaching classes focused on educational equity and social and political issues in education. My journey to CC was unexpected — shortly after completing my doctoral studies in developmental educational psychology at Vanderbilt, I received an email from a college I had never heard of, offering me a nine-month fellowship.

I was hesitant at first, but the Block Plan caught my attention. Everything my research told me about how adolescents learn best — immersive, hands-on experiences paired with deep discussion — was embodied in our academic model. I was able to join a community of learners committed to the co-creation of knowledge. Thirteen years later, I am a better teacher and leader than when I arrived, a reflection of the impact of faculty-student relationships at Colorado College.

You can expect your student to grow intellectually, socially, and personally during their time at CC. Spending three hours a day, for three-and-a-half weeks, with the same group of people engaging with the same subject matter gives our students interpersonal and cognitive skills that other college graduates don’t have. They learn to explore a topic from all angles, bringing together sometimes disparate information to come to an informed conclusion. They learn to have meaningful, sustained conversations about complex topics, especially with peers with whom they may disagree.

In the process, they become collaborative, empathetic leaders who will make a difference in the communities they serve after CC. This is the goal of the liberal arts.

Whether they are conducting research alongside faculty, writing for The Catalyst student newspaper, taking a 3D Arts workshop, trekking into the mountains for field study, or traveling the world for a block away, your student will gain the knowledge and confidence to thrive in whatever path they choose beyond CC. They will explore who they are, where their passions lie, and what brings them joy. Your student will become their best self here — and our faculty and staff will challenge, support, and advocate for them every step of the way.

As you lean into the next part of your student's journey, be sure to explore the rest of this page to learn more about CC’s academic programs, campus culture, and the many ways we support students and families. We would be thrilled to have your student here at CC. I look forward to staying connected as your family embarks on this new adventure!

Warmly,

Manya Whitaker
Interim President
Colorado College

The Block Plan

Class Field Trip

At CC, students take just one class at a time for three and a half weeks. Since implementing the Block Plan in 1970, we have seen that this is an ideal way for adolescents to learn.

Have you ever experienced being in a “flow state?” That feeling when you’re fully immersed in a task or activity, and you kind of lose track of time because you’re in such deep focus? You might get it when you’re out on a run, or immersed in a project at work, or reading a good book. That’s a familiar feeling on the Block Plan. When students aren't distracted juggling five courses at a time, they have the brain space to get into that “flow state.” This is when students do their best thinking and can fully engage in their own learning.

CC students get to study a new subject every month, creating this never-ending feeling of possibility and adventure that they just can’t get at other colleges.

CC Vibes

We know it can be challenging to get a good feel for what a college is really like and what resources are available without experiencing daily life firsthand. To get a closer look at life at CC, we invite you to follow us on Instagram (@coloradocollege) in addition to a few more specific CC accounts!

• Career Center: @cc_careercenter
• Wellness Resource Center: @wellnesscc
• Outdoor Education: @cc.outdoored
• Global Education & Field Study: @ccglobalandfieldstudy
• Collaborative for Community Engagement: @coloradocollegecce
• The Butler Center: @thebutlercentercc
• Tutt Library: @coloradocollegetuttlibrary

These are some of the same accounts our students use to stay in the know about what's going on at CC. We hope that by seeing what we see, you'll get a better feel for all that's available here for your student.

Llamapalooza

Check out the CC Bound Spotify Playlist

Get a discount on CC Merch

Outcomes

Family Weekend

At CC, we care about your student and their personal and professional development. The CC Career Center is at the core of our efforts in preparing students for life after college, helping them plan and reflect on the many experiences they have throughout their time at CC, and connecting those experiences to their professional pursuits.

As we work with students on the discovery process, we use one-on-one counseling and frequent workshops to help them make choices that align who they are with what they want to do. We understand that life and career paths are not linear. They often take many twists and turns, which is why the Career Center continues to work with CC alumni throughout the entirety of their careers.

