Davidson’s Desk: Democracy depends on an informed citizenry

Roadrunners and friends, 

What does it take to sustain a healthy democracy? We often focus on elections, institutions and the people we choose to lead them. But democracy also depends on something more fundamental: an informed, engaged citizenry. 

That’s where higher education has a critical role to play. I believe one of our most important responsibilities is helping people make sense of the world around them, understand complex issues and develop the critical-thinking skills to participate meaningfully in our democracy. 

That responsibility extends beyond the classroom. Universities bring students, scholars, policymakers and community members together to examine complex issues, ask difficult questions and consider different perspectives. 

That role is especially valuable in a world where information is abundant but understanding can be the real challenge. Universities can help bridge that gap by connecting academic expertise with real-world challenges and creating space for thoughtful, informed dialogue. 

At MSU Denver, we take that responsibility seriously. 

Earlier this month, we partnered with 9News to host a U.S. Senate debate, giving students and community members an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates seeking to represent Colorado in Washington. Through our Institute for Public Service, we connect students with opportunities to serve their communities, including paid internships in Washington. And through events and conversations with policymakers from across the political spectrum, we bring people together to examine complex issues and engage in civil dialogue. 

Having spent much of my career in public service, I’ve seen how progress depends on people willing to listen, work across differences and reconsider their assumptions. 

That’s the kind of engagement we strive to foster at MSU Denver, and it’s a responsibility we share with the broader community. 

With the Nov. 3 election approaching, I encourage every eligible Coloradan to make a plan to participate. MSU Denver’s voting resources page offers information to help voters prepare, including links to registration, ballot information and voting locations. 

And remember that civic engagement doesn’t end on Election Day. It continues through the conversations we have, the issues we take time to understand and the ways we contribute to our communities. I invite you to attend a campus conversation, bring someone with a different perspective, and take what you’ve learned back into your own community. 

Higher education’s value extends far beyond the degrees we award and the careers we help launch. By bringing people together, encouraging thoughtful dialogue and helping make sense of a complex world, universities can strengthen the communities and democracy we all share. 

Janine Davidson, Ph.D.
President, MSU Denver 

MSU Denver in the News  

National pilot shortage is fueling growth in MSU Denver’s aviation program (Denver7)
MSU Denver said its aviation program is now the university’s second most popular major as airlines work to fill pilot positions. A RED story contributed to the coverage. 

First-generation MSU Denver student turns cybersecurity training into internship at Sierra Space (CBS Colorado)
For one student at Metropolitan State University of Denver, an internship at Sierra Space began with training at the University’s Cybersecurity Center. 

New MSU Denver scholarship helps students afford college without extra application (Denver7)
MSU Denver is expanding access with a $3.25 million scholarship initiative aimed at helping more students afford a college education. A RED story contributed to the coverage. 

Roy Romer on the importance of education, diversity and why failures by Congress are a warning sign (Colorado Public Radio)
Romer, 97, spoke with “Colorado Matters” to discuss donating his career papers to Metropolitan State University of Denver. A RED story contributed to the coverage. 

Stories from MSU Denver  

Former Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen to speak at MSU Denver
The trailblazing economist will join President Janine Davidson for a public conversation about the economy, higher education and lessons from a historic career in public service. 

Ask a Professor turns difficult topics into opportunities for dialogue
MSU Denver faculty host student discussions designed to put the “civil” back in civil discourse and show that disagreement doesn’t have to mean division. 

MSU Denver sees growth in full-time students, while overall numbers remain stable
Preliminary enrollment numbers reflect the University’s ongoing efforts to make college accessible and to welcome students from diverse backgrounds. 

Upcoming MSU Denver events  

President’s Speaker Series with Janet Yellen
Oct. 29 | 1:30-2:30 p.m.
King Center Recital Hall 

Holiday Card to the City
Dec. 4 and 5| 7:30 p.m.
King Center Concert Hall 

Fall Commencement
Dec 11 | 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Colorado Convention Center