As the No. 1 top-ranked national university in Colorado by U.S. News & World Report for campus ethnic diversity and social mobility, CU Denver makes the most of being deeply embedded in the city's heart and the nation’s fastest-growing economy.
Inclusive business is good business. CU Denver Business School is passionate about extending the promise of business to all. We are shaping tomorrow’s business leaders today, equipping lifelong learners to make an impact locally and globally.
As the No. 1 top-ranked national university in Colorado by U.S. News & World Report for campus ethnic diversity and social mobility, CU Denver makes the most of being deeply embedded in the city’s heart and the nation’s fastest-growing economy.
The CU Denver Business School fosters a diverse and inclusive campus; as such, scholarships remain essential in supporting the school’s ethos of opening doors and lowering barriers for many students. CU Denver serves one of Colorado’s most diverse student bodies, with 43% of our students identifying as people of color. Over half of our undergraduates are first-generation college students. Scholarships provide a lifeline to students seeking access to a college education, alleviating financial strain, reducing student debt and enabling students to focus on academic and career goals, contributing to a stronger workforce in the heart of Denver and worldwide.
CU Denver Business School Dean Scott Dawson attests to the vital role of scholarships in determining access to higher education: “Financial distress is by far the biggest reason our students don’t persist. Scholarships can make the difference between a professional career leading to economic mobility or never having the opportunities afforded by a college degree.”
The generosity of scholarship resonates uniquely with first-generation students like Vietnam native Vy Vo, International Business, BSBA ‘23. “This scholarship means a lot to me; it shows that the school supports me. There is someone out there who cares about my studies, who recognizes my dedication and hard work.” Her Dean’s Undergraduate Merit Scholarship holistically supported her education, housing and food.
Even recent Business School grads are supporting this next wave of changemakers. Gage Chapel, MS ‘15, EY (Ernst & Young) senior manager, established a scholarship fund for first-generation Business School students. Chapel said, “I understand how impactful higher education can be to people’s lives and allows them to move up the socioeconomic scale.” He prides the Business School on its profound impact and educational opportunities.
Donor and CU Denver Business School Board Member Ellen Balaguer sees the value of funding scholarships as advancing our local and global businesses and economies. “This is an investment in our future and the next generation of business leaders,” Balaguer posed.
Haylie Patrick, International Business & Management, BSBA ‘23, emphasized the freedom scholarships afford students. Patrick explained how her scholarship allowed her to focus on her future without the strain of a full-time job.
Balaguer also cited the importance of that freedom: “Education is an important key to unlocking and moving barriers (for students).” She challenges other potential donors to pay it forward and lift others. Balaguer champions the accessibility of business education for underrepresented communities, which serves as a significant pipeline to a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
In that spirit, CU Denver Business School invites you to the 2025 Celebration of Success on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the Hilton Denver City Center. Attending this special gala supports student success through scholarship investment. We encourage you to share this opportunity with your networks, as your support can make a significant difference in the lives of our students. Together, we can extend the promise of business to all.
Find event tickets and donate here.
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