BFA in Visual Arts, Illustration Emphasis

Visual Arts Outstanding Graduate Lillie Wesley will graduate from CU Denver’s College of Arts & Media with a BFA in Visual Arts, emphasizing Illustration. Lillie has earned acclaim for her focus, creativity, and remarkable dedication to her craft.

“From the first class I had with Lillie, it was clear she was destined to create children’s books,” said Assistant Professor Charles Valsechi.

Lillie’s senior thesis, Sad Bear, exemplifies her exceptional talent and drive. She undertook the ambitious task of creating a multi-page children’s book, taking it from manuscript to final illustrations.

Lillie credits Jeff Lambson and Andrew Palamara at the Emmanuel Art Gallery as being influential mentors during her college experience. She says working at the gallery was one of her favorite parts of college.

Lillie’s artistic commitment and impressive portfolio showcase a bright future in illustration. She is taking psychology courses as part of her path toward pursuing a master’s degree in art therapy, combining her passion for art with a desire to help others.

Bachelors of Science in Music, Emphasis in Music Business

Denis Sullivan, named one of CU Denver’s Music & Entertainment Industry Studies “Outstanding Graduates,” has earned his BS in Music with an emphasis in Music Business. Known for his drive, versatility, and passion, Denis has distinguished himself as a future leader in the music industry.

This summer, he interned with Republic Records’ A&R team in New York City, gaining firsthand experience discovering artists, managing high-level schedules, and coordinating special projects for one of the world’s most iconic labels. Outside the classroom, Denis manages a band and actively builds his professional network, preparing for a career in artist management or booking.

“My favorite memories at CU Denver all come from the incredible events hosted by student-run organizations, where I met lifelong friends and future colleagues,” Denis shared.

Denis credits his success to faculty members Andy Rok, Matthew O’Brien, and Dan Hodges for their mentorship and guidance. With his talent and determination, Denis is ready to make his mark on the music industry.

Bachelors of Science in Music, Emphasis in Recording Arts

Madisyn Walker is graduating from CU Denver’s Music & Entertainment Industry Studies program with a BS in Music with an emphasis Recording Arts. As one of this fall’s “Outstanding Graduates,” Madisyn has been recognized for her exceptional work ethic, insightful approach to challenges, and enthusiasm for her craft.

She credits her professors for shaping her journey, with especially Assistant Professor Cecelia Wu, whose support and guidance during a challenging time left a lasting impact.

“She believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself,” Madisyn said.

Madisyn’s favorite memory as a Recording Arts student was her first experience recording foley in the surround sound studio with her friend Logan. “Every good take, we’d stop and say, ‘Oh my god, we’re professionals!” she said, recalling the confidence she gained during the process.

Post-graduation, Madisyn plans to dive into video game sound design while staying open to opportunities in mixing, sound tech, and performing her own bass music. Though bittersweet about leaving CU Denver, she proudly carries forward the lessons and experiences from an incredible program.

Bachelors of Science in Music, Emphasis in Recording Arts

Rowan Petersen will graduate from CU Denver’s Music & Entertainment Industry Studies program with a BS in Music, emphasizing Recording Arts.

Named one of this fall’s “Outstanding Graduates,” Rowan Peterson, graduating with a BS in Music with an emphasis in Recording Arts has distinguished himself as a cutting-edge artist, dynamic performer, and exceptional student who consistently pushes creative boundaries.

Originally focused on production and spoken word, Rowan has evolved into a multi-talented artist, taking up mandolin and crafting innovative music that fascinates professors and classmates. He is one-half of the creative duo The Peasantry and has grown immensely as a poet, vocalist, and fiction writer, shared Assistant Professor Dango Rose. Rowan credits Dango for encouraging him to embrace his unique voice. “Without Dango’s guidance, I wouldn’t have created the music that now shapes my future,” Rowan said.

Post-graduation, Rowan plans to pursue a career in editing and producing for broadcast and podcasts while continuing to perform with The Peasantry. He aspires to create art that unites and inspires, performing live shows unlike anything audiences have ever seen.

