The Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) will host the GRIT Summit 2026: GRIT City at the Ent Center for the Arts, 5225 N. Nevada Ave., from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on March 6, 2026. This annual event brings together community members, GRIT Coaches, and newcomers to explore resilience strategies that strengthen individuals and communities.

This year’s theme, GRIT City, focuses on resilience at scale, how personal and collective efforts can create thriving communities. Attendees will gain practical tools, hear inspiring stories, and connect with leaders in resilience-building.

Mayor Yemi Mobolade will once again open the event this year. Keynote speakers include Jennifer Sobanet, UCCS Chancellor; Leah Davis Withrow, Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum; Brian Hall, Former Foreign Service Officer; Paul Yankey, UCCS College of Business; Kristen Christy, Resilience Advocate and Resilience Speaker; and Aja Black, Artist and Resilience Expert.

The program begins at 9:00 a.m. with opening remarks, followed by morning and afternoon keynote sessions. Lunch will be available at University Village, and closing remarks conclude at 4:00 p.m.

Attendees also receive discounted access to GRIT Live Training sessions on February 27 and April 3 at the Lane Center for Academic Health Sciences.

The Greater Resilience Information Toolkit (GRIT), developed by the Lyda Hill Institute for Human Resilience, is a free, evidence-based program designed to foster resilience through relationships and community support. Since its inception during the COVID-19 pandemic, GRIT has trained thousands worldwide, reducing stress and improving well-being. Visit today at grit.uccs.edu/grit-conference-2026 for details on registration and sponsorship opportunities.

The National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) has released the 2025–26 Learfield Directors’ Cup Division II Fall Standings, and UCCS is ranked No. 1 in Division II with 289.50 points to lead all 124 ranked teams. This follows the most successful fall season in school history with all five programs–Men’s and Women’s Soccer, Volleyball and Men’s and Women’s Cross-Country.

Join in celebrating this achievement on Thursday, February 26 at Gallogly Event Center during the upcoming basketball games! The women’s game is at 5 p.m. and the men’s game is at 7 p.m.

Students will receive free concessions of cotton candy and popcorn, and the first 500 fans will receive a free foam hand. The UCCS Dance Team will perform as part of the celebrations.

This campus-wide celebration brings together our entire community to honor a milestone moment for UCCS Athletics. We hope to see you there.