John Paul “Jack” Pogge spent eight years of his tremendous life deeply invested in Metropolitan State University of Denver, as a member of the Board of Trustees, including two years as its chair.
Pogge, who died last month at age 72, served on the University’s governing board from 2012-2019, a period of growth and transformation at MSU Denver. He was also part of the hiring committee that brought President Janine Davidson, Ph.D., to the University in 2017.
“He was the chair when I was hired, and he really helped us launch the journey that we’re on now,” Davidson said during the Board of Trustees September meeting. “We’re standing on his shoulders, and he will definitely be missed.”
“Jack took his role as a Board of Trustees member very seriously,” remembered David Fine, general counsel and secretary to the Board of Trustees, who also joined the University during Pogge’s tenure. “He professionalized the operation of the Board and was deeply committed to the mission of the University. Jack was a very decent person, and he will be missed tremendously by the Roadrunner community.”
Pogge was born in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and attended the University of Houston, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Finance. He returned to the Omaha area, enrolling at Creighton University School of Law, where he earned a Juris Doctorate with honors. Admitted to both the Nebraska and Iowa Bar, Pogge held leadership roles with USWEST and Applied Communications, Inc. In 1997, Pogge became president and chief operating officer of CSG Systems International, Inc., a position he held until his retirement in 2004.
During his retirement, Pogge focused on promoting youth and education, including through his service to MSU Denver. He also continued to mentor peers, youth and many others at all stages of their careers. Those who knew him described Pogge as having a “quiet strength, an endearing kindness, a gentle spirit, and an enthusiasm for new experiences and adventures.”
Together with his treasured family and friends, Pogge embraced the simple joys of golfing, hunting, fishing, traveling, watching sports, and sharing laughter and Glenlivet. He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Judy, their three children and five grandchildren.
Memorial services for Pogge were held earlier this month.
