VIP Students

Alumni Spotlight: Tracy Gutierrez

Tracy Gutierrez is one of our most successful VIP alumna. She graduated from West High School in 1994. She graduated from the University of Denver in 1999 with a major in Biology and a double minor in Math & Chemistry. After graduation she attended Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine and graduated with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) Dentistry license in May 2006. She was married while still in college to Mark Gutierrez and has been married for 11 years. Tracy and Mark have a son, Joshua who is the delight of their lives.

During her time at DU, Tracy worked in the VIP Program as a Middle School Coordinator. Tracy expressed her thoughts on VIP:

"The VIP Partnership Program will always have a very special place in my heart, because it enabled me not only to complete my undergraduate education but also to pursue a career in dental medicine. The VIP program became a home away from home for me and when my husband enlisted in the Navy during my third year at the University of Denver, the support they gave me helped me cope with his absence.

I was ecstatic when I was accepted to Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. However, I agonized about making the move to Boston, MA, because I did not want to leave my family and friends. The support and encouragement I received from the VIP Program gave me the courage to fulfill the goals I set for myself regardless of the fears I had.

I will always be thankful to the VIP Partnership Program, especially to Dr. Donna Wilson, Verna Clark, Carole Burgess, Terry Williams, Lynnae Shelly, Sopheap Na, Stephanie Martinez and all of the VIP members I worked closely with in the program. They have all had a very positive impact in my life, and I will never forget them."

Currently Tracy is working as a General Dentist at a Dental Clinic associated with Denver Health. Her future plans are to continue her education but not specialize. Those of us who know her best would describe her as persevering and dedicated and truly one of the most delightful people you would ever want to meet. We are proud to call Tracy Gutierrez a VIP Alum.
—Carole Burgess

Upcoming Events

Summer Link to College

August 5 - 9, 2008

Summer Link is a summer program for high school sophomores from partner schools who are going into their junior year. The program is a weeklong residential introduction to college life. Students attend a class each day taught by a University of Denver (DU) professor, as well as participate in educational and challenging workshops that motivate them to successfully complete high school and prepare them for the college application process. In addition, students volunteer for many community and cultural activities. The uniqueness of the program is in the follow-up activities, which continue until students graduate from high school.

Fall Interterm

August 15 - 31, 2008

Interterm is the period between quarters in which intensive on-campus, on-line and travel courses are offered in intensive formats to provide students with an alternative approach to learning. DU faculty create Interterm classes that are academically challenging and involve an experiential component. Most students who experience Interterm courses return for additional opportunities to enhance their experience. The courses may be taken for credit at current DU tuition rates. There are four Interterms each year, which are scheduled immediately after each quarter.

View Calendar

University of Denver

VIP Students

Alumni Spotlight: Tracy Gutierrez

Upcoming Events

Summer Link to College

Fall Interterm

Special Community Programs Division