On Thursday, May 1, Colorado Mesa University will join schools across Mesa County in marking Decision Day—a milestone moment for high school seniors across the country as they embark on a new chapter.
CMU is bringing the Maverick spirit directly to students at Palisade, Central, Grand Junction, and Fruita Monument High Schools with a visit from CMU leadership, live music, the Rowdy mascot and a clear message: you belong here.
Whether pursuing a four-year degree at CMU or a place in the trades at CMU Tech, local students are making decisions that will shape their lives—and CMU is showing up to celebrate and support them every step of the way.
The celebration includes performances by CMU’s Mesa Brass Band and Maverick Opera & Lyric Theatre, motivational remarks from university leaders and check presentations showcasing the total scholarship dollars awarded to each school’s senior class.
As part of CMU’s deep and ongoing investment in local students, the university will award a combined $10.7 million in scholarships to graduates from five District 51 schools.
- Fruita Monument High School – $4,013,048
- Grand Junction High School – $3,067,016
- Palisade High School – $2,292,688
- Central High School – $951,016
- Caprock Academy - $401,672
The tour also serves as a local contribution to the Colorado Department of Higher Education’s Decision Day initiative, which recognizes the importance of postsecondary education.
Decision Day is more than a celebration—it’s a declaration that every student has the opportunity for a better life. And at Colorado Mesa University, that commitment starts right here at home.
Tour Stops, media invited to attend all or one:
- Palisade High School – 7:45-8:15 AM with President Marshall
- Central High School – 9:30-10:00 AM with President Marshall
- Grand Junction High School – 11:15-11:45 AM with VP Roberto Montoya
- Fruita Monument High School – 12:45-1:15 PM with VP Roberto Montoya