While we know you're thinking about your student's long-term career outcomes, we're also certain their immediate post-graduation outcomes are important to you too. You can learn more about our recent graduate outcomes on the Career Center website, and check out our Family Resources to learn more about supporting your student through their career journey.

Alumni Profiles

Jena Hausmann ’93

Jena Hausmann ’93

As president and CEO of Children’s Hospital Colorado, Jena Hausmann ’93 leads one of the nation’s top pediatric hospitals, a role grounded in her drive to make a meaningful impact. That vision took shape during her time at CC, where she was drawn to the small class sizes, liberal arts approach, and the Block Plan’s immersive learning.

At CC, Hausmann developed a problem-solving mindset through her Political Science major. “The way we learned—reading, debating, and working collaboratively—was extraordinary,” she recalls. “Right away at CC, I was thinking, solving problems. I read. I wrestled with different points of view. You’ve got to have discipline for that. And there was a problem-solving approach there that I think I carry with me today. I think it was created in those CC classrooms.” A junior-year internship in Washington, D.C., shifted her focus from politics to healthcare, inspired by both her academic studies and personal experiences with her grandfather’s battle with cancer.

After graduating, Hausmann earned a master’s degree in Healthcare Administration and rose to become CEO of Children’s Hospital Colorado. She credits CC for fostering her collaborative leadership style, which she describes as essential in navigating healthcare’s complex challenges.

Reflecting on her time at CC, Hausmann emphasizes the transformative power of the college’s community and approach: “There’s so much more than the content you learn. CC helped me grow as a thinker, leader, and teammate.”

Scott Bryan ’01

Scott Bryan ’01

As a student at CC, Bryan balanced outdoor adventures as an Outdoor Recreation Committee leader with hands-on learning in the ceramics studio and thought-provoking discussions with campus speakers. A transformative moment came on a CC field trip exploring Glen Canyon Dam. This firsthand look at water infrastructure sparked Bryan’s lifelong interest in rethinking how we use water in the face of climate change.

Today, Bryan serves as CEO of Imagine H2O, a nonprofit that empowers entrepreneurs to create innovative water solutions. Under his leadership, the organization has supported nearly 200 startups, reaching over 1 billion people and raising $1 billion in early-stage investment. “CC gave me the ability to see the big picture while knowing when and how to drill down,” says Bryan.

Bryan’s innovative approach to water security mirrors CC’s ethos of interdisciplinary learning and creative problem-solving. Inspired by his CC experience, he hopes to return to campus one day to teach a Half Block course on water innovation, cultivating the next generation of environmental leaders.

John Novembre ’00

John Novembre ’00

When John Novembre ’00 was named a MacArthur Fellow in 2015, he credited his CC experience for shaping his success. As a Biochemistry major, he engaged in hands-on research projects, like studying the genetics of oaks, under the mentorship of dedicated faculty. These opportunities sparked his passion for population genetics and prepared him for an interdisciplinary career.

Novembre describes CC’s liberal arts education as “a bedrock” that fostered his problem-solving skills, clear communication, and creative thinking. He also values the close-knit friendships he formed during his time on campus.

Now a computational biologist and professor at the University of Chicago, Novembre continues to draw on the adventurous spirit and rigorous academics he experienced at CC. His story highlights how CC equips students to think broadly, explore deeply, and make a meaningful impact in any field.

Parent Profiles

Chris Hanna P’24

Chris Hanna P’24

My name is Chris Hanna, and my husband, Jake Whiteley, and I live in Northern California. Our son, Brian, graduated from Colorado College last May. His experience at CC was exceptional, and he thrived within the unique intensity of the Block Plan. Brian particularly appreciated the small seminar-style classes and the close connections he forged with his professors.

Outside of academics, Brian fully embraced the vibrant campus life at CC. He was an active member of a fraternity, and his interests extended to intramural sports including rugby, volleyball, and basketball. Moreover, Brian took advantage of the opportunity to explore the outdoors during Block Breaks, whether it was through skiing, kayaking, mountain biking, or climbing.

