Colorado University Athletics
Ralphie
- Title:
- Ralphie Program Manager
- Email:
- john.graves@colorado.edu
- Phone:
- 303-887-9677
John Graves is in his fourth year as the Ralphie Live Mascot Program Manager, having assumed the position in July 2015. He was promoted from the assistant director position which he had held since April 2010.
Graves, 31, is more than familiar with the program, as he served as a Ralphie Handler for his sophomore through senior years (2007-09); he won the Handlers’ “Rookie of the Year” Award in 2007.
He holds Humane Handling certifications for both cattle and horses, as well as a Humane Livestock Transportation certification. He also has been working with the National Bison Association to develop similar standards for buffalo (bison). He also holds an ISSA Strength and Conditioning Certification – Level 2, is a USA Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach - Level 1, and is certified in First Aid, AED and CPR. Graves also does extensive work with both the National Bison Association and the Rocky Mountain Buffalo Association.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in Science in Business Administration from CU in December 2009, and his master’s in Agriculture from Colorado State University in May 2016.
He was born January 6, 1987 in Salisbury, Md., and graduated from Aurora (Colo.) Grandview High School where he lettered in football, hockey and lacrosse. His hobbies include camping, mountain hiking and running. He is married to the former Jennifer Gray, who also works at the university as the financial aid communications coordinator.
