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January 10, 2024
Leaving the military and Department of Defense to work at MSU Denver was more than a career change – it is a calling. I made this move because I firmly believe in the transformational power of higher education for individuals and for our nation as a whole. We see it every day on campus and every December and May when we award thousands of degrees to one of the most diverse sets of learners in the nation.
Unfortunately, the headwinds pushing against the American system of higher education seem to be growing stronger every day. False narratives and mis-information concerning the perceived value of a college degree are leading many astray. A recent poll from Magellan Strategies revealed that 60% of Colorado voters think it’s more important to prepare high school students for the workforce than to prepare them to attend college. It is unfortunate that these perceptions do not match the reality behind the purpose and value of a degree. With more than 90% of the “Top Jobs” in Colorado requiring further education and training after high school, higher ed is simply essential to ensuring an individual’s hireability and earning potential.
These misconceptions also have the potential to be damaging to Colorado’s economy, as 47% of employers reported to the Colorado Department of Higher Education that they have job openings that they can’t fill. According to the latest Colorado Department of Higher Education report on the return on investment, there is overwhelming evidence of the benefit of a college education for both families and communities, on lifetime earnings as well as civic engagement, life expectancy and general happiness.
By investing well below half of the national average amount per student, Colorado is at risk of being left behind in our own nation and globally. It’s critically important we correct misconceptions about higher ed with support and investment from our state legislature so we can get this right for the future of Colorado and Coloradans. Our future depends on it.
Sincerely,
Janine Davidson, Ph.D.
President, MSU Denver
MSU Denver in the News
MSU Denver helps students who dropped out get a degree (9News)
MSU Denver recently told thousands of former students who didn’t graduate that earning a degree is still possible – even without having to go back to school.
New MSU Denver program aims to train more male educators of color (The Denver Post)
The program is Call Me MISTER, which stands for Mentors Instructing Students Toward Effective Role Models. A RED story contributed the coverage.
Metropolitan State University of Denver’s food pantry seeing triple the need since last year (CBS News)
It comes a year after the pantry expanded its space. Current and past RED stories and images contributed to the coverage.
Counselors welcome the Better FAFSA. But its delay might have consequences for students. (Chalkbeat Colorado)
After months of waiting, Colorado college advisors, families and students finally know when the application for college financial aid will be available. A RED story contributed to the coverage.
Stories from MSU Denver
Does a college degree make you happier?
Psychologists trace the connection between higher education and subjective well-being.
MSU Denver earns prestigious certification for support of Latino students
The University becomes the first higher-education institution in Colorado to earn the Seal of Excelencia.
Public higher education in Colorado remains a worthwhile investment
New state report underscores the value of a college degree and debunks a prevalent misconception about student debt.
More MSU Denver students will gain career-readiness training thanks to a recent gift
Donation of $1.5 million from the Morgridge Family Foundation supports construction and expansion of the University’s C2 Hub.
Upcoming MSU Denver Events
Jan. 12 | 9-11 a.m.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Peace Breakfast
The theme for the 2024 breakfast is “Fight the Power.” Purchase your tickets here.
Jan. 15 | 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Denver Martin Luther King, Jr. Marade
Join the MSU Denver community as we participate in the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Marade through Denver. Meet on the East side the MLK statue in City Park.
Jan. 18 | 12-12:30 p.m.
Rowdy Statue Unveiling Party
Please join the Alumni Association Board of Directors in celebrating the installation of the Rowdy the Roadrunner Mascot Statue on campus. RSVP here.
Feb. 1 | 7:45 a.m. refreshments | 8:45 a.m. program
President’s Spring Update
Join us for the annual President’s Spring Update as President Davidson will provide updates for all faculty and staff before the end of the academic year. Please RSVP.
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