PLC Alumni Newsletter

March Alumni Newsletter 2025

Kerem Gurkan — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 02:50:57 +0000

March Alumni Newsletter 2025

Kerem Gurkan Sun, 03/09/2025 - 20:50

Alumni Spring Lecture

We’re excited to announce that we are re-launching the PLC Alumni Spring Lecture and invite you to reconnect with the PLC community!

📅 Tuesday, April 1
📍 Miramontes Baca Education Building Room 157
🍽️ 5-6 PM | Dinner & Reunion with fellow PLC Alumni
🎤 6-7 PM | PLC Program Update & Lecture by Dr. Benjamin Teitelbaum

Dr. Teitelbaum is a musician, researcher, and author specializing in the ideology and culture of contemporary radical nationalist movements. His work has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Atlantic, and more.

This is a great opportunity to catch up with fellow alumni, support our graduating seniors, and engage in a thought-provoking discussion.

📌 Registration is live and you can register here. (https://web.cvent.com/event/c58f8807-2786-42ed-b9d4-3b3177edc2f9/)

Feel free to email Kerem Gurkan, PLC's Alumni Relations Coordinator at kerem.gurkan@colorado.edu with any questions regarding the event.

PLC Alumni Newsletter

PLC Alumni Happenings

A Mardi Gras Miracle

Walking into a new workplace can be daunting, but for Alex Napolitan (’14), his first day at Ochsner in New Orleans came with an unexpected connection. As he introduced himself to Jamie Lovitt (’00), one of the clinic’s Family Medicine physicians, she paused and asked him a surprising question: “Did you go to 51�Թ��? And were you in PLC?” Alex was surprised—he hadn’t met another PLC alum in years, let alone expected to find one nearly 1,300 miles from 51�Թ��. It turns out Jamie had done a quick search when she heard a new PA would be joining the clinic, and upon seeing a familiar PLC photo, she couldn’t believe the coincidence. “I thought maybe Google was just profiling me,” she joked. But when Alex confirmed his PLC background, she knew it was real—a “Mardi Gras Miracle,” as she called it.

Though they had never crossed paths in 51�Թ�� and somehow knew none of the same PLC people, their shared experiences in the program immediately created a sense of familiarity. For Alex, having Jamie as a colleague in a new city has been a source of support. “She understands where I’m coming from,” he says. “I view her almost as a natural mentor and friend.” Jamie feels similarly, noting that having a fellow PLC alum in her clinic makes her feel more whole, even amid the daily challenges of balancing work and life. “They call it work for a reason,” she says, “but I love having a new coworker with whom I share this history, even if we were separated by time.”

Their paths to medicine were different but equally shaped by PLC. Jamie originally came to New Orleans with Teach for America, teaching science in public schools before Hurricane Katrina forced all teachers out of their positions. She continued teaching in nearby LaPlace before returning to the city and eventually pursuing medical school.

Alex, meanwhile, started in research at 51�Թ��, initially planning to pursue a PhD in clinical psychology. Realizing that path wasn’t the right fit, he pivoted to medicine and attended Duke University’s Physician Assistant program. His journey took him to Milwaukee, Durham, and finally New Orleans.

For both Jamie and Alex, finding each other in an unexpected place reaffirmed the strength of the PLC community. “PLC alums go to all corners of the world and accomplish incredible things,” Alex says, “but it’s a heartwarming experience to come across each other the way we did.”

Alumni Spotlights

Dr. Cassandra Roeca '03

Dr. Cassandra Roeca exemplifies the power of passion and perseverance. Double board-certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility (REI), she works at Shady Grove Fertility, helping individuals and couples build families. As an Assistant Professor at the University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, she also leads groundbreaking epidemiologic and translational research.

Dr. Roeca’s journey into medicine was fueled by her lifelong love of science. During her time in PLC, she was inspired by many from her cohort with their involvement in research and decided to join an Integrated Physiology of Aging lab. Reflecting on her time at CU, she fondly recalls her favorite college class, Developmental Biology, where she modified embryos—a skill she now applies daily in her work. Though she initially gravitated toward more of the research she did in her lab, her internship with 51�Թ�� Neurosurgical Associates ultimately solidified her desire to practice medicine. Before attending medical school, she took a short gap period to work in the biotech industry, a transition that reinforced her commitment to applying scientific knowledge in direct and impactful ways.

Surrounded by high-achieving peers in PLC, Dr. Roeca developed an insatiable drive for growth. She credits the program with pushing her to seek out new opportunities and continuously evolve. Today, she embodies transformational leadership, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and collective success. “I can only be successful if someone answers the phone; draws blood; cultures embryos. I know that their role is just as important as mine,” she explains, underscoring her deep appreciation for collaboration at every level.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Roeca is a dedicated athlete. In college, she was a two-time national triathlon champion. She and her husband recently competed in the Jungfrau Marathon, one of the most grueling races in the world. Her ability to balance the demands of a rigorous medical career with competitive athletics while being a mother of three speaks to her discipline and determination.

Over the years, Cassandra has learned the importance of prioritization. Each week, she assesses which aspects of her life require the most attention, ensuring she stays focused on what truly matters. Her passion for medicine and helping families has made her career deeply fulfilling.

Cassandra likens her career progression to climbing a ladder—steep and relentless at first but gradually leveling out with perseverance and time. Looking back, she finds it both humbling and awe-inspiring to see how far she has come. Her advice to young alumni? Savor the moment. With proper time management, anything is achievable. She also wants to remind them that attitude is contagious—positivity and enthusiasm spread just as easily as negativity and doubt.

Cassandra describes herself as an intensely determined and passionate woman who seeks humor in life, embraces the positive, and balances countless responsibilities. Through it all, she continues to inspire those around her with her relentless drive and unwavering optimism.

Forrest Hobbs '91

Forrest Hobbs’ career has been anything but linear. His journey is one of adventure, self-discovery, and an unrelenting drive to connect with people on a deeper level. From working on crab boats in Alaska to a Hollywood talent agency, from leading high-growth startups to stepping back and re-evaluating his purpose, Forrest’s path is defined by curiosity, courage, and an appreciation for the people who have joined him along the way.

Today, Forrest is an Operating Partner at both Kayne Anderson Capital and Composition Capital, where he helps early-stage tech startups scale and thrive. He is also the Principal Partner and Operator of SaaSEnable LLC, a consulting firm that guides startups through their go-to-market strategies. His work is rooted in the belief that success comes not just from strategy but from truly understanding the people who make up a company. “Transparency, honesty, and directness—even when the news is difficult—are key to strong leadership. The more you read people in, the stronger your team becomes.”

This belief was shaped by his time in PLC, which he describes as “the most influential, memorable, and lasting experience” of his college years. The high caliber members of his cohort challenge he encountered in PLC provided a more real-world education than anything else in his curriculum, and to this day, some of his dearest friends are fellow PLC alumni.

Forrest’s professional rise was marked by both ambition and self-awareness. As a Senior VP at Telesign, he played a key role in the company’s growth, even turning down a major investment offer from Kayne Anderson Capital. That decision, however, wasn’t the end of his relationship with the firm. Kayne Anderson kept tabs on him, and later invited Forrest to take on an advisory role. This opportunity coincided with a major shift in Forrest’s career: he began "sunsetting" the operational side of his work and instead focused on advising startups.

But stepping back from operations wasn’t the same as stepping away from purpose. Over time, Forrest realized that his true leadership style stemmed from enthusiasm, finding what excites him and sharing it with the people around him. He also discovered the importance of recognizing talent and being transparent about the realities of a job. “When recruiting, you’re responsible for whether someone is making a good career decision, not just for your company, but for them. You must be honest about what they’re getting themselves into and clear why you’re there and really sell the job for what it actually is, good, bad, otherwise.”

Despite his success, Forrest credits much of his journey to being in the right place at the right time, but he also acknowledges the moments when he had to make difficult choices—like stepping away from his career to reassess what truly made him happy. “There’s a difference between taking a break and burning out. When you’re on a break, you want to fill your time with what fulfills you. When you’re burnt out, you don’t have the energy or passion to do anything.”

As he returns to the operational side of startups, Forrest brings with him a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of what makes a great leader. He likens leadership to his passion for bonsai trees—carefully shaping growth, creating deep resilience through challenge and struggle, and embracing the slow but powerful process of strengthening one’s roots to survive tough times and thrive where others shrink away from the challenge.

“Maybe the courage to pull the ripcord on my career three years ago and focus on the next chapter of my life through the lens of what truly makes me happy… Don’t ask me what that is, though. I’m still figuring it out.”

Alumni Spring Lecture: April 1st

PLC Alumni Newsletter - Winter 2024

Jessie Kasynski — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 06:00:00 +0000

PLC Alumni Newsletter - Winter 2024

Jessie Kasynski Tue, 09/24/2024 - 00:00

A special thank you to our incredible alumni David Davenport (PLC ’93), Natalia Eid (PLC ’21), Krystal Horton (PLC ’19), and Caleb Law (PLC ’10) for sharing their insights at a Monday night panel lecture focused on leadership in the technology sector. You each brought a unique perspective on navigating challenges in such a rapidly evolving industry, offering valuable lessons to current scholars and fellow alumni. Your willingness to give back to the PLC community and share your experiences is appreciated. We are grateful for your continued support in fostering leadership excellence across all fields.

Here’s to the lasting impact you’ve made on the PLC family!

PLC Alumni Newsletter

Alumni Highlights

New Face on the Board: Stacy Baum

Stacy Baum (PLC ’85) serves as the Vice President of Marketing and Community Engagement for Catholic Charities of Denver. She plays a crucial role in reaching and uplifting communities across Northern Colorado. She oversees brand, marketing, and community outreach efforts, working alongside parishes, local businesses, nonprofits, and volunteers. Catholic Charities provides essential services that shelter, feed, educate, and support tens of thousands of Coloradans annually.

Reflecting on her journey, she credits the PLC as the foundation of her career. Her PLC walkabout at 9NEWS led to her first job in television broadcasting, and her network of PLC mentors opened doors that shaped her professional path. In one instance, a friend of PLC hired her for a corporate role, saying,

“If you’re a PLCer, we’re hiring you.”

PLC also prepared her for the fast-paced, high-stakes world of broadcasting by challenging her to articulate beliefs and navigate opposing viewpoints. These skills have become invaluable in her current role, where she emphasizes clear communication and compassion in leading her team. Her leadership philosophy centers on enabling others to shine. Inspired by the idea that, “leaders eat last,” she strives to coach her team to find their passion and excel.

As a first-generation college graduate, she has built a life deeply rooted in family, faith, and a commitment to giving back. Her marriage to her husband, Michael—a fellow Buff—has been a cornerstone of her journey. Together, they have built a partnership grounded in mutual support and shared values, providing a strong foundation for her personal and professional achievements.

