Over the past decade, Deena Duwaik’s unwavering commitment has been directed towards serving diverse communities, spanning regions across the globe – Jordan, Morocco, Thailand, and Kenya. Coming from a family of Palestinian refugees, Deena has a special place in her heart for immigrant and refugee communities that feeds her passion for this work. In her current role with the Human Rights and Community Partnerships Agency at the City and County of Denver, Deena is dedicated to supporting government entities in cultivating the most inclusive and accessible processes for their programs. This involves navigating the intricate web of policies to ensure that services effectively reach and serve diverse community members.

Before this, Deena’s professional expeditions led her to serve as the Development Manager at an anti-hunger organization for four impactful years. In this role, she and her colleagues tirelessly worked towards dismantling systemic barriers to essential resources such as food, housing, and employment for marginalized and underrepresented communities. This experience instilled in Deena a profound understanding of the complex interplay of socio-economic factors affecting vulnerable populations and the critical importance of advocating for justice-oriented policies.

Prior to her stateside roles, Deena embarked to Tighoumar, Morocco, as a Peace Corps Volunteer. There, she had the privilege of learning and growing alongside incredibly inspirational and powerful women. In her rural community, she collaborated with various nonprofits aimed at empowering girls through education. With an ethical and sustainable lens, Deena delved into the intricate dynamics of divergent political affiliations, inter-community conflicts, and the challenges posed by a surplus of students relative to available resources. This examination focused particularly on the barriers hindering girls and women from accessing education, shedding light on the need for nuanced policies in the Kingdom.

Deena currently serves as the Director of Advocacy on the United Nations Associations Denver Board, holds positions on the Women’s Chamber of Commerce Board and the SPA GOLD Board, contributes to the Executive team for the Denver Immigrant and Refugee Affairs Commission, and teaches yoga. In 2022, Deena achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first in her family to pursue a post-graduate degree, earning a Master of Public Administration. Beyond her professional pursuits, Deena is passionate about her cat Naji al- Ali, weightlifting, chess, The Mummy movie franchise, and all things lavender!

What inspired you to pursue a career in public service?

I vividly remember running through the dusty roads of the main market in Zarqa, Jordan, where throngs of people gathered to celebrate the Ramadan holiday. Running to find my uncle, I stumbled over a disheveled girl sitting in front of a bakery, her hand reaching out, asking for whatever change we could spare. My uncle loomed over me before I could reply, tugging me away, muttering “the poor is the government’s responsibility, not ours. If we gave money to everyone who needed it, we wouldn’t have any left.” 

The perplexity I felt in that moment, coupled with the sheer frustration of the accepted inequity, fueled my fervor to learn more and address the root causes of these issues; in essence, it served as the foundation for my passion in public service. I was seeing firsthand the indirect impact of a system that failed to provide security and protection to the most vulnerable of its citizens. If it was as my uncle said, “the government’s job”, then what policies were in place that were designed to uplift the socially excluded? What were the barriers to effectively implement these policies? What were the barriers to accessing them?

How did the intersection of different identities impact people in distinct ways? I had a million questions and ultimately knew I wanted to play a more proactive role in this process. I wanted to conduct research that had the ability to overhaul fundamental elements within our system, lobby to shift policy design to become more representative, and intentionally engage people, like my uncle, to participate in and think critically about the public policy process. This was now my driving force. Choosing the path of a public servant became an ideal avenue to challenge the limits and constraints of existing systems, to pose uncomfortable questions to the status quo, and to create inclusive spaces that encourage dynamic ideation to complex problems. 

My realization of the need for systemic change coincided with a deep-seated desire for increased representation. Throughout my life, the absence of women in positions of power who resembled me, spoke like me, or championed values important to my community was glaringly apparent. Stepping into powerful spaces often involved defending my presence, work, and competence. Layer-in a healthy dose of imposter syndrome exacerbated by societal biases related to my ethnicity, class, and first language, navigating life as a first-generation Palestinian woman felt like an ongoing defensive battle, both internally and externally. The absence of such representation in positions of influence provides a unique opportunity to pave the way, not only for ourselves but for future generations. My aspirations became two-fold: serve my people and community while authentically embracing my own power. Ultimately, learning the type of leader I wanted to be. 

