Strengthening Opportunity Through Partnership and Philanthropy

Last week, Dr. Mordecai Brownlee, President of the Community College of Aurora, joined civic leaders, community partners, and philanthropic supporters to celebrate the launch of the President’s 1983 Society, an initiative recognizing donors who invest in student success and the future of the Aurora community.

Named in honor of the college’s founding year, the President’s 1983 Society recognizes individuals who contribute $1,000 or more annually to support scholarships, emergency student aid, and programs that expand economic mobility for Community College of Aurora students.

With the continued partnership of the Community College of Aurora Foundation, philanthropic support for students has reached historic levels. In Fiscal Year 2025 alone, the institution awarded more than $950,000 in scholarships and emergency student assistance, helping students overcome unexpected barriers and remain on track toward completing their educational goals. The college is currently on pace to surpass $1 million in student support this year, further strengthening CCA’s commitment to expanding opportunity and advancing economic mobility across the region.

Reflecting on this milestone, Dr. Brownlee expressed his appreciation for the community of supporters who make this impact possible. He shared his sincere gratitude to the Community College of Aurora Foundation, its Board of Directors, Executive Director John Wolfkill, Foundation staff, and the many champions whose generosity continues to invest in the success of CCA students.

As part of the event, Dr. Brownlee also moderated a panel discussion featuring three regional city managers who are helping shape the economic future of the Denver metro area:

• Jason Batchelor, City Manager of Aurora

• Matt Sturgeon, City Manager of Centennial

• Jason Rogers, City Manager of Commerce City

The discussion explored the economic signals shaping the region, the importance of workforce readiness, and the growing role that partnerships between cities, employers, and community colleges play in building strong workforce pathways and inclusive economic growth.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Brownlee emphasized that community colleges are uniquely positioned to connect education, industry, and civic leadership in ways that strengthen both individuals and communities.

“When education, civic leadership, and community investment align around a shared mission,” Dr. Brownlee noted, “we do more than educate students. We expand opportunity, strengthen our workforce, and help build brighter futures for entire communities.”

Dr. Mordecai Brownlee Named Honorary Commander at Buckley Space Force Base

Dr. Mordecai Ian Brownlee, President of the Community College of Aurora, was recently named an Honorary Commander at Buckley Space Force Base, an initiative designed to strengthen partnerships between military leadership and civic leaders throughout the community.

Dr. Brownlee received the honor from Colonel David M. Knight, Vice Commander of Space Base Delta 2, during a ceremony recognizing community leaders who support the mission of the installation.

The Honorary Commander Program connects civic leaders with installation leadership to deepen understanding of the base’s mission and strengthen collaboration between the military and the communities they serve.

“Programs like this reinforce the importance of partnership between our military and the communities that support them,” said Dr. Brownlee. “Aurora is proud of the mission taking place at Buckley and grateful for the men and women who serve our nation every day.”

Buckley Space Force Base plays a critical role in national defense and space operations while also serving as an important economic partner in the Aurora region.

Dr. Mordecai Shares Q1 Presidential Update Highlighting Record Enrollment and Institutional Momentum

Dr. Mordecai Ian Brownlee, President of the Community College of Aurora (CCA), has released his Quarter One Presidential Update, highlighting several milestones and continued progress across the institution as it advances its mission to expand opportunity and strengthen economic mobility for the communities it serves.

Among the most notable developments this spring is CCA’s record spring enrollment, reflecting growing student confidence in the college’s academic programs, workforce pathways, and student support systems. The milestone underscores the increasing role community colleges play in preparing learners for meaningful careers and long-term success.

In the update, Dr. Brownlee reflects on the collective effort required to achieve this momentum and expresses gratitude to the many stakeholders who continue to support the mission of the Community College of Aurora.

Under Dr. Brownlee’s leadership, the Community College of Aurora has continued to position itself as a key driver of regional workforce development and economic opportunity, aligning academic programs with industry needs while maintaining a strong focus on student success and belonging.

The video update can be viewed above.