Her journey has been a testament to resilience, and her achievements are shared with the people she holds closest. Her daughter Julia, a proud PLC alum, has followed in her footsteps, carrying forward the values of leadership and service that PLC instilled. Her son, recently married, brings joy and a new chapter to their family, while her mother remains a central, guiding presence in her life.

New Face on the Board: Rick Wilhelm

Rick Wilhelm (PLC '00), Chief Financial Officer of DW Healthcare Partners—an organization that manages investments in private markets, has seen his approach to making a difference evolve over the years. Once convinced that big changes came from large group initiatives, he now believes real impact happens through daily personal interactions. Most of his work involves meaningful conversations with individual investors and his team. He has found that these day-to-day exchanges can be transformative in ways that he never expected.

Rick’s motivations are simple yet profound: he wakes up each day eager to learn something new, be a supportive husband and father, and continue the everlasting challenge of personal growth. His love for sports remains central to his life. Having grown up playing tennis, Rick believes in becoming more like tennis legend Michael Chang—whose grit and humility left a lasting impression on Rick and the larger tennis community. Chang often won, not with superior skill, but with relentless determination. Rick strives to bring Chang's tenacity and level-headed approach to his own life. Rick now enjoys skiing and finds joy in supporting his kids' athletic pursuits in soccer and gymnastics. Volunteering has also been a meaningful part of his life, especially through his prior work with Ability Experience, where he biked across the U.S., connecting and organizing events for caregivers and persons with disabilities.

A natural mentor, Rick encourages those around him to push their limits and embrace challenges. PLC played a significant role in shaping his approach to life. He found the program’s unconventional structure—diverse readings and discussions that weren’t linear or prescriptive—both challenging and transformative. These experiences taught him to embrace the unexpected, becoming a more thoughtful and compassionate leader. He believes that seeking out diversity and adversity enriches our knowledge and resilience.

Reflecting on his PLC experiences, Rick fondly remembers the experiential weekends that brought him closer to issues and people. One highlight was a session with Breckenridge’s City Council, where he and his fellow scholars learned about balancing community needs with the demands of tourism in a mountain town economy.

Rick’s commitment to lifelong learning, positive connections, and personal growth continues to shape his approach to life. He embodies the values of the PLC community, showing us all the power of curiosity, kindness, and a deep sense of purpose in everyday interactions.

New Face on the Board: Keri Ungemah

Keri Hull Ungemah’s (PLC ‘92) journey through PLC not only shaped her career and values but introduced her to her husband, David Ungemah (PLC ‘91). The two met at a PLC alumni event at The Hornet, a local spot owned by a former PLC Board member. They quickly bonded over their shared love for CU and became lifelong partners. Twenty-five years later, Keri and David remain dedicated fans of their alma mater—even going as far as giving their two children the initials “CU” as a nod to the University of Colorado.

Currently, Keri serves as the Chief Marketing Officer at the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT). She leads the Marketing and Communications team, supporting OEDIT’s mission to promote economic growth by helping businesses succeed in Colorado. Keri and her team implement strategic marketing campaigns across various channels, including media relations, social media, and storytelling. Her department’s work helps recruit companies to Colorado and assists small businesses through numerous programs, from tax credits to no-cost training initiatives.

Keri credits PLC as a foundational influence on her leadership style and career. Her time as Co-Director of Recruitment and Selection on student staff provided invaluable experience in interviewing and recognizing talent—a skill that has benefited her throughout her professional journey.

Keri’s favorite piece of advice for her children—“It will be all right”—reflects a deeply personal journey marked by resilience, optimism, and an open-hearted commitment to helping others. For Keri, this isn’t a simple reassurance; it’s a philosophy forged through difficult experiences and triumphs including three miscarriages and a challenging pregnancy with her son, who arrived only after a period of complications. These moments, fraught with uncertainty and anxiety, taught Keri how to confront vulnerability head-on.

In navigating these painful experiences, Keri found herself searching for ways to make peace with emotions society often encourages us to hide. She saw that many people face similar struggles but feel pressured to remain silent. Recognizing this, Keri became passionate about normalizing these difficult emotions, determined to create spaces where people feel comfortable sharing their own stories of resilience and hope.

Keri’s approach to life, work, and family is guided by her unwavering commitment to joy, authenticity, and resilience. A futurist and avid problem-solver, she constantly looks ahead, striving to make meaningful changes and leave things better than she found them. Whether she’s exploring the scenic trails of Steamboat, Breckenridge, or Estes Park, traveling the world with her family, reminiscing about her transformative time studying abroad in Spain, or simply chasing the “Genius” level on the New York Times Spelling Bee, Keri brings a sense of purpose and curiosity to everything she does.

Alumni Club News and Events

Alumni Match Program (AMP) - Spring 2025

We’re excited to bring back the Alumni Match Program (AMP) this spring after an overwhelmingly positive response from students this fall!

AMP is a unique opportunity for our alumni to reconnect and give back by mentoring current scholars. This semester-long program fosters leadership growth, meaningful connections, and shared experiences between alumni and students.

With a flexible time commitment, AMP allows you to share your journey, provide guidance, and empower the next generation of leaders—all while strengthening the PLC community and its values of leadership, service, and lifelong learning.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting your career, your story and insights can make a lasting impact. Sign up today to be part of this inspiring program and help shape the future of PLC.

Apply now to become a mentor!

Sign-up for AMP

Bring a PLCer to Work Day Pilot Program: A Huge Success!

We’re thrilled to share the success of our inaugural “Bring a PLCer to Work Day” pilot program! This initiative connects current PLC scholars with local alumni leaders, creating a unique opportunity for networking, mentorship, and leadership growth.

Through 90-minute lunch-and-learn sessions, scholars get a firsthand glimpse into the professional lives of our outstanding PLC Board of Advocates members and their colleagues. From candid insights on leadership to practical advice on navigating the workforce, these sessions are filled with inspiration and wisdom to guide our next generation of leaders.

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible hosts for making this program a reality:
Tiffany Anderson at the Boettcher Foundation
Keri Ungemah at the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade
David Ettinger at Bow River Capital

Your generosity, expertise, and mentorship left a lasting impression on all who participated.

To our scholars and alumni: this is just the beginning! We’re excited to watch this program grow and further strengthen the bonds within the PLC community. Keep an eye out for future opportunities to connect, learn, and lead!

Get Linked to PLC Alumni

The club is also asking alumni to join the LinkedIn Page. The program will be posting next steps for the graduating Class of 2024 and we’d love to see alumni welcome PLCers to their industries and cities.

PLC LinkedIn Group

PLC Alumni Newsletter - Spring 2024

Jessie Kasynski — Wed, 15 May 2024 16:47:32 +0000

PLC Alumni Newsletter - Spring 2024

Jessie Kasynski Wed, 05/15/2024 - 10:47 PLC Alumni Newsletter

PLC Alumni Newsletter - February 2024

Jessie Kasynski — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 17:50:03 +0000

PLC Alumni Newsletter - February 2024

Jessie Kasynski Mon, 01/22/2024 - 10:50 PLC Alumni Newsletter

Alumni Spotlights

Kelsey Page

Kelsey Page is from the cohort of 2007 and is the current Global Digital Director of Givenchy Beauty and Kenzo Perfumes in Paris, France. Kelsey enjoys her job because it is a great fit for her personality and lifestyle. It is creative and strategic and changes frequently, so she is constantly on her toes. Some of the best parts are photo shoots and watching her ideas come to life, seeing her work have an impact on a public scale like content going viral or observing how it affects people positively. She has also been lucky to work with some really amazing people, from many different countries and walks of life who are creative and funny and have made wonderful professional partners.

After graduating from CU with degrees in Spanish Literature and Psychology, Kelsey decided to pursue an unexpected dream of moving to Paris and working in advertising, despite not speaking French, never having taken business or marketing classes, and not knowing a soul in Europe. After a few years in agencies, she was recruited by the L’Oreal group, where she was Global Head of Content for skincare brand Vichy Laboratoires and then Global Head of Social, Media, and Advocacy at Giorgio Armani Beauty. She loved her experiences working at L’Oreal, especially being able to work across global markets like China and Asia, the Middle East, all of Europe, LatAm, and of course the U.S.

In her spare time, Kelsey loves to cook, learn languages (she has recently learned her fourth language, Italian), and practice yoga and meditation. She has also been teaching Master's courses in digital marketing in Paris, and giving back by mentoring college students and young professionals.

When reflecting on her favorite memory from PLC, Kelsey says, “My favorite memory from PLC is by far all of the close friends I made. Especially in our first-year group, I spent every waking minute with other PLCers we felt like family; we would stay up until 2 or 3 am every night ‘studying’ (more like chatting and drinking chai while we told ourselves we were working). I met so many interesting people from very different walks of life with very different dreams, but there was always a strong sense of feeling like we were a tight-knit community who always respected one another, it’s not a feeling one finds commonly or easily. I still see my PLC friends as often as I can.”

Dr. J Reed Caldwell

Dr. Reed Caldwell is from the 2000 cohort and was the first class to go through the four-year PLC curriculum. He currently resides in Brooklyn, New York with his husband of eighteen years and their ten-year-old English Bulldog. Reed works as the Chief of Service (Perelman Emergency Department) and the EMS Medical Director at NYU Langone Health. He has had a passion for the medical field since the age of five due to his youth and his feeling of comfort with hospitals.

Reed claims he wishes he could have told his college self, “Work on thinking as big as possible.” His goal was to always get into medical school, why wasn’t it to be the Chief Officer at one of the largest hospitals in the United States? He further states, “Allow your goals to zoom in and out. Never limit your dreams. Open as many doors as you can early and then you can decide later not to walk through them. Always have the doors open and in sight.”

When not busy at work, Reed enjoys exercising (specifically spin classes), trying out new restaurants recommended by blogs and the New York Times, and listening to and following DJs around the globe. A few of his favorite places that he has traveled to for DJs have been Ibiza, London, and LA. He hopes to visit all continents in the future, with Australia and Antarctica on his must-visit list.

When Reed thinks of PLC, it takes him back to a warm, difficult, reflective place. Everyone had strong academic backgrounds and were considered leaders. “We were often told we were some of the best.” Yet, in PLC recitation in the late evenings, we were asked challenging questions and forced to reexamine beliefs and disbeliefs, which started to frame thinking and it even baffled him that his parents were wrong about some things. It made him think of the world beyond himself.

Student Spotlights

Carter Galyardt

Carter Galyardt is in the 2021 cohort and is on the PLC Student Staff with LEAD Colorado. Carter works with high school students from the 51�Թ�� area to develop their leadership skills. He helps host monthly meetings surrounding values, leadership in everyday life, and understanding what it means to be a leader. We are so lucky to have you, Carter!

