Honoring Those Who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice
Today and this past weekend, I stood in places made sacred by sacrifice.
At both the Colorado Freedom Memorial and Fort Logan National Cemetery, I had the profound honor of remembering the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation and our freedom.
At the Colorado Freedom Memorial, I shared the story of a fallen soldier whose courage represents the very best of America. At Fort Logan National Cemetery, I was humbled to deliver keynote remarks honoring generations of heroes who never made it home, but whose sacrifice continues to shape the freedoms we enjoy each day.
Memorial Day is not simply about remembrance. It is about responsibility. Responsibility to live worthy of the sacrifices made on our behalf. Responsibility to lead with gratitude. Responsibility to serve something greater than ourselves.
As an Honorary Commander for Buckley Space Force Base Delta 2, I carry a deep appreciation for those who wear the uniform today and for the families who serve alongside them. Their commitment reminds us that freedom has always come at a cost.
May we never forget the fallen.
May we never take liberty for granted.
And may we always honor sacrifice with purposeful living and humble service.
Freedom is not free.
What a Hot Wing Challenge Taught Me About Leadership
In celebration of Community College Month, our Student Government Association invited members of our cabinet and me to participate in a “Hot Ones” wing challenge.
I said yes.
That was my first mistake.
What started as a fun student-led event quickly escalated. Each wing got hotter. The reactions got louder. And by the final round, I found myself fighting through tears and chugging nearly a quarter gallon of milk just to make it through.
But what made the experience meaningful had nothing to do with the heat.
After each wing, our students asked us questions. Real questions. About our personal journeys, our leadership, our vision for the college, and the impact of community colleges.
In between the laughter and the struggle, something powerful happened.
It was a reminder that leadership is not always found in formal meetings or carefully planned moments. Sometimes, it shows up when you are willing to be present, to be human, and to meet students where they are.
That day, our students did not just challenge our tolerance for spice. They challenged us to reflect, to listen, and to engage in a way that matters.
And while I may think twice before agreeing to another hot wing challenge, I will not hesitate to show up for moments like that again.
Because those are the moments that remind me why this work matters.
And why community colleges continue to change lives every single day.
Happy New Year as we head into 2026.
As a family, we begin each year with a strategic retreat—a time to step away, reflect, and be intentional about how we live and grow together. This year, we centered our conversations around three truths I want to share with you. Use them as you see fit—perhaps they’ll encourage you as well.
1️⃣ Change will remain a constant.
History, economics, and geopolitics all remind us that uncertainty is not new. Because change is inevitable, it’s essential to build strong homes with strong internal infrastructure—values, discipline, and clarity—that allow us to pivot and adjust with wisdom rather than fear.
2️⃣ Intentionality matters in everything.
How we spend our time.
How we speak to one another.
How we show up in relationship.
How we support and hold each other accountable.
None of this should be accidental. What we do daily shapes who we become.
3️⃣ Change is part of growth—and growth has seasons.
We talked with our children about purpose, identity, and mission, but also about seasons. Every season teaches us something and prepares us for what comes next. Staying aware of the season we’re in helps us move forward with clarity and peace, rather than resistance.
Our plan for 2026 is simple: to remain centered, grounded in purpose, and faithful to the season we are called to serve in.
Wishing you and your family a Happy New Year. God bless.
Dr. Mordecai Walk 71-Miles to Raise Money and Awareness for Student Emergency Funds
Dr. Mordecai Brownlee has officially completed the full 71-mile Miles with Mordecai journey—crossing the finish line just after 6 PM last night.
This extraordinary effort, powered by purpose and community, has already raised over $90,000 for the Community College of Aurora’s Emergency Student Fund. These dollars will directly support CCA students during the holiday season as they work to stay enrolled, overcome unexpected financial barriers, and continue their pursuit of economic mobility.
Throughout the journey, Dr. Brownlee was joined by staff, students, alumni, community partners, and supporters who walked miles alongside him, offered encouragement, donated, prayed, and shared uplifting messages. Their collective strength fueled every step.
In the final stretch, members of the CCA community showed up to walk the last two miles with him, bringing energy and heart that carried the journey home. This is what community looks like.
As Dr. Brownlee often says, may we never forget the power of humanity, care, and our responsibility to one another.
And there is still time to give and make a difference:
👉 CCAurora.edu/71-miles 🦊
Miles with Mordecai: Walking the High Line Canal for Student Success
This November, I’ll be walking all 71 miles of the High Line Canal—yes, all 71—in support of the Community College of Aurora’s Student Emergency Assistance Fund.
Every step I take represents the journey of our students—balancing classes, jobs, and family while striving for a better future. When unexpected hardships arise—food insecurity, housing struggles, medical emergencies—our Student Emergency Fund steps in to help them stay the course.
This year, I’m not just talking about commitment to our students. I’m walking it.
👟 Join me on the trail.
💙 Make a gift to support CCA students.
🎯 Every dollar is matched—thanks to a $71,000 gift from Molly Link in memory of Bill Wiggins.
Together, let’s raise $142,000 and go the distance for student success.
👉 Donation Link: https://www.coloradogives.org/story/eoh21f
👉 Walk Sign-Up Link: https://ccaurora.formstack.com/forms/miles_with_mordecai_signup
Happy Birthday, Dr. Mordecai
Today, I turn 41.
