Presidential Faculty Fellowship

This distinguished opportunity offered not only professional growth but the chance to work with Dr. Janine Davidson, a great leader whose diverse background as the president of MSU Denver, as well as her military experience and tenure as the Undersecretary of the Navy, was a significant motivator for me.

Set against my deep love for MSU Denver, this role was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to contribute to the university I care so deeply for while growing as an academic and leader.

Highlights of the Experience 

Key Projects: My proudest achievement in the fellowship was organizing the inaugural MSU Denver Community Collab Summit, which attracted 200 attendees. While getting the idea off the ground was challenging, the event’s success underscored the power of collaboration and engaged a diverse group of university stakeholders. 

Collaborations: Working on key initiatives required close collaboration with departments such as Enrollment, Budget, Athletics, Student Affairs, Academic Affairs, and Government Relations. Each partnership offered a unique learning opportunity about the university’s operations and allowed me to build meaningful relationships with colleagues across these areas. 

Memorable Moments: Beyond the summit, some of my most cherished memories include team bonding activities—ranging from formal events to volunteering with Food for Thought. Meeting inspirational figures like Jim Mattis, General Laura J. Richardson, Dr. Angie Paccione, Donna Lynne, and our incredible Board of Trustees was also unforgettable. A special mention goes to Trustee Russell Noles for regularly engaging with my blog posts and championing my voice throughout the fellowship! 

As I look back on my year as the Presidential Faculty Fellow, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to grow, learn, and contribute to the university I love. This role has given me a clearer perspective on the intricacies of higher education and a deep appreciation for the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to support our students, faculty, and staff. 

I’m thankful for the challenges I faced, the lessons I learned, and the skills I developed—all of which have prepared me to better serve and advocate for our community. The support of colleagues and friends made this journey not only manageable but truly rewarding, and I carry with me a renewed sense of purpose and possibility.