Key Takeaways

• Guest instructor Scott Henke offers a practical Enrichment class on detecting and avoiding internet scams and identity theft, delivered via Zoom for accessible lifelong learning.
• Americans lost billions of dollars (over 12.5 billion) to internet scams in a single year and that the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center receives 4,000+ complaints per day.
• This course teaches participants to recognize scams, lock down online accounts, and secure home Wi-Fi, helping them protect themselves and their families.

This week, we’re pleased to feature a guest blog post from Enrichment Program instructor Scott Henke, the owner of Onsite Consulting, which has been helping Denver-area consumers with their tech issues since 1982. Henke has taught computer classes for three decades, bringing humor and insight to complex issues. He will teach this fall about practical computer skills.

This November, you can take a one-night Zoom class that could save you and your family tens of thousands of dollars.

On November 11, I’ll teach a class for DU’s Enrichment Program called .

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center receives more than 4,000 complaints per day on average and Americans lost $12.5 billion to all kinds of internet scams last year. You can easily avoid most scams with the right information.

The Enrichment Program class will cover text scams, email scams, random phone calls, and how to quickly detect fraud and avoid putting your finances at risk.

One of the scams currently trending is a text message asking you to confirm your Google, Microsoft, or Apple ID. When you click on the link, you are directed to a fake website where you inadvertently give the criminal your information. You can avoid this by hovering over links to assess them before you click on them.

There are also common emails pretending to be from an antivirus program saying you need to renew your antivirus for $499. These are fraudulent messages that trick you into giving them your credit card number.

The most dangerous is when you let someone claiming to be the FBI, IRS, Amazon, or Dell access your computer remotely for free to fix something. Think critically about such claims whenever faced with something too good to be true. Amazon doesn’t fix computers, and how would the FBI or IRS even know if there were something to fix?

Some of my clients have told me they were convinced to send $15,000 in cash to a scammer. One client wired $150,000! Scammers are trained to steal your money. They do this full-time every day.

The Enrichment Program class will prepare you for these tricks. You’ll get helpful information in layman’s terms that can greatly lessen the chances of this life-altering identity theft happening to you. In addition to helping you recognize potential scams, I’ll teach you how to take steps like locking down your online accounts and securing your home Wi-Fi. ��

If you know of someone who might be vulnerable and might fall prey to a scammer, they can take the class from anywhere in the country via the Zoom link. As an instructor, I make sure the class is informative and fun. I’ll even email you the class handouts ahead of time so you can reference them.

Online predators do exist, but we can place safeguards against them. Make sure you and your assets remain safe and register now for this valuable and accessible class.

When you enroll in the Enrichment Program’s , you’ll save $10 on three informative classes taught by Scott Henke this fall:

• (Nov. 4)
• (Nov. 11)
• (Nov. 18)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Key Takeaways

• Technology leadership requires linking tech initiatives to mission‑critical business goals.
• Managing talent effectively involves more than oversight — it means investing in growth and aligning roles with individual strengths.
• A dual focus on a clear mission and strong talent management enables tech leaders to drive meaningful, lasting impact.

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, effective leadership is more crucial than ever. As a professional with experience in IT leadership, I’ve identified two key elements that can drive transformation within an organization: a clear mission and talent management. These are two pillars that I emphasize in the graduate-level Information Technology classes I teach at DU because they are so crucial to success at a leadership level.

Clear Mission

The foundation of successful technology leadership lies in understanding and articulating a clear mission, a roadmap ensuring that all efforts align with the overarching goals. In the context of IT, this means not only focusing on technological advancements but also understanding how these technologies can serve broader business objectives.

Many IT leaders fall into the trap of championing new technology initiatives that primarily benefit the IT department. However, to truly make an impact and secure a “seat at the table” with other executives, it’s crucial to present these initiatives as integral parts of the organization’s overall strategy.

For instance, rather than pushing for a new software implementation solely for its technical merits, an IT leader should demonstrate how the software will enhance efficiency across departments, improve customer experience, or contribute to financial growth.

By framing technology projects as organizational projects, IT leaders can better communicate the value of their proposals to non-technical stakeholders. This approach not only fosters buy-in from other departments but also positions IT as a critical partner in achieving the company’s mission.

