The School of Public Affairs is proud to celebrate Gabriella Ruyle, a first-year Criminal Justice major, for earning the Most Involved First-Year Student of the Semester award for fall 2025. CU Denver’s First-Year Experiences (FYE) program honors students for their outstanding engagement and leadership during their first semester on campus.

FYE’s mission is to help new students acclimate to college life through specially designed courses and activities that foster academic success and community connection.  

“Gabriella stood out as a leader in our SPA FYE course,” said Nayzeth Landa, MA, Early Success Academic Advisor at SPA. Nayzeth and Nora Scanlon, MCJ, MPA, Lead Academic Advisor & Programs Coordinator at SPA, teach the SPA FYE class. “She consistently went above and beyond, demonstrating leadership by advocating for her class, taking initiative in group projects, fostering inclusivity, maintaining strong communication, and encouraging peer engagement.” 

This award is highly competitive, as all first-year CU Denver students are eligible. Students are nominated by their UNIV Instructor and Peer Advocate Leaders (PALs) through a one-page justification, and the FYE team select recipients based on these nominations and student involvement records. Awardees receive a swag bag that includes a University of Colorado Denver blanket and cup, in addition to their certificate and recognition. 

During the celebration, FYE staff encouraged Gabriella to apply for a PAL position, which is a paid student leadership role that mentors first-year students and promotes engagement across campus. PAL applications are open now through Feb. 14, 2026. 

“Gabriella’s dedication to building community and supporting her peers exemplifies the spirit of the School of Public Affairs,” said Erin Orrick, Associate Professor and Director of Criminal Justice Programs at SPA. “We are proud to see our students leading with purpose and creating a welcoming environment for all. Her achievements remind us of the impact one student can have on shaping a stronger, more connected campus.”