Timberline Bank and CMU are one of Grand Junction’s dynamic duos and because of Timberline’s sponsorship commitments of $75,000 throughout three years, homecoming continues to be a super celebration for all.
More than 80 Timberline Bank employees have direct ties to CMU — as alumni, parents of students or students themselves — and with both organizations focused on community, the alliance makes perfect sense.
“Reinvesting in our community means providing sponsorships and donations as well as providing the opportunity for CMU students and graduates to become Timberline Bank team members. Working in collaboration with CMU to keep Mavs here in western Colorado gives back to our community and provides a foundation for these graduates to begin their professional careers,” said Louise Goodman, Timberline Bank Grand Junction branch manager. “We have thoroughly enjoyed the CMU/Timberline Bank partnership, so it was an easy decision for us to commit to the next three years. We look forward to this year’s football season with Coach Miles Kochevar! Go Mavs!”
About seven years ago, the CMU staff homecoming committee decided to enlist the help of the Campus Design Studio (CDS), which is student run, to develop the homecoming theme and design.
“It’s a place where visual art design majors work in a studio environment, producing marketing materials for student clubs and organizations. This is their event, so it only makes sense that the looks and concepts come from the students’ imaginations,” said Jeremy Smith, CMU senior graphic designer and brand manager.
Earlier this month CDS Lead Designer Mazzy Fritzel and Designer Elias Born presented three student-generated homecoming theme concepts to a group of CMU leadership, students, staff and key stakeholders including Timberline Bank representatives.
“Given how much Homecoming and Mav Month impacts our local community, we wanted to find a partner who would be active in everything from the planning to the actual events,” said Jared Meier, director of alumni relations. “Timberline is everywhere right now and we’re proud to be working with an organization that values supporting our community so much.”
Each pitch included a logo, social media graphics, posters and T-shirt designs. The students also explained the inspiration behind each.
“Pitching is hard. I counted 37 people in their audience, and they did great! It’s all part of the learning experience,” said Smith, who served as the CDS advisor.
"The opportunity to design and create a theme for a large-scale campaign such as Homecoming is a huge honor,” Fritzel said. “I have gained so much knowledge through working at Campus Design Studio the last year. It is such a unique experience our school provides to allow students to grow outside of the classroom and prepare for life and work post-graduation — for that I am so thankful."
Each idea received positive feedback from the audience, but when it came time to vote there was one clear favorite: Maverick Rising. Inspired by the Bat-Signal in the DC Comic universe, Maverick Rising summons the superhero in every past, present and future Maverick. Each of us has overcome obstacles and answered the call to what it means to be a true Maverick. Homecoming and Maverick Rising calls the Mavily home to celebrate together.
“We invite the community to please come and be involved. You’re Mavericks, too. You’re a part of this rising,” Smith said. Save the dates, October 28-30, 2022.
As details are finalized for Homecoming’s tailgating, football game, bonfire, downtown parade and other festivities are finalized, CMU will beam them up into the clouds… and also post them at coloradomesa.edu/homecoming. Stay tuned!