Why did you join PLC? What are a few of your favorite memories from the program?

I applied to PLC when an alumni told me, "Without PLC, I cannot imagine what my life would be like today. It was integral in becoming who I am today." Now that I have been in PLC for three years, I can say I completely agree with her, and I can't imagine where I would be without PLC. My favorite memories from PLC are also my favorite from college- I live in a house with PLCers, met most of my best friends through the program, and continue to go on yearly spring break trips with my PLC friends to California.

Describe a success you've had during your time at CU:

Outside of academics and social life, my biggest accomplishment as of late was my survival last semester. When I decided to study abroad in Israel for the fall, I knew I would be in for an interesting time, but I hadn't the foggiest idea what would happen on October 7th. Luckily, I was able to subvert the conflict and return home safely, finishing my classes (Israeli Politics, Islam, Politics + Terror, History of Antisemitism) from 51�Թ��. Though I was disappointed not to go back to Israel, I was glad to be safely learning about such a controversial and topical war in real time, from afar.

What are your hobbies?

I love to travel. I try to leave the US once a year and go somewhere I have never seen before. In 2023, I was lucky enough to make it to 19 countries- an incredible experience in visiting other cultures. I also love to play tennis, I am currently in a league and coach kids tennis on the weekends. When I am not coaching tennis, I love to snowboard - my goal this year is to hit 30 days between my three favorite resorts: Copper, Steamboat, and Eldora. Above all, I am neck-deep in politics, both national and international. If reading Wikipedia pages on the status of Romanian politics, or obsessively checking the New York Times to see who won the latest presidential primary could be considered a hobby, it's definitely high on my list of activities.

What are you currently working on?

Currently, the LSAT. For me, this is a daunting task, but I hope to apply for law school in the fall. Eventually, I hope to work my way through law school, pass the bar, and work in the ever-expanding field of environmental law.

Holly McCollough

Holly McCollough is a part of the 2020 cohort and is the Community Team Lead and Senior Class Coordinator. In the past, Holly has also been the First Year Class Coordinator and the Mentoring Programs Coordinator. Holly has done a great job enriching the PLC experience for so many students!

Why did you join PLC? What are a few of your favorite memories from the program?

I joined PLC because I was excited to learn about the world from many perspectives and meet people who were working hard to create positive change. As for a favorite memory, my freshman year, I had the opportunity to attend the Adventure Weekend with Aaron Roof, where we were challenged to complete obstacle courses, orienteering competitions (shoutout to my teammate Alden for carrying us to victory!), and reflect in a Peak to Peak poetry discussion about the way we carry our past, present, and future as leaders.

Describe a success you've had during your time at CU:

I am very proud of my involvement with the Golden Buffalo Marching Band. The band performed on Big Noon Kickoff, ESPN Game Day, and in front of 54,000 fans. Because of our diligent work over three years, we were well-prepared for the added attention to CU. Most importantly, our group of 16 horn players has developed a very caring culture thanks to our leadership team’s example. I am thankful for the opportunity I had to work in Indonesia during the summer after my sophomore year. I analyzed sales data to recommend a marketing plan for a dried fruit company providing high-quality seasonal work to women in poorer villages. I also began learning to speak Indonesian and received valuable training about Islam, ethical development work, cross-cultural work, and more. Last, but not least, I helped lead a spiritual discussion group called Alpha, where we established a safe culture to talk about life’s deepest questions, focused on religion and spirituality. I am thankful for and proud of the caring community I helped create to discuss such important topics.

What are your hobbies?

I love to play games with friends, climb/bouldering, hike, make music each day, and spend time with my four sisters and parents.

How would you describe the PLC community?

PLC’s community is multifaceted and intentional. Every PLCer I speak with is kind, humble and interested in learning more about the world. It is a delight to be in a community with so many different people who desire to care for others and engage with complicated questions maturely and ethically. PLCers are always the most interesting people in the room.

PLC Alumni Newsletter - Special Edition - Get involved in PLC this year

jefo2003 — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 17:56:40 +0000

PLC Alumni Newsletter - Special Edition - Get involved in PLC this year

jefo2003 Wed, 12/20/2023 - 10:56 PLC Alumni Newsletter

PLC Alumni Newsletter - October 2023

jefo2003 — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 16:30:01 +0000

PLC Alumni Newsletter - October 2023

jefo2003 Mon, 10/16/2023 - 10:30 PLC Alumni Newsletter

Alumni Spotlight

Susan Schwartz

Susan Schwartz is from the 1988 cohort and is currently a reporter at The Press Enterprise in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania.

Why did you pick PLC and what are a few of your favorite memories?

I was told there was a program at the university for potential leaders that came with a scholarship. I was honored to be invited to apply. But I was so nervous when I went for the interview, I tried to exit the room afterward through what turned out to be the door of a closet! I was accepted anyway. I loved the weekend team-building exercises, when we tried to pass each other through a fake spider web, and cross a pretend lava river with too-short planks. We had a particularly charismatic PLCer named Copil who could do awesome yoyo tricks and knew people wherever we went. And I still think of some of the things we learned then - how inspired I was by a fellow PLCer (sorry, I don’t remember who) who insisted “we leave no one behind” during the lava exercise, for example. I also think a lot about a line from “The Tao of Leadership,” which I read in the class, something to the effect of: When a poor leader and his/her group reach their destination, the people say “He did this - he brought us here.” When a good leader and his/her group arrive at their goal, the people say “We did this.”

Why are you a reporter? What are some recommendations you have for PLCers seeking a position similar to yours?

Knowledge is power; by working as a reporter, I’m giving that power to the people in my community, regardless of whether they are rich or poor. Most people can afford a newspaper, and it's available for free at local libraries. With my articles, I uncover problems so that readers know they need solving. I help bind the community together by letting them know what different groups are doing and what concerns different people have. I help celebrate achievements. And I create a historic record of what it’s like to live here. PLCers who want to work in a similar job need to have open minds, a passion for letting people know what’s happening, and a lot of curiosity about the world around them. It’s the best job in the world - I get paid to go to events and research issues that are interesting or important or both!

What keeps you busy besides work?

I’m the treasurer and one of the volunteer lay leaders of a small synagogue. I play recorder, harp and other early music instruments, and recently became director of a weekend early music workshop. I hike and backpack and kayak. I find music and the outdoors re-energize me. The synagogue gives me space to reflect and determine what might help me improve myself.

What are contemporary topics that leaders are facing in the future?

I think the biggest problem facing local leaders is the breakdown of community. People are retreating into their individual bubbles, and no longer interacting with those who don’t think like they do. They’re also volunteering less. This means we’re less willing and able to work together when a crisis arises. And the volunteers who used to provide a lot of services - firefighting, raising money for the library, tutoring children, taking care of hiking trails - are disappearing. That will make it a lot harder to solve the other issues we face, such as global warming, the rise of racism and antisemitism, and the increasing gaps between the rich and poor.

Advice to PLCers (past, present, and future)?

It’s important to have values and beliefs, but you also have to be able to listen to and understand other people’s points of view. Remember that everything and everyone is interconnected. So be kind. The bartender could be related to the person you’re complaining about over drinks. The kid who makes your coffee could someday be your teammate or your boss. And everyone carries burdens you don’t know about - the person who was rude to you may have just received terrible news and is at the end of his/her rope. Nothing lasts forever, good or bad. This is sometimes a tragedy, but is often one of life’s saving graces. So treasure your time with your friends and family, and don’t sweat it too much if you get a bad grade or two, as long as you’re still learning. Since graduating, no one has ever asked to see my transcript. But they do care about the work I did at my internships, and how well I apply the skills I learned in school to my job.

Karen Steinhauser

Karen Steinhauser graduated in 1978 from CU and resides in Denver, Colorado. She is a Deposition and Trial Skills Instructor, Implicit Bias Trainer, Relief Judge, and Adjuct Law Professor.

Why did you decide to join PLC and what are a few of your favorite memories?

I got an invite and a scholarship before there was the internet so I don’t even remember applying. Since PLC was still fairly new, there wasn't as much as there is now. There were some field trips and it was really nice to meet neat people.

What does a normal day look like for you?

Each day is different. I sit the bench 1-2 times a week and I teach Evidence and Trial advocacy and Implicit Bias. A few weeks ago, I went to a National conference of judges.

What is your type of leadership style?

I couldn't pick just one leadership style. However, I believe in being fair, equitable, and inclusive.

Advice to PLCers (past, present, and future)?

Find your passion. Passion over profit. Make money and love what you do, you can get burnt out and discouraged if you do not follow your passion.
Continually ask yourself if you are where you should be. If not/no, make a change.
Never say never.
You may not love everything the same, but you will learn something from what you do and each experience you have.
Be a lifelong learner, will help you continue to grow.

Biggest takeaway from PLC?

Back then, PLC was quite corporate heavy. It is very important to get exposed to all kinds of businesses and organizations. Something that I seek out are locally owned businesses as well as minority owners.

Do you have opportunties for students to get involved?

Yes! People are welcome to come visit classes I teach in person. In November, there are also opportunties for individuals to serve as a juror for a mock trial. The court is also always open and people are welcome to attend (my time on bench varies).

Student Spotlight

Aaditya Pore

Aaditya (Aadi) Pore is in the 2021 cohort and is on Student Staff as the Global Course Assistant. Prior to this position, he has been a Class Coordinator and a member of the Service Team. We are so happy to have you, Aadi!

Why did you join PLC and what are a few of your favorite memories?

I joined PLC to find a like-minded community of driven individuals that could push me to be the best version of myself. Being an out of state student, I knew that building my community was going to be a challenge. Thankfully, PLC made it easy. I’m a firm believer that surrounding yourself with people who are as, if not more, motivated than you helps you grow to accomplish your potential, and that’s exactly what I’ve found in PLC. It is a group that has given me some of my best friends, access to great opportunities, and stronger leadership skills. My favorite memories are definitely tied with my freshman year, specifically the first-year orientation. The retreat in the mountains was a perfect venue to be connected with the cohort and laid the foundation for some amazing friendships.

A few of your successes from your time at CU?

By far, the accomplishment I am most proud of is getting accepted into the NASA Pathways program. It was a dream of mine to work for NASA since I was in Kindergarten, and being able to accomplish that was absolutely amazing. It felt like all of my hard work and dedication had finally paid off! Another success I cherish is one from my time on CUSG. As Legislative Council President, I was able to successfully gain representation from all Schools and Colleges on campus in CU Student Government, a challenge that was uncompleted for years prior to me joining the organization. I improved representation within CUSG and ensured that all decisions were made in the best interest for all students on campus.

Favorite hobbies?

A unique hobby of mine is collecting colognes! I love exploring new scents so that I can always smell great. Also, I love sports. Basketball, football, and cricket will always captivate my attention. Outside of those two, I also enjoy playing video games with friends on occasion.