Preparing the Whole Student: Dr. Mordecai Brownlee Highlights Opening of Foxy’s Fitness Center at the Community College of Aurora

Recently, the Community College of Aurora celebrated the opening of Foxy’s Fitness Center at its Centennial Campus for Healthcare and First Responders—an initiative that reflects the college’s broader commitment to preparing students for the real demands of today’s workforce.

Under the leadership of President Dr. Mordecai Ian Brownlee, CCA has continued to expand investments that support the full student experience. Foxy’s Fitness Center is designed to strengthen student wellness while reinforcing the physical readiness required in some of the region’s most essential professions.

The Centennial Campus serves as the hub for several of CCA’s most demanding workforce programs, including nursing, emergency medical services, and fire science. These professions require more than technical knowledge; they require endurance, resilience, and the ability to perform under pressure in moments that can save lives.

Dr. Brownlee frequently speaks about the importance of preparing the “whole student”—a philosophy that recognizes that student success includes not only academic achievement but also physical wellness, belonging, and personal resilience. Foxy’s Fitness Center represents that philosophy in action.

The project was made possible through collaboration across CCA’s Division of Student Success and campus leadership, reflecting the college’s belief that strong partnerships within institutions are essential to building environments where students can thrive.

Learn more about the Community College of Aurora at www.ccaurora.edu.

Community College of Aurora Named 2026 Achieving the Dream Leader College

The Community College of Aurora (CCA) has been named a 2026 Achieving the Dream Leader College, a national recognition awarded to institutions demonstrating measurable progress in advancing student success and improving outcomes for the communities they serve.

The designation was announced at the Achieving the Dream national conference, where colleges from across the country gathered to share strategies, innovations, and best practices focused on strengthening student completion, workforce readiness, and economic mobility.

Under the leadership of Dr. Mordecai Ian Brownlee, President of the Community College of Aurora, the institution has continued to advance a mission centered on expanding access, strengthening pathways to completion, and aligning academic programs with workforce opportunities that lead to meaningful careers.

Leader College status is awarded to institutions within the Achieving the Dream Network that demonstrate sustained commitment to using data, institutional strategy, and cross-campus collaboration to improve student outcomes. The recognition reflects the collective work of faculty, staff, and students who are committed to building systems that support learner success.

For Dr. Brownlee, the recognition reflects the culture of intentionality that continues to shape the college.

“Community colleges play a vital role in expanding opportunity and strengthening economic mobility in our communities,” Brownlee shared. “This recognition is a reflection of the dedication of our faculty and staff who work every day to ensure our students have clear pathways to success.”

Achieving the Dream is a national nonprofit dedicated to helping community colleges build capacity to improve student success and advance equity through evidence-based reforms.

As a Leader College, CCA joins a select group of institutions recognized for demonstrating how intentional leadership, strong institutional culture, and data-informed decision making can create meaningful progress for students.

For Dr. Brownlee and the CCA community, the recognition is both a celebration and a reminder that the work continues.

Workforce Design in Action at the Community College of Aurora

Last week, Dr. Mordecai Ian Brownlee, President of the Community College of Aurora, welcomed Governor Jared Polis, Colorado Department of Higher Education Executive Director JB Holston, and Colorado Community College System Chancellor Marie DeSanctis to the Center for Applied Science and Technology (CAST).

The visit underscored Colorado’s continued commitment to aligning higher education with workforce demand and economic mobility.

CAST, which opened in Fall 2025, represents a strategic investment in applied STEM education and skilled trades training. Developed in partnership with BuildStrong Academy of Colorado, the facility connects hundreds of students to hands-on, industry-aligned pathways designed to move learners quickly into high-demand, family-sustaining careers.

For Dr. Brownlee, the significance of the visit extends beyond celebration.

“This is what disciplined workforce alignment looks like,” he shared. “When state leadership, industry partners, and higher education move with shared clarity of purpose, students gain real opportunity — and our economy grows stronger.”

During the tour, state leaders engaged with students and faculty in hands-on lab environments, witnessing firsthand how technical skill development, credential attainment, and employer partnership converge within a single facility.

