CU Denver Executive and Leadership Team

Lori Frias, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at CU Denver, oversees the daily administrative and operational functions that sustain the campus environment. Frias manages the integration of fiscal planning with physical infrastructure development to support the university's urban mission. By streamlining internal processes, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the efficiency of campus services and administrative support systems. Lori Frias coordinates with the leadership team to implement policies that improve the student experience and faculty productivity. This role involves managing large-scale operational budgets and ensuring compliance with institutional standards. Frias drives initiatives that optimize the use of university facilities, ensuring that the physical campus reflects the innovative spirit of the academic programs. Through meticulous management of operational workflows, the Chief Operating Officer secures the stability of the university, allowing the institution to focus on delivering exceptional educational value to the diverse student population.

William Moreno, the President & Founder, Cu Change (Coalition For Health Advancement & Narrowing Gaps In Equity) at CU Denver, leads initiatives focused on addressing health disparities through research and community action. Moreno directs the coalition's efforts to bridge the gap between academic health research and practical application in underserved populations. By organizing collaborative projects, the President & Founder ensures that the university's health programs directly benefit the local community. William Moreno manages partnerships with healthcare providers and public health organizations to expand the reach of equity-focused initiatives. This leadership role involves securing funding and resources to support research that targets systemic health inequities. Moreno monitors the impact of coalition programs, refining strategies to maximize positive health outcomes. Through the dedicated leadership of the coalition, the President & Founder advances the university's commitment to social responsibility and health equity, ensuring that academic research translates into tangible improvements for the public.

Julia Kim, the Class President at CU Denver, represents the student body in governance matters and advocates for the interests of the undergraduate population. Kim directs student-led initiatives that enhance campus life and foster a sense of community among diverse learners. By facilitating communication between students and university administration, the Class President ensures that student feedback informs institutional decision-making. Julia Kim organizes events and programs that promote student engagement and academic success. This leadership role involves managing student government budgets and overseeing the allocation of resources to various student organizations. Kim monitors the needs of the student body, identifying areas where the university can improve support services and campus facilities. Through the active representation of student interests, the Class President strengthens the connection between the student body and the university, ensuring that the campus environment remains welcoming and responsive to the needs of all students.

David Radeka, the President, Public Health Club at CU Denver, leads student efforts to promote public health awareness and community wellness. Radeka directs the club's activities, including educational workshops, guest speaker series, and community outreach programs. By coordinating with faculty advisors, the President ensures that club initiatives align with the university's public health curriculum. David Radeka manages the club's membership and event planning, fostering a collaborative environment for students interested in health advocacy. This leadership role involves organizing volunteer opportunities that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Radeka monitors the impact of club activities, seeking ways to increase student participation and community engagement. Through the active leadership of the Public Health Club, the President contributes to the university's mission of fostering a culture of health and wellness, preparing students to become effective advocates for public health in their future professional careers.

Varunavi Battula, the President, Co, Cu Dental Club (Denver) at CU Denver, leads the student organization dedicated to supporting aspiring dental professionals. Battula directs the club's programming, which includes clinical skill-building workshops, networking events with dental practitioners, and academic support sessions. By facilitating connections between students and the professional dental community, the President ensures that members gain valuable insights into the field. Varunavi Battula manages the club's operations, including budget oversight and event coordination. This leadership role involves creating opportunities for students to explore various dental specialties and career paths. Battula monitors the needs of the club members, adjusting activities to provide the most relevant and helpful resources. Through the dedicated leadership of the Dental Club, the President supports the university's goal of preparing students for successful careers in healthcare, ensuring that members are well-equipped to meet the demands of the dental profession.

Tina Schlichte, the Advancement Strategy & Engagement Chief of Staff at CU Denver, directs the alignment of institutional development goals with broader academic outreach. Schlichte manages complex stakeholder relationships to secure funding and community support for university programs. By coordinating cross-departmental efforts, the Chief of Staff ensures that engagement initiatives remain consistent with the mission of providing accessible, high-value education. Tina Schlichte monitors the efficacy of donor relations and alumni outreach, translating institutional priorities into actionable engagement strategies. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with academic deans and administrative heads to optimize resource allocation. Through rigorous oversight of advancement operations, the Chief of Staff strengthens the financial foundation of the university. Schlichte maintains a focus on long-term sustainability, ensuring that every engagement effort contributes to the overall growth and reputation of the institution within the competitive landscape of higher education.

Daniel Maxey, the Strategic Initiatives Vice Chancellor & Chief of Staff at CU Denver, architects the long-term planning frameworks that guide institutional growth. Maxey manages the execution of high-priority projects that align with the university's commitment to research and urban engagement. By facilitating communication between the chancellor and various academic departments, the Vice Chancellor ensures that strategic goals remain central to daily operations. Daniel Maxey evaluates emerging opportunities for academic expansion and community partnership, providing the analytical foundation for major institutional decisions. This leadership role involves synthesizing complex data to inform policy development and resource distribution. Maxey monitors the progress of key initiatives, adjusting tactics to meet evolving market demands and educational needs. Through the coordination of cross-functional teams, the Vice Chancellor drives the implementation of programs that enhance the university's standing as a leader in accessible, high-quality education within the downtown Denver area.

Kenneth Nelson, the Associate Vice Chancellor Human Resources, Chief Human Resources Officer at CU Denver, directs the talent management and organizational development strategies for the entire campus. Nelson oversees recruitment, retention, and professional development programs designed to attract top-tier faculty and staff. By fostering an inclusive workplace culture, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the university remains a destination for diverse talent. Kenneth Nelson manages complex labor relations and benefits administration, maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations. This role involves collaborating with department heads to align human capital needs with the university's academic and research objectives. Nelson implements performance management systems that reward excellence and support continuous improvement. Through the strategic oversight of human resources, the Chief Human Resources Officer builds the organizational capacity necessary to sustain the university's mission of providing high-quality education in a dynamic urban environment.

Elizabeth Myers, the Interim Deputy Chief Information Officer at CU Denver, manages the digital infrastructure and information technology services that support academic and administrative functions. Myers oversees the implementation of secure, scalable technology solutions that facilitate research and student learning. By directing the IT support teams, the Interim Deputy Chief Information Officer ensures that the campus remains connected and technologically advanced. Elizabeth Myers coordinates with academic leadership to integrate digital tools into the classroom experience, enhancing the accessibility of education. This role involves managing cybersecurity protocols and data management systems to protect institutional information. Myers evaluates new technologies to determine their potential impact on university operations and student success. Through the oversight of information technology, the Interim Deputy Chief Information Officer provides the essential digital backbone that allows the university to thrive in a modern, urban educational landscape, ensuring that all systems remain reliable and efficient.

Edward Kubek, the Founder & Chief Medical Officer at CU Denver, leads the clinical and medical research initiatives that define the university's contribution to healthcare. Kubek directs the development of medical programs that integrate clinical practice with academic inquiry. By overseeing the medical staff and research teams, the Chief Medical Officer ensures that all clinical activities meet the highest standards of patient care and scientific rigor. Edward Kubek manages partnerships with regional medical centers to provide students with hands-on clinical experience. This leadership role involves setting the strategic direction for medical research projects that address critical health challenges. Kubek monitors the performance of clinical programs, ensuring that they align with the university's mission of providing high-quality education and community service. Through the expert guidance of the Chief Medical Officer, the university advances its reputation as a hub for medical innovation and excellence in the urban healthcare sector.