The University of Colorado Denver School of Public Affairs (SPA) proudly joined civic, business, and community leaders on January 22 to honor the recipients of the Colorado Governor’s Citizenship Medals, the state’s highest recognition for civic leadership and service. As the nominating partner for the Public and Community Service Medal, SPA helps identify outstanding individuals whose work strengthens Colorado communities.

Honoring 2025 Medal Recipient Laura Frank

SPA nominated Laura Frank, Executive Director at COLab, the Colorado News Collaborative, for her transformative leadership in strengthening local journalism across the state. She was honored at the ceremony for her commitment to collaboration, integrity, and accessible reporting, qualities that continue to bolster the health of local news and support a thriving democracy.

Frank received the Public and Community Service Medal from Governor Polis during the ceremony on January 22, 2026, held at History Colorado.

Lisa VanRaemdonck, SPA’s Executive Director of Outreach, Partnerships & Professional Learning, presented Laura’s story during the ceremony attended by state leaders, community members, SPA alums and Advisory Board members, and other distinguished guests.

“The SPA community is filled with brilliant and passionate people who are making a difference. It’s a special delight to be able to help amplify Laura’s leadership and collaborative work that bolsters local journalism as a vital public service and foundational element of our democracy.”

A Special Ceremony

This year’s ceremony held special significance as Colorado celebrates its 150th anniversary, recognizing leaders who reflect the best of the state’s past and present while helping shape what is possible for the next 150 years. Medal winners, their families and nominating partners were treated to a private tour of History Colorado’s ‘What’s Your Story?’ exhibit where these and other Colorado leaders are presented as inspiration for everyone to envision their role in leadership. Governor Jared Polis delivered remarks highlighting the honorees’ commitment to strengthening communities, advancing opportunity, and building a more resilient and equitable Colorado.

SPA’s Longtime Partnership with CiviCO from Omni

SPA’s connection to CiviCO dates back nearly a decade, beginning with the launch of the Governor’s Fellows Program, which brings together 25–35 emerging leaders each year for monthly sessions exploring state government, public policy, and civic leadership.

SPA’s nominations have been consistently recognized as medal-worthy. Last year’s Public and Community Service Medal was awarded to Katy Anthes, SPA MPA and PhD alum and former Colorado Commissioner of Education and the 2023 medal was awarded to Lauren Y. Casteel, Denver Community Leadership Forum (DCLF) alum and former President and CEO of the Women’s Foundation of Colorado.

Through its ongoing partnership with CiviCO from Omni, SPA continues to elevate leaders who embody civic responsibility, public service, and meaningful impact across Colorado.