The Metropolitan State University of Denver Foundation is governed by a volunteer board of directors committed to the ongoing support and advocacy for the University, generating philanthropic support for institutional priorities, supporting program innovation and more.
The foundation welcomes new board members Barb Grogan, Kevin Kelley and Brian O’Neil.
“We are delighted to have these passionate community leaders joining the foundation board,” said Christine Márquez-Hudson, vice president of University Advancement and executive director of the MSU Denver Foundation. “They bring a tremendous passion for MSU Denver, fundraising experience and needed skill sets.”
Barbara B. Grogan
Founder and CEO
Western Industrial Contractors Inc.
Barb Grogan was the founder and CEO of Western Industrial Contractors Inc., a firm specializing in designing and installing industrial systems and equipment throughout the U.S. She has served on corporate and nonprofit boards and received recognition for her contributions, including being inducted into the Colorado Business Hall of Fame. Grogan is a community volunteer, activist and philanthropist focused primarily on education who spent the past eight years as a member of the MSU Denver Board of Trustees, two as chair.
“I’ve seen how the lack of proper funding impacts our University, and I’ve watched dedicated faculty and staff work tirelessly to meet the needs of our extraordinary students,” said Grogan. “Although my (Trustee) term ended, I will serve MSU Denver as a member of the foundation board, helping raise the vital funds needed to ensure that our fabulous students can graduate as proud Roadrunners who make this world a better place.”
Kevin H. Kelley
Office managing partner
Husch Blackwell LLP
Kevin Kelley, a partner with Husch Blackwell LLP, advises clients on a wide range of commercial-real-estate topics, including navigating complex mixed-use and reuse development projects such as the redevelopment of Denver’s historic Union Station. Beyond traditional real-estate law, he regularly advises clients on professional-sports-facility deals, including working to bring Major League Baseball’s Rockies to Colorado. Kelley also serves on the Downtown Denver Partnership board.
“Homegrown talent is one of Colorado’s greatest natural resources, and MSU Denver contributes diverse new talent, perspectives and ideas to our economy,” said Kelley. “Serving on the foundation board allows me to help expand the University’s reach and contribute to new models for leveling the playing field for students from different backgrounds. I’m excited to create meaningful, lasting change.”
Brian O’Neil
Executive director and banker
J.P. Morgan Private Bank
Brian O’Neil, executive director and banker in the J.P. Morgan Private Bank Denver office, advises clients and helps them transform their successful enterprises into sustainable legacies. O’Neil, a Certified Financial Planner, has spent almost 20 years working in private banking, institutional and leadership roles; before his current role, he was a senior wealth strategist with BNY Mellon Wealth Management. In addition, O’Neil is deeply interested in his community and is involved with Laradon, Young Ameritowne, Junior Achievement and the Highlands Ranch Community Association.
“MSU Denver is similar to the school where I received my undergraduate degree — many students were first-generation, and a large percentage worked full-time,” said O’Neil. “It’s an honor and privilege to serve on the foundation board at this juncture of my career.”
Read the complete bios of all board members and learn more about the MSU Denver Foundation.