What has been most meaningful to you about your career? 

My life has been shaped by a profound awareness of systemic injustices that affect communities worldwide. Growing up, I witnessed the frustrations of women who, despite constitutional rights, faced barriers to local political participation and struggled to advance in education and professional careers due to the intersection of occupation and patriarchy. Volunteering with small business owners in Surin, Thailand, I saw the near extinction of sugar cane farms due to the rapid expansion of agribusiness and the inequitable dissemination of technological information that invoked an unfair advantage onto their competition. I taught and learned from children in Samburu, Kenya, whose education policies disproportionately affected outside villages, leaving them with antiquated resources and one of the highest rates of brain drain in the world. I rebuilt homes with families in New Orleans, Louisiana, impacted by Hurricane Katrina, who disclosed their distrust and frustration with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) due to the correlation between race, socioeconomic status, and federal inaction with the disaster. I conducted intakes with residents of Denver, Colorado, who are food insecure because of historical systems that marginalize, disenfranchise, and force an average family on minimum wage to seek assistance within a government designed never to address the root causes. As public administrators, as leaders and innovators of the world, our jobs are to work with community as we co-create equitable and sustainable policy that represents a population with a diverse composition. 

My professional focus on healing justice stems from navigating the complexities of intergenerational trauma and dismantling systemic oppression. In public administration, I strive to transcend conventional structures, crafting environments that reimagine healing and transformative justice. This evolution involves a collaborative effort to decolonize narratives, creating safe spaces that encourage seeking, learning, sharing, and affirmation of the distinct histories of BIPOC communities. Through collective unlearning of dominant narratives, we pave the way for deserved experiences of joy, medicine, and healing: intentionally designed safe havens that address barriers working against us. 

Together, we embark on unique paths of healing, embracing, rejecting, and accepting ourselves. This transformative process enables us to work within ourselves and collaboratively strive for a world where all identities and experiences hold equal value, access, and agency. Through collective effort, we undergo a profound metamorphosis – the essence of my work, undeniably beautiful and rooted in a commitment to justice and healing.

What part of your education at the School of Public Affairs has had the greatest impact on your 
work? 

My time at CU Denver, and more specifically within the nurturing environment of the School of Public Affairs (SPA), has been nothing short of profound, leaving an indelible mark on both my personal and professional trajectory. The multifaceted experiences, the wealth of invaluable teachings, and the kaleidoscope of diverse perspectives that have characterized my time at this esteemed institution have played a pivotal role in shaping me into the adept and empathetic leader I proudly embody today. 

Within these walls, I discovered a space for learning, a sanctuary where my voice was not only heard but also validated. It was a place where I could show up unapologetically, be authentically myself, and speak out with conviction. The instructors, with their unparalleled guidance, did more than impart knowledge; they cultivated an environment that fostered growth and pushed boundaries. They encouraged divisive dialogue, viewed not as a source of discord but as a means to truly understand the humanity in one another. It was in these dialogues that the essence of public administration unfolded, transcending the theoretical and delving into the practical aspects of understanding the nuanced, the messy, the real, the political, the bureaucratic lives and needs of people around the globe. 

In this academic haven, my instructors didn't just teach; they inspired a profound commitment to service and a deep understanding of the responsibilities inherent in being a public administrator. The curriculum went beyond the textbooks, encompassing real-world scenarios and global perspectives, bringing in speakers from across sectors that brought a raw honesty to their field, unlike any interview you could watch. Studying the lives of people worldwide became more than an academic exercise – it was a journey to comprehend the intricacies of serving humanity and effecting positive change. 

As I reflect on my educational odyssey at CU Denver and with SPA, I am grateful for the experiences, the environment that emboldened my revolutionary spirit, and the compassionate guidance that has not only shaped my academic endeavors but has also equipped me with the skills and mindset needed to navigate the complexities of public administration. SPA has been more than an institution of learning; it has been a cornerstone in the foundation of my leadership, and for that, I am forever indebted. 