Talent Management

The second crucial aspect of technology leadership is talent management. Notice that I say “talent management” rather than “people management.” The distinction is important because it shifts the focus from merely managing employees to nurturing their skills and potential.

Effective talent management involves identifying and leveraging the strengths of team members while also providing opportunities for growth in areas where they may need development.

This approach requires a keen understanding of each team member’s unique abilities and aspirations. By assigning tasks and projects that align with their strengths, leaders can maximize productivity and job satisfaction.

Conversely, by challenging employees with assignments that stretch their capabilities, leaders can help them develop new skills and expand their “toolbox.” This not only benefits the individual but also enhances the overall capability of the team.

A key takeaway for technology leaders is the importance of viewing their team members as assets whose skills and contributions are critical to the organization’s success. By focusing on talent management, leaders can ensure that the right people are in the right roles, ultimately driving the organization toward its goals.

Building Technology Leadership Skills and Ability

These two elements of technology management, and strategies for implementing them, are taught in depth in the Information Technology program at DU’s University College. The Technology Management master’s concentration is particularly designed for professionals who are ready to take their leadership skills to the next level and learn to manage technology and teams, solve business challenges, and help their organizations achieve competitive advantage.

Technology careers need more than technical know-how. Our Information Technology bachelor’s major helps students build IT career skills tied to systems, strategy, leadership, problem solving, and business impact.

My understanding of these concepts was hard-won, but I know my students will take insights like these to launch productive leadership careers. Especially in the fast-moving field of technology, a leader must constantly strive to balance short-term decision-making with more long-term strategic thinking. Strengths-based talent management and a clear mission aligning with business goals are both key to making a lasting impact.

Al Gardner is an information technology executive with a nearly three-decade career marked by engineering expertise, visionary leadership and strong community engagement. Currently he serves as the Executive Director of General Services for the City and County of Denver. Previously he excelled in sectors including telecommunications, non-profit organizations, hospitality and healthcare. He is a Board Member of the Colorado Technology Association and has taught in DU’s Information Technology Program since 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions

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In support of Cybersecurity Awareness month, we spoke with��Tony Mendoza, a student at DU’s College of Professional Studies.��Tony reached out to share how his class experience is already positively impacting his day-to-day professional work. Tony offers insight as a current student and working cybersecurity professional.

Tony is well into a successful career in IT. He currently works with a company in Boulder, CO, and after being hit with a significant ransomware attack, he decided it was time to strengthen his skills and build up a stronger knowledge base in cybersecurity..

“After “surviving” a major ransomware attack, I wanted to increase my knowledge and understanding of cybersecurity management to be better prepared in the future, especially with the threat landscape growing exponentially.”

Already a season ticket holder and fan of the DU hockey team, Tony decided it would be a perfect time to become a student and eventual alum.

“I found the cybersecurity content to be most rewarding, especially since cybersecurity has become a major part of my day-to-day management and strategy at work. The content of the coursework is very applicable to my job and has helped me countless times in executive meetings where cybersecurity is a top priority.

Last quarter was a prime example of directly applying what I was learning in class to my job. I was enrolled in a course called Cybersecurity Policy when, towards the end of the course, our company was dealing with a cybersecurity threat that resulted in me having to develop a new cybersecurity policy for our organization. I took my coursework (my actual assignments) and was able to quickly adjust them to present to our executive team. It was 100% applicable! In addition to learning what tools to use to develop cybersecurity policy, we were taught the appropriate techniques to present cybersecurity policy to executive boards and the board of directors.”

When asked what he would share with anyone considering a University College graduate program, Tony had this to share:

“My best advice would be to do it now, ��Dz�’t wait! The graduate program offers valuable, applicable coursework that provides the skills I needed to advance my career. I am in the middle of the program, and I have already applied what I have learned in the real world and advanced my career because of it.

The faculty that I have had the pleasure of being a student of are amazing. They really know what they are talking about, have real-world experience, and provide real-world tools. I am so excited that I can apply what I am learning and the tools I have been given to my job – the same day I learn it!”

