As the oldest independent higher education institution in the Rocky Mountain West, our history mirrors that of the city we call home—full of challenges and mile-high triumphs, obstacles and far-reaching successes. We've hosted civil rights leaders and presidents and served as an epicenter of activism and discourse for the Lakewood area. Our story is characterized by student traditions like the First Snow celebration and support of our championship-winning sports teams. Driven by excellence in research and scholarship, Lakewood has had a longstanding role in shaping our city and the region as a whole.