President's Corner | Q1 Newsletter 2025 - ICYMI

Exciting Times Ahead at the Community College of Aurora!

As we progress with the Spring 2025 semester, I’m excited about the transformative journey ahead. CCA is growing, evolving, and expanding its impact—thanks to each of YOU!

🏗️ Our Centennial Campus and CAST building are taking shape

🔹 Vital campus revitalization projects are underway

💡 Innovation and collaboration continue to drive student success

These developments are more than just physical spaces—they represent our unwavering commitment to empowering students and strengthening our community. I invite you to watch my quarterly address to hear more about the exciting progress at CCA. This is a pivotal time for our college, and your support is essential in shaping its future!

To our Greater Aurora community, we are building a brighter future for our students, our community, and our college.

Welcoming the City of Aurora's New Police Chief

Thank you, Chief Todd Chamberlain of the Aurora Police Department, for meeting with me to discuss our current CCA/APD Police Cadet Program and ways to strengthen it.

The Community College of Aurora is grateful for our partnership.

Advancing Partnerships with Arapahoe County Sheriff Department

The work of advancing the Community College of Aurora continues. This week, CCA met with Sherrif Tyler Brown and Deputy Carl Anderson of the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office.

CCA is excited to join the City of Centennial community officially in fall 2025 with the opening of our new Health Sciences and First Responder Building.

Brand New Episode of "Discovering Your Mission" is Now Available!

In this conversation, Dr. Mordecai speaks with Julie Golder, Vice President of Search Services for the Association of Community College Trustees. They discuss Julie's unique journey into higher education, the evolving landscape of leadership in community colleges, the importance of organizational culture, and the qualities needed for today's leaders.

Julie emphasizes resilience in the executive search process and foresees significant trends, including the impact of AI and the necessity of emotional intelligence in leadership. She concludes with her personal mission statement, highlighting the values of hard work and kindness.

Watch now: https://youtu.be/t7qOHeDyBCQ

Embracing the Future: Why Higher Education’s Transformation is Just Beginning

🚨 Diverse: Issues In Higher Education New Article Alert! 🚨

In my latest article, "Embracing the Future: Why Higher Education’s Transformation is Just Beginning," I delve into the evolving landscape of higher education and what it means for learners, institutions, and communities. 🌍✨

As we navigate rapid advancements in technology, shifting learner expectations, and the demand for workforce-aligned education, it’s clear that transformation isn’t just inevitable—it’s necessary. 🙌🏽

This article explores how we can seize this moment to innovate, adapt, and lead with purpose, ensuring that higher education remains a powerful engine of opportunity and equity. 🔑📚

Check it out here: 👉🏽 https://www.diverseeducation.com/opinion/article/15711656/embracing-the-future-why-higher-educations-transformation-is-just-beginning

No More TikTok, Hello Clapper

With TikTok on the decline, I have deactivated my account and opened a Clapper account. To follow and engage with me, please visit https://www.clapperapp.com/ItsDrMordecai

Brand New Episode of Discovering Your Mission w/ Dr. Mordecai Now Available!

Please click here to view Dr. Mordecai’s interview with higher education legend Dr. Linda Thor.

39th Annual City of Aurora Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration 2025

This past weekend, Dr. Mordecai had the honor of lecturing on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s impact on higher education. Following his lecture, President Brownlee served on a panel with Terri Gentry (Historian of Black History in Colorado), Bill Gwaltney (National Museum of African American History and Culture), and Ahja Fox (Aurora, CO Poet Laurette).

May we ALL keep Dr. King’s dream alive, no matter the times or circumstances.

This event was hosted by the City of Aurora Museum.

Happy New Year!

From my family to yours – wishing you, your loved ones, and your organization a blessed and prosperous 2025!

As we step into the new year, may you remain focused on your purpose, keep family at the heart of all you do, and continue working each day to make this world a better place.

Here’s to growth, joy, and impact in the year ahead!

-The Brownlees

Reflecting on 2024

2024 has been a year of growth, challenges, and invaluable lessons. One thing stands clear: Never let a situation, challenge, or obstacle steal your joy. Your smile is your power. Stay true to yourself, embrace your calling, and live boldly in the fullness of your purpose.

Thank you Governor Jared Polis (Colorado)

It was an honor and pleasure to reconnect with Governor Jared Polis this holiday season. Thank you for your support of the Colorado Community College System and Community College of Aurora!

Good Morning, Champions! Week 52 of 2024

🌟 Good Morning, Champions! 🌟

As we close the chapter on 2024, I wanted to take a moment in this final Good Morning Champions message to reflect, recharge, and refocus. This year has been filled with lessons, growth, and moments that have shaped us in profound ways. But before we step into the new year, I want to leave you with three pillars to carry forward:

1️⃣ Prioritize Your Wellness – You can’t pour from an empty cup. Physical, mental, and emotional well-being aren’t luxuries – they are necessities for leadership and success. Take care of YOU.
2️⃣ Be Intentional with Your Time – Time is the greatest currency. How you spend it reflects what you truly value. In 2025, let’s eliminate distractions and double down on what truly matters.
3️⃣ Apologize & Make Things Right – Growth is about humility. Knowing when to apologize and taking steps to right wrongs creates stronger relationships and builds unshakable character.