Students learn through experiential learning, case study analysis, and examination of leading security technologies. Students obtain insight into governance, compliance, regulatory issues, and cybersecurity considerations. This information benefits students starting on day one and can be applied directly to their current professional experience. Classes are held online or in the evening, making them easy for working professionals to attend. Graduation can happen in as few as 18 months.

Tony’s story shows how applied learning can help working professionals address real cybersecurity challenges. Explore current technology-focused options at DU’s College of Professional Studies.

The post One Current Student on Already Using His Skills to Make an Impact appeared first on PSC DU.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership appointments signal where an institution is investing focus, including how programs are supported and how operations evolve.
• Roles like associate dean often impact student experience behind the scenes, through resources, processes, and program direction.
• Changes in leadership can strengthen consistency and momentum when paired with clear priorities and strong collaboration.

Frequently Asked Questions

The post Teri Markle, named Associate Dean of Finance, Business Operations, Non-Credit Programs appeared first on PSC DU.

Save the dates for online Open Write Night sessions!

Looking to enhance your writing skills? Have questions regarding the Turabian citation guide? Do you want to become a better, more confident writer? We are here to help! University College will be offering Open Write Night online this fall quarter to provide drop-in writing support. You will be able to get one-on-one writing assistance from University College faculty. Two sessions will be offered each quarter to provide support throughout the term. The sessions for the 2022 fall quarter are below:

Both session will be offered via Zoom, and you can drop in any time from 4-5:30 pm. Click on the links above to receive the link and ID number. Questions or difficulty logging in? Please let us know by reaching out to the Student Support Center (PSCsupport@DU.edu or 303-871-2291).

The post Looking to Enhance Your Writing? Check Out Open Write Nights! appeared first on PSC DU.

Key Takeaways

• Alumni insights reveal that practical coursework can lead directly to promotions, career changes, or new entrepreneurial ventures.

• DU’s professional programs are structured to not only teach theory but also develop tools and frameworks that apply to real-life situation

• Building relationships with instructors and classmates can expand professional networks and lead to unexpected opportunities.

• Strategic course selection and active participation help students tailor their academic journey to support specific professional outcomes.

What inspires an IT professional with over 30 years of industry experience to take on the challenge of graduate school? What encourages someone who has worked all over the globe in his field to seek out more knowledge in an industry he already leads in?

In the latest episode of the ElevatED Podcast, we talk to Peter Lund, who even with a successful career under his belt, chose to apply his real-world experience toward a technology-focused graduate study at DU’s College of Professional Studies.. ��

“I had always been told when you graduate with your bachelor’s to wait a while before you go to get your master’s, so you have real world experience to apply to your studies,” Peter said, adding that’s exactly what he did for multiple decades. “I’ve been traveling around the world doing quite a bit of work. But I got to a point where I was comfortable knowing my job but had a nagging feeling in the back of my head that says ‘you know you can do this better.’”

For Peter, who currently serves as network infrastructure manager at Leidos, doing his work better meant re-entering the academic world and pursuing a master’s degree to build on what he knew and push himself to new heights in the IT industry.

“That’s what really motivated me. I thought I was too comfortable and needed to stretch myself. I needed to find out what it is that I was missing and really refine what I already knew and fill in the gaps.”

Blending Experience and Education

There is no doubt that Peter brought a wealth of experience with him to his master’s degree journey, which he says actually set him up perfectly to really take a deep dive into skills he already had. Importantly, he had to both be aware of where his comfort zone was, what his preconceived notions were, and focus on those areas that he wanted to refine with an open mind.

“I’m at a point that I’m a little more focused. I’m specifically trying to refine what I already know and add to that. What I have is a lot of experience, which means that I also have a lot of preconceived notions” he says, adding that the coursework is what helped him push past those boundaries and provide breadth. It provides different ways to approach concepts and tackle issues, as well as a chance to learn from the thoughts of classmates from all levels of experience.

“It puts it more into context and gives you some focus, and maybe the depth that I already have gets modified,” Peter said. “But, now I’m deeper in more areas, and not just deeper in one area.”

From the Classroom to the Client

DU’s College of Professional Studies encourages the most hands-on, real-world application of education as possible for its students, helping them get experience before they even graduate.