What are you currently working on?

I’m currently working on becoming a published author! I have two research projects that I am contributing to (one that I may be the primary author on) that will be published by the end of the year. I want to pursue a research oriented master’s degree at some point in my life, so this is a great opportunity to build my experience in that field.

Reconnect

Stay Connected to PLC

A few years ago, the Presidents Leadership Class created Class Champions to reconnect with all alumni in preparation for the 50th Anniversary celebration of PLC. We extend our utmost gratitude to the hard-working and dedicated volunteers who put in a lot of time and effort into this massive undertaking. Thanks to their efforts, almost 200 people were able to return to campus and celebrate 50 years of this special program! Now that the goal of the 50th has been accomplished, we have decided to discontinue Class Champions and encourage alumni to stay connected through the many available platforms. Here are the best ways to stay updated on what's happening with PLC:

• The Alumni Newsletter: Our amazing alumni will continue to be recognized, upcoming events will be shared (with an opportunity for you to create and submit an alumni event that we will advertise), and we will provide ongoing program updates.

• PLC Social Media: Our Facebook and LinkedIn pages have been around for a while, and we will continue to utilize these platforms to share events and updates. Starting this year, a current student will manage a dedicated PLC Alumni Instagram account. We will use Instagram to showcase the achievements of our alumni and share events and engagement opportunities!

• PLC Alumni Webpage: The PLC website will receive a much-needed facelift this summer and will be a great platform to see what's new with the program, along with opportunities to engage, such as our mentorship program.

• Forever Buffs Network: We partnered with the 51�Թ�� Alumni Association to create our own Presidents Leadership Group on the Forever Buffs Network (FBN). The FBN is a wonderful new platform that allows alumni to easily connect, view each other's locations and profiles, but remains private to only group members (approval comes only from PLC staff). Learn more about the FBN and PLC here.

We're excited to continue the strong partnership and community that has always existed between the PLC program and its alumni!

Recommend Students to PLC

Do you know a senior in high school that should apply to be in PLC? Would you like us to send them an email with information and encouragement? PLC is searching for its next cohort, and we want your input! As alumni of the program, we know that you can identify young people with the potential to change the world. These are the students that we are searching for. We invite you to nominate exceptional high school seniors and current college freshmen using the form below. Our team will reach out to the students you recommend to share more about the program and application process.

Thank you for continuing to be an integral part of our community! Fill out the form here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfeYuk40Ae8EaEGybfC-RuRuYxnPBnLs2LqY2L2nhPcRXT5_w/viewform

With gratitude,
CORPS team

PLC Alumni Newsletter - July 2023 Alumni Newsletter

jefo2003 — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 18:19:38 +0000

PLC Alumni Newsletter - July 2023 Alumni Newsletter

jefo2003 Tue, 07/18/2023 - 12:19

Alumni Newsletter

July 2023

PLC Alumni Newsletter

Food for Thought

Taking the Next Leap with PLC

When I was offered the Assistant Vice Provost position this past spring, one of my main considerations in saying yes was that I would get to work with PLC. I have been in higher education for thirty years and have a background in residence life, career services, learning communities, multicultural services, and learning support programs. In addition, I have taught for a decade with leadership programs at other universities. I even previously managed a couple of ropes courses and led youth and nonprofit/corporate groups through both low and high ropes initiatives. Thus, leadership and experiential education have both been deeply intertwined within my professional career.

Let me also use this opportunity to share a little more about my personal interests too. My parents immigrated to the U.S. from Cuba, and I grew up on the west coast of Florida. I love traveling to U.S. National Parks and have been camping in over 40+ different parks. Finally, I am part of the Denver Astronomical Society and have already made plans for viewing four minutes of darkness with the total eclipse in April 2024.

Working in higher education and supporting the critical thinking process of adult learners is decidedly my chosen profession. Throughout my life journey, I have practiced a servant leadership approach and believe in developing shared visions through collaborative strategies. All of this has prepared me for this role on campus, where I can support our PLC students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

To start, we have begun the search process for the new PLC Director. We assembled a search committee with a current PLC student, a recent PLC alum, a PLC Board of Advocate representative, an outside campus staff member who is on the Center for Leadership Board, a PLC faculty member, and a representative from Human Resources. Together this group has identified in June first round candidates for video interviews. By mid-July, we will have a smaller group of finalists to conduct more in-depth interviews.

We will reach out to students, alumni, PLC staff/faculty, and campus partners to have them meet these 2-4 candidates via online options. This will allow us to get multiple perspectives and gather everyone’s feedback. Then hopefully we can bring our top 1-2 candidate to campus and proceed to a fall start date. If you have questions or really want to ensure you are involved, feel free to reach out to me. We value diverse perspectives and collective feedback to bring the right person to our PLC Community. These are exciting times for the next step with PLC!

I look forward to seeing you all in the fall,

Lory-Ann (LA) Varela, Assistant Vice Provost Academic Support & Enrichment

Lory-Ann.Varela@colorado.edu

Updates

Where Leaders Emerge

Mid-Spring 2023 semester, the student director of our CORPS (community outreach and relationships with prospective scholars) team, Pax Armon, approached me to talk about how we have talked about the program and how it was incongruent with the current PLC student sentiment. While my hasty, kneejerk reaction was to preserve “how we have been doing it,” I soon heard Pax with greater clarity and agreed that our messaging was not sending the appropriate message with the appropriate tenor out to the world. Therefore, I arranged for a small and very dedicated group of PLC students to meet with alumni and branding expert, Evan Faber (PLC ’99), to re-imagine and rebrand PLC to capture the way our current students feel about the program today. After many sessions and countless hours of honing, PLC now has a new message: Presidents Leadership Class | Where Leaders Emerge. We are excited to work our new messaging onto our website, into our recruitment materials and into regular conversations we have about PLC. While the mission remains the same, PLC has a new ‘Why.’ This is why PLC exists: The need for courageous, empathic, and visionary leaders has never been more pressing. The Presidents Leadership Class (PLC) at 51�Թ�� shapes extraordinary individuals to step boldly into the world, ready to challenge the status quo and make a lasting, positive impact on society.

-Jessie Kasynski
Assistant Director
Presidents Leadership Class

In Memorial

Bailee Muholland was a member of the cohort of PLC 2015. On Sunday, July 9, Bailee died after an approximate 500-foot-fall while free-solo climbing on the Four Aces of Blitzen Ridge on Ypsilon Mountain in Rocky Mountain National Park. She was a free spirit from the moment we met her in PLC to the moment she passed. Her epic 48 contiguous state run adventure was her PLC Walkabout – always pushing the boundaries of what was expected. We are deeply saddened and extend our warmest condolences. Articles about Bailee and her life can be found in the Daily Camera.

New CEO takes reins at Tattered Cover as indie bookstore faces “substantial financial obstacles”

New CEO Brad Dempsey officially took the reins of independent bookstore Tattered Cover on Wednesday, taking over the iconic 52-year-old Colorado business at a difficult time in the bookselling industry.

The Colorado native is a lawyer and past political hopeful who had spent the past two months working as an outside adviser for the company.

In spite of “pretty substantial financial obstacles” that the business currently faces, Dempsey pointed to the Tattered Cover’s “incredible intrinsic value” to Colorado history that gives it an advantage. Right now, his primary goal is to grow sales and build the store’s inventory – “to sell more of what sells.”

Looking forward, Dempsey is prepared to move the stores into a rehabilitation period, during which he aims to make them “more attractive” destinations to bring dates or out-of-town visitors.

Click the link for the full article.

Newsletter Submission

If you have an event that you would like to invite other PLC alumni to or if you would like to give a shout-out to your fellow alumni, you can simply use the link provided below and fill out a Google form. Your submission may be featured in the next edition of the newsletter.

Alumni Newsletter Submission Link

Reconnect

Stay Connected to PLC

We're excited to continue the strong partnership and community that has always existed between the PLC program and its alumni!

Recommend Students to PLC

Thank you for continuing to be an integral part of our community!

With gratitude,
CORPS team

Recommend a Student

PLC Alumni Newsletter - April 2023 Alumni Newsletter

Anonymous — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 21:19:48 +0000

PLC Alumni Newsletter - April 2023 Alumni Newsletter

Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 04/11/2023 - 15:19

Alumni Newsletter

April 2023

PLC Alumni Newsletter

Food for Thought

Utilizing the PLC Network!

As the incoming board chair for the PLC Board of Advocates I wanted to share a bit of commentary about the hidden power of the program’s network that I encourage all of you alumni reading this newsletter to work on exploiting in the coming year! Needless to say, every student who has gone through PLC over the last 50 years has seen some benefit from their time in the program. It may be related to friendships, education or their career but in many ways it can feel like the program’s value is isolated to your time at CU.

It is easy to see how the network can be helpful while you are in college and it was immensely so for myself as my mentor during PLC introduced me to an internship my Sophomore year where I met more mentors who connected me with my first job out of school. The PLC network was entirely responsible for getting me into the working world and my PLC mentor even helped advocate for me to get my current job nearly 10 years ago!

So my first words of encouragement, if you are interested in connecting directly more with students in PLC, let’s make it happen. Reach out to me, let’s chat about your career and how we can get you more involved with current students. It is so much fun to spend 30 minutes answering a college student’s questions about your career arc and introducing them to a friend or two that can help.

But don’t forget about 50 years of alumni network that you can tap into as well. If you are considering a move to a new city and want some intel, reach out and let’s see if there are PLC alumni there who can tell you about some good places to live. If you are thinking about a new career or going to law school or getting involved in some non-profits, reach out and let’s see who we can connect you with as well. If you are interested in joining the PLC Board of Advocates to reconnect with the program and help us shape it going forward, reach out!

In summary, let’s rekindle some of that proactive networking we used in college to get us where we are today to utilize this powerful alumni network. The 50^th anniversary celebration was such a fun way to restart that in person so let’s keep the momentum.

David Ettenger
ettenger@bowrivercapital.com

Alumni Spotlights

Charles Gilford III, Cohort of 2005

Charles Gilford III is from the cohort of 2005 and is currently the Director of Regional Affairs and Migrant Emergency Services at the Mayor’s office for the City and County of Denver. The mayor’s office acts in the Executive Branch and is charged with serving over 700,000 citizens, managing an annual budget of over two billion dollars, departmental oversight of over 30 departments, and plays a key role in leading both the Denver metro area and the state at large.

