Don't use a colon to separate sentence elements that belong together, such as an action verb from its objects or a linking verb from its complements.
The university sent us catalogs, maps, housing applications, and transportation information.
NOT The university sent us: catalogs, maps, housing applications, and transportation information.
The four things I want are success in business, a happy marriage, creative fulfillment, and peace of mind.
NOT The four things I want are: success in business, a happy marriage, creative fulfillment, and peace of mind.