The Colorado Men of Color Collaborative (CMOCC) is excited for our 2nd Annual Summer White Affair! This exclusive summer gathering is designed to bring together Colorado’s most dynamic leaders, professionals, and changemakers for a night to remember.
Date: Friday, June 13, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Governor’s Residence at the Boettcher Mansion
Dress Code: All-white attire encouraged—let’s set the scene with elegance and unity.
🌟 Why You Can’t Miss This:
Step into the historic beauty of the Governor’s Residence and be surrounded by mission-driven visionaries who are shaping the future of Colorado. This is your chance to build powerful connections, celebrate our collective impact, and elevate your network in an atmosphere that blends sophistication with purpose. We will also be honoring several organizations for their extraordinary work within our community!
- Nonprofit Organzation of the Year
- Emerging Organization of the Year
- STEM/STEAM Community Partner Award
- Emerging Leader Award
🎤 Special Guest Speaker:
We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Mordecai Brownlee, President of the Community College of Aurora! A nationally recognized voice in higher education and a fierce advocate for equity and innovation, Dr. Brownlee will deliver a message that will ignite your passion and inspire your path forward.
🤝 Sponsorships Available:
Is your organization committed to equity, representation, and real impact? Let’s partner and amplify the movement together.
🔗 RSVP & Learn More: https://lnkd.in/gHHVnrZ6
📧 Questions? Reach out at contact@cmocc.org
Let’s show up all white, all purpose, all community.
Daphne Brownlee Graduates From Leadership Aurora
Recently, Dr. Mordecai celebrated his bride, Daphne, and her completion of a 10-month leadership development program tailored specifically for the community of Aurora, Colorado. Congratulations, Daphne!
What Happened After This College Discontinued 30 Programs? More Faculty. Better Jobs. Higher Student Completion. Jobs for the Future Shares the Story.
When I became president of the Community College of Aurora, I knew bold change was necessary, but I also knew fear could stop us before we ever got started.
As an institution, we made the difficult decision to discontinue 30 outdated academic programs. But before we did, I had one job: remove the fear. Our faculty needed to know their value wouldn’t be lost in the change—it would be reimagined. And once fear was off the table, innovation walked in the door. TOGETHER, our institution was able to:
- Grow our faculty ranks.
- Launch workforce-relevant programs.
- Increase student enrollment.
- Improve student upward economic mobility.
This is what happens when you lead with courage, clarity, and an unwavering commitment to students. We are grateful to Jobs for the Future (JFF) for spotlighting our story and for creating space to explore how institutions across the country are redefining the future of work and learning.
Join JFF at the 2025 Horizons Summit in New Orleans to be part of the movement.
Late registration is now open: https://horizons.jff.org/annual-summit/registration
https://youtu.be/Y-Qq0ZrXHHM
Brand New Episode is Now Available!
In this conversation, Dr. Mordecai interviews Erika Liodice, the executive director of AFIT, discussing her mission to empower changemakers in higher education. Erika shares her professional journey from marketing to leading AFIT, emphasizing the importance of accessible innovation, collaboration, and listening to the needs of educators. She offers valuable insights on navigating challenges in the education sector, the significance of infusing joy into work, and overcoming creative blocks. The discussion concludes with Erika's excitement for the future of AFIT and the collaborative opportunities ahead.
Head over to the video section to watch!
Brownlee Family Presented With Colorado State Flag by Colorado Freedom Memorial
This morning, my heart was deeply moved as the Colorado Freedom Memorial honored me and my family with a presentation of the Colorado flag. Standing on sacred ground dedicated to those who gave everything for our freedoms and receiving such a gesture was an honor.
Our children were also named Honorary Colorado Silver Air Patrolmen, a recognition that will stay with them forever and instill the values of service, sacrifice, and pride.
Thank you to the Colorado Freedom Memorial for this unforgettable honor. From our family to yours, thank you. It is an honor to serve this community.
Highlight Video Includes Dr. Mordecai's Keynote Address at Houston ISD's "For Teachers, By Teachers - Literacy and Social Studies Conference"
Thank you, Houston Independent School District!
Meeting the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor
I am grateful to the Colorado Business Roundtable for arranging a powerful opportunity to connect with Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer and her team.
I was honored to share how community colleges, like the Community College of Aurora, are not just educational institutions—we are economic engines, opportunity builders, and the frontline of workforce development in this country.
From skilled trades to emerging industries, we prepare learners of all backgrounds to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving economy. But to continue doing so effectively, we must expand access, which means sustained investment in Pell Grants, especially the approval of Workforce/Short-Term Pell.
This is more than policy. It’s about people. It’s about unlocking upward economic mobility in every zip code.
Thank you, Secretary Chavez-DeRemer, for listening and for recognizing the vital role of our nation’s community colleges.