As I pause to reflect on my journey thus far, I am reminded that it is an honor to serve. The greatest gift we can ever receive is discovering our purpose and finding joy in the mission that God has placed in our hands.
If you are reading this, I want to encourage you:
Stay focused on your purpose, even when distractions call your name.
Keep your family first, because leadership always begins at home.
Find peace with the person staring back at you in the mirror. Therapy helped me, and it can help you!
And when challenges come, and they will, let your mission be the compass that guides your steps.
We are all entrusted with a unique assignment. The joy is not only in fulfilling it but in becoming who we were meant to be along the way.
Here’s to another year of living with intention, leading with love, and serving with gratitude.
Reflecting on 2024
2024 has been a year of growth, challenges, and invaluable lessons. One thing stands clear: Never let a situation, challenge, or obstacle steal your joy. Your smile is your power. Stay true to yourself, embrace your calling, and live boldly in the fullness of your purpose.
Good Morning, Champions! Week 52 of 2024
🌟 Good Morning, Champions! 🌟
As we close the chapter on 2024, I wanted to take a moment in this final Good Morning Champions message to reflect, recharge, and refocus. This year has been filled with lessons, growth, and moments that have shaped us in profound ways. But before we step into the new year, I want to leave you with three pillars to carry forward:
1️⃣ Prioritize Your Wellness – You can’t pour from an empty cup. Physical, mental, and emotional well-being aren’t luxuries – they are necessities for leadership and success. Take care of YOU.
2️⃣ Be Intentional with Your Time – Time is the greatest currency. How you spend it reflects what you truly value. In 2025, let’s eliminate distractions and double down on what truly matters.
3️⃣ Apologize & Make Things Right – Growth is about humility. Knowing when to apologize and taking steps to right wrongs creates stronger relationships and builds unshakable character.
🔑 These three areas will not only elevate your personal journey but also shape the communities and teams around you. Let me know in the comments – Which of these resonates most with you as we step into 2025? Here’s to closing the year with gratitude and stepping into 2025 with purpose, clarity, and courage.
Good Morning, Champions! Week 51 of 2024
🌟 Good Morning, Champions! 🌟
This week, it’s story time. Let me take you back to the why behind this weekly series and honor the incredible individuals who inspired me to start it. When I began Good Morning, Champions, it wasn’t just about motivation; it was about celebration—celebrating the resilience, grit, and purpose that each of us carries.
This inspiration came from three pivotal figures in my life:
❤️ My Mother: She taught me that life’s challenges are not barriers but stepping stones. Her unwavering faith and dedication to others planted the seed of hope and perseverance in me.
🎓 Dr. Michael A. Baston: A visionary leader and mentor who showed me the power of purposeful action. His belief in elevating others sparked my passion for inspiring leaders like you to see the champion within.
🎓 Dr. John J. Sygielski 🏳️🌈: A relentless advocate for servant leadership, who embodies grace, strategy, and compassion in every endeavor. He reminded me that success is not just what we achieve but what we inspire in others.
So today, I encourage you to reflect on your journey, your mentors, and your purpose. Let this be a reminder: You have everything within you to inspire, lead, and win.
Good Morning, Champions! Week 50 of 2024
☀️ Good Morning, Champions! ☀️
As we near the close of 2024 and set our sights on the promise of 2025, I invite you to pause and reflect on three transformational lessons I’ve explored through the Good Morning Champions series:
✅ Intentionality: How are you aligning your actions with your purpose? Success is rooted in being deliberate about what matters most.
✅ Self-Care: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritizing your well-being isn’t just important—it’s essential for sustainable growth.
✅ Owning Your Journey: Every step forward is a testament to your resilience. Embrace your unique path, because your story matters.
In this week’s message, I dive deeper into these themes and share actionable insights to inspire your journey into the new year. Let’s finish 2024 with focus and step boldly into 2025 with clarity, confidence, and determination. 🚀
Good Morning, Champions! Week 49 of 2024
🌟 Good Morning, Champions! Week 49 is here! 🌟
In this week’s message, I reflect on the approaching conclusion of the Good Morning Champions video series. As we near the finish line, I’m reminded of the power of intentionality—not just for these final episodes, but for all areas of life. This series was always about one thing: helping us all grow and live better, more purposeful lives. I also share a glimpse into my daily routine and the importance of prioritizing what truly matters to each of us. Let’s make every day count! Catch this week’s message and join me in finishing 2024 strong. 🚀
Good Morning, Champions! Week 48 of 2024
☀️ **Good Morning, Champions!** ☀️
It's time for our Week 48 message for 2024. This week, let’s reflect on the theme of Thanksgiving and gratitude. I encourage you to be grateful for those who have made a positive impact on our lives, whether the times were good or challenging. Through resilience and healing, we can find purpose and become better people. 🚀
Good Morning, Champions! Week 47 of 2024
☀️ **Good Morning, Champions!** ☀️
It's time for our Week 47 message for 2024. This week, let’s discuss the importance of being thankful for our challenges and setbacks. We have the power to control how we respond to these moments, and by leaning into the friction and fire, we can come out stronger and more resilient - making us into the champions we are meant to be.