COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY - Career Impact Award 2022

Let me paint a picture for you. 

One beautiful February morning I was doing my usual morning emails simultaneously on the phone with my best friend doing our morning debrief.  

All of a sudden I stumbled upon an email from Colorado State University, my Alma mater, saying that I had been nominated and selected for the 2022 Career impact award.

“The award is meant to recognize students, staff, faculty, employers, and alumni that are champions for student career development, equity and inclusion, and student success. We began accepting applications about a month ago and received several outstanding nominations, including yours. 

I'm excited to tell you that the selection committee decided on you as one of this year's winners. Congratulations! It was awesome to read about the incredible work you're doing both on- and away-from campus, and your on-going commitment to CSU. “

I had to do a double take. I looked left then I looked right and then I said

“Miguel (my bestie) …… I just won an award from the University”

Most amazing things happen when you're least expecting them and let me tell you I was not expecting this. I didn't see this coming as I graduated from CSU in the spring of 2019 that means that i’ve only been out for less than three years. Shoot, I still can barely remember how to spell exercise.

I am extremely grateful to my former colleagues and now friends at the College of business who nominated me for this amazing award. Not only were they a vital role in my success at CSU but continue to be true allies and partners in my creative pursuits as I build a business and a community of values-driven artists and community members. 

I would like to share what my nominators had to say and why they put my name in the ring. 

Brayan’s eagerness to connect with students goes above and beyond. Brayan jumps at opportunities to showcase his marketing pursuits while sharing his story with students and encouraging values-driven careers. This semester, Brayan conducted an “Instagram Takeover” for the Career Management Center. In a series of posts, Brayan showcased his path in marketing and entrepreneurship. 

He explained how he develops a brand and builds business by focusing on relationships. This was a powerful glimpse for students to see someone using their business skills to carve their path. Throughout his posts, Brayan brought a focus toward inclusion, highlighting the passion he has for representing diverse brands in our communities.

Additionally, last semester Brayan came to Fort Collins to speak to Key Community first-year students in their Introduction to Business course. With this group, Brayan encouraged creating your career. He shared the impact of involvement as a student, having been in Alpha Phi Omega and the College of Business Mentoring Program, as well as student employment. Brayan was honest and open with students in sharing the context of intersectional identities as a student and professional.

Brayan is an incredible member of the CSU alumni community and his positive impact on students is greatly appreciated. 

*single tear…… or many* 

A huge thank you to Jason Radman, Cassie Shearholdt, and Patti Chapman for their nomination!

Another thank you to Dr. Jon Clevelenad the Lory student center career team for their acceptance. 

Thank you, and here's to helping marginalized students and artists.

Peace Love and YAMZ… AKA Brayan