Though Gilford has always had an interest in politics, his journey into public service was, as he put it, serendipitous. Gilford studied Business Management at CU and served as a tri-exec in CUSG (formerly UCSU). After graduation, he began his career in education and then got an opportunity to work at COMCAST. He had a promising career in the private sector but decided to transition to the public sector after realizing the instability at play. He worked in a faith based non-profit as Chief of Staff and was inspired by the direct impact one could have. A former colleague mentioned there was an Executive Assistant role open for the COO in the Mayor’s office and Gilford was hesitant but interested. Gilford started in November of 2019 as the COO’s executive assistant, often just getting coffee and making calendar appointments. Dedication and ambition led to him being promoted to Senior Advisor within two weeks. Gilford led projects that impacted $3.58B in capital expenditures and served in the Emergency Operations Center at the height of the COVID19 pandemic.

Gilford mentions a song by Hillsong called "Oceans” that depicts the opportunity we all have to step out on faith and experience that which is miraculous and awe inspiring. Life, when lived, has a way of unfolding and if we are led by a purpose rather than driven by ambition, can take us places we couldn't have even imagined. Gilford states, “plans are plans but life is bigger than our linear and oversimplified paths.”

PLC gave Gilford a community of people whose drive, sense of duty, and passion inspired him. He’s grateful for the exposure to different types of leaderships and places to make an impact. PLC also helped him see how leadership must transcend the upper echelons of affluent society, board rooms, and the C suite. PLC helped Gilford see the need to demystify the mystique of leadership that some paint it as; his passion is to “help the world see that leadership is a function of willingness to serve, recognizing defining moments, and raising a shaking hand to make change.” That's courage, that's leadership.

As stated by Gilford:

"I value the universal nature of leadership and the opportunity it affords us all to enhance lives and change the future. I value the belief that leadership is about service to others and that greatness is measured by what we do for others not what we amass for ourselves. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once sited in his speech "The Drum Major Instinct," a passage from Matthew 23:11 " The greatest among you will be your servant."

Catherine Tinucci, Cohort of 1983

Catherine Tinucci is from the cohort of 1983 and has retired from a 32-year career in the public school system serving as a teacher, instructional coach, and administrator. Her last assignment was for 11 years as a principle at a large middle school in Colorado Springs, School District #49. She states that this was probably the most challenging leadership position she has had, for it hosted many responsibilities, a never-ending amount of work and decision making, but a multitude of fulfilling relationships. Her training as a coach and mentor set the stage for creating her own leadership style and has remained with her through retirement. Tinucci is currently supervising student teachers and alternative licensure candidates through Colorado State University, Pueblo. As a supervisor, she coaches and mentors pre-service and current new teachers in teaching strategies and curriculum design.

“I love being able to support new teachers in their craft and guide them in becoming strong classroom leaders.”

Tinucci started her career as an 8th grade math teacher. She was initially hired because of her willingness and ability to coach middle school athletics, and, in her words “not because I had any special magic as a math teacher (my university degree was in Political Science and my teaching license was in Social Studies - a far cry from the numeracy of Pre-Algebra).” She had to learn to make mathematics relevant and interesting to 13-year old’s - what a task! Thus, began her long and fulfilling career honing a certain voice for supporting efforts, critiquing performance, and guiding youth. Tinucci continued to develop as a teacher when she moved her leadership to the building level as a middle school Assistant Principal. This is where the reality of being a school leader began and the many lessons on adult supervision, political decision making, building guidance, and curriculum design.

Due to staffing cuts and an economic crisis in 2008, Tinucci was moved to an Instructional Coaching role at the secondary level. She initially struggled with the move, but this year ended up being paramount in terms of developing an instructional voice and supporting teachers in their growth while becoming a true servant-leader.

During her time in PLC, Tinucci served as a CA and was able to take the upper-level courses ("Globalism to Localism"). She attributes this to the beginning of her career as an educator. She believes PLC afforded her the instruction and opportunities to create a foundation of leadership that allowed her to take on future roles. She cites personal excellence, resilience, self-awareness, and taking action for recognized needs. Tinucci was willing to take the lessons she learned and apply them to real life.

Tinucci gives an anecdote about the basis of her beliefs in leadership training programs: When she was early on in her principalship, she had an assistant principal on her team in which she worked great with. That assistant principle advocated for leadership training, but the district could not afford to send her. Although Tinucci was not able to give her this opportunity, she was able to support her in some significant responsibilities that helped her to grow as a leader. Tinucci attributes PLC for the seeds of her leadership growth,

“PLC created the potential in me for that future leader.”

PLC Today

Community Team Spotlight

This year’s Community team on Student Staff is driven by “being the spark of PLC” – inspiring students to create and maintain meaningful connections within the program. Three sub-teams have been focusing on different avenues for these connections; the Alumni Mentoring Coordinators plan alumni panels and peer mentoring, TLC for PLC focuses on wellness events and informational support, and the Class Coordinators focus on event communication and intra-cohort bonding. In an effort to unite the general PLC community, the team has been combining resources and ideas to create larger, all-PLC events, such as the first-annual Fall Fest, an outdoor Spikeball tournament and tie-dye afternoon, and an “All-Cohorts Event” at the UMC Connection with pizza and bowling. The team has also kept up the traditions of a Community Dinner, the Talent Show, and PLC Prom! While these larger-community events have made strides in
creating new traditions for all-PLC, many PLCers would like to see an increased volume and consistency of smaller events next year!

Some memorable moments: making homemade pretzels in a dorm kitchen before Fall Fest, all the hugs and smiles at “Match Night” for PLC^2 Mentoring Program, groggy Rose-Bud-Thorns for the 8am Wednesday meetings of fall semester!

PLCers on Campus - Buffs for Reproductive Rights

Buffs for Reproductive Rights is a Planned Parenthood Generation Action chapter dedicated to the advancement of reproductive rights at the 51�Թ��. Helena Neufeld and Simone Adhikari, PLC cohort of 2021 cohort, run the group alongside two other Executive Members. During the fall semester, they hosted a Dignified Menstruation event, featuring guest speakers from the Global South Coalition for Dignified Menstruation and the Responsible Sex Education Institution. They educated attendees on the consequences of menstrual discrimination and promoted sustainable menstruation practices, such as the use of menstrual cups, which were distributed for free at the event. This semester, they organized an elevated sexual education seminar in collaboration with Students Against Campus Sexual Assault (SACSA). This discussion-based event was created to allow individuals to discuss sexual pleasure, mental health issues surrounding sex, and broader issues surrounding consent and sexual violence on campus.

Student Spotlight - Jordan Lee

Jordan Lee was the student staff director for the past academic year and we sat down for an interview with her to honor her time at CU.

What was your academic journey?

I am a Senior studying Geography and Linguistics with a minor in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. I am passionate about how we talk our world into being, and especially how we communicate about and adapt to our changing climate.

What are you currently working on?

Currently, I work in the Well-Being, Environment, Livelihoods, and Sustainability (WELS) Lab under Dr. Karen Bailey and in the Suding Lab, under PhD student Sam Ahler. In the WELS Lab, we recently published an article about the racialized history of the American conservation movement and its implications on conservation work today. I am also working on a project investigating the effect of sense of place on climate adaptation related to drought and water scarcity along the Colorado River Basin. In the Suding Lab, I am supporting a project investigating best-practices for grasslands restorations of native Colorado flora. Lastly, I am wrapping up an Honors Thesis investigating how LGBTQ+ identifying young adults understand their identities through foodways, and how their understandings of health and morality affect that identity negotiation.

Why did you join PLC and any favorite memories?

I joined PLC because I wanted to meet people from diverse backgrounds, academic and otherwise, who were similarly motivated and passionate about making positive change. Reflecting on the past four years, it has been a really wonderful way to connect with people I wouldn't otherwise meet and learn about the world through the lens of leadership, which has given me numerous opportunities for experiential leadership and reflection. My favorite PLC memory was the ALWC, which I went on just before starting my freshmen year. It was my first experience back-packing, but certainly wasn't my last! I learned so much from being pushed to my limits in an environment oriented towards growth and being surrounded by supportive friends.

How else are you involved on campus?

Other than PLC, I have also been part of the Golden Buffalo Marching Band and GlobeMed, which is now CU Heal, where I served as a Campaigns Coordinator and as Co-President. Currently, I am part of CU Engage's Public Achievement, where CU students work with middle school and high school students in Lafayette to generate social change through civic engagement. I have been lucky enough to work with the same high school team for the past two years on an ethnic studies curriculum for BVSD and another high school team focused on immigrant rights. This experience has shown me the importance of empowering others, especially young people, and recognizing that the power that we all hold to recognize problems in our communities and address them with care.

Any plans for after graduation?

After graduation, I will be working as a Plant Ecology Volunteer Coordinator this summer season with 51�Թ�� County, where I will lead volunteer groups on seed harvesting and vegetation restoration throughout the 51�Թ�� County Area. I am so excited to combine my love of working with people with my love of taking care of the planet, and learning a lot in the process. In the winter, I will hopefully be joining a wildlands fire crew, so fingers crossed!

Graduating Students

We want to take this section to honor our graduating students.

Cohort of 2019

Abigail Brown
Abigale Foster
Alden Soto
Anushka Kathait
Caitlyn Mendik
Chloe Applegate
Etash Kalra
Jo Robbins
Johanna Landmark
Jordan Lee
June Yuan
Krystal Horton
Lauren Hanley
Matthew McCoy
MJ Riley
Nicholas Galambos
Paola Ortiz Venzor
Sam Hahn
Sharon Battula
Solana Teitler
Tris Ikeda
Wilmsen Craig
Zoe Drigot

Cohort of 2020

Ethan Meyer
Jessica Emmons
Joe Moser
Joelle McDonald
John Douthit
Kate McCarthy
Shane Ball
Zoe Drigot

PLC Alumni Newsletter - January 2023 Alumni Newsletter

Anonymous — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 18:51:35 +0000

PLC Alumni Newsletter - January 2023 Alumni Newsletter

Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 01/17/2023 - 11:51

Alumni Newsletter

January 2023

PLC Alumni Newsletter

Food For Thought

The Pulse on PLC

For those of you who do not know me, I am the new program coordinator for the Presidents Leadership Class, Jessi Follett. I have spent most of my career working in higher education on events and conferences and joined the PLC team in June 2022. Since transitioning to this new role, I have been in awe of the caliber of our students and the impact of our alumni. I have worked with a lot of undergraduate students in my career, but none hold a candle to the drive, dedication, and intelligence demonstrated by our PLC students. It is evident to me that their work ethic, professionalism, ability to diplomatically approach complex topics, and exceptional “human skills” like communication, emotional intelligence, and trust-building, are traits that PLC clearly prioritizes and develops.

