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For Rochelle Maki-Williams (Psych’96; ExecMBA’11), ����ֱ�� Boulder was more than a place to earn a degree — it was where she found her community, launched a successful career in telecommunications and built lifelong connections that continue to shape her story. From her leadership roles in technology to her volunteer work bridging the broadband gap in rural ����ֱ��, Rochelle exemplifies the spirit of a Forever Buff.����

Tell us a little bit about yourself.��

I’ve spent over 30 years in technology and telecommunications, with two decades in executive leadership. Recently, I stepped down as vice president of service at IQ Wired, but I still have ownership shares in the company. My latest passion project is volunteering for initiative. I co-chair the telecommunications committee, helping to ensure broadband access in rural communities. It’s incredible work because broadband brings opportunities for education and business that many take for granted.��

I live in Denver with my husband, T.H. Williams (A&S’95; MFin’04; MBA’04), who I met at ����ֱ�� Boulder, and our two daughters, Morgan and Hunter. We’re a proud Buff family through and through, with a deep love for the university and all it represents.��

What attracted you to ����ֱ�� Boulder?��

My dad lived in ����ֱ��, so I visited ����ֱ�� Boulder during my college search — and I was hooked. It was the only school I wanted to attend. Thankfully, I received an academic scholarship through my mom’s work, which helped with out-of-state tuition.��

I majored in psychology, but my career path shifted when I got a job with Call Connect during college. My manager asked if I’d like to learn about telecommunications, and that’s where it all began. ����ֱ�� Boulder was transformative. It’s where I grew up, built lifelong friendships and gained the confidence to forge my path.��

How did your time at ����ֱ�� inspire you to stay connected after graduation?��

Leaving home to attend ����ֱ�� was a leap of faith, but it was what I needed to grow and mature. Living in the dorms, I found my community and built friendships that have lasted a lifetime. My college years taught me bravery, independence and the value of connection — qualities that continue to shape me today.��

That sense of community inspired me to stay involved. ����ֱ�� is more than a university; it’s a family. I want to give back to a place that gave me so much.��

How do you engage with the university and the Alumni Association?��

I started volunteering with the Forever Buffs Denver chapter in 2011. We organize everything from watch parties for away football games to volunteer initiatives like Buffs Give Back, where we partner with Denver Health to make care packages for new moms.����

My favorite events are the scholarship luncheons, where we meet students and their parents. Hearing their stories and seeing how even a small contribution can make a big difference is incredibly inspiring.��

I’m also passionate about supporting ����ֱ�� Athletics and am a member of the , a group dedicated to supporting ����ֱ�� Athletics. My daughters, who are 10 and 12, often join me at volunteer events. It’s a way to instill the value of giving back as a family.��

What role do alumni play in ����ֱ�� Boulder’s success?��

Alumni are ambassadors for the university. We help ensure its continued growth and success by mentoring students, raising scholarship funds and sharing ����ֱ��’s achievements. Staying connected reinforces the value of our diplomas and empowers future generations of Buffs.��

How can other alumni reconnect with ����ֱ�� Boulder?��

It doesn’t take much time to stay connected, but it can make a big impact. Attend an event, mentor a student or simply visit campus to see how ����ֱ�� is evolving. It’s a great reminder of why you chose ����ֱ�� in the first place. Together, we can build a brighter future for the next generation of Buffs.��

What does being a Forever Buff mean to you?��

It’s all about community. There’s something special about talking to other Buffs — a shared pride that’s hard to explain. I like to say, “Buffs look after Buffs.” That sense of connection and support makes being a Forever Buff so meaningful.��