Colorado State University was established in 1870 as the state's land-grant institution. Land-grant colleges were created through the Morrill Act of 1862, federal legislation that donated public lands to several states, the sale of which was intended to provide funds to establish and support institutions that would provide more broadly accessible and practical education.
With this commitment to access and service at its core, CSU continues to evolve and embrace what it means to be a land-grant in the 21st century. This includes:
- Providing a pragmatic, meaningful, and transformational educational experience
- Engaging in research that transforms the world
- Deploying knowledge and education to address pressing global challenges and improve the quality of life for people in Colorado and around the world
- Aiming for excellence in all aspects of its educational, research, and service missions
- Valuing diversity and the rich history that different populations bring to the academic community with a commitment to inclusion, opportunity, and success
The CSU mission is to provide an outstanding, competitive education; conduct important research that can improve the quality of life for people worldwide; and help meet the practical, informational, and economic needs of Colorado through an unparalleled commitment to outreach.
Colorado State University is led by President Amy Parsons.