Only a few months into my appointment, the PLC community was faced with the devastating loss of Executive Director Aaron Roof. Throughout this emotional and trying time, my admiration for the students only grew as they handled the tragedy with grace, resilience, and most of all, compassion. Watching the entire PLC community come together in love and support for one another was staggering to see and really underlined an important strength of our program: it has an immense amount of heart. I know there may be some trepidation around how PLC will operate in the upcoming months before a new Executive Director is named, but I hope to reinforce your confidence that the mission, activities, and day-to-day operations of the program have not changed. More than ever, I have seen these students throw themselves into their coursework, leadership development, and their community. We have several student events coming up this semester (Spring Huddle, Alumni Panel, etc.) that will provide opportunities to check in with our students and give them a space to engage with their cohorts. We’re certainly looking ahead to our future and a new Executive Director, but in the meantime, we’re committed to maintaining the heart and soul of PLC in our curriculum and students. There will be changes ahead, but we feel confident that the heart of the program has not – and will not – stray from its rich 50-year-strong roots.

I am incredibly grateful to be a part of this phenomenal group of students, dedicated staff, and passionately involved alumni. As an outsider joining the team, I’ve been impressed and inspired by the PLC community and its strong solidarity through trying times. I look forward to working with you more in the coming years and helping to share the continued upward momentum of the Presidents Leadership Class.

Alumni Spotlights

Maithreyi Gopalakrishnan, Cohort of 2011

Maithreyi Gopalakrishnan from the PLC cohort of 2011 is the founder and CEO of LiquidFi. LiquidFi is a company that aims to make the more than $110 trillion bond market more accessible to individual investors. She built and released a free mobile app which teaches people about the bond market. Gopalakrishnan is also close to completing her Colorado registration as an investment adviser so she can help individuals build their investment portfolios. This will help with the long-term aspiration with LiquidFi which is to create mechanisms for individuals to invest in municipal bonds issued by their cities/communities and/or in support of projects they're passionate about! LiquidFi would also help more investors avoid steep price point, limited liquidity, and high commissions that plague the current bond market. Her journey was quite circuitous. At CU, Gopalakrishnan studied physics and later completed a degree in management science from Stanford. She worked at Intel in engineering and product roles and a couple other small startups prior to finding LiquidFi. She has long been passionate about entrepreneurship, especially in areas where her work has a genuine impact on the lives of her users. A project at a quantum computing startup jump started her interest in the bond market. She realized that the opportunity to open this large, diverse, and unique market to many more individuals was tremendous.

When Maithreyi Gopalakrishnan transitioned from high school to college, she looked for a smaller community she could feel close to. She was (and still is) passionate about being involved with a community which truly makes a difference in others' lives. PLC seemed like a great fit as it was full of individuals equally keen on positively impacting the lives of those around them. PLC classes and events enhanced Gopalakrishnan's personal experience at CU and she still keeps in touch. She recently attended the 50th reunion earlier this year! At the reunion, she ran into Joey Arora (PLC Cohort of 08). Coincidentally, Gopalakrishnan was celebrating her wedding this year and Arora was going to be in India during her reception. He flew down from North India to her hometown of Chennai in South India to celebrate her wedding, creating a memory she'll never forget.

Maithreyi Gopalakrishnan is an alumni that participates in PLC interviews. She wanted to get involved as soon as she started receiving emails from Jessie and was able to make it work this year. Meeting all the wildly talented, insightful, and service-oriented students as well as PLC alumni from different years and decades was a neat experience. The interview provides the best opportunity for applications to demonstrate their character and passion. Gopalakrishnan places emphasis on being genuinely kind, empathetic, and understanding leader no matter the circumstances. This is not an easy way to lead; circumstances, the current environment, and individual ambition can quickly supersede kindness. Therefore, leaders who never compromise on being a good human first and foremost are those Gopalakrishnan admires the most.

Floyd Pierce, Cohort of 2013

Currently working at a company called SymphonyAI Media, Floyd Pierce from the 2013 PLC Cohort fills the role of Senior Financial Analyst. SymphonyAI Media performs auditing services and financial analysis for various media and entertainment clients, such as Warner Bros., Disney, Spotify, etc. Pierce didn't think he would end up working here and he is still uncertain about his long-term career goals. While he attended CU, he double majored in economics and applied mathematics. Pierce chose these because he liked numbers but wasn't sure what to do with them and believed economics and applied mathematics to be flexible majors. After graduating, Pierce was contacted via LinkedIn to work as a recruiter for a technology staffing agency. He absolutely hated it. It was simply a large call center and consisted of him reading resumes and cold calls to make sales. After 4 months, he networked with a friend to find a new job at a registered investment advisor called Colorado Financial Management (CFM). CFM managed investments for wealthy families. Pierce worked his way up from Client Service Manager to Financial Analyst/Trader. He studied for the Charter Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, a certification that demonstrates a financial analyst's competence in subjects such as accounting, security analysis, economics, portfolio management, ethics, etc. Pierce wanted to earn his CFA because it catered to his analytical side and could open more doors in the future. He worked at CFM for 4 years, the required work experience for the CFA, before leaving. He found SymphonyAI and was excited as the industry was more entertaining and fun. While he was applying, there were no open positions for someone with his experience, but Pierce applied anyways. This gamble paid off because SymphonyAI liked him enough to offer him a higher-level position.

There were two main reasons Floyd Pierce joined PLC. He wanted to push himself outside of his comfort zone to grow as a leader and to surround himself with people who had different perspectives. PLC gave him more confidence in his personality and leadership which he applied in his professional life, on reality television, and as board chair of the YMCA of Northern Colorado. He also met some of the coolest people in PLC and stays in touch with many of them to this day! Pierce remembers the great time he had in Multi-Level Issues in Leadership, a class taken by most second years in PLC. He found it fun to tackle a specific subject from multiple, sometimes wacky, perspectives. Pierce's topic for the semester was 'urban sprawl' which led to him giving a presentation about what would happen if we colonized the moon. He considers Angela Thieman-Dino, the professor for Multi, as one of the best professors he's ever had. Also, Pierce's current roommate/landlord is the twin brother of his CA from Multi which proves the strong connections Pierce maintains with other PLC'ers!

With PLC admissions just around the corner for hopeful future PLC students, Floyd Pierce has this to say about the importance of the interview process.

"PLC interviews are crucial as they give students an opportunity to put a personality behind the resume. After a certain level, there are numerous resumes that have high GPAs, dozens of extracurriculars, impressive accomplishments, etc. Therefore, in order to set yourself apart from others, it's important to be able to express your personality and passions. I think this is what helped me be successful in nearly every interview I've had, from competing for a Boettcher Scholarship to interviewing with CBS executives for a spot on The Amazing Race. I know this advice sounds simple, but I've encountered many high school and college students who don't understand this. Don't focus on making yourself seem scholarly and impressive, just be yourself."

As for leadership and continuing the importance of personality, Pierce holds sticking to personal values and maintaining personality in all situations in high esteem. The idea that leaders need to dress a certain way, be "prim and polished", and speak a certain way tires Pierce. He believes effective leaders are the ones who know who they are and show up as themselves in any given situation. Even when Pierce worked in investments he would constantly find himself challenging the "sterile" culture and being more lighthearted. This made him stand out and be seen as more personable than others. Working with the YMCA, Pierce runs a teen leadership program called "Lead Colorado" and a core message of "be yourself" is something he emphasizes with the students. While hard skills of leadership shouldn't be ignored, it's the soft skills that will help you rise above the rest.

PLC Today

Spotlight on Connections Team

This feature of the alumni newsletter is released near PLC applications and interviews. The Connections team is the team behind potential student recruitment and ensuring the interview process runs smoothly so they are being highlighted in this edition. The Connections team is split into two sub-teams, CORPS and Bridge. The goal of CORPS (Community Outreach and Recruitment of Prospective Scholars) is to build classes of extraordinary students who have the potential to change the world as leaders of character. The goal of Bridge is to create connections, both within PLC and between PLC and other organizations on campus and in the 51�Թ�� community.

The CORPS team consists of Pax Armon, Peyton Biggers, Sloan Alber, Luc Fillion, and Simone Adhikari. Pax Armon serves as the connections team lead and CORPS co-director with Peyton Biggers. Pax leads his team with pragmatic ambition which is a quality he looks for in all prospective students. Over the semester, the CORPS team prepares for application season. They held a massive email campaign that reached every high school advisor in Colorado for student recommendations. They have also focused on outreach events at high schools and with partner service organizations like A Precious Child. During this semester, the CORPS team will be attending Boettcher and CU admitted student events to reach even more prospective students. At the end of the year, they will host a welcome event for accepted students.

The Bridge Team includes Sophia Books, Angela Pena De Niz, Lauren Gillespie, Lauren Jingles, and joining this Spring semester, Clark Windmueller. Bridge works hard on building a positive reputation for PLC at CU. They attend various CFL (Center for Leadership) events to represent PLC. They advertise PLC for second-year students who are current freshmen and are interested in joining PLC as sophomores. Over the course of last semester, Bridge hosted a Town Hall, created a directory of affiliate programs of CFL, and created an operational report of PLC student staff for Fall 2022. In the Spring, they will work with Ryan Slocum to create a PLC impact report.

Current Student Spotlight: Cecily Coors

A recent graduate from the cohort of 2020, Cecily Coors exemplifies what it means to be a PLCer. Over her time at CU, she studied finance and received a certificate in social responsibility. This stemmed from an experiment in high school where Coors worked with a group to grow plants in microgravity. She loved working on something new that pushed the known boundaries. From a combination of luck and hard work, their experiment was rewarded by being recreated on the International Space Station funded by Marvel Comics. The idea served as a steppingstone to solving the challenges of food when sending humans deeper into space. Coors was most intrigued by the difficulties her group faced when communicating their ideas and obtaining funding. There are so many amazing ideas out there and they can only come to fruition when the right people and resources come together. Understanding the world of finance puts her in a position to bridge the gap.

In her free time, Cecily Coors plays on a polo team in Jamacia and served as the president of the Startup club. The Startup club is a student-led organization that is designed to bridge the gap between CU and the local startup ecosystem through guest speaker presentations. These presenters will provide a holistic perspective of the startup world ranging from seasoned venture capitalists to local startup founders. It strives to help students explore their interests and connects students to opportunities. They have members building out their own companies as well as members that work for venture capital funds.

When reflecting on her time in PLC, Cecily Coors fondly remembers the people and community as her reason for joining. She entered PLC as a second point of entry with the hopes of finding a community of people who focus on something greater than themselves. When she reflects back in her life, the purest moments of joy come from these relationships. Coors views PLC as an incubator for ambitious ideals and close friendships. She even lived with two PLCers during her last semester of senior year. Her favorite memory in PLC was the first-year retreat at YMCA Santa Maria. It brought everyone in her cohort together in person for the first time and was unforgettable. There were many fun activities from campfires, paddleboarding, egg and spoon races, and a canoe competition - go team Kendal!