One of the highlights of Brian's CC journey was his semester abroad in Copenhagen during his junior year. During his senior year, he thoroughly enjoyed a weeklong art-focused trip to New York City, where he had the chance to engage with CC alums in the art and design fields and take behind-the-scenes tours of museums and galleries.

Ellen Brout Lindsey P’27

Ellen Brout Lindsey P’27 and Claire Lindsey ’27

My name is Ellen Brout Lindsey, and I live in Amherst, Massachusetts. My daughter, Claire, embarked on her journey at CC after a gap year spent traveling and working, both in a lab at UMass and at Trader Joe’s.

Now a sophomore at CC, she has declared a major in Neuroscience. Outside of her academic pursuits, Claire stays busy on campus. She is a member of the Zenith Ultimate team, enjoys hiking and skiing, and takes guitar lessons.

Her passion for exploration extends to numerous other activities, keeping her busy and fulfilled beyond the classroom.

Covering the Cost of CC

Belonging

Battle of the Bands

NSO

We understand the importance of knowing that your student will feel accepted and supported throughout college. At CC, our commitment to student success and well-being is at the heart of everything we do.

• CC offers robust support from day one.
  From the moment our students arrive on campus, they are embraced by a community that is deeply invested in their growth and happiness. Starting with our extensive week-long orientation program and followed by opportunities to engage with professional staff through our semester-long CC Elevate course, we work hard to familiarize students with all the resources CC has to offer.
  
  
• The Block Plan moves quickly, and so do we.
  Because of the Block Plan, CC professors and staff members are accustomed to moving quickly. Our professors will likely know your student's name by the second day of class. When your student reaches out for help, our staff and faculty won't wait to respond. We'll respond quickly, ensuring all students receive the support needed to thrive personally, and academically.
  
  
• This is an inclusive community.
  And that's what it's all about, right? Dropping off your student in a new place surrounded by new people is hard. But knowing that there's a welcoming community eager to embrace your student after you leave—that makes it easier.

Supportive offices and programs:

Location 

Downtown COS

Welcome to colorful Colorado! How much do you know about Colorado's second largest city, Colorado Springs? 
 
Did you know that stunning views and rock formations—formed a billion years ago—await you and your student at Garden of the Gods, just 15 minutes from campus? Did you know that this city is home to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Center and that the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee is also headquartered here. There’s a reason Colorado Springs is nicknamed Olympic City, U.S.A.! 

Did you know that Colorado Springs is the largest metro area in the U.S. to border National Forest land? This makes it a cinch for our students to get outside and climb, paddle, mountain bike, hike, backpack, or just meander through the woods when they need a bit of fresh air.  

Maybe your student isn’t outdoorsy, but they do love a picture-perfect coffee house. We've got a bunch of independent coffee shops near the CC campus. 

Planning a visit? 

We hope you’re planning to visit! Before you do, check out our visitor’s guide to make the most of your time here. There’s so much to discover, and we’re looking forward to seeing you! 

Logistics for Your Student's Transition to CC

Wellness

At CC, we take a holistic, upbeat approach to health and wellbeing, helping students thrive. From tailored programs to supportive resources, we’re here to help your student manage the unique challenges of the Block Plan and college life while staying balanced, connected, and ready for what’s next.

Counseling

• If your student experiences a personal or mental health issue while at CC, please encourage them to speak with their residential advisor (RA) or professional residential life counselor (RLC). Residential Life staff are trained to assist students with accessing campus resources and can point your student in the right direction. Students are also welcome to talk with someone from the Chaplain's office or make an appointment at the Colorado College Counseling Center. The counseling center offers 24-hour mental health services and a myriad of other counseling services. The counseling center is open to all CC students, and urgent appointments are available daily. There is no fee for the first six counseling sessions.