Peter related that he valued the ability to take classroom concepts and apply it directly to client’s needs. In this way, he has been able to be intentional and deliberate with coursework to meet the outcomes and learning that fits his career.

For example, he took a course focusing on broadband wireless networks because he had a business client that was interested in exploring providing cellular services in remote areas. In order to help the customer, Peter wanted to learn more about what it took to start and operate a private cellular infrastructure.

Throughout the course, he worked with his instructor to create a proposal that met his client’s needs. Then, he took that proposal directly to the client and presented the solution.

“They were amazed, saying ‘This is exactly what we’re looking for,’” he says of the client, adding they requested his team lead the project, submit an official funding proposal, and they would work to find the funding to make it happen.

Not only was Peter able to take his education into the real-world, it also helped him learn new concepts in a hands-on way.

“I’ve identified that if I apply something to real life, it’s no longer abstract for me. I’m not talking about some mythical business process…I’m talking about something that will happen and is happening,” Peter said, adding that his instructors have been open and welcoming of tailoring coursework to apply directly to professional life.

Tips for Adult Learners

With a few courses left before he receives his degree, Peter has learned a lot about the work/life/school balance and the best way to get the most out of a graduate program.

For those already in the industry, he touts the coursework as a great way to refine knowledge and advance professionally.

“If you already have some experience in the industry that you’re in and you’re trying to improve on it, this is a great way to do it,” he said. “The university of college has a lot to offer in that area. There’s a wide breadth of courses to choose from that would fit. Picking something that is of interest to you that you can leverage has worked very well for me.”

For those that ��Dz�’t have much industry experience and are figuring out where their career will take them, Peter suggests starting with the basic courses, then concentration course, and then choose electives last once you have pinned down what you want to focus on and how they can apply in the professional world.

And always keep your goals in mind and be flexible.

“My original goal still stands which is to give myself that broader base of knowledge and refine what it is that I’m trying to do,” he said, adding that he took courses he wasn’t initially planning on due to class availability and his own schedule, but they ended up being extremely helpful in his job.

“A really good example of that is a disaster recovery and business continuity course. I wasn’t originally planning on taking that course, but I learned a ton. And, in my role I’m exposed to a large number of information security requirements, so having that in there wasn’t a part of my plan, but that knowledge became extremely useful,” he said. “I’m able to better integrate and engage with the members of my information security team, and I understand why they’re coming at me with questions and why they’re relevant.”

To hear more about Peter’s experiences in his graduate degree journey, listen to the full interview on the ElevatED Podcast below.

Catch up with the entire ElevatED Podcast.

The��ElevatED podcast is a space for conversations around the intersection of industry and higher education for adult learners. Brought to you by DU’s College of Professional Studies..

Frequently Asked Questions

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The post ElevatED (S2:Ep4) Words of Wisdom: How to Leverage Your Courses for Professional Wins appeared first on PSC DU.

Key Takeaways

• Career growth often happens through a mix of education, support, and taking opportunities when they appear, not through a perfectly straight path.
• Success stories highlight how confidence builds over time when people gain skills they can actually apply in real work settings.
• Support systems matter, because guidance, encouragement, and resources can be the difference between stalling out and moving forward.

Steve Nelson shares how his experiences at University College and DU’s career services helped him pivot industries and take off to new horizons after graduation.

By Danielle DeGroot, University College Writer

The University College at the University of Denver (DU) constantly strives to offer world-class education through hands-on, transformative experiences for students. University College Alumni Steve Nelson, Alaska Airlines Senior DEI Specialist for regional airline Horizon Air and project manager for Accessibility/Disability Inclusion took the time to share how his experience at at DU helped him land a rewarding job in his chosen industry. Nelson graduated in 2020 with a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership with a focus on Project Management.��

What inspired you to take this program, and why did you choose the University of Denver?��

I was interested in a program that looked at a variety of business and leadership functions like time and change management, finance, ethics, and leadership fundamentals. The Organizational Leadership program at University College had all these elements, and I learned that many professors are professionals in the field who can share real-world and current examples. DU’s online programs receive high national ratings, adding credibility to the degree. Lastly, I knew University College’s programs are designed for professionals who are balancing work and school.��

