Colorado Governor Jared Polis highlighted the crucial role of colleges and universities as pillars in bridging societal divides and fostering democratic participation in remarks to more than 400 higher ed leaders gathered in Denver for the AASCU 2024 Summer Meeting for Academic and Student Affairs Leaders.

"In Colorado, we believe education is the launchpad to success - for our students, our community, our economy, and our future," Polis told the audience during the July 17 opening plenary. "We are taking innovative steps to connect Colorado students to higher education opportunities, including with a new bipartisan law I was proud to sign to make the first two years of college free for eligible students," he added.

Polis, who was just named chair of the National Governors Association (NGA), described the important work of regional public universities in advancing NGA's Disagree Better initiative, stressing the critical role colleges and universities play in promoting civic engagement and civil discourse.

"We are thrilled to welcome AASCU leaders from across the country to discuss the exciting work taking place here in Colorado and the ways we can work together on the Let's Get Ready! Educating All Americans for Success initiative, looking at the best ways to connect students with the skills they need to build prosperous futures," he continued.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis arrives at ASM 2024 in Denver. Photo Credit: Sara Hertwig for AASCU

Colorado Governor Jared Polis addresses the attendees of ASM 2024. Photo Credit: Sara Hertwig for AASCU

Let's Get Ready! is Polis' NGA chair's initiative focused on driving innovation and program development in education at the state level.

"We are excited to welcome Gov. Polis to the AASCU Summer Meeting and thrilled we could all gather in his home state," said AASCU President and CEO Charles L. Welch. "In addition to the leadership he has demonstrated in Colorado, his new role with NGA will unlock new opportunities to promote student success across our nation. Regional public universities are the cornerstone of this vision, and we are committed to reinforcing our part in preparing our students for success."

"AASCU works with our members to help them transform their institutions to put students at the center," added Terry Brown, vice president for academic innovation and transformation at AASCU. "We are ready to support Gov. Polis' Let's Get Ready! Initiative and prepare learners for a successful future."

Polis concluded his remarks by reaffirming his belief in the transformative power of education. He called on educators and administrators to continue their efforts in building bridges, fostering understanding, and preparing all Americans for future success.