Metropolitan State University of Denver welcomes Mike Ramsey as director of External Affairs. Ramsey brings more than 15 years of experience in developing participant-centered, research-supported programming and engaging diverse stakeholder groups, including residents, students, businesses, educational institutions, artists and organizations. He will begin his new role Jan. 10. 

As director of External Affairs for MSU Denver, Ramsey will cultivate Universitywide partnerships with key organizations and leaders across metro Denver and Colorado; develop and implement a community-engagement strategy that raises awareness and creates opportunities to advance MSU Denver’s strategic priorities; and work with leaders to establish a collective and coordinated approach to external affairs. Ramsey will be based in the Office of the President, reporting directly to Kaycee Gerhart, executive director of Government Affairs. 

Mike Ramsey

“Born and raised in Denver, I am invested in community growth, ownership and investment for this city, and I’ve wanted to work at MSU Denver since I returned from working (as REACH Family and Community Engagement Manager) in New York City,” Ramsey said. “One of my top goals is to support dialogue among students, employees and interested community bodies and to sustain relationships over time.  

“Community engagement means seeking multiple perspectives and communal knowledge while being persistent and creative and having the ability to take thought-out risks. My approach is centering intentionality and relationships through meaningful partnerships, dialogue and action.” 

“Mike’s ability to establish equitable, respectful and mutually beneficial connections with external partners and community members is perfectly in line with MSU Denver’s values,” said Gerhart. “I’m excited for him to apply his thoughtful leadership and partnership approach to his work with MSU Denver Champions and Community Cabinet and to advance the 2030 Strategic Plan.”

Ramsey earned a bachelor’s degree in International Affairs from the University of Colorado Boulder as well as a master’s degree in Family and Community Education from the Columbia University Teachers College. Prior to joining MSU Denver, he served as a community-engagement specialist for the City and County of Denver’s Community Planning and Development Office. He also spent more than five years with the Denver Public Schools Family and Community Engagement Office as regional manager.