During your time as a student, what did you find most challenging? What did you find most rewarding?����

I think the most challenging aspect for me were the group projects. Group projects are always a challenge, but that challenge is magnified a bit when everyone lives in a different place. You learn a lot about delegation, follow-through, and time management through these projects. The most rewarding aspect was connecting with faculty, staff, and my fellow students. I learned how a problem was tackled in different types of organizations and companies, which I felt was far more valuable than learning a single theory or lesson in a textbook.����

How did you balance life and student work while pursuing your degree?����

It was definitely tough. I basically told myself that weekends were my time. This didn’t always work, so I also took the time to meditate or listen to music. I also was careful to have a special place for schoolwork so that it was kept separate from my personal life.��

How is this program experience benefiting you now in your current position?������

I have used just about every lesson I learned in my program. I am constantly working with executives and other management to drive change initiatives. I manage several projects across the company, I have finances to consider, and have even performed risk assessments. In the next several weeks, I will be viewing several RFP (request for proposal) presentations- something I studied and practiced in my Project Management classes. I am amazed at just how much value this degree has added to my knowledge banks to make me successful in my role.��
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Do you have any advice to get the most out of graduate education for people considering pursuing a graduate degree?��

Take your electives seriously. Electives are your chance to learn even more skills that can transfer. I chose to take change management electives because I wanted to learn more about topics such as Environmental Scanning, something I have already used in my job! Save your notes and be serious about your work. Be intentional and thorough in all your assignments. The more you actually learn, and retain, from your classes- the more likely you are to be able to truly utilize your degree in the future.����

How did Career Services help you transition from the classroom to the career you have now?����

The first and biggest assistance Career Services provided was helping me redesign my resume. I worked for Walt Disney World for my entire professional career. My resume made perfect sense when applying for promotions at Disney, but when looking at other organizations, I needed to reword my resume in a way that would speak to them. I attended virtual learning opportunities hosted by Career Services, including one focused on enhancing your LinkedIn profile. I also attended a session on how to negotiate pay. This was truly helpful as I was able to negotiate a significant increase in my salary offer for my new job.��

Do you have any other feedback or information you would like to share?����

Just because you are an online student doesn’t mean you can’t have the full experience! Really connect with your classmates, purchase your DU swag, and TRAVEL to Denver for commencement! You’ll be so glad you did, and you will find the motivation to complete your program and advance your career! Keep in touch with your professors because they will continue to be a guide to you as you navigate the future. And always stay proud to say you are a DU Alumni!��

Nelson is a wonderful example of a professional and member of the DU community who utilized his learning experience to boost his career to exactly where he wanted it to be. Connect with a University College advisor to learn more about graduate programs, Career Center services, and professional and continuing education opportunities offered through DU and University College.����

Frequently Asked Questions

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The post Alumnus’ Career Flies High Through Education and Support From University of Denver�� appeared first on PSC DU.

Key Takeaways

• Alumni often leverage their educational experience to support and mentor future students in meaningful ways

• Careers in student support combine professional skills with a strong sense of purpose and community impact

• Education can create pathways not just for career advancement, but also for leadership and service-oriented roles

Rachel Vardeman, Student Support Specialist at University College, knows a little something about helping students. Not only has she helped many in their journey toward a degree but she also has the unique perspective of being right there with them working through the challenges of balancing life, work, and achieving educational goals.

This spring, Rachel walked the stage and celebrated with her coworkers, peers, and the students she helped every day in her University College career after fulfilling a dream: earning her bachelor’s degree (and graduating with honors!).

Rachel shared her accomplishment via her LinkedIn account, and graciously allowed us to publish her inspirational story.

In her words:

For a long time, I really beat myself up for not having a Bachelor’s degree. When I first started college after high school, I had no idea what I wanted to do with myself and was struggling (as I always had been in school, without knowing) with unmanaged ADHD.