The visit served as a visible affirmation that Colorado’s investment in higher education is rooted in outcomes — strengthening talent pipelines, expanding access to STEM careers, and positioning community colleges as engines of innovation and growth.

As Colorado continues to navigate economic shifts and evolving workforce needs, the Center for Applied Science and Technology stands as a model of systems-level collaboration — and a testament to what is possible when leadership aligns around purpose, performance, and opportunity.

Historic Enrollment Milestone at the Community College of Aurora

Historic Enrollment Milestone at the Community College of Aurora
Spring 2026 sets a new all-time high

The Community College of Aurora has reached a historic milestone. For the Spring 2026 semester, more than 10,800 students are enrolled—the largest learner population in the college’s history. This achievement comes just one semester after the institution recorded its highest fall enrollment on record, signaling strong and sustained momentum.

Under the leadership of President Dr. Mordecai I. Brownlee, the college has implemented a focused, student-centered strategy designed to remove barriers and expand access to opportunity. Key efforts have included restoring bus service to the CentreTech campus, expanding concurrent enrollment pathways, launching targeted scholarship programs, and opening new workforce-aligned campuses in applied science, healthcare, and public service.

These initiatives are producing measurable results. Concurrent enrollment continues to grow, with new full-tuition scholarship pathways for Aurora Public Schools graduates. In addition, more than 150 students who had previously stopped out of college returned this spring after a focused outreach effort asking a simple question: How can we help you finish?

“This moment represents more than record enrollment,” Dr. Brownlee said. “It reflects a growing trust in the mission of the Community College of Aurora and our commitment to translating education into real economic mobility for the communities we serve.”

The college’s growth is also fueled by major investments in workforce-aligned programming, including the new Center for Applied Science and Technology and the Centennial Campus for Healthcare and First Responders. These expansions position the institution to meet Colorado’s most urgent talent needs while providing students with clear pathways to high-wage, in-demand careers.

As enrollment continues to rise, the Community College of Aurora remains focused on its core mission: ensuring that every learner not only gains access to higher education, but succeeds in it. With expanded campuses, targeted financial support, and wraparound services, the college is building a model designed for today’s students and tomorrow’s workforce.

This historic enrollment milestone reflects more than growth. It signals a college on the rise—one intentionally built to serve its community, strengthen the regional economy, and create real pathways to opportunity.

Senator Michael Bennet Commends CCA Education Innovations in Visit at CAST

On Jan. 16, Colorado Sen. Michael Bennet toured the new Center for Applied Science and Technology (CAST) at the Community College of Aurora (CCA) CentreTech campus. During the visit, he commended CCA’s award-winning academic program innovations that make it easier for graduates to enter the workforce and earn a living wage.    

“With an economy that’s changing at the speed of light, Coloradans deserve a quality education that prepares them to enter the workforce, make a living wage, and chase the American Dream,” Bennet said. “To do that, we have to pay our educators what they deserve, connect education directly to work, and ensure our students can read and do math at grade level.”

CCA designs academic programs aligned with workforce needs, positioning graduates for successful transfer or immediate entry into their career. This is possible, in part, by incorporating certifications into degree programs. CCA also fosters strategic partnerships that support pathways from education to employment. Some of those strategic partners include Colorado Youth for a Change and City of Commerce City. CCA also partners with other educational institutions like BuildStong Academy of Colorado, Cherry Creek School District, Aurora Public Schools, Regis University, and Colorado School of Mines.

​​“At the Community College of Aurora, we ensure every learner has access to an education that leads to opportunity,” said Dr. Mordecai Brownlee, President of the Community College of Aurora. “As part of the Colorado Community College System, we work every day to connect education and workforce preparation so students can build meaningful careers and strengthen Colorado’s communities.”

