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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Keynotes UPCEA Annual Conference
I’m filled with gratitude after having the honor of delivering the keynote address, “The Business of Higher Education: Elevating Access, Equity, and Mobility,” at the UPCEA Annual Conference in beautiful Denver, Colorado.
A heartfelt thank you to the Community College of Aurora for your continued support and for sharing me with UPCEA for this impactful opportunity. I’m proud to represent an institution that is boldly committed to student transformation, innovation, and service to all learners.
When we lead with access, operate with equity, and stay focused on student transformation, we unlock the true power of higher education to create economic mobility for all.
Phi Theta Kappa Catalyst Annual Conference
What an incredible honor to join our inspiring Community College of Aurora students at the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society Annual Catalyst meeting. Hearing their dreams and aspirations reminded me why we do this work—and how we must continue to strengthen the student experience at CCA.
While there, I had the pleasure of connecting with Chancellor Kimberly Beatty of Metropolitan Community College and attending a powerful session led by Hall of Fame broadcaster James Brown. Truly an impactful time of learning, connection, and hope for the future.
Proud of our CCA students and excited for what lies ahead!
Community College of Aurora Parnters with Culture Club at Colorado Early Colleges DC North High Schoo
Huge thanks to the incredible student officers of the Culture Club at Colorado Early Colleges DC North High School for inviting the Community College of Aurora to be part of your college fair!
We are honored to connect with future leaders and share the many opportunities available at CCA. Our commitment remains strong—to build academic pathways that lead to economic mobility through career-ready programs and seamless transfer options.
Together, we’re creating brighter futures—one student at a time.
CCA and NJC Partnership Expands Crucial Paramedic Training forUnderserved Area of Northeastern Colorado
AURORA, Colo. – The Community College of Aurora (opens in a new window) (CCA) is proud to announce the successful conclusion of its satellite paramedic training program at Northeastern Junior College (opens in a new window) (NJC). This collaborative initiative, a partnership under CCA’s accreditation and supervision, has been instrumental in providing paramedic training in northeastern Colorado for the first time in two decades.
Read more by clicking here.
Dr. Mordecai Officially Receives NASPA Foundation Pillar of the Profession Award
I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the Community College of Aurora for your unwavering support this week as I attended the NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education Annual Conference, where I had the tremendous honor of receiving the Pillar of the Profession Award from the NASPA Foundation.
This recognition is more than a personal milestone—it is a reflection of the incredible people, purpose, and passion that fuel our work every day. The student affairs profession has been my foundation. It taught me the value of truly seeing and honoring others, the importance of designing student experiences that nurture the whole learner, and the transformative power of love-driven leadership.
To my colleagues, our students, and the entire CCA community: thank you for walking this journey with me. This moment belongs to all of us.
- Dr. Mordecai
American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education Annual Conference
Excited to Serve on the #AAHHE20 Panel: "Leading with Hope and Shaping Our Future for Latiné Students in Community Colleges"
Tomorrow, I am honored to join the AAHHE - American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education for their 20th Annual Conference at Metropolitan State University of Denver—a pivotal gathering focused on advancing equity, access, and success for Hispanic students in higher education.
As leaders, we must be intentional about shaping a future where Latiné students thrive—not just survive. Community colleges are engines of economic mobility, and hope is the foundation of transformation.
Learn more about the conference: www.aahhe.org.
Honoring Our Armed Forces & Colorado Freedom Memorial
At the Community College of Aurora, we honor the sacrifice and service of our veteran students—past and present—by ensuring they have a dedicated space on campus that reflects our deep gratitude and unwavering support. This space stands as a testament to their courage, resilience, and the profound impact they have on our college community.
CCA is proud to unveil a brand-new space dedicated to the courageous individuals who have served their country in the United States military and present a $5,000 check to the Colorado Freedom Memorial.
Remarkably, the Colorado Freedom Memorial holds the names of more than 6,000 Coloradans killed or missing in action in all wars and all branches of service. We are grateful for all those currently serving and have served, especially those who sacrificed their lives for our country.
Community College of Aurora Strategic Planning Summit
