Metropolitan State University of Denver is brimming with exceptional talent, and our faculty and staff continue to make an impact across disciplines. Here’s a look at some of the incredible accomplishments from our Roadrunner community this fall.
Department of Nursing honors excellence with Daisy awards
At the Fall 2024 Nursing Pinning Ceremony, MSU Denver’s Department of Nursing celebrated two remarkable individuals with the prestigious Daisy Awards, an international recognition for exceptional nursing educators and students.
- Katrina Little, Ph.D., R.N., assistant professor in the Nursing Department, was lauded for creating a classroom environment that fosters open dialogue about health care disparities. A nominating student described Little as a “passionate advocate who empowers future healthcare professionals.”
- Beth Dominico, a student honoree, was recognized for her leadership, professionalism and commitment to patient advocacy. Her peers described her as “a role model for both classmates and future nurses.”
Shelby Robb earns NCAA Top 10 Award
Shelby Robb, a Sport Management major and softball star, has been named one of NCAA Today’s Top 10 Award winners for 2025, an honor recognizing excellence in athletics, academics and community service. Robb’s record-breaking career includes becoming MSU Denver’s all-time leader in career batting average (.425). She earned multiple Academic All-America honors, including Academic All-America Team Member of the Year for softball in 2024, and is one of three Division II finalists for NCAA Woman of the Year.
Shannon Roe named Manufacturing Woman of the Year
The Colorado Manufacturing Network named Shannon Roe, MPA, assistant director of the Advanced Manufacturing Sciences Institute, one of two winners of the 2024 Manufacturing Woman of the Year Award. Roe’s innovative programming and student mentorship have boosted enrollment and career outcomes for Advanced Manufacturing students. She also co-leads the Community of Support program for Women in Manufacturing Colorado, fostering mentorship nationwide.
Peter Vigil wins Higher Education Educator of the Year
The Colorado Association for Bilingual Education honored Peter Vigil, Ph.D., professor of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education, with its 2024 Higher Education Educator of the Year award. Vigil is recognized as a leader in bilingual and culturally diverse education, and his advocacy for equity and social justice inspires colleagues and students.
MSU Denver brings delegation to HACU conference; Chris Garcia presents
MSU Denver’s commitment to advancing equity and inclusion in higher education took center stage at the 2024 Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities Annual Conference, held Nov. 1-3 in Aurora. Representing the University, Chris Garcia, associate director of First-Generation Initiatives, delivered a presentation titled “A Marriage of Purpose: Aligning Alumni Engagement with Hispanic-Serving Institution Initiatives.” Developed in collaboration with national leaders, the presentation explored how integrating alumni relations with HSI initiatives can deepen alumni connections, enhance student support and drive program growth.
MSU Denver also sent 20 students to the conference, providing them with opportunities for professional development, networking and career advancement. Accompanied by staff members David Bourassa, associate director for Student Experiential & Professional Development, and Manuel Del Real, executive director of HSI Initiatives and Inclusion, the delegation highlighted MSU Denver’s dedication to fostering diversity and creating pathways for success. The event showcased the University’s innovative approaches to serving Latinx communities and emphasized its leadership in advancing equity and inclusion.
Tori Pacheco receives hometown honors
Tori Pacheco, interim assistant director in the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships, was inducted into her high school’s Hall of Fame in Pueblo this fall, marking a proud moment for the MSU Denver family.
UCM team wins multiple awards
MSU Denver’s University Communications and Marketing team continues to shine, earning accolades for its innovative storytelling and impactful campaigns:
- National Council for Advancement and Support of Education Silver Award: Best Photography
- Best Storytelling x 2
- Best Writing x 2
- Best Marketing Initiative
- Best Portrait Photography
- Best Photography Series
- Best Video
In addition, the Changemakers campaign swept major marketing awards in 2024, including:
EduAdAwards:
- Gold: Integrated Marketing Campaign
- Gold: Television Advertising (Single)
- Silver: Television Advertising (Series)
- Merit: Digital Video Ad (Less than 2 Minutes)
- Internet Advertising Competition: Best Education Integrated Ad Campaign
- Best of District VI Awards: Changemakers Wanted Integrated Advertising Campaign
Have good news to share? Submit an accolade or recognition that deserves celebration here.