After a tour, Dr. Brownlee joined the senator and several CCA partners to discuss the interconnected initiatives that build the network of pathways for students. In attendance was:

• CCA Dean of Academic Success in Career and Technical Education, Dr. Jim DeLung,

• Chancellor of the Colorado Community College System, Dr. Marielena DeSanctis,

• CCA Provost and Vice President of Academic Success, Dr. Bobby Pace,

• Aurora Public Schools Executive Director of Equity in Learning: Programs, Dr. Zachary Rahn,

• Transwest Truck Trailer and RV Service Director, Jim Schoff,

• BuildStrong Academy Director, Allison Stepnitz,

• Arapahoe County Commissioner, Leslie Summey,

• CCA Dean of STEM, Dr. Susan Young, 

• Wagner Equipment Company Pathways Coordinator, Jesse McKay. Jesse was also recently featured in CCA’s Alumni in Action series. 

Building Educational Pathways Through Partnerships

At CAST, Senator Bennet joined education and workforce leaders from across the region for a discussion on the barriers that continue to limit socioeconomic mobility in education. A key theme centered on long-standing perceptions of higher education, particularly the stigma that has historically steered employers’ attention toward four-year institutions. As student loan debt continues to rise and traditional pathways become financially unattainable for many learners, community colleges like CCA are redefining value—delivering industry-aligned education through strong partnerships, applied learning, and diverse career pathways that lead directly to opportunity.

CCA intentionally designs academic programs around workforce demand, building connections with both industry and education partners to create a seamless network of pathways. This approach ensures students can pursue education and technical training that align with their career goals, whether that means immediate entry into the workforce or transfer to a four-year institution. From a student perspective, they have a variety of ways to choose their career pathway and earn valuable socioeconomic mobility. 

That pathway network begins as early as high school. Through partnerships with Cherry Creek School District and Aurora Public Schools, CCA expands access to affordable college coursework through concurrent enrollment and programs like the Aspiring Educator Pathway program. As students graduate, CCA’s partnerships continue to reduce financial barriers through opportunities such as the full-ride Momentum Scholarship for former concurrent enrollment students, and the Commerce City Promise program. While enrolled at CCA, some students pursue workforce-driven pathways through partnerships like BuildStrong Academy of Colorado and Wagner Equipment Co., while others follow higher-education transfer routes through initiatives such as the Mines Academy and additional four-year degree pathways.

Senator Bennet’s visit underscored the critical role community colleges play in strengthening Colorado’s workforce and expanding access to education that leads to meaningful careers. Through facilities like CAST and a growing network of K-12, higher education, and industry partnerships, the Community College of Aurora continues to build pathways that connect learning directly to opportunity—ensuring students are prepared not only to enter the workforce, but to thrive in Colorado's evolving economy. 
 

Find additional, high-resolution photos from the visit here.

Dr. Mordecai and Family Featured in Denver Urban Spectrum

I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Dr. Fernando Branch, Principal of Robert F. Smith STEAM Academy and Executive Director of the Colorado Men of Color Collaborative, for writing such a thoughtful and heartfelt article featuring my family and me.

As educators, we know that we never serve alone. When we show up for our communities, our families show up with us—lifting us, supporting us, and sharing in the purpose that guides our work. I am blessed beyond measure to walk in this calling with a family that believes in service just as deeply as I do.

Thank you, Dr. Branch, for capturing that truth so beautifully, and for your leadership in elevating the voices and stories of men of color across Colorado. I am honored by your words and grateful for the opportunities we have to uplift our communities together.

You can read the article here:
👉🏽 https://issuu.com/denverurbanspectrum/docs/dec_2025_v4_single?fr=xKAE9_zMzMw

"Miles with Mordecai" Raises Emergency Funds for CCA Students

Dr. Mordecai Brownlee, president of the Community College of Aurora, walked the entire length of the 71-mile High Line Canal trail to help raise money for the school's student emergency fund.

The fund helps students cover unexpected expenses such as utility bills, gas money, baby formula, and other resources to help keep them enrolled when money is tight.

The idea for the walk came about when Dr. Brownlee had a conversation with the widow of Bill Wiggins, one of CCA's founders.  Brownlee wanted to honor the spirit of service Wiggins had always shown to the school and the community.

In total, "Miles With Mordecai" raised nearly $100,000 from 77 donors.

