Brenda J. Allen Faculty & Staff Inclusive Leadership Award

The Brenda J. Allen Inclusive Leadership Award honors a CU Denver faculty or staff member whose leadership reflects a sustained commitment to equity, belonging, and meaningful community impact.

Inspired by Dr. Brenda J. Allen’s enduring leadership and contributions to inclusive excellence, this award recognizes individuals who lead with integrity, courage, and compassion. Through their decisions, advocacy, and daily actions, they cultivate environments where students, staff, and faculty from a wide range of backgrounds and lived experiences feel seen, valued, and supported.

Eligibility

• All current CU Denver faculty and staff are eligible.
• Individuals may be nominated by colleagues, students, or supervisors.
• Self-nominations are welcome.

Nominations are reviewed by a selection committee using a structured rubric that evaluates inclusive leadership, meaningful community impact, and alignment with the spirit of the award.

The award recipient will receive a $500 recognition award and will be honored at the CACE End of Semester Celebration.

Prepare Your Nomination

Nominators will be asked to respond to the following:

1. How does the nominee demonstrate inclusive leadership?
Please provide specific examples of how they foster belonging, advance equity, and support students, staff, or faculty through their leadership and decision-making. Focus on sustained actions and impact rather than title or position.

2. What meaningful difference has this individual made?
Share a specific example, outcome, or story that illustrates their impact on individuals or the campus community.

Optional:
Nominators may upload up to two additional supporting documents (e.g., a letter of support or documentation of impact). These materials are supplemental and do not replace the required responses.

We encourage nominators to gather examples and details before beginning the submission form.