DU is its Strengths

Dear DU community, 

As we wrap up the fall term and head into the holiday season, I’ve been in continual reflection on what the past few months have meant for higher education—and for DU. We know the challenges. But what stands out to me is how our community continues to meet and overcome these challenges with creativity, resilience, and a shared sense of purpose. 

When I think about what makes DU resilient, it always comes back to our core strengths.  

Faculty at the Heart of it All 
DU’s outstanding faculty are teacher-scholars who choose DU because they care deeply about students and mentorship while also pursuing research that improves the world, building a better future for all. That commitment has helped us earn and retain the prestigious R1 designation, which speaks to the impact of our work far beyond campus. 

Holistic Education and a Preeminent Student Experience 
Built on the excellence and commitment of our faculty, our holistic 4D approach to education is helping students grow academically, professionally, and personally to prepare them for successful careers and lives driven by clarity of purpose. 

Inspirational Locations  
We set students up for inspiration and belonging from the get-go with the energy of the Denver campus paired with the restorative environment of the Kennedy Mountain Campus. It’s a combination that challenges students, sets up building blocks for life-long friendships, and supports their well-being. 

Robust Free Expression and Inclusion 
I believe we can—and must—continue to create and advance a community where open inquiry thrives alongside a genuine embrace of difference. That’s not just a value; it’s a strength, and DU is taking strides to lead in this space. 

These Differentiators Inform DU Forward, our Strategic Direction for the Next Five Years.
The first 19 projects funded through this initiative reflect ideas from across our community and will shape the future of enrollment, student success, and the overall DU experience. Beyond the nineteen projects, our other DU Forward components (such as the STEM Horizons building, our move to the WCC, and more) will maintain a university where graduates flourish in a world transformed by AI, faculty are celebrated for their teaching and scholarship, staff feel valued and supported, and alumni remain deeply engaged and proud. 

As we move into the holidays, I want to say thank you. Your work, your care, and your commitment make all the difference. And while the challenges are real, so is our progress, and that should give us all optimism for what’s ahead. Together, we’re creating a future where DU doesn’t just meet the moment—we make it ours. 

I look forward to sharing more reflections with you all in January. Until then, take care during these final weeks of the year.  

Sincerely, 

Jeremy Haefner 
Chancellor