Health

• Student Health Center: The Student Health Center provides primary and acute care services to CC students, as well as women's health services, travel medicine clinics, health education, and prevention education. The center is conveniently located in the Yalich Student Services Center on the ground floor of the Robson Arena building. In addition to in-person services, telehealth appointments are available for a variety of medical needs. The Student Health Center accepts CC’s student health insurance in addition to most major insurance plans and will bill directly for services they deliver to CC students.
• Prescriptions: CC has a special arrangement with The Medicine Shoppe, a local full-service pharmacy, to fill and deliver prescriptions directly to CC’s mail center. If your student’s current prescription is filled in Colorado, your student can call their pharmacy and ask them to move their prescription to The Medicine Shoppe. If your student’s prescription is currently filled out of state, once your student arrives on campus they should make an appointment with the Student Health Center to establish care. Their provider at the Student Health Center can assist in moving the prescription to The Medicine Shoppe.
• Immunizations: Before arriving at CC, all new students are required to submit documentation regarding a number of immunizations and other health screenings. These requirements will be included in your student’s New Student Orientation checklist, which they will have access to beginning in June.

Safety

At CC, keeping our community safe is a top priority—and a true team effort. Nestled on 100 acres just north of downtown Colorado Springs, our campus enjoys a vibrant urban setting with a welcoming, secure atmosphere. While the city has a population of over half a million, the most common campus crime tends to be bike theft.

Our blended safety model combines 24/7 professional, unarmed Campus Safety officers with a full-time, dedicated Colorado Springs Police Department resource officer stationed right on campus. This partnership ensures your student has access to care and support year-round.

Safety at CC is a shared commitment, and we’re proud to play our part as community caretakers. To learn more, we encourage you to explore our Annual Security Reports online—your peace of mind is important to us!

Academic Support

Presenting Research

Student Opportunities and Advising Hub

Parents and families often ask us about academic advising at CC. Will my student have access to an academic advisor? When does advising start?

The Student Opportunities and Advising Hub at CC works to empower every student to thrive in the immersive environment of the Block Plan. CC uses a dual-advising role: one faculty member and one Hub advisor. While the faculty member will likely change once a major is declared (sometime around the end of sophomore year), students will stay with their Hub advisor from the summer before they start classes at CC until graduation.

Hub advisors support each student as a whole person, developing the confidence to navigate academic pursuits, co-curricular opportunities, and post-graduate exploration, so that students can identify and pursue their educational, professional, and personal goals.
Learn more about the Advising Hub!

Colket Center for Academic Excellence

The Colket Center is your student’s partner in learning, offering one-on-one academic support outside of class time and conveniently located in Tutt Library. From first-year Excel emergencies to help in refining a draft of a senior thesis, we meet students where they are. Each year, the center works with an impressive 90% of CC students, well above the national average of 20% of students receiving academic support at other institutions. Visit the Colket parent page for more information about what’s available!

Accessibility Resources

At CC, we’re committed to ensuring every student has the support they need to thrive on the Block Plan. Our Accessibility Resources team partners with students who experience disabilities—including learning, mental health, physical, and sensory challenges—as well as those with temporary medical conditions like concussions, broken wrists, or other injuries.

We tailor accommodations to meet individual needs, offering support such as extended time on exams, accessible course materials, assistive technologies, and more. From study skills assistance to accessible campus housing, we’re here to help students navigate their academic journey with confidence.

Our staff is happy to answer general questions about the accommodations process and services. Once your student is admitted, we’ll work together to review documentation and design a plan that fits their goals and needs.

Gap Years and Semesters

Is your student considering taking a gap semester or a gap year? Each year, approximately 15% of incoming students choose to delay the start of their CC experience by pursuing a gap year or semester.

Students who have taken time off before starting college know themselves well, are resilient and independent, and are more likely to be leaders on our campus. They graduate at higher rates, have higher average GPAs and fewer disciplinary infractions, and are more likely to stick with their first choice of major, compared to their peers who start college immediately following high school graduation.

Students use their gaps in a variety of ways. Some choose to stay home and work, others volunteer full time, and some travel the country or the world. If your student is considering taking a year or semester off, encourage them to get in touch with us to have a chat about the process.

Garden of the Gods

Questions?