Brendan Fry, Ph.D., co-authors study on retinal oxygenation modeling
Brendan Fry, Ph.D., professor in the Metropolitan State University of Denver Department of Mathematics and Statistics, recently co-authored a study published in La Matematica that explores how differences in blood-vessel structures can affect oxygen delivery in the human retina.
Using advanced mathematical modeling, the research team compared two vascular-network designs and found that small structural differences can lead to significant changes in tissue oxygenation. The findings can be used to improve diagnostic tools and support the development of patient-specific treatment models in the future.
Accounting Department celebrates 15 years of MPAcc program
The Department of Accounting recently hosted MPAcc’s 15 Years & acCounting Celebration, commemorating the 15th anniversary of MSU Denver’s Master of Professional Accountancy program. Since its inception, the MPAcc program has been shaped by over 40 faculty members, 10 staff members and more than 430 alumni. The celebration honored the program’s growth, community impact and continued commitment to preparing accounting professionals for meaningful careers.
Students produce documentary series on the Colorado River Basin and Indigenous stories
Students in two Video Production courses, JMP 4430 and JMP 3420, spent the spring semester gaining hands-on experience by creating a powerful documentary series titled “The Waters Connect Us.” The project was designed and led by Suree Towfighnia, a faculty member in the Department of Journalism and Media Production, who structured the courses like a professional film production to provide experiential learning and collaborative opportunities.
The 11 short nonfiction films explore the Colorado River Basin, spotlighting Indigenous perspectives and stories from the region. Students participated in every stage of production, including research, scriptwriting, interviews, editing and public screening. The films debuted to a full house at Denver’s Bug Theater on May 14 and are now featured on a student-created WordPress site, with social-media promotion planned.
Lee Helldoerfer and Gus Heckenbach honored with Daisy Awards for compassionate nursing
Lee Helldoerfer, faculty member in the Department of Nursing, and Gus Heckenbach, Nursing student, were each recognized with a Daisy Award for extraordinary contributions to the field of nursing. The award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional compassion, clinical expertise and a commitment to patient care.
The Daisy Foundation celebrates nurses worldwide who make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Honorees are nominated by patients, families or colleagues for moments that exemplify the heart of nursing.
Helldoerfer and Heckenbach were recognized for their dedication to patient-centered care and their ability to inspire others through compassionate practice.
MSU Denver financial-aid leaders honored at statewide CAFAA Conference
MSU Denver staff members were recognized for their leadership, service and innovation at the 2025 Colorado Association of Financial Aid Administrators Conference. The event brought together financial-aid professionals from across the state to navigate ongoing changes in federal policy and celebrate the resilience and accomplishments of the community.
Tori Pacheco, interim associate director of Student Services, served as the 2025 CAFAA Conference chair and received two major honors: the Tom Monahan Rookie of the Year Award and the President’s Award. She was also elected to serve as CAFAA secretary for the 2025-2026 board term.
Michael Nguyen, interim executive director of Financial Aid and Scholarships and the Enrollment Call Center, was named Postsecondary Professional of the Year and elected as president-elect of the CAFAA board.
Don Holtzen, operations coordinator in the Office of Financial Aid, was elected to serve as technology chair and 2026 conference chair.
These achievements reflect MSU Denver’s leadership and impact within Colorado’s financial-aid community, especially amid the challenges of the simplification of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and federal updates.
Flight Team climbs national rankings and earns Collegiate Aviation Progress award
MSU Denver’s Precision Flight Team earned the Collegiate Aviation Progress Award at the 2025 National SAFECON, hosted by the National Intercollegiate Flying Association. The team advanced from 23rd to 15th place nationally, making one of the largest leaps among collegiate aviation programs.
Additionally, team members earned multiple top-10 finishes in flight and ground events, and student Zoe Hafner received an individual Achievement Award for her contributions. The team was led by faculty members Chad Kendall and Michael Forney, whose mentorship helped guide this standout performance.
Amanda Berry recognized for improving employee retirement benefits
Amanda Berry, associate director of Benefits in Human Resources, was featured in a national TIAA case study for her leadership in redesigning MSU Denver’s retirement plan. The update reduced the number of investment options from 400 to 29, making the plan easier to navigate and more aligned with employees’ long-term goals.
Berry collaborated with faculty and staff members and plan advisors to create a more user-friendly, transparent system. The case study highlights MSU Denver’s approach as a model for other institutions seeking to improve retirement readiness and engagement.
Ann Murphy honored as one of Business Journal’s Outstanding Women in Business
Ann Murphy, Ph.D., former dean of the College of Business, has been named a 2025 Outstanding Woman in Business by the Denver Business Journal. The award recognizes her impactful leadership, dedication to student success and longstanding contributions to Colorado’s business and higher-education participants.
Murphy, who recently retired after more than a decade of service at MSU Denver, is among 25 honorees selected for their professional excellence and community engagement. She will be recognized at the DBJ awards dinner July 31 and featured in a special publication Aug. 1.