Watch Video Here

Dr. Mordecai Brownlee Joins National Leaders at Student Success US 2025 to Confront the True Cost of College

Last week, Dr. Mordecai Ian Brownlee participated in an extraordinary plenary session at Student Success US 2025, addressing one of the most urgent—and too often overlooked—truths in American higher education:

College affordability is about far more than tuition.

During the discussion, Dr. Brownlee emphasized that for many learners—especially those from low-income backgrounds—the real barriers to access and completion are the non-tuition costs that are rarely acknowledged with transparency. These include the essential expenses that shape everyday life and academic success:

• Housing

• Food and basic needs

• Transportation

• Childcare

• Technology and digital access

• Mental wellness supports

• The opportunity cost of time

As Dr. Brownlee underscored, these hidden and underestimated costs determine who enrolls, who persists, who completes a credential of value, and who ultimately attains economic mobility.

The panel brought together national leaders who are advancing transparency and equity around the true cost of attendance:

• Nicole Siegel, Senior Program Officer, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

• Catherine Brown, Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy, National College Attainment Network

• Mark Huelsman, Director of Policy and Advocacy, Hope Center for Student Basic Needs

• Anika Van Eaton, Vice President of Policy, uAspire

Dr. Brownlee expressed deep appreciation to Colleen Flaherty of Inside Higher Ed for extending the invitation to participate in this critical conversation. He also thanked Sara Custer of Inside Higher Ed for powerfully capturing his insights and reflections in her recent piece:
🔗 “ROI Starts on Day One” → https://www.insidehighered.com/opinion/columns/editors-note/2025/11/20/roi-starts-day-one

During the panel, Dr. Brownlee shared a compelling message:

“If we want to close equity gaps in this country, we must be honest about the total cost of being a college student—and then design systems that meet real students’ real lives.”

He went on to remind the audience that:

• Transparency builds trust.

• Trust builds belonging.

• Belonging drives completion.

• Completion fuels mobility.

This is the essential work ahead for higher education—and, as Dr. Brownlee noted, “It matters.”

Aurora TV Features "Miles With Mordecai" Campaign

Grateful to Aurora TV for shining a light on our “Miles with Mordecai” campaign and the heart behind it.

Their coverage beautifully captured the spirit of this journey—and the moment our team connected with lead donor Molly Link, whose extraordinary $71,000 gift was made in honor of one of CCA’s founding fathers, the late Bill Wiggins.

Both Bill and Molly were a part of a team of community leaders who helped shape the Aurora Educational Center into what we now know as the Community College of Aurora.

Watch the video here.

Dr. Mordecai Faetured by Inside Higher Ed

Mordecai Brownlee’s body hurts. Last week he trekked three days and 71 miles along Denver’s High Line Canal to raise $90,000 in emergency funds for Community College of Aurora students’ basic needs. “ROI starts with stability,” the president of CCA said this week in Atlanta at Inside Higher Ed’s Student Success US 2025.

Click here to read the full article.

The pathways to opportunity in Aurora just became even stronger.

Yesterday, leaders from Aurora Public Schools, CU Denver, and the Community College of Aurora came together to advance educational access for our students. Through this new partnership, high-achieving APS students—including those enrolled in CCA’s concurrent enrollment programs—will now earn guaranteed admission to CU Denver.

This collaboration serves as a model for what happens when institutions come together around student success. Together, we’re ensuring that every learner can move seamlessly from high school to college and into a rewarding career—right here in our community.

At CCA, we believe that education drives economic

Dr. Mordecai Joins the EdUp Experience Network

In a world of constant change, one question remains: What is your mission? On Discovering Your Mission with Dr. Mordecai, we bring together trailblazers, thought leaders, and everyday champions to uncover the stories, strategies, and mindsets that fuel purpose-driven lives. Each episode is designed to inspire, challenge, and equip you to live boldly, lead with integrity, and impact the world around you. 

Learn more here: https://www.edupexperience.com/p/discoveringyourmissionwithdrmordecai/

Community College of Aurora Receives Institutional Award for Entrepreneuring Excellence

Proud moment for the Community College of Aurora (CCA)!

