Colorado Mesa University welcomed its largest cohort of Guardian Scholars during the Annual back-to-school celebration on August 7, 2025. 14 new freshmen are set to join the program this fall, fulfilling their dreams of earning a college degree without debt, and bringing the number of current Guardian Scholars at CMU to a record-breaking 45. The event brought together students and their donors, known as Guardian Angels, to celebrate the start of the academic year.
Founded by CMU Trustee and Davis School of Business namesake Ron Davis, the Guardian Scholars Program identifies ambitious high school students from Eagle County who may lack the necessary funds or resources to attend college. In addition to covering tuition and expenses, the program provides mentorship, professional connections, financial literacy training and internship opportunities. Many scholars are first-generation college students whose families work in the region’s resort economy. The Colorado program now operates exclusively at CMU.
“The program has quite literally changed my life. Without Guardians’ support, I wouldn’t be able to continually go to school and pursue my dreams in the medical field,” said CMU senior and Guardian Scholar Luis De Loera Lopez. “The support I received has varied drastically from financial support, emotional support, counseling and even medical help. When Guardian says we’re a family, I genuinely believe that. I’ve been helped in every way I needed.”
The Guardian Angles help make the program possible. Each angel commits to a four-year giving cycle and stays engaged with their scholars throughout their college journey. They provide guidance, encouragement and networking opportunities, building relationships that often last beyond graduation.
“Without the Angels’ generosity and confidence in Guardian Scholars, the dreams of a college education and exciting futures would not be possible for these students,” said Ron Davis.
In addition to the Guardian Scholars program, Davis' philanthropic efforts have led to the establishment of the Davis School of Business, creating opportunities for students to grow as leaders in the industry. Within the school, the Ronald V. Davis Legacy Scholarship supports academically driven undergraduate and graduate students, as well as student-athletes pursuing a business degree. The scholarship enables recipients to balance their academic and athletic passions without financial stress.
As CMU continues to steward the Guardian Scholars program, its impact grows with each graduating class. So far, the Guardian Scholars program has witnessed the success of 135 graduates, many of which have returned to Eagle County as professionals, giving back to the community that helped support their dreams. The commitment of donors, staff and students ensures that the legacy of the program will continue for future generations.