After graduating, Cecily Coors is moving to Palo Alto and working for Sageview, a growth equity firm. This is a dream come true for her! PLC has been extremely supportive of this effort, everyone from professors to friends to alumni. Coors specifically thanks alumni such as Abby Robertson, Ted Hamstra, Andy Klien, David Ettenger, and Nikhil Dandavati for all their help in the process. To everyone here at PLC that has made her think, reflect, smile, and laugh, thank you!

Current Student Spotlight: Kailey Sieja

Kailey Sieja is one of the new students in the 2023 cohort. She is currently double majoring in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Neuroscience. Sieja is also pursuing a public health certificate and leadership minor. She is very interested in the mechanisms by which biological systems have evolved or the “why” behind biology. As a passionate advocate in the political sphere, she hopes to combine biological sciences and politics through the public health certificate program. During her first semester at CU, Sieja spent her free time as a fellow with New Era Colorado, a voting rights organization that focuses on youth political advocacy.

Kailey Sieja joined PLC to broaden her leadership skills and to participate in a driven and passionate community. Her favorite PLC memory thus far has been a recitation mental health break. They all made Halloween-themed gingerbread houses!

As a freshman, Sieja is still exploring opportunities for after graduation. Medical school is tempting, as she is particularly interested in neuroradiology. She has also considered a career in academia/research, potentially relating to her interest in public policy.

Reconnect

Calling All PLC Alumni!

To support our commitment to the reengagement of our Alumni Community, we are looking for dedicated alumni to be PLC Class Champions to continue growing our network. These Champions will strive to reconnect with all of our alumni and push out information about the program, current students, involvement opportunities, event invitations, and much more! We need Class Champions for the following years:

1973, 1974, 1976, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1987, 1988, 1996, 1999, 2004, 2016, 2017

If you are interested, please fill our the form here:

/plc/content/alumni-contact-information and select "interested in being a class champion" or email Jessica.Follett@Colorado.EDU.

Join the Alumni Club

Become a PLC Alumni Mentor

Make a Donation to PLC

Recommend Students to PLC

Thank you for continuing to be an integral part of our community!

With gratitude,
CORPS team

Recommend a Student

Looking for Alumni Panelists

It is time to give back to the program and serve as a panelist for the 2023 PLC Interviews for the incoming cohort. In person interviews will take place all day on March 7 in the UMC, on campus. One day of Zoom interviews will take place on March 10. If you are interested in being a panelist, please register below:

Panelists Register

PLC Alumni Newsletter - October 2022 Alumni Newsletter

Anonymous — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 15:32:56 +0000

PLC Alumni Newsletter - October 2022 Alumni Newsletter

Anonymous (not verified) Fri, 10/14/2022 - 09:32

Alumni Newsletter

October 2022

PLC Alumni Newsletter

Upcoming Events

Alumni Think & Drink

Alumni Think & Drinks have been postponed until next semester due to the 50th anniversary celebration.

50th Anniversary Schedule

Believe it or not, the Presidents Leadership Class will be celebrating its 50th birthday in the Fall of 2022! We are hoping to highlight the incredible accomplishments of our alumni over the years, the work that our current students are engaged with, and look forward to many more years of success for PLC. The weekend is full of amazing events which are listed below!

PLC 50th Cocktail Gala

The Gala will run from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Friday the 14th in the Byron White Stadium Club. Dinner is in included along with two drink tickets. Please dress in cocktail attire that you can dance in!

Hike

The next morning, Saturday the 15th, Joey Arora (class of 2009) will be leading the hike scheduled to start at 9:00 am. If you signed up for this option, Joey will be contacting you directly to provide additional information for this activity. There will also be current students to hike and chat along the way!

PLC Tailgate

The CU v Cal game time has been announced for 12:00 pm on Saturday the 15th. The PLC tailgate will start after 9:00 am on Franklin Field W6 & W7. This is a white out game, wear white and represent CU! Please be aware that only clear bags are allowed in the stadium.

Afternoon Tea with PLC

After the game, afternoon tea will be available from 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm on the 5th floor of the UMC. There is no formal programming, so you can arrive and leave at any time. This is a paid event so please do not bring guests that have not paid.

PLC Alumni and Student Panel

The event will begin promptly at 3:00 pm in UMC 247. Please plan to arrive around 2:45 pm. The room is currently at capacity, so please be prepared to stand if necessary. Bring questions you have about "How to sustain leadership development, our democracy, our planet, etc.".

Goodbye Brunch

This event will run from 9:00 am to 11:00 am in the Dal Ward Touchdown Club. The entrance for the Touchdown Club is on the northwest corner of the Dal Ward Center and is not marked or obvious. There is no formal programming so you can come and go as you please. Chancellor DiStefano will be be making an appearance between 9:00 am to 10:00 am.

Alumni Spotlight

Amanda Novak, Cohort of 2007

   Amanda Novak, a PLC alumni from the 2007 cohort, worked as an educator and a school leader as assistant principal for over a decade. She stepped away from the school hallways, got a Masters in social work, and now works in a position as Director of Professional Learning at MindSpark Learning where she can support teachers, principles, and districts in a systematic manner. MinSpark leverages authentic partnerships across the globe to disrupt education in favor of a system that serves communities and honors educators. They believe education is a redeemable system and hope their work sparks purposeful and positive change. It provides Novak with the unique opportunity to bridge social work, mental health systems, and education.
   Ever since Novak can remember, she has been drawn to leadership opportunities that challenge her perspectives and offer growth. She pursued all the leadership opportunities she could in high school so when PLC was introduced, it seemed like a logical next step. Being placed on the waitlist was a humbling experience and required Novak to consider who she is as a leader and who she wanted to become. When she was accepted into the program, she eagerly committed. PLC defined vital memories during her 4 years at CU.
   Her first year shattered her understanding of the world through the powerful community between peers and CAs, engaging recitations (even at the cemetery), and experiential learning. PLC supported Novak in redeveloping her views of community and her place within it. It encouraged her to chase educational research around the world. It provided Novak with the confidence to enter other countries with humility, kindness, and inquiry. Novak stretched her teacher muscles as a CA in her third year and all her experiences provided a critical equity lens that led to teaching in Denver through Teach for America. Without PLC offering a way to examine privilege and power and how it impacts the world, Novak might have never understood what it meant to foster an environment that challenges the status quo.
   This issue of the Alumni Newsletter is taking a look into experiential learning. Here are Amanda Novak’s thoughts about the value of experiential learning and applied leadership.
“The value of experiential and applied leadership is that it ignites authentic action and purpose. Research tells us that passion is impactful, but purpose far exceeds the value of passion alone. When you step outside of the college campus and you enter the community, when you meet your neighbors and witness the impact of policy, of systems, of oppression, of leadership, passion becomes purpose and purposeful leadership creates change. PLC allowed me to do more than simply learn about the education system--it stuck me right inside of it, in the US and in Uganda. PLC gave me the tools to compassionately and fiercely advocate for systemic change, and I proudly continue to utilize these tools today.”
   PLC gave Novak that tools to understand and work with advocacy and systemic oppression, but she would be remiss to neglect the significant value of fun in PLC. She met her very best friends through her first-year recitation and her husband through the general community. From hiking Chautauqua to square dancing to late night pizza and 51�Թ�� Baked while writing papers, PLC introduced Novak to her people.

Dr. Zach Mueller, Cohort of 1997

   From the 1997 cohort, Dr. Zach Mueller currently serves as the Chief Nursing Executive for HCA Healthcare’s North Texas Division, the nation’s largest hospital system delivering around 6% of the nation’s healthcare services. It encompasses 16 acute care hospitals in the Dallas Fort-Worth (DFW) metroplex and four hospitals in Louisiana. This represents responsibility for over 7,000 nurses, 175,000 patient admissions and 1.5 million outpatient visits, over 20,000 babies delivered, and over 600,000 ER visits annually. Dr. Mueller’s role requires him to directly oversee nursing operations; professional practice; all clinical education; emergency services; and informatics. Through a partnership with the Chief Medical Officer, he also oversees quality, safety, risk, and surgical services.
   His journey into healthcare started at 51�Թ�� when he was hospitalized for a month. During that time, Dr. Mueller’s nurses, Marlena and Pauline, treated him with excellent care. He had never realized that nurses spend the most time with patients and are responsible not only for physical health but also emotional, mental, and spiritual healing, providing an incredible level of care and compassion. After Dr. Mueller finished his Spanish degree, he enrolled in an ND (Doctor of Nursing) program at the CU Health Sciences Center, a program nearly identical to an MD program. He achieved his master’s degree along the way with a focus on leadership. Dr. Mueller also completed a post-doctoral DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) to further his skills in clinical leadership.
   After school, Dr. Mueller worked a multitude of clinical and leadership roles within healthcare. He spent a majority of his career as an emergency and trauma nurse in Colorado's Trauma Center but he started in oncology nursing. He started his HCA career by using his Clinical Nurse Specialist in Case Management state certification and working as an emergency room case manager. To expand this critical social service within Aurora and the surrounding underserved communities, Dr. Mueller completed his doctoral dissertation. He has served many roles including Director of Education, Pediatrics, Cardiovascular Services, and executive roles such as Associate Chief Nursing Officer, Chief Nursing Officer, and now as system Chief Nurse.
   While Dr. Mueller just recently rotated off the Board of Directors for PediPlace, he is proud to have served for eight years. PediPlace provides pediatric primary health care in Lewisville, Texas and provides care to the underserved population of DFW. He served in a leadership role for six years, with two as the Board Chairman. The leadership skills that PLC provided helped him make a positive impact on an overlooked population, an experience that he will never forget and is incredibly grateful for!
   The passion for leadership that Dr. Mueller carries blossomed through several leadership roles in high school. The PLC program was revered by top-performing students across Colorado and as valedictorian of his high school class, Dr. Mueller felt honored to be accepted into the program after being placed on the waitlist. PLC transformed Dr. Mueller and shaped him into the leader that he is today. It accelerated the leadership aspects of his career. Being exposed to all aspects of diversity helped him reflect (and challenge) his views and beliefs. PLC offered him the opportunity to enhance his ability to connect with others and gave him the tools to become an amazing leader.
   In his free time, Dr. Mueller loves to travel. He spent a semester abroad in Santiago de Compostela, Spain which turned out to be a transformative experience. Dr. Mueller and his husband, who have been together for 23 years, travel back to Spain at least every seven years. They run with the bulls in Pamplona, enjoy the gorgeous beaches of San Sebastian, and explore the incredible La Sagrada Família Cathedral in Barcelona. They live by the motto “work hard and play hard”!
   Dr. Mueller would like to offer a bit of advice learned throughout his personal journey, that the path you take will likely not be the one you think it will be. You have to listen and be open to many paths. Adapting his leadership and being open to various roles helped Dr. Mueller meets the needs of his stakeholders which has been critical in his success and advancement as a leader. Most importantly it helped him serve his personal mission which is simple: to have a positive impact on others.
   Dr. Mueller has this to say about the value of experiential leadership: “It’s critical! My personal story showcases the power of experiencing something you might not have anticipated, but how it can change your life—literally. Because of, and since PLC, I continue to immerse myself in experiential learning and am so thankful I gained that leadership nugget in PLC. Be open to learning as much as you can, as often as you can. Challenge yourself. I had an amazing professional mentor (a must for all leaders!), who is now a (retired) friend, who challenged me on how I would help make my ‘impact’ on the profession, and that is where our Compassion Campaign was conceived by me in 2016 and has grown from one event, to 17 components (many with several phases) that has helped transform our culture to one where compassion flourishes. Empathy + Action = Compassion. Compassion is a skill we all can grow—and we challenge ourselves to practice this everywhere, and with everyone. The literature supports that compassion reduces anxiety and alleviates suffering; why would we not want that in everything we do, and with everyone we encounter? This would not have occurred had I not been open to learning, exposing myself to things that were uncomfortable or unexpected, and challenging myself to make a mark on this world—which is what we do as PLCers!”

