The Best of 2020

As we say goodbye to 2020, let’s take a look back at some of the most-read stories of the year. 

University News

University of Denver Soars in Top College Rankings

The University of Denver saw a double-digit jump in U.S. News & World Report's best colleges ranking, making it the highest rated institution in Colorado. DU is now No. 80 of around 400 schools on the list for Best Colleges of 2021. Click to read more about where DU falls on the board for the best study abroad programs and the best colleges for veterans. 

Runner Up: University of Denver Scores High Marks From The Princeton Review

Research Stories

New DU Research Measures Impact of Denver's Pit Bull Ban

In October, the Institute for Human-Animal Connection released new research on Denver's controversial pit bull ban, which was overturned in November's election. The study investigated the economic costs, how it has impacted animal welfare outcomes and the social impacts. Click here to read what the researcher says is the most "stunning" part of the findings. 

Runner Up: New DU Survey Shows Couples Are Strengthening Relationships During COVID-19

Faculty Expertise

Q&A: What Does the Versailles Treaty Teach Us About the Aftermath of War?

On the anniversary of the Treaty of Versailles, the DU Newsroom asked Carol Helstosky, the chair of DU's Department of History, to walk us through history and weigh in on lessons learned from the aftermath of war. Check out the story for Helstosky's additional reading suggestions if you are interested in learning more about the treaty.

Runner Up: Q&A: Revisiting the Influenza Pandemic of 1918

Student Stories

DU Senior Finishes as One of the Most Decorated Gymnasts in Program History

Read about the impressive accomplishments of one of DU's best gymnasts in program history, Maddie Karr. She was one of the most sought-after gymnasts in the country going into college, but she recalls, "Denver was automatically my No. 1 choice, with or without gymnastics." Read more about her time at DU and post-graduation plans. 

Runner Up: Summer Summits: Graduate Student to Tackle 58 Fourteeners for Humanitarian Cause

Alumni Stories

DU Graduate Hopes to Use the Law to Continue Serving His Country and the World

This alumnus is hoping to make a difference in the world with environmental law. He graduated from DU in May after six years at the Sturm College of Law. He made the most of his time at DU, earning dual master's degrees in environmental and natural resources law, his JD and his LLM in international business transactions. 

Runner Up: Alumni Bring Grocery Store to Montbello Food Desert

Field Notes

DU Field Notes: Best Campsites Near Denver

In this series, the DU Newsroom introduces readers to the world outside campus by exploring Denver and the near beyond. This was the year of quarantining, but Colorado’s beauty makes it easy to social distance out in nature. Check out some of our favorite campsites, and right now is the perfect time to book for next summer. 

Runner Up: DU Field Notes: Alumni-Owned Food Trucks