Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film & Television, Production Emphasis 

Alex stood out in his film & television classes for his ability to establish and communicate a cohesive story and articulate its purpose. Demonstrating an interest in both nonfiction and narrative fiction genres, Alex is well suited to pursue both. As Professor Hans Rosenwinkel states, Alex’s “ability to study characters, define stories and translate their expressions on film in an artful manner can be seen in his own organic and intrinsic approach to the overall cinematic craft, which he craves with true passion and intent.”

Alex’s talent for filmmaking translates from the set to post-production. Whether he’s in the Director of Photography role, or in post-production sound and editing, Alex is a well-rounded filmmaker with many creative and technical abilities. Known for thinking outside the box, Alex pushed creative boundaries in his filmmaking classes while also being a collaborative and supportive classmate and student. 

While Hans says Alex’s well-rounded ability shows up in multiple areas of filmmaking, there’s one trait that he feels makes Alex exceptional: “He has a unique ability to find the deep intricacies of the characters and stories he wants to portray and his view of the world is shaped with purpose. I believe that his own human experiences have helped shape his insightful thinking about the world around him.” 

Alex is ready to meet the challenge of anything he sets out to do in the film and television production realm.

Bachelor of Science in Music, Music Business Emphasis

Syrena Hjelmgren has distinguished herself as a dynamic leader, accomplished scholar, and emerging professional within the music industry. Recognized as an outstanding graduate, Syrena has consistently demonstrated superior intellectual achievement, cultural insight, and a deep commitment to serving both the campus and broader creative community. Her work reflects the interdisciplinary, industry-connected spirit of CAM, and her accomplishments have brought recognition to the college on local, regional, and national levels.

Throughout her academic career, Syrena excelled in her coursework through thoughtful critical analysis and a strong understanding of music, media, and culture. Professor Lawrence Kaptain notes her ability to apply critical thinking and cultural insight across her academic and scholarly work, consistently engaging with projects at a high level of rigor and professionalism. 

Outside the classroom, Syrena has built an impressive record of leadership and professional experience across the music and entertainment industries. She joined Denver Lynx Radio during her first semester and quickly rose to Editor in Chief, overseeing editorial operations while contributing music journalism of her own. Within the Music Industry Student Association, she progressed from Secretary to President, organizing programming, coordinating industry guest speakers, and leading events that connected students directly with music professionals. Her leadership helped facilitate a collaborative mixer with the Colorado Music Industry Alliance that attracted more than 100 attendees.

Syrena’s industry experience spans major organizations and festivals across the country. She has worked with Summerfest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Warner Music U, JV Agency, Ravinia Festival, and Arista Records, contributing to marketing campaigns, artist activations, social media strategy, and live event operations for internationally recognized artists. Her involvement with Grammy U further highlights her dedication to professional growth and mentorship, culminating in her selection as a Grammy U Ambassador and participation in Grammy Week events in Los Angeles. In addition, Syrena has served on the Dean’s Student Advisory Council in CAM and was honored with the Lamond GenNext Award, which provided her the opportunity to attend The NAMM Show and volunteer at the She Rocks Awards.

Master of Science in Recording Arts

Master of Science in Recording Arts

Kevin (K) Koehler has distinguished himself through an exceptional blend of academic rigor, interdisciplinary research, and meaningful real-world engagement. As an outstanding graduate, Kevin’s work reflects a deep commitment to exploring the intersection of music psychology, neuroscience, and therapeutic practice. His academic achievements and intellectual curiosity position him as a thoughtful and forward-looking contributor to the evolving fields of music technology and audio research.

At the core of K’s accomplishments is his innovative thesis examining the role of music in shaping emotional dynamics within psychedelic-assisted therapy. Drawing from music psychology, neuroscience, and therapeutic practice, his research addresses a critical gap while proposing human-centered approaches to sound design in clinical settings. K’s ability to synthesize complex disciplines into cohesive, impactful work is matched by his exemplary academic performance; he consistently approached coursework as an opportunity for deeper inquiry. His contributions in the classroom fostered a collaborative and intellectually engaging environment, where he supported peers and elevated discussions through insight and curiosity.

Beyond the classroom, K has demonstrated a strong commitment to applied research and community engagement. He has collaborated with several Colorado-based therapy centers, gaining hands-on experience in the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted therapy and applying his academic knowledge in real-world contexts. Additionally, he sought out mentorship from an industry expert who served as a thesis advisor, further strengthening the practical relevance and depth of his work. As Assistant Professor Cecilia Wu notes, K’s “analytical depth, creative insight, and dedication to mentorship” distinguish him as a leader among his peers. With a unique ability to bridge theory and practice, K leaves CU Denver well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to the future of therapeutic audio and music technology.

Bachelor of Fine Arts, Digital Design Emphasis

Throughout his time at CU Denver, Evan Kosakowski has distinguished himself as an engaged, ambitious, and community-oriented artist whose work bridges thoughtful design with meaningful social impact. Recognized by multiple visual arts faculty as an outstanding graduate, Evan exemplifies the creativity, leadership, and professional initiative that define the CAM experience.

Evan has been an active and influential member of both the CAM and Denver arts communities. As Design Chair for CU Denver’s Art Practices Club, he developed the organization’s current brand identity and contributed work to multiple exhibitions, including serving as a co-juror for a show at the CU Denver Experience Gallery. His education at CU Denver has been shaped by two study abroad experiences in Denmark and Ireland, where he expanded his practice in digital design and interdisciplinary studio art. Evan has worked at the Emmanuel Art Gallery and CU Denver Experience Gallery for nearly three years, the last two of which he served as lead graphic designer for exhibitions, making collateral for shows featuring notable artists such as Shepard Fairey, Ashley Dreyfus, and Gregg Deal.

Beyond campus, Evan has built a strong presence in Denver’s creative scene. He has contributed large-scale installation work for Denver Startup Week and was commissioned by the Downtown Denver Partnership to co-create six mural installations along the 16th Street Mall. His digital animations have been featured prominently in the Denver Digerati Emergent Media Festival, appearing on billboards and the Daniels & Fisher Tower. In 2025, he was selected for a month-long artist residency at Odell Brewing and Ozo Coffee, where he also led community workshops.

Evan’s BFA thesis project reflects both his technical skill and his dedication to inclusive design. Focused on improving accessibility tools for differently-abled communities, his work seeks to foster greater personal connection, adaptability, and ease of use. As Associate Professor Travis Vermilye notes, Evan is “a good student, a strong designer, and a valuable member of our CAM community.” With a dynamic portfolio and a clear sense of purpose, Evan Kosakowski leaves CU Denver as a truly outstanding graduate poised to make a lasting impact in the field of digital design.