UNC’s 2026 Honored Alumni Honorees Announced

Each year, the University of Northern Colorado (UNC) celebrates alumni whose lives reflect the university’s core values of leadership, service and community impact. UNC graduates leave campus with more than a degree — they carry a sense of purpose that fuels bold ideas, compassionate action and meaningful connections. With every step, they blaze a path of service and leadership that shapes the world around them. 

This year’s honorees exemplify what it means to use one’s talents for the greater good. Through entrepreneurship, education, storytelling and athletics, these alumni uplift communities, inspire change and leave a lasting mark wherever they lead. Their work reflects the power of purpose-driven leadership and the enduring influence of the UNC alumni community. 

Learn more about this year’s recipients and how they are ambitiously striving to make the world better than they found it. 

Kristi Helzer, ’77 

Kristi Helzer, ’77, is a community builder and entrepreneur whose work is rooted in connection, positivity and service. After earning her bachelor’s degree in Mass Media from UNC, her career included supporting organizations such as United Way of Weld County, Greeley-Evans School District 6, Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra and West Greeley Conservation District, as well as founding her own marketing company Kristi’s Kreations. In 2009, Kristi launched Northern Colorado Women in Business, a powerful network that supports women entrepreneurs through meaningful relationships, collaboration and opportunities for professional growth.  

A servant leader and trusted mentor, Kristi is known for championing others’ strengths, encouraging growth beyond comfort zones and fostering confidence through shared experiences. A dedicated Bear, she supports UNC through scholarship fundraising, creative collaborations with the School of Music and steadfast advocacy for women’s athletics, including leading one of the largest groups at the annual UNC Women’s Walk fundraising event since its inception. Her unwavering commitment to uplifting women and strengthening northern Colorado’s business community continues to inspire leadership, connection and success. 

Dave King, ’81, M.A. ’82 

Dave King, ’81, M.A. ’82, has spent more than 40 years turning his passion for sports and a spur-of-the-moment idea into Triple Crown Sports, a nationally renowned organization that has hosted thousands of amateur and collegiate tournaments across North America. From baseball, fastpitch, lacrosse and volleyball to NCAA Division I women’s softball and basketball, Dave has built events known for expert management, strong relationships and memorable experiences for athletes and their families. 

A pioneer in sports science, he also launched the College Sports Evaluation Performance Lab, providing athletes with professional-level, data-driven tools to improve performance and reduce injury risk while offering UNC students hands-on experience in sports administration and analytics. A dedicated Bear, Dave has served as an adjunct faculty member, interim head softball coach and a longtime supporter of UNC Athletics. 

Cathy Lucas, ’90, APR 

Cathy Lucas, ’90, APR, has built a career around the real-life stories behind the headlines — helping universities, nonprofits and public-serving organizations connect authentically and drive impact. After earning her Journalism degree from UNC, she spent more than two decades at Metropolitan State University of Denver, serving as chief of staff and vice president of strategy and external affairs. In that capacity, she led marketing, communications and advocacy efforts that advanced major initiatives, including the university’s name change, approval of its first master’s programs and expanded state funding. 

In 2021, Cathy founded Lucas Narratives to continue her work across Colorado, helping organizations strengthen brands, refine messaging, and elevate thought leadership. Her work has been recognized by the Public Relations Society of America, Council for Advancement and Support of Education, Denver Business Journal and Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce. Beyond her professional achievements, Cathy leads through service on multiple boards, mentors emerging leaders and remains deeply engaged with her community. 

Honored Alumni Celebration 

The 2026 Honored Alumni demonstrate how UNC graduates turn education into action — transforming knowledge into leadership and opportunity into meaningful impact. Across business, education, community engagement and athletics these three alumni embody the Bear spirit through service, vision and purpose. 

Together, their stories reflect UNC’s mission to inspire and empower. They remind us that leadership is rooted in connection, service and the courage to create positive change. Their journeys challenge us to dream bigger, lead with intention and stay deeply connected to the values that unite the UNC community. 

Can’t wait to celebrate this year’s winners?  

Save the date for the 2026 Honored Alumni Ceremony on Saturday, March 28, at 5:30 p.m., in the Rocky Mountain Grand Ballroom of the University Center. 

Learn more: https://www.unco.edu/alumni/events/honored-alumni/