Meet the Finalists for Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Sent: Jan. 15, 2021

Dear Colleagues,

I’m pleased to invite you to meet the finalists for our next vice chancellor for diversity, equity, and inclusion (VCDEI). 

This is a vital role for our campus, now more than ever. In an increasingly fractured world, we need the next generation of leaders to have the toolset to find common ground and to develop better solutions. And here at CU Denver, where our incredibly diverse group of students reflect the changing demographics of Colorado and the nation, we have a rare opportunity to lead the way in helping our future leaders develop those skills. This requires an environment in which we really listen to each other, learn about our differences, and find empathy for each other in a respectful way. Our society needs campuses like CU Denver to make this a priority.

I know that so many of you care about this, too. In my July 2020 equity listening sessions you impressed upon me the need to have this role focus specifically on the CU Denver campus to ensure a more just, equitable and belonging climate here. We listened and adjusted the position’s scope accordingly. You also provided valuable feedback last October, at the beginning of our national search, on the key qualities and qualifications that will be integral to the success of this position. 

To continue to engage our campus community in the selection for this important role, we invite you to attend virtual forums to meet each of four finalists. The forums for faculty and staff will be held from 10-11 a.m. on January 20, 21, 22 and 25. Recordings will be available for those who are unable to attend.

Thank you for helping us identify a leader who will help CU Denver foster an environment that encourages the difficult but necessary building of trust across difference.

Michelle Marks
Chancellor
@MarksMichelleA