Community College of Aurora Strategic Planning Summit
For Teachers-By-Teachers Literacy and Social Studies Conference
This Saturday, Dr. Mordecai is excited to keynote the 2025 For Teachers-By-Teachers Literacy and Social Studies Conference hosted by Houston ISD. With the theme, “Many Perspectives, One Houston,” this event embodies HISD’s commitment to celebrating diversity, building community, and fostering shared learning experiences that will shape the future of education.
Brand New Episode of Discovering Your Mission Now Available!
In this episode of Discovering Your Mission, Dr. Mordecai interviews Dr. Solomon-Fernández, President of Urban College of Boston. They discuss the mission of Urban College, the importance of diversity, and Dr. Solomon-Fernández's journey to leadership.
She shares insights on navigating challenges, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the future of higher education. Dr. Solomon-Fernández emphasizes the need for cultural dexterity and self-awareness in leadership and the importance of personal well-being and community support. She concludes with her personal mission statement focused on helping others discover their agency.
To watch this episode, click here.
Colorado Business Roundtable February Policy Pillar Committee Meeting
That’s a wrap on our February Policy Pillar Committee Meeting!
This week, business and policy leaders gathered to tackle some of Colorado’s biggest challenges across tax and regulatory policy, infrastructure, workforce, and community issues. Learn more at https://www.cobrt.com/
Honoring Linda Speier Bowman
We just had a surprise visit from Dr. Linda Speier Bowman, the third President of the Community College of Aurora! It was an honor to spend time with her and learn so much about our institution’s rich history.
On April 14th, we will honor Linda by naming our Student Learning Center in her honor.
CCA Featured on Colorado & Company!
At the Community College of Aurora (CCA), we remain unwavering in our mission to remove barriers and ensure education is accessible for all. This work isn’t just about policies—it’s about people.
That’s why I was proud to join CCA student leader Akelia Reddie on KUSA-TV, 9NEWS Colorado & Company to highlight the transformative power of education and the Colorado Community College System’s commitment to student success.
Akelia embodies the resilience and determination of so many of our students. Her story is a testament to why we must continue advocating for equity, opportunity, and pathways that uplift individuals and communities.
To all educators, industry leaders, and policymakers: Let’s utilize the power of education to advance our communities, states, and country as a whole.
Watch the interview here.
Taking the Time to Honor Our Students
Happy Saturday! Kids are fed and watching cartoons. Now it's time to sign cards congratulating our outstanding Community College of Aurora students who have academically achieved President’s List status! ❤️🦊
President's Corner | Q1 Newsletter 2025 - ICYMI
Exciting Times Ahead at the Community College of Aurora!
As we progress with the Spring 2025 semester, I’m excited about the transformative journey ahead. CCA is growing, evolving, and expanding its impact—thanks to each of YOU!
🏗️ Our Centennial Campus and CAST building are taking shape
🔹 Vital campus revitalization projects are underway
💡 Innovation and collaboration continue to drive student success
These developments are more than just physical spaces—they represent our unwavering commitment to empowering students and strengthening our community. I invite you to watch my quarterly address to hear more about the exciting progress at CCA. This is a pivotal time for our college, and your support is essential in shaping its future!
To our Greater Aurora community, we are building a brighter future for our students, our community, and our college.
Welcoming the City of Aurora's New Police Chief
Thank you, Chief Todd Chamberlain of the Aurora Police Department, for meeting with me to discuss our current CCA/APD Police Cadet Program and ways to strengthen it.
The Community College of Aurora is grateful for our partnership.
Advancing Partnerships with Arapahoe County Sheriff Department
The work of advancing the Community College of Aurora continues. This week, CCA met with Sherrif Tyler Brown and Deputy Carl Anderson of the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office.
CCA is excited to join the City of Centennial community officially in fall 2025 with the opening of our new Health Sciences and First Responder Building.
Brand New Episode of "Discovering Your Mission" is Now Available!
In this conversation, Dr. Mordecai speaks with Julie Golder, Vice President of Search Services for the Association of Community College Trustees. They discuss Julie's unique journey into higher education, the evolving landscape of leadership in community colleges, the importance of organizational culture, and the qualities needed for today's leaders.
Julie emphasizes resilience in the executive search process and foresees significant trends, including the impact of AI and the necessity of emotional intelligence in leadership. She concludes with her personal mission statement, highlighting the values of hard work and kindness.
Watch now: https://youtu.be/t7qOHeDyBCQ
Embracing the Future: Why Higher Education’s Transformation is Just Beginning
🚨 Diverse: Issues In Higher Education New Article Alert! 🚨
In my latest article, "Embracing the Future: Why Higher Education’s Transformation is Just Beginning," I delve into the evolving landscape of higher education and what it means for learners, institutions, and communities. 🌍✨
As we navigate rapid advancements in technology, shifting learner expectations, and the demand for workforce-aligned education, it’s clear that transformation isn’t just inevitable—it’s necessary. 🙌🏽
This article explores how we can seize this moment to innovate, adapt, and lead with purpose, ensuring that higher education remains a powerful engine of opportunity and equity. 🔑📚
Check it out here: 👉🏽 https://www.diverseeducation.com/opinion/article/15711656/embracing-the-future-why-higher-educations-transformation-is-just-beginning
No More TikTok, Hello Clapper
With TikTok on the decline, I have deactivated my account and opened a Clapper account. To follow and engage with me, please visit https://www.clapperapp.com/ItsDrMordecai
Brand New Episode of Discovering Your Mission w/ Dr. Mordecai Now Available!
Please click here to view Dr. Mordecai’s interview with higher education legend Dr. Linda Thor.
39th Annual City of Aurora Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration 2025
This past weekend, Dr. Mordecai had the honor of lecturing on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s impact on higher education. Following his lecture, President Brownlee served on a panel with Terri Gentry (Historian of Black History in Colorado), Bill Gwaltney (National Museum of African American History and Culture), and Ahja Fox (Aurora, CO Poet Laurette).
May we ALL keep Dr. King’s dream alive, no matter the times or circumstances.
This event was hosted by the City of Aurora Museum.
Happy New Year!
From my family to yours – wishing you, your loved ones, and your organization a blessed and prosperous 2025!
As we step into the new year, may you remain focused on your purpose, keep family at the heart of all you do, and continue working each day to make this world a better place.
Here’s to growth, joy, and impact in the year ahead!
-The Brownlees
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.
Thank you Governor Jared Polis (Colorado)
It was an honor and pleasure to reconnect with Governor Jared Polis this holiday season. Thank you for your support of the Colorado Community College System and Community College of Aurora!
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.
Celebrating Our Amazing CCA Team at Winterfest!
