Dr. Mordecai Brownlee, President of the Community College of Aurora, recently represented the Colorado Community College System and the Community College of Aurora at the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine summit, “Reenvisioning the Future of STEM Research at Emerging Research Institutions”, held in Washington, D.C.
The national convening brought together higher education leaders, policymakers, and researchers from across the country to examine the evolving role of emerging research institutions and explore strategies to strengthen the nation's STEM research enterprise. Dr. Mordecai joined Colorado Department of Higher Education Executive Director JB Holston and fellow higher education leaders in a panel discussion focused on emerging opportunities within the U.S. research ecosystem.
During the discussion, President Brownlee emphasized the indispensable role community colleges play in advancing innovation, developing talent, and expanding economic opportunity. He highlighted that community colleges are not only gateways to higher education but also essential partners in preparing the workforce, fostering regional economic growth, and connecting education to the evolving needs of industry. "Community colleges are engines of innovation," Dr. Mordecai shared during the conversation. "As our nation reimagines the future of STEM research, it is critical that community colleges continue to have a seat at the table. The future of American competitiveness depends on developing talent in every community."
The summit reinforced the growing recognition that community colleges are vital contributors to America's research, innovation, and workforce development ecosystem. Through strategic partnerships with industry, government, and four-year institutions, colleges like the Community College of Aurora continue to expand opportunity, strengthen local economies, and prepare learners to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
