Look around you: From roads that link neighborhoods to city governments that introduce recycling programs, to people that raise funds to build playgrounds and concert venues, our world is shaped by civics and public affairs. And students who are interested in a career in these sectors can make big impacts in their communities. At CU Denver, students can choose an educational path that focuses on public administration or public affairs—but how do these degree choices differ?
This year, as CU Denver celebrates its own golden anniversary, SPA is also celebrating 50 years of education, research, and outreach that helps cities and communities operate better and more equitably.
Sara Reynolds is the Vice President of Operations for the Colorado Oil & Gas Association. She oversees the daily operations of COGA, including financial management, membership development, programs and events, and community investments.
After an existential crisis, we realized we needed to think more deeply about our careers, say Örjan Bodin and CU Denver School of Public Affairs professor Christopher M. Weible.
For her capstone project, Danielle Rachlin created an hour-long video series for young people featuring environmental enforcement experts. Her capstone experience inspired her to begin a van-life journey across all 50 states to create videos that explore public lands and environmental issues across the country.
Winners from the CU Denver School of Public Affairs are Associate Professor Todd Ely, with his project titled “Understanding and Leveraging Philanthropic Foundations in Colorado’s Urban Areas,” and Scholar in Residence Dr. Serena Kim, with her project titled “Integrated Solar Energy for Sustainable, Resilient, and Equitable Communities.”