“Long live The Peasantry!” Rowan exclaimed, ready to embark on the next chapter of his artistic journey.

Bachelor of Arts in Art History

Victoria Harrison's primary area of study while at CU Denver was Art History. However, with minors in Illustration and Business, Victoria has uniquely positioned herself to pursue a career as a tattoo artist. During her time at CU Denver, Victoria has conducted two research projects on tattoo history. One of Victoria’s research projects focused on tattoo practices among Chinese ethnic minorities while her thesis project examines transnational South Korean tattoo practices—both topics having limited existing scholarship. According to Assistant Professor Yang Wang, Victoria’s “level of achievement is rare for an undergraduate student.”  Additionally, Wang describes Victoria as possessing “a combination of scholarly and creative achievement combined with interdisciplinary ambitions as an entrepreneur.”

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration

In addition to excelling in her classes in Visual Arts, Ella helped fellow art students in the film department with visual elements and assets for their film projects, one of which earned a Dean’s Creative Award grant thanks in part to Ella’s work on the project. An active member of the CU Denver Art Practices club, Ella has worked inside and out of the classroom to help others in their creative endeavors.  Serving as the club’s president during the 2023-2024 academic year, Ella oversaw successful events such as the fall 2023 art market and the spring 2024 exhibition “The Ties That Bind Us” at Pirate Contemporary Art. “She has an amazing ability to bring people together to create a positive and welcoming creative environment,” says Professor Melissa Furness.

Master of Science Media Forensics

Cesar excelled in his media forensics classes in the National Center for Media Forensics (NCMF) as well as being actively involved in the Audio Engineers Society (AES). During his time studying, Cesar produced scientifically sound and thoughtful work, including his thesis “Sound Spectrum Study Comparing Air Traffic Control to Consumer and Professional Audio Devices Recordings in Terms of Their Ability to Accurately Capture the Normal Operation Range of Propellor and/or Engine RPM in General Aviation Aircraft.” Director of the NCMF, Catalin Grigoras, and Cole Whitecotton, Senior Professional Research Assistant and Academic Services Professional, agree that Cesar’s research will be useful for law enforcement, safety agencies, and many other areas related to airplane accident reconstruction. 

Bachelor of Fine Art in Film & Television

During her time at CU Denver, Vicky Vien excelled in her filmmaking classes. Vicky’s work “stands out not only for its technical proficiency but also for its depth of storytelling and emotional resonance,” says David Liban, professor and chair of the Film & Television department. Not only did Vicky’s work stand out in her classes, but she also proved herself to be an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the film industry by participating in initiatives to promote underrepresented voices in the media. With a keen understanding of visual storytelling techniques, Vicky has established herself as a captivating and relevant filmmaker.

Bachelor of Science Music, Recording Arts and Music Business

Jordan began studying at CU Denver during the pandemic, when the school was utilizing fully remote classes. Demonstrating the qualities of a deeply dedicated musician, Jordan showed up for her weekly classes fully prepared to discuss and play through her assignments. In addition to studying music, recording arts, and music business, Jordan was also involved in the University Honors & Leadership program, which is quite demanding. When she was not studying, Jordan could often be found coordinating and operating sound for live music events, working in the Music & Entertainment Industry Studies (MEIS) recording core, and volunteering her time to serve on committees and student organizations. Sean McGowan, professor and chair of MEIS, says Jordan “demonstrated a record of excellence throughout her academic career here at CU Denver.”

Master of Science in Recording Arts 

During his studies at CU Denver, Gerald not only excelled in his academic pursuits, but also in leadership and mentorship. Serving as a core monitor while fulfilling the requirements of his master's degree in recording arts, Gerald provided invaluable support and guidance to his peers for their own research and projects. Gerald’s Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) research focused on an electronic guitar plugin development and speaks to his innovative spirit and desire to advance the boundaries of knowledge in the recording arts field. Branching outside the CU Denver community, Gerald engaged in interdisciplinary research across multiple CU campuses. Assistant Professor Jiayue Cecilia Wu says “Gerald’s communication skills, proactive approach to research, and unwavering commitment to his career development set him apart.”