For Shedeur Sanders and the Buffaloes, building a positive image this Big 12 season is paramount. Leading them in this endeavor is Camden Dempsey, a former Buffs offensive line star who has recently been named Colorado’s “football governor.”

Dempsey, who as the Governor is banking on new initiatives to foster change, just announced “three players-led” programs launching next week. These are sure to embellish the Buffs’ positive image. 

Per Dempsey’s recent video, first up is the “Adopt a Highway Program” — a chance for Buffs athletes, including Shedeur, to give back by cleaning up “the stretch of Highway 36” and keeping Boulder beautiful. Next, they’ll be partnering with “Colorado’s Children’s Hospital.” Buffs’ special teams player Christiano Palazzo is already spearheading this effort, which will see players like Shedeur and Hunter visiting patients and creating special moments.

The third initiative involves “partnering with a precious child out of North Boulder” to help underprivileged youth in the community. These player-led programs are throwing a spotlight on the Buffs’ commitment to social responsibility. However, beyond these, Dempsey also announced a “Special Olympics Youth Camp on June 11th” and they’re “going to be partnering with a hundred students and young children who have special needs….to enjoy a football camp here out on Folsom Field.” Governor Dempsey then added, “Myself, Shedeur, and a lot of our other athletes will be down there hosting it.” 

Dempsey also highlighted additional university-led programs, including “Team Impact,” which connects athletes with critically ill individuals, and a women’s welfare program. While the extent of player participation in these initiatives remains to be seen, the Buffs are clearly prioritizing building a strong brand image before their August season opener.

Shedeur Sanders & Co. is building a Buff brand

Governor Dempsey announced exciting news alongside the player-led initiatives. The 5430 Alliance NIL, which supports CU athletes financially, is hosting two events to bridge the gap between the team and supporters.

First, there is a “meet-up” event on June 15 at Folsom Field that will allow fans to interact directly with players like Shedeur Sanders. Then, on August 23, just before the season opener, the Alliance will hold its annual “Luncheon” at the indoor practice facility. Now, the tickets are going $100 for individual fans and $2,000 for a table. These events offer fans a chance to connect with the team and contribute to player development through donations to the 5430 Alliance.

It seems like the Buffs are building goodwill with the local community before the Luncheon, which might help them sell more tickets for their NIL event. This effort to boost their image in Boulder could also have a wider impact, especially considering their well-planned good deeds.