CMC News

Colorado Mountain College ski racing program likely to be discontinued following the 2025-26 season STEAMBOAT SPRINGS — Colorado Mountain College has informed student-athletes of the strong likelihood that the alpine ski racing program at the CMC Steamboat Springs campus will be discontinued after the 2025-26 season. The announcement follows an extensive review of the program’s financial sustainability and overall feasibility during the past five years. “Operating a ski team has become increasingly challenging, especially as costs rise at a pace that outstrips inflation,” said CMC President Matt Gianneschi. “This is not a decision we will make lightly. Nevertheless, given recent changes in state and local funding, we must allocate resources to mindfully support the long-term health of the college and the growing needs of enrolled students.” The program, which has been a part of CMC’s Steamboat Springs campus for more than two decades, has provided an opportunity for student-athletes to compete at a high level while pursuing their education. Despite recent successes under head coach Scott Tanner and the dedication of the athletes, it appears that the program’s financial demands have become unsustainable. “This is by no means a reflection on the hard work and passion of our coaches and student-athletes,” said JC Norling, vice president and campus dean of CMC Steamboat Springs. “We deeply appreciate their commitment and the proud legacy they have built over the years. They inspire us all with their accomplishments on and off the slopes.” The college intends to support the ski team through the 2025-26 race season to provide current student-athletes the opportunity to complete their studies or transition to other programs. During this time, CMC leadership will work closely with affected students, coaches and community partners, including the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club, to navigate this transition. “We understand the impact this decision… Read more: Colorado Mountain College ski racing program likely to be discontinued following the 2025-26 season

Colorado Mountain College announces Yesenia Silva Estrada as vice president of planning and chief of staff Colorado Mountain College has selected alumna and longtime employee Yesenia Silva Estrada as its vice president of planning and chief of staff following a national search. In this new leadership role, Silva Estrada will work directly with CMC President Matt Gianneschi and alongside the college’s leadership team to advance the college’s strategic plan, with a focus on fostering equity, innovation and community-driven impact. “Yesenia has proven herself to be a passionate and effective leader during her nearly 15 years at CMC,” Gianneschi said. “She exemplifies the college’s impact on students and our local mountain communities. I’m confident she will excel in this new role, ensuring that CMC meets its strategic objectives and continues to inspire future generations of students to reach their full potential.” Silva Estrada’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of education and CMC. Born in Chihuahua, Mexico, she moved to the United States at age 5 and grew up in Carbondale, where her parents worked in construction and housekeeping. After graduating from Roaring Fork High School, she became the first in her family to attend college, earning an Associate of Arts in business from CMC. She then transferred to Regis University, where she completed a Bachelor of Science in accounting. Returning to the Roaring Fork Valley, Silva Estrada made the purposeful decision to forgo an offer from a prestigious accounting firm to join CMC as a summer administrative assistant. In this role, she helped manage the Spanish helpline, supported youth programming and assisted with scholarship support, reflecting her early commitment to empowering underserved students and families. Over the years, she has grown alongside the college, holding increasingly impactful roles and earning a Master of Social Work from the University of Denver while working… Read more: Colorado Mountain College announces Yesenia Silva Estrada as vice president of planning and chief of staff