From the Director’s Desk

Dear Friends,

Thank you to everyone who attended our 20th Anniversary Class Act Auction and Dinner. We are pleased to announce that we raised more than $235,000 through the generosity of approximately 550 attendees. A special thank you goes out to our presenting sponsor, Replica, for their investment in our youth and families. In addition, congratulations to our 2015 award winners, including The Gilbert Garcia Memorial Award: Denver Urban Scholars alumni Christina Gonzales; Mentor Impact Award: Justin Zuiker; Community Impact Award: Mile High United Way; and The Founders Award: Larry and Margaret Byrne. Here are a few highlights from the speech given by alumnus Christina Gonzales, which demonstrates the impact our program and her inspiring accomplishments.

“I am proud to stand before you today, a Regis University graduate of 2010. I was a Daniels Scholar and received a four-year scholarship to any college or University of my choice and of course, my first choice was to become a Regis University Ranger. I was able to accomplish every goal I set for myself because Patrick and the Denver Urban Scholars organization saw a passion and a determination in me that I had not yet seen in myself. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the organization for making not only MY dreams but my family’s dreams come true. Because you believed in me, I had no choice but to believe in myself and I am so excited to report to you that I will be receiving my Masters Degree in IT Management in less than 8 months.”

To learn more about Christina and all of the award recipients I encourage you to take a moment to watch the short videos below:

Christina Gonzales interview with 9 News (KUSA) reporter and event MC Kyle Dyer

Class Act Auction and Dinner showcase video

Once again, thank you to everyone who made the event such a tremendous success. We are deeply grateful for our community’s commitment to youth and education.

Sincerely,

Patrick Byrne, PhD
Executive Director