A Roadrunner Conversation with General Laura J. Richardson
Friday, April 28, 2023
11:30 a.m.
CAVEA Theater

As leaders from across the nation come together in Denver to promote regional cooperation at the Cities Summit of the Americas, President Davidson is delighted to host the United States Commander of Southern Command, General Laura J. Richardson for a fireside chat. In this intimate conversation, General Richardson will share what experiences led to her distinguished career as an Army officer, helicopter pilot, and ultimately to becoming the highest ranking woman in the U.S. Army.  We will discuss what CORE values of leadership contributed to her success and the vast array of exciting career opportunities that exist in international affairs and public service.

General Laura J. Richardson is a native of Northglenn, CO and a graduate of Metropolitan State University of Denver. She was commissioned into the U.S. Army and trained as an Army aviator.

Over her career, General Richardson has commanded from the Company to Theatre Army level. She commanded an Assault Helicopter Battalion in combat in the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), deploying her unit from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, to Iraq in 2003-04 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. She has also served in numerous staff assignments at myriad locations, including military aide to the vice president at the White House, the Army’s legislative liaison to Congress and at the Pentagon as an Army campaign planner.

Immediately following this conversation, the MSU Denver Classroom to Career Hub and the Institute for Public Service invite students to attend the U.S. Department of State Career Showcase with Uzra Zeya, the Under Secretary for Civilian Security, Democracy and Human Rights. Under Secretary Zeya will speak about her exciting career journey, provide an introduction to the U.S. Department of State, and highlight the many career and internship opportunities available to students. Lunch will be served.