Two years after I had fumbled my way through random business classes, Arabic, fashion design, and marketing classes, I got a frantic call from my mom, telling me she had breast cancer again. I moved to Colorado to take care of her and dropped out of school a year later, two weeks before she died. Two years later, I was thinking about returning to school when I found out I was pregnant. Through a long series of heartbreaking events, my time and life as a mother was cut too short.

But at the beginning of 2020, in the midst of a once in a lifetime pandemic, I started back to school again. Two years later, I now have a bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration. I graduated with honors and a 4.0.

I was hard on myself until I recently reflected back on what I’ve been through and how the years have shaped me. I spent the last six years grieving unimaginable loss, and I must remind myself that grief is not an excuse but a remarkably heavy burden that can only heal with time. Against all odds, I finally did it and I feel incredibly proud of myself. While getting a bachelor’s at 27 is late in society’s eyes, the years in-between high school and now have shaped me into the woman I am and I’m proud to be her.

I share my story as a reminder to myself and as encouragement to others. It’s never, ever too late to pursue what you want for your life. Society enforces these invisible and unrealistic expectations that inhibit us from living fully. Things may pan out differently than you imagined but don’t take for granted life you’ve lived and how it’s shaped you. That experience can be a foundation for further growth and success. Time waits for no one but you can also move with time.

So, I’ll end with this:

“When it’s over, I don’t want to wonder if I have made of my life something particular and real. I don’t want to find myself sighing and frightened, or full of argument. I don’t want to end up simply having visited this world”

-Mary Oliver

Congratulations, Rachel!

Did you know, if you are a full-time employee of the University of Denver, you may qualify for full tuition reimbursement to pursue a degree? Check out the many graduate programs and the Bachelors Completion Program at University College to make your education dreams a reality!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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The post Achieving a Dream: Alumna and University College Student Support Professional an Inspiration appeared first on PSC DU.

Key Takeaways

• Balancing work, family, community service, and coursework builds real leadership skills that transfer beyond the classroom.
• Online programs offer flexibility for adult learners to pursue advanced degrees without putting life on hold.
• Mentorship and community shape personal growth and professional direction.

Written by Nicole Militello, University of Denver Senior Media Relations Specialist

First published by the

Kyle Speller is no stranger to the University of Denver campus.

“I could kind of say I almost grew up on that campus,” he says.

Since the soon-to-be alum moved to Denver in 1979, he’s marked milestones along the way on DU’s campus. First as a drummer in the Denver Junior Police Band that played at DU hockey games in the 1980s, then for his basketball games, his kids’ basketball practices and family graduations. But this Friday, when Speller steps foot on DU’s campus, the milestone will be all about him.

“This one is really special,” he says. “Wow — it’s what I’ve been waiting for. I’m so excited about this one. I think more than any graduation that I’ve been a part of — my undergrad, the University of Phoenix [graduation for a master’s degree], my high school … all of that.”

Saturday marks the end of a four-year journey to earn a second master’s degree, this one in��strategic human resources, with a concentration in learning and development��from DU’s��University College. And for Speller, the past four years have been quite the balancing act.

“I always say I’m keeping the plates spinning,” he says. “In my enrollment here at DU, I’ve done all my program online, which allowed me the flexibility to be able to do everything else I needed to do as well.”

And by everything else, he means his role as student and full-time employee at Comcast. Plus, Speller is a dad to three, a husband of 24 years and an associate pastor at the Emanuel Christian Center. Denver sports fans might recognize his voice from game nights. He’s����— one role that made his balancing act especially tricky during the pandemic.

After COVID-19 halted all sports, the NBA decided to resume basketball several months later with the bubble system. Only the teams, coaches and core staff were invited to Orlando to eat, sleep, practice and compete in a strict lockdown mode with frequent testing.����invited to be one of the few announcers to go to the bubble, a three-month commitment.

“I was in the bubble announcing games, doing homework and also working as well,” Speller says about the summer of 2020. “When other people were waiting around for the games to start, I had work to do. I was away from my family that entire time, but [class work] actually helped the time fly by.”

That work, he explains, helped him refine his career ambitions. As a longtime employee with Comcast in the HR space, he discovered his passion for facilitative leadership in DU’s program. ��The program also helped him succeed in his current position as a lead trainer for the company.