PLC Today

The Center for Leadership (CFL), which PLC is part of, hosts a collaboration with CU Leadership Programs, the Downtown 51�Թ�� Partnership, and 51�Թ�� Chamber of Commerce to create the 51�Թ��-CU Leadership Program (BCLP). This provides opportunities for current CU students to partner with professionals for mentoring experiences and practical leadership applications. I reached out to Alan Rogers, who serves on the board of advisors for CFL and he was very interested to tell the story behind the creation of BCLP.

What is your history with the BCLP mentoring program?
The BLCP mentoring program is a wonderful program for both the students and the 51�Թ�� community. It started in 2019 with a conversation over a cup of coffee at the Innisfree Poetry Bookstore & Café on the Hill between Aaron Roof, then the director of PLC, and myself, Alan Rogers, the chair of Downtown 51�Թ�� Partnership Board. Our conversation framed and named the concept of community mentoring CU students. Emily Allen Walsh, then program coordinator for PLC (Jessi Follett is currently filling the role of program coordinator) codified the program on the CFL website with instructions and resources for both the mentors and the mentees. To date, about 100 students have enjoyed the enriching experience with about 50 mentors. The purpose of the BCLP is to provide an experienced conversation around the mentee’s personal topics. The mentors bring a broad background of life’s experience, and they are happy to share their experience in a trustful friendship with their mentee. I have continued to serve as a mentor since the beginning and actively recruit mentors.

What would you say the importance of experiential leadership learning is?
Experiential leadership learning is so important and such a meaningful way to grow and enrich a person’s personal skills and capabilities. Experiential ‘in person” conversations around topics such as friendships, relationships, gratitude, character, balanced life, civic responsibility, community involvement, work life balance, etc. can be very rich and impactful.

Is there anything you would like to say to the alumni of PLC about the BCLP?
I would encourage the alumni of PLC to seek out opportunities to consider how they can be involved as a member of their community. Their experience and involvement will strengthen their community whether it be mentoring students or working with any appropriate community program. We will all have a stronger democracy of participation with their personal involvement.

I also contacted current PLC students to ask about their experiences in BCLP. Clark Windmueller, a student in the 2021 cohort, had this to say about the program: “I began participating in the BCLP program in the spring semester of 2022 and have continued to meet with my assigned mentor this semester as well! I have learned significantly more about leadership through experiential opportunities such as BCLP than I have in the classroom. Participating in the mentoring program has been by far one of the most valuable and impactful aspects of being in PLC, second only to the community of brilliant and kind friends.”

Interested about learning more? Click the button below

BCLP Website

Current Student Spotlights

Tris Ikeda, Cohort of 2019

   Tris Ikeda is a senior who is currently majoring in film production with the BFA program and finishing her minor in leadership through PLC. The BFA program is a prestigious program that only the top 23 film students can be a part of. She is currently working on her honors thesis film. Her passion for film started when she took an IB film class in high school and realized the emotional and mental impact different films can have on viewers. Tris wants to use those impacts to help bridge difficult conversations surrounding wicked problems and empower people. Studying leadership through PLC illuminated her work with film by exploring the concept of a wicked problem and current examples.
   By being in both the BFA film program and working on her honors thesis, Tris is trying to complete two animated films by the time she graduates in May 2023. She is working with rotoscope animation as a way for her to experiment with the medium. Rotoscope animation is defined by filming live action scenes and then animating over the footage. Her honors film, Sachiko, is an animated narrative documentary of a Japanese immigrant who is based on her grandmother’s journey. The feature follows her coming and living in the US with no English skills and dealing with the failures of the healthcare system as doctors were unable or did not care to diagnose her with cancer. It grew for 17 years before she tragically passed away. Her BFA film will tell a female ronin revenge story that highlights the emotional turmoil of grief, anger, and PTSD. It will also illustrate strong Asian femininity in a male dominated culture.
   While applying for scholarships for CU, Tris happened upon the PLC scholarship. She thought it was just another scholarship that her mother wanted her to apply to but it turned out to be a blessing in disguise! It has contributed to most of Tris’s most positive experiences in college thanks to her brilliant and talented classmates and friends, the support system with alumni and staff, and the support PLC offers. She has filled several roles on PLC student staff and is currently a first year CA. Thanks to the support, Tris has developed her leadership skills and she’s become a more passionate human being. Her favorite PLC memory occurred during the ALWC trip with Aaron Roof as an incoming freshman. It created an environment where Tris was pushed to challenge herself both physically through backpacking, rafting, summitting Mt. Elbert, and mentally through reflection of leadership experiences.
   Outside of PLC, Tris is currently Chief of Security at University Memorial Center as well as serving as the Vice President of Commerce on the Senior Class Council. She has made the graduation videos on the Senior Class Council and is excited to make this year's video as well. Tris owns her family dojo and continues to teach the Denver Police Department’s free self-defense class!

Mitali Desai, Cohort of 2021

   Mitali Desai, a 2021 student, is a sophomore studying Applied Math with concentration in finance and a minor in economics. She originally joined PLC because her brother was part of the program when he was at 51�Թ�� and highly recommended it. Since joining, she has met incredible people and has loved her experience. Mitali’s favorite PLC memory is either the first-year retreat or square dancing last year. She sadly did not bring the best choice of shoes, but any event with PLCers is a fun one!
   Outside of PLC, she is heavily involved in the Leeds Consulting Group (LCG) by serving as vice president of membership. LCG has also played a pivotal role in her college experience and gives her the opportunity to practice the leadership skills she learns in PLC. It also provides her the opportunity to collaborate with real companies. This semester, her team is working on a project with the Colorado Rapids! Mitali also works at Global Platinum Securities, an intercollegiate investment fund that works in collaboration with Harvard, Penn, MIT and other top schools to manage money and educate analysts. In September, everyone met in New York and she was given a chance to work on a stock pitch for investment professionals to judge. It was a difficult and incredible experience that taught Mitali about, not only her future jobs, but also personal financial skills.
   Over the summer, Mitali studied abroad in Cape Town. She worked in tandem with students from Notre Dame, University of Florida, and University of Western Cape to consult township entrepreneurs in Cape Town. She used this opportunity to travel the world, meet new people, learn history, and reflect on her chosen professional path. Asking questions such as “how fulfilling will this job be” and “how is this going to change the world” required reflecting on her experiences with PLC.
   Mitali’s involvement on campus doesn’t stop there. She’s also part of the Engineering Honors Program, BE Tech scholars, BOLD scholars, and Boettcher scholars. All of these programs provide impressive professional growth but PLC ties them together by emphasizing reflection and intentionality. PLC has been a fundamental aspect of Mitali’s college experience as it serves as a backbone to strengthen her other involvements. For Mitali, PLC is more than a scholarship or a class and it’s much bigger than its current students. The program is life-changing because of the time that alumni invest in it and the potential of current PLCers.

Reconnect

Calling All PLC Alumni!

1973, 1974, 1976, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1987, 1988, 1996, 1999, 2004, 2016, 2017

If you are interested, please fill our the form here:

/plc/content/alumni-contact-information and select "interested in being a class champion" or email Jessica.Follett@Colorado.EDU.

Join the Alumni Club

Become a PLC Alumni Mentor

Make a Donation to PLC

Recommend Students to PLC

Thank you for continuing to be an integral part of our community!

With gratitude,
CORPS team

Recommend a Student

Looking for Alumni Panelists

Panelists Register

PLC Alumni Newsletter

March Alumni Newsletter 2025

Alumni Spring Lecture

PLC Alumni Happenings

A Mardi Gras Miracle

Alumni Spotlights

Dr. Cassandra Roeca '03

Forrest Hobbs '91

Industry Nights

STEM Industry Night

Business Industry Night

Alumni Club News and Events

2025 Cohort Selection

Alumni Happy Hours

Get Linked to PLC Alumni

Connect with PLC Alumni

Stay Connected

Alumni Newsletter Submission

PLC Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Statement

PLC Alumni Newsletter - Winter 2024

Alumni Highlights

New Face on the Board: Stacy Baum

New Face on the Board: Rick Wilhelm

New Face on the Board: Keri Ungemah

Alumni Club News and Events

Alumni Match Program (AMP) - Spring 2025

Bring a PLCer to Work Day Pilot Program: A Huge Success!

Get Linked to PLC Alumni

Current PLC Student Highlights

Luke Coffman Wins the Astronaut Scholarship

Stay Connected

Alumni Newsletter Submission

PLC Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Statement

PLC Alumni Newsletter - Spring 2024

Notes From Campus

PLC Alumni Club Highlights

Stories from the Alumni Match Program

Kelsey Page and Lauren Gillespie

Honoring the Graduating Class!

Congratulations to:

In Memoriam

Lily DeMuth (1999-2024)

Reconnect

Alumni Newsletter Submission

PLC Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Statement

PLC Alumni Newsletter - February 2024

Attention PLC Alumni

Upcoming Events

2024 PLC Interviews

Alumni Newsletter Submission

Alumni Spotlights

Kelsey Page

Dr. J Reed Caldwell

Student Spotlights

Carter Galyardt

Holly McCollough

PLC NOW

Alumni Match Program (AMP)

Communications Team Spotlight

Reconnect

Stay Connected to PLC

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

PLC Alumni Newsletter - Special Edition - Get involved in PLC this year

A New Way to Connect to PLC

PLC Alumni Match Program

Upcoming Events

PLC INTERVIEWS

2024 PLC Interview Dates

Reconnect

Calling All PLC Alumni!

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

PLC Alumni Newsletter - October 2023

Food for Thought

Meeting the New PLC Director!

Upcoming Events & Opportunities

PLC Alumni Reunion at the Nov. 4 Homecoming Game

Join the Forever Buffs Advisory Board

Newsletter Submission

Alumni Spotlight

Susan Schwartz