Embracing the Future of Work: A Moment of Purposeful Dialogue
I had the distinct honor of moderating a powerful panel at the Colorado Business Roundtable’s Future of Work: Looking Around Corners convening. The event gathered changemakers, executives, and forward-thinkers committed to shaping Colorado’s economic future—through innovation, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose.
Our panel discussion explored the dynamic shifts in workforce expectations, the evolution of leadership in a post-pandemic economy, and the emerging technologies that are rewriting the rules of engagement between education, business, and community development. From AI to equity, from talent pipelines to organizational agility, the conversation was as timely as it was transformative.
I’m incredibly grateful to President Debbie Brown and the COBRT team for entrusting me with this opportunity. They could have chosen anyone to guide the dialogue—but they chose me, and I do not take that lightly. The feedback, energy, and insight shared by the audience affirmed that our collective work is making a difference.
As we look around corners toward the future, one thing remains clear: we must keep convening, listening, and boldly leading.
Let’s keep building.
Brand New Article is Now Available!
“The urgency is at an all-time high for institutions to properly align their institutional strategy, ensuring a strong return on investment (ROI) for learners, educators, and stakeholders alike.”
Read more at: https://www.diverseeducation.com/opinion/article/15744446/from-policy-to-budget-cuts-the-urgent-fiscal-realty-higher-education-must-prepare-for-now
Advocating at the Nation's Capital for Workforce Pell
Last week, I had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. alongside Accelerate Colorado and the Aurora Economic Development Council to advocate on behalf of our students, our communities, and the future of workforce education.
In every conversation—with Senator Michael Bennet, Congressman Jason Crow, Senator John Hickenlooper, and Congressman Jeff Hurd—I emphasized the urgent need for Workforce Pell. This expansion is critical to ensuring that Career and Technical Education programs, like those offered at the Community College of Aurora, are fully accessible to learners seeking opportunity, mobility, and purpose.
As it stands, many of these short-term, high-impact programs do not qualify for Pell Grant funding. This limits access for the very students who would benefit most. Workforce Pell has the power to change that—and to strengthen our partnerships with business and industry in the process.
I’m grateful to our elected leaders for their time and attention—and especially proud to represent an institution like CCA that believes in bold advocacy, equitable access, and economic transformation through education.
Together, we can ensure that policy reflects the real promise of our people.
New Record Set at Recent CCA Foundation Luncheon
What a moment for the Community College of Aurora!
Our recent CCA Foundation Luncheon wasn’t just another event—it was a resounding declaration of what’s possible when a community believes in the power of education.
With over 450 guests in attendance and nearly $250,000 raised in support of our students, we celebrated a historic day for the CCA Foundation. This was our largest and most successful luncheon to date—and it couldn’t have happened without many of you.
To our incredible business community, civic partners, alumni, and friends—thank you for your trust and continued investment in the promise of our students. Your belief fuels our mission of economic mobility, educational equity, and community transformation.
A heartfelt thank you to the CCA Foundation dream team—John Wolfkill, Katlynn Del Dotto, Courtney Kronschnabel, and Britt Davis—for your tireless dedication and vision. And to our students who shared their stories with courage and grace: you are why we do what we do.
Aurora, once again, you showed up. And for that, we are forever grateful.
Historic Partnership with Commerce City, Colorado
🚨 Big News For Commerce City and Community College of Aurora! 🚨
I am proud to share that the Community College of Aurora and the City of Commerce City have officially launched the Commerce City Promise — a powerful new partnership offering FREE short-term credential programs to all Commerce City residents!
From IT and healthcare to construction, logistics, manufacturing, and ESL, this initiative is about more than education — it’s about economic mobility, equity, and community transformation.
Thanks to federal funding through the city’s Advancing Commerce City Together (ACT) program and in collaboration with Rocky Mountain Partnership Cradle to Career and Gary Community Ventures, we are eliminating barriers and expanding opportunity — one learner at a time.
Learn more by visiting: https://ccaurora.edu/news-press/uncategorized/commerce-city-and-community-college-of-aurora-partner-to-support-education-and-economic-mobility/
Family Time is Essential
In the midst of all the responsibilities, deadlines, and ambitions, it’s moments like these that remind me what truly matters.
Family time isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity. It’s where we find strength, renewal, and the grounding that allows us to pursue our purpose with even greater passion.
Today, I’m grateful for these precious moments with my family — and I hope this post serves as a gentle reminder to make time for what matters most. No title, achievement, or milestone will ever outweigh the gift of being present with those we love.
Wishing everyone balance, joy, and meaningful connection in your journey ahead.