“There was one class that asked about our future plans,” Speller recalls. “We had to write about that. I think in that moment is where I wrote down I would love to move into an actual facilitative leadership role within a corporate setting to make an impact. And that’s exactly what happened in January. I’m excited about it. This program is what really led me there.”

Aspiring to be an impactful leader is what motivates Speller to continue learning and advancing his knowledge.

“One thing we say all the time is just that everything rises and falls on leadership,” he says. “if you want to make an impact on a company or an organization, if you lock in on the leaders, that’s what’s going to trickle down and make an impact on the rest of the body. That’s what will move organizations forward. That’s what will move families forward. That’s what will move so many different areas forward: leadership. And that’s where that passion comes for me.”

Of the many skilled leaders and instructors Speller encountered at DU, one stands out: professor Gaulco in the organizational leadership program.

“He was just tremendous,” Speller says. “He doesn’t even know it, but he was a huge blessing and an encourager for me. I’m so grateful for him.”

As Speller gets ready to embark on life as a DU alumnus, he is counting the many ways the University has shaped his life.

“I’m coming away from this feeling like I’m part of a community that I’ve never been a part of before,” he says. “Every time I step by the campus or drive past it on I-25, I look over like, ‘That’s my school right there,’ and I’m proud.”

Graduation Story: In His Own Words

Kyle also provide University College with a Graduation Story in his own words on his education journey to graduation!

My name is Kyle Speller. I am originally from Brooklyn, NY. Having spent most of my youth in Denver, I consider Colorado home. I am a new Leadership Trainer for the Comcast West Division – and have been there for 5+ years. I received my undergrad from Adams State University in Alamosa, CO, and I also received an MBA from the University of Phoenix.

I am a 50-year-old working adult. Considering all the experiences, strengths, and skills I have accumulated, I have discovered one of the areas that drive my passion is the area of leadership development.

I have had the opportunity to serve in numerous leadership roles, and value the importance of leadership. In my opinion, leadership is about impact. Everything rises and falls on leadership. The success of any program, business, team, etc. will be established through leadership. Before now, I have not had much experience in Human Resources, so a lot of times, I find myself at a certain level of disconnect with my co-workers and stakeholders.

This is where University College has come in. When I found the Strategic Human Resources program with the Learning and Development concentration at University College, after viewing all the course content, I immediately knew this is the program I need to help me accomplish my long-term goals.

Something interesting about me is one of the other hats I wear is I have just completed my 17th season as the Public Address Announcer and 15th season as the Team Chaplain for the Denver Nuggets. In 2020 for the NBA restart, I was selected to be one of 4 PA Announcers to call the games in the NBA Bubble in Orlando, FL. And I was selected to be one of the 2 Announcers to stay for the entirety of the season. It was a huge honor to be a part of such a historic event and I truly enjoyed the journey. Most recently, I was also selected to be one of the PA Announcers at this season’s NBA All-Star Weekend in Cleveland in February.

This has been a 4-year journey for me and there have been a lot of challenges along the way. Through the grace of God, I have been able to persevere, and I am extremely grateful.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Key Takeaways

• Christopher Luna, a Daniels Fund Scholar from Las Cruces, NM, completed a BS in Biology, BA in Spanish, and later a Healthcare Management master’s at DU, showing a powerful trajectory of perseverance and purpose.
• His story reflects DU’s support for first-generation and scholarship students, helping them build multidisciplinary skill sets and pursue professional goals, including future law school plans.
• The profile celebrates the achievements of Spring 2022 graduates and the supportive community at College of Professional Studies.

We asked graduates to share their journey to graduation. Here is what Christopher Luna (Healthcare Management) had to say in about his education at University College…

Christo attended the University of Denver for his undergrad education as well. He got a BS in Biology and a BA in Spanish with minors in chemistry and gender and women’s studies. He decided to stay for his Masters degree.

Coming from Las Cruces, NM, raised by a single mom Christo worked very hard in high school. His hard work ultimately landed him as a scholar for the Daniels Fund. Christo has a strong passion for helping people and working in healthcare. Future aspirations to attend law school.

Congratulations to Christopher and all of our spring 2022 graduates!

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