Diversity and Inclusion 2026

Unwavering in Our Mission: Defending Equity at MSU Denver
At MSU Denver, diversity isn't just a buzzword, it’s our identity. As one of Colorado’s most diverse institutions, over 56% of our 17,000 undergraduates identify as students of color. These students often navigate "zig-zaggy" paths to graduation, overcoming systemic hurdles with a grit that deserves to be matched by our unwavering support.

While the national landscape shifts and many institutions pull back, MSU Denver is standing firm. We haven't capitulated; we have doubled down. We believe that defending our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts is the only way to ensure our students have the future they’ve worked so hard to earn.

A Legacy That Will Not Be Erased
Your support sustains some of the longest-running and most resilient equity programs in the state. These aren't just programs; they are the pillars of our community:

• MLK Peace Breakfast: Decades of honoring Dr. King’s legacy by fostering real-world dialogue and social justice.
• Richard T. and Virginia M. Castro Professorship: A steadfast commitment to Chicano/a leadership and community activism.
• Rachel B. Noel Professorship: Named for the first African American woman elected to public office in Colorado, this program continues to bring world-class equity leaders directly to our students.

Proven Results in the Face of Pressure
We continue to invest in the initiatives that move the needle on retention and graduation. Your gift provides:

• Faculty Fellows Program: Creating a sense of belonging by connecting students with faculty mentors who share their lived experiences and backgrounds.
• Teaching Assistantship Program: Empowering 142 underrepresented students with on-campus leadership roles, career training, and peer-to-peer academic support.
• Professional Development Programs: Developing classrooms where every identity is respected and every voice has the power to be heard.

Why Your Support Matters Now
Investing in DEI is an investment in social and economic mobility. By refusing to back down, we empower the next generation of leaders to achieve personal and professional success. When you give this Day of Giving, you aren't just supporting a program, you are joining us in the fight to keep our environment welcoming for everyone.