Dr. Mordecai Keynotes the WICHE Academic Partnerships annual meeting in Reno, Nevada
What an incredible experience it was to keynote the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) Academic Partnerships Annual Meeting in Reno, Nevada, earlier this week!
I'm deeply grateful to the Community College of Aurora for sharing me with the WICHE membership to discuss the importance of two- and four-year institutions, respectively, creating mission-aligned strategic partnerships that drive mission fulfillment and student transformation with the WICHE membership.
It was an honor to join provosts, academic vice presidents, chief executives, and leaders from 15 states, the U.S. Pacific Territories, and Freely Associated States—all committed to strengthening the future of higher education.
Thank you to the Western Academic Leadership Forum and the Western Alliance of Community College Academic Leaders for the opportunity, and congratulations to all who were recognized during the event.
When we build partnerships rooted in our missions and our students' needs, we truly are Stronger Together.
Future of Work: Looking Around Corners
We’re proud to announce that the Community College of Aurora is a sponsor of the Colorado Business Roundtable (COBRT)’s signature event, Future of Work: Looking Around Corners, taking place on May 7, 2025, at Empower Field at Mile High.
This pivotal gathering brings together over 300 leaders from business, education, government, and community sectors to explore emerging workforce trends, the future of skills and talent pipelines, strategies to attract and retain top talent, and how technology is reshaping the way we work.
Join us in this important dialogue as we look around corners to anticipate and prepare for the future of work in Colorado. Together, we can drive innovation, upward mobility, and opportunity for all.
🔗 Reserve your spot today: futureofworkco.com
Student Success Is a Family Affair at the Community College of Aurora
At CCA, we believe that no one crosses the finish line alone. That’s why our annual Student Success Awards is more than just a celebration—it's a tribute to the families, mentors, and friends who lift up our graduates every step of the way.
From cheering grandparents to dancing toddlers, this was a true family-friendly celebration of achievement and resilience.
We welcomed our soon-to-be graduates and their entire support systems—those who offered late-night encouragement, shared childcare duties, and reminded our students of their greatness when the journey got hard.
This is what student success looks like in an inclusive, equity-centered learning community. A space where children run free, laughter fills the air, and every supporter gets the recognition they deserve.
Swipe through these powerful moments that reflect the spirit of CCA: a college where we don’t just graduate students—we graduate families.
Honoring the Legacies of Those That Serve Before Us
This week, we proudly unveiled the Dr. Linda Speier Bowman Teaching and Learning Transformation Hub—a space dedicated to inclusive, innovative, and student-centered learning. Named in honor of Dr. Bowman, CCA’s third president, this hub recognizes her unwavering commitment to student success, institutional excellence, and educational access.
Dr. Bowman’s visionary leadership helped increase graduation rates, strengthen community partnerships, and lay the foundation for the work we continue today. Her legacy is one of purpose and possibility—reminding us that bold leadership in higher education can change lives and transform futures.
At the Community College of Aurora, we embrace the responsibility to build upon this legacy by creating new academic and career pathways that drive economic mobility for every learner we serve.
Please join us in celebrating Dr. Bowman and the countless students, educators, and leaders who continue to carry the torch of transformation forward.
Dr. Mordecai Wins "Man of the Year" Award by the Aurora Chamber of Commerce
I am deeply humbled and honored to be named “Man of the Year” by the Aurora Chamber of Commerce. Serving the greater Aurora community as President of the Community College of Aurora has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. This community has truly been an answered prayer.
Through our shared commitment to student success, we’ve built powerful collaborations with business and industry, opened doors to apprenticeships, internships, and job placements, created new four-year transfer pathways, and celebrated record fundraising for scholarships and capital improvements.
Every milestone we reach is a testament to what we can accomplish together. Thank you, Aurora, for embracing CCA’s mission and vision and for allowing me to serve with purpose and heart.
The best is yet to come.
(First photo includes all winners from the evening. The second photo includes my wife, Daphne.)
Dr. Mordecai Brownlee Featured in Inside Higher Education
"But he (Brownlee) stressed that community colleges need to 'lean into our moral obligation as educators to continue to provide equitable access and ensure economic mobility,' even amid federal 'friction points' over DEI." (https://www.insidehighered.com/news/institutions/community-colleges/2025/04/10/community-colleges-make-difficult-cuts-under-trump)
At the Community College of Aurora, we believe access to opportunity should never be out of reach—especially for those working hard to become U.S. citizens. When federal funding for our citizenship classes was cut, our community stepped up.
To date, over 500 donors have contributed to our Advancing Economic Mobility Fund (AEM Fund) to keep these life-changing classes alive. Will you join them? Every gift, no matter the size, helps us continue this vital mission.
Donate here: https://www.coloradogives.org/story/Eiyhlf
Together, we can turn uncertainty into opportunity and help more Coloradans achieve their American dream.
