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Kristopher Larsen
Why Running
"The University of Colorado is a special place, not just because I wouldn’t be here if my parents had not met on campus, but because of the thousands of incredible people who have pursued their education at this prestigious institution, and I want to see it continue to be accessible for decades into the future....
Much as when I ran for Nederland Mayor, my motivation to participate in politics is driven by my love for community and a deep desire to be a part of decisions that shape the future. I want to bring my experience and expertise as a scientist, national policy advisor, and former mayor, to the Board of Regents to help continue CU’s tradition of excellence. In this day and age, the CU system is ever more critical in serving all Coloradoans, continuing to lead the nation in critical research areas, defending the rights and opportunities for all, and, as one of the state’s largest employers, ensuring that all are treated fairly and with respect."
Education
PhD, Planetary Science, 1997 - 2003
BA, Physics, University of Colorado Boulder, 1993 - 1997
Professional Experience
Professional Research Assistant, University of Colorado Boulder, Jan 2012 – Present
Mayor, Town of Nederland, Apr 2016 – Apr 2022
Trustee, Town of Nederland, May 2014 – Apr 2016
Advocacy Coordinator and Science Education Policy Specialist, American Physical Society, 2008 – 2010
Research Associate, Washington University in St. Louis, Aug 1997 – May 2003
Community Involvement:
State Board Member, Climate Power 2020
Policy Statement Committee Member, American Geophysical Union, 2025 - Present
Policy Positions
Academic Freedom & Campus Climate: Protect CU from federal overreach and actively safeguard academic freedom so students and faculty can learn, teach, and research without political interference, ensuring every campus remains a welcoming environment for all.
Access & Affordability: Drive bold reforms to keep tuition affordable and expand pathways so every Colorado student who wants to attend CU can do so without taking on crushing, lifelong debt.
Support for CU’s Workforce: Strengthen CU’s role as a major state employer by guaranteeing living wages, strong benefits, and fair treatment for the faculty, staff, researchers, and student employees who power the university’s success.
Climate Leadership: Accelerate CU’s leadership on climate action by deploying the full strength of its research, operations, and investments to transition rapidly away from fossil fuels and pursue responsible divestment.
Institutional Leadership & Defense: Champion CU as Colorado’s premier public research institution by defending it against political threats, expanding access for all Coloradans, and modeling the values and excellence expected of a world‑class university.
Endorsements
NA