At the Higher Education Innovation, LLC (HEI) Presidents’ Conference hosted by Florida Polytechnic University, CCA was honored with the 2025 Institutional Award for Entrepreneuring Excellence. This recognition underscores our commitment to innovation, student success, and building entrepreneurial pathways that change lives and communities.

The conference also gave us the opportunity to learn from the NOAA: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration Aircraft Operations Center, deepening our understanding of how precision, strategy, and innovation drive national impact.

At CCA, we believe in transforming possibilities into reality— together.

Record-Breaking Enrollment at CCA!

This fall, the Community College of Aurora reached a historic milestone—welcoming more than 9,500 students, the largest fall enrollment in our college’s history.

This achievement is not just about numbers, it is about trust. It reflects the confidence our students place in us to be the bridge to their future. It demonstrates the trust of our donors, who have given at historic levels to support scholarships, crisis grants, and wraparound services. It reflects the trust of our workforce partners, who continue to align with us to expand pathways in healthcare, behavioral health, applied sciences, and many other fields

Most of all, it reflects the relentless commitment of our faculty and staff. This incredible team shows up every day to remove barriers, design high-quality programs, and deliver on our mission of economic mobility.

Together, we are proving that when we invest in people, provide affordable and clear pathways, and walk alongside our learners, lives change—and communities thrive.

I am deeply humbled, proud, and energized by this moment. Thank you to everyone who makes CCA’s story possible. The best is yet to come.

-Dr. Mordecai

🚍✨ Barrier Removed. Access Restored. Future Unlocked.

Today, the Community College of Aurora celebrated the reinstatement of the RTD bus stop at our CentreTech campus. What may seem like a small change is, in fact, transformative—removing a barrier that kept too many of our students from accessing the education they deserve.

This milestone was made possible through the leadership of our Student Government Association, the advocacy of students who spoke up, and the steadfast support of our community.

We are grateful for the contributions of:

• Mayor Mike Coffman and the City of Aurora leadership

• RTD General Manager & CEO Debra Johnson and RTD Director Kathleen Chandler

• Our dedicated CCA faculty, staff, and board members

• And the many community leaders and elected officials who worked tirelessly behind the scenes

Together, we’ve proven that when we listen to students and act with purpose, we create pathways to opportunity.

The Community College of Aurora Opens Its Third Campus

Historic day at the Community College of Aurora!

Last week, we officially opened CCA’s Centennial Campus—a milestone made possible by our community’s belief in our mission.

Deep gratitude to Mayor Stephanie Piko, the Centennial City Council, and the dedicated City staff for extraordinary partnership. Thank you to the many elected officials whose support, especially for our inaugural nursing program, expands pathways to high-demand careers and strengthens Colorado’s workforce.

A special shoutout to fellow Colorado Community College System president Dr. Colleen Simpson of Front Range Community College for stopping by and showing support. We appreciate you!

To our remarkable faculty, staff, instructors, and students—your tireless work to prepare, move, stage, and welcome our community turned a vision into reality. You exemplify what it means to put students first.

The Centennial Campus is a promise fulfilled: expanded access, industry-aligned programs, and a learner-centered environment where every student can thrive. We look forward to hosting you for a tour, a class visit, a workforce partnership conversation, or to explore scholarship support through the CCA Foundation.

Community College of Aurora Quarter 3 Update Video

The Community College of Aurora Quarter 3 Update is Now Available!

I had the honor of recording our Q3 2025 video update from Heritage Hall, our newly renovated space at the CentreTech Campus that commemorates 41 years of impact and transformation.

From major facility milestones like our Centennial Campus and Center for Applied Science and Technology Building to trailblazing partnerships like BuildStrong Academy and the launch of CCA’s Corporate College, we are driving innovation, workforce development, and learner-centered pathways across Colorado.

Updates include:
💡 New campuses and capital projects
🛠️ Workforce expansion
🎓 Transformative partnerships
❤️ Student-centered progress

CCA is committed to the upward economic mobility of our learners, strengthening our four-year partner pathways, and responding to the workforce needs of our industry partners.