What is your favorite memory of the School of Public Affairs? 

Being a member of this vibrant community at CU Denver, particularly within SPA, has been a source of continual fulfillment, offering a unique tapestry of experiences and connections that have left an enduring impact on my academic and personal trajectories. The richness of this community lies not only in the academic pursuits but, more significantly, in this unique fabric, this magnetic energy, this secret sauce of individuals it brings together. 

The most rewarding aspect of this community is the kaleidoscope of incredible people one encounters. These interactions, whether in classrooms, collaborative projects we completed the night before over Zoom, or casual encounters across campus, have been a constant source of inspiration, challenging me in the most lavish of ways and contributing to my personal growth. Each encounter, then and now, serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent inclusivity cultivated within this space, a reminder of the world we serve, and I am genuinely grateful to be an integral part of this phenomenon. 

Among the treasure trove of memories that adorn my years with SPA, one standout is etched in my mind – the immersive experience of Dr. Annie Miller's class. Really all of her classes because she is amazing, but one in particular. Enrolling in her intensive course was a commitment to full days of academic immersion, where reading, learning, presenting, and engaging in profound dialogues were the norm. Despite the intensity of the course, it became a transformative experience that not only provided unparalleled insights but also became the catalyst for the formation of the most meaningful connections I would have during my Master’s program. 

Assigned to Team Beta, our small group became a tight-knit cohort that adventured through the challenges and discoveries of the course together. This setting provided fertile ground for delving into vulnerable conversations, challenging opinions, and exploring diverse case studies that continue to resonate with me today. Dr. Miller's class was not just an academic endeavor; it was a crucible for personal and intellectual growth, fostering an environment where learning extended beyond the confines of the classroom. This fast-paced course forced you to be quick on your feet, embrace an array of emotions simultaneously, and in real-time navigate solutions to the world’s constraints. We were exhausted and it was magnificent. By far the most challenging course I took and my absolute favorite. 

Looking ahead, what do you see as the biggest challenges that your field faces? 

We require greater representation. A diverse workforce enhances our capacity to comprehend and tackle a broad spectrum of issues, guaranteeing that policies and programs are more comprehensive, effective, and equitable. Inclusive decision-making ensures the incorporation of a variety of voices in the policymaking process, actively considering the needs of all members of society. This, in turn, fosters public trust, as a representative government builds confidence among citizens. When people observe individuals in positions of authority who understand and share their experiences, they are more likely to engage with that institution. Diversity, equity, inclusion, access, belonging, justice, and the myriad ways we support one another should take center stage in every conversation, guide every process, and shape every decision. It's imperative that these values are deliberately woven into the fabric of systems, moving beyond superficial acknowledgment to become indispensable enhancements that enrich and advance our procedures. 

We must always elevate the truth. In the realm of learning and information dissemination, numerous avenues are available to us. As public administrators, we embrace an oath to serve as ethical leaders within our communities – champions of truth and advocates for justice. The potency of misinformation lies in its potential to reshape collective narratives, profoundly influencing policies and, consequently, the lives of individuals globally. It is imperative for us to scrutinize our implicit biases, hone our cultural competency compasses, and steadfastly commit to perpetual personal and professional growth. 

What advice would you give to current students and professional development program 
participants at the School of Public Affairs? 

You can do this! For those who courageously confront injustice, it's important to anticipate moments of doubt, navigate through experiences of gaslighting that encourage conformity, and confront challenges to your resilience. You are brave. Recognize your strength; the journey to justice may be tumultuous, but it is a testament to the depth of your character. You've reached this point with unwavering determination. Persevere, even when it feels like a solitary battle, even when your voice wavers and your palms sweat. Retain a clear vision of why you traipsed on the path of public administration. Embrace these moments with a deep breath – absorb, reflect. Exhale with gratitude, acknowledging the opportunities and the growth they bring. Allow that profound passion to energize your efforts, carrying you through both the magnificent and the challenging moments. The weight of responsibility is significant, but nothing you can’t handle. Forge ahead with confidence and purpose. We are all counting on you. You are counting on you!