Community College of Denver

On November 13th, CCD President Dr. Marielena DeSanctis had the distinct honor of representing Community College of Denver at the White House for an event that brought together leaders from across the country to discuss building stronger connections between education and high-demand careers. This remarkable experience preceded the U.S. Department of Education’s “Classroom to Career Summit,” where critical conversations were held about creating accessible opportunities for students and workers alike.

In her letter below, Dr. DeSanctis reflects on this inspiring event, sharing insights from the reception and reaffirming CCD’s commitment to empowering our students and community through education. Her reflection offers a glimpse into how national conversations about career pathways connect to our shared mission of fostering opportunity, growth, and success for every CityHawk.

Read on to learn more about this extraordinary moment.

Community College of Denver

Dear CityHawks,

Last week, I had the privilege of joining about 200 higher education and workforce leaders invited to the White House for a Reception on Career Pathways, an event preceding the U.S. Department of Education’s “Classroom to Career Summit.” This gathering brought together voices from across the nation—Cabinet members, Administration officials, state and local elected officials, community college presidents, K-12 leaders, unions, workforce development leaders from the nine White House Workforce Hubs, business leaders, representatives of philanthropic organizations, students, and other communities across the country—all united by a shared purpose: to expand career pathways and empower individuals to thrive in high-demand industries.

Community College of Denver

At the reception, we had the honor of hearing directly from President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, who shared the administration’s vision for Investing in America. Their remarks, alongside those of the president’s cabinet, highlighted historic efforts to create millions of good-paying jobs—many of which do not require a four-year degree—and to expand opportunities in fields like infrastructure, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing. 

Community College of Denver

Through the American Rescue Plan, more than $80 billion has been committed to strengthening and diversifying the workforce, supporting high-quality free community college programs in high-demand fields, expanding registered apprenticeships, and attracting and retaining a skilled, diverse workforce in critical industries.

Following the reception, the “Classroom to Career Summit” explored how education and industry leaders can build bridges from learning to earning, aligning education with workforce needs to unlock economic opportunity for students and workers across the country.

As I reflect on this experience, I am humbled and deeply grateful for the blessing to have participated in such an important moment. Walking through the White House, surrounded by its history, I felt the gravity of what this space represents—not just for our nation, but for the ideals of democracy and opportunity it upholds. Regardless of personal political views, everyone in attendance carried a shared reverence for the significance of the U.S. presidency, the symbolism of the White House, and the role of both in history. It’s a memory that will stay with me forever.

Photo Credit: Colorado Department of Higher Education

In times of change, it’s natural to feel a sense of unease about what the future holds. Elections may influence the world around us, yet what grounds us at CCD remains steady: our commitment to each other, to the students we serve, and to the values we share. It is in these moments that our dedication to creating a welcoming, supportive, and successful community shines even brighter.

At the heart of CCD is a promise—to uplift and empower every individual who walks through our doors and improve the economic trajectory of their lives forever through higher education. CCD will always be a place where you belong, where your voice matters, and where your aspirations are honored and supported. We are here for you, with open hearts and open doors, to help you navigate whatever challenges in your educational journey may arise.

Thank you to everyone who made it possible for me to attend this momentous event. Your flexibility and support remind me why this community is so special. Together, as a leadership team and as a college, we are working tirelessly to ensure that every CityHawk can excel, thrive, and achieve the American dream. Through your success, we all contribute to a stronger future.

With gratitude,
Dr. Marielena DeSanctis
President, Community College of Denver