🔑 These three areas will not only elevate your personal journey but also shape the communities and teams around you. Let me know in the comments – Which of these resonates most with you as we step into 2025? Here’s to closing the year with gratitude and stepping into 2025 with purpose, clarity, and courage.

Celebrating Our Amazing CCA Team at Winterfest!

🎉✨ Celebrating Our Amazing CCA Team at Winterfest! ✨🎉

This week, we came together for our annual Winterfest Celebration, a joyful reminder of the incredible faculty, instructors, and staff who make CCA extraordinary. ❄️

Your dedication, passion, and hard work inspire our students and transform lives daily. Thank you for all you do to empower our community and fulfill our mission! 💙

📸 Swipe to enjoy some festive moments from Winterfest!

Here’s to ending 2024 with gratitude and heading into the new year stronger together!

Good Morning, Champions! Week 51 of 2024

🌟 Good Morning, Champions! 🌟

This week, it’s story time. Let me take you back to the why behind this weekly series and honor the incredible individuals who inspired me to start it. When I began Good Morning, Champions, it wasn’t just about motivation; it was about celebration—celebrating the resilience, grit, and purpose that each of us carries.

This inspiration came from three pivotal figures in my life:

❤️ My Mother: She taught me that life’s challenges are not barriers but stepping stones. Her unwavering faith and dedication to others planted the seed of hope and perseverance in me.

🎓 Dr. Michael A. Baston: A visionary leader and mentor who showed me the power of purposeful action. His belief in elevating others sparked my passion for inspiring leaders like you to see the champion within.

🎓 Dr. John J. Sygielski 🏳️‍🌈: A relentless advocate for servant leadership, who embodies grace, strategy, and compassion in every endeavor. He reminded me that success is not just what we achieve but what we inspire in others.

So today, I encourage you to reflect on your journey, your mentors, and your purpose. Let this be a reminder: You have everything within you to inspire, lead, and win.

Game night vibes with the amazing students at Community College of Aurora

🎮 Game night vibes with the amazing students at Community College of Aurora! 🎮

Last night, I had an absolute BLAST playing Uno with our talented and energetic students during the “Gamers United” game night. Moments like these remind me how important it is to foster connection and community beyond the classroom.

Thank you to our incredible students for the invite—it’s always a joy to engage with the next generation of leaders in such a fun and meaningful way. 🦊

At CCA, we’re not just about education; we’re about creating spaces where students thrive, connect, and feel at home. Let’s keep building this amazing community together!

Good Morning, Champions! Week 50 of 2024

☀️ Good Morning, Champions! ☀️

As we near the close of 2024 and set our sights on the promise of 2025, I invite you to pause and reflect on three transformational lessons I’ve explored through the Good Morning Champions series:

✅ Intentionality: How are you aligning your actions with your purpose? Success is rooted in being deliberate about what matters most.

✅ Self-Care: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritizing your well-being isn’t just important—it’s essential for sustainable growth.

✅ Owning Your Journey: Every step forward is a testament to your resilience. Embrace your unique path, because your story matters.

In this week’s message, I dive deeper into these themes and share actionable insights to inspire your journey into the new year. Let’s finish 2024 with focus and step boldly into 2025 with clarity, confidence, and determination. 🚀

Brand New Article by Dr. Mordecai!

“In the post-pandemic era of higher education, college access, public trust in higher education, and AI are all converging in a disruptive way, ushering in a new standard for our learners.”

Read more at: https://www.diverseeducation.com/opinion/article/15709433/empowering-community-colleges-through-ai-a-new-era-of-access-and-economic-mobility

Good Morning, Champions! Week 49 of 2024

🌟 Good Morning, Champions! Week 49 is here! 🌟

In this week’s message, I reflect on the approaching conclusion of the Good Morning Champions video series. As we near the finish line, I’m reminded of the power of intentionality—not just for these final episodes, but for all areas of life. This series was always about one thing: helping us all grow and live better, more purposeful lives. I also share a glimpse into my daily routine and the importance of prioritizing what truly matters to each of us. Let’s make every day count! Catch this week’s message and join me in finishing 2024 strong. 🚀

Good Morning, Champions! Week 48 of 2024

☀️ **Good Morning, Champions!** ☀️

It's time for our Week 48 message for 2024. This week, let’s reflect on the theme of Thanksgiving and gratitude. I encourage you to be grateful for those who have made a positive impact on our lives, whether the times were good or challenging. Through resilience and healing, we can find purpose and become better people. 🚀

Dr. Mordecai Appointed to the Governing Board of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)

AURORA, Colo. — Dr. Mordecai Ian Brownlee, President of the Community College of Aurora (CCA), has been appointed to the Governing Board of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU). Dr. Brownlee is one of four new members confirmed during HACU’s annual conference, held in Aurora earlier this November.

“I am deeply honored to be appointed to the Governing Board of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities, especially during a time of remarkable growth in both HSI and emerging HSI institutions in Colorado,” said Dr. Brownlee. “With over a third of CCA students identifying as Hispanic/Latino/Latinx learners, our commitment to advancing ‘servingness’ transcends any single group—it is about fostering success for all students. This mission is transformative, and I am proud to contribute to HACU’s critical work in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for higher education.”

Read more: https://www.hacu.net/NewsBot.asp?MODE=VIEW&ID=4888