CU Denver Executive and Leadership Team

Erica Sherer, the Chief Executive Officer at CU Denver, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the university. Sherer guides the institution's commitment to integrating innovative research with accessible education, leveraging the unique advantages of its downtown Denver location. Overseeing all major university initiatives, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the core mission of providing high-quality education at exceptional value. This leadership role involves fostering an environment where students and faculty can thrive, driving the university's impact within the urban landscape. By championing academic excellence and community engagement, Erica Sherer directly supports the achievement of institutional goals and the success of over 100,000 graduates.

Lori Frias, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at CU Denver, manages the comprehensive operational infrastructure of the university. Frias oversees daily operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness across all administrative and academic support departments. This executive leadership position is crucial for maintaining the university's commitment to providing quality education at an exceptional value, directly impacting student experience and faculty support. By optimizing resource allocation and driving operational excellence, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that CU Denver can effectively leverage its urban setting for research and education. Lori Frias's oversight extends to critical functions that underpin the university's ability to serve its diverse student body and contribute to the Denver community.

Zachary Carandang, the President - Chi Sigma Iota - Beta Alpha Omega Chapter at CU Denver, leads a significant academic honor society focused on counseling. Carandang directs the chapter's activities, promoting professional development and academic excellence among its members within the counseling field. This leadership position involves organizing events, fostering a strong sense of community, and representing the chapter's interests. By guiding the chapter's initiatives, the President ensures that members have opportunities to enhance their skills and network with peers and professionals. Zachary Carandang's dedication supports the academic and professional growth of future counselors, contributing to the broader educational mission of CU Denver.

Varunavi Battula, the President, Co, Cu Dental Club (Denver) at CU Denver, presides over a key student organization within the dental program. Battula guides the club's operations, focusing on enhancing the educational experience and professional development opportunities for dental students. This role involves coordinating club events, fostering collaboration among members, and representing the student body's interests to university administration and faculty. By leading the dental club, the President ensures that students have access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and relevant professional insights. Varunavi Battula's leadership contributes to the cultivation of skilled and engaged future dental professionals, supporting CU Denver's commitment to excellence in health sciences education.

Kimberly Nordgren, the Past-President, Colorado Health Administration Alumni Association, Executive Committee at CU Denver, brings extensive experience in alumni leadership and strategic engagement. Nordgren previously guided the alumni association, focusing on strengthening connections between graduates and the university's health administration programs. This executive committee role involves contributing to the association's strategic direction and supporting initiatives that benefit alumni and current students. By leveraging past leadership experience, the Past-President provides valuable insights into alumni relations and program development. Kimberly Nordgren's continued involvement ensures that the association effectively supports CU Denver's health administration graduates and enhances the program's reputation and reach.

Jigna Chaudhary, the Founder & President at CU Denver, initiated and now leads a significant organization within the university's entrepreneurial or specialized program ecosystem. Chaudhary directs the strategic growth and operational framework of this entity, focusing on its unique mission and objectives. This founding leadership role involves establishing key partnerships, driving program development, and ensuring the organization's contribution to CU Denver's broader academic and research landscape. By spearheading new initiatives and fostering innovation, the President cultivates opportunities for students and faculty. Jigna Chaudhary's vision and leadership are pivotal in establishing and advancing the organization's impact within the university and the wider community.

Tina Schlichte, the Advancement Strategy & Engagement Chief of Staff at CU Denver, orchestrates critical initiatives within the university's advancement and engagement functions. Schlichte supports the strategic planning and execution of programs designed to enhance donor relations, alumni engagement, and fundraising efforts. Working closely with university leadership, the Chief of Staff ensures that advancement strategies directly contribute to CU Denver's mission of accessible education and innovative research. This position involves coordinating cross-departmental efforts to maximize impact and foster a culture of philanthropic support. By streamlining operational processes and driving strategic alignment, Tina Schlichte plays a vital part in securing resources that fuel the university's growth and academic endeavors.

Daniel Maxey, the Strategic Initiatives Vice Chancellor & Chief of Staff at CU Denver, spearheads the development and implementation of key strategic projects across the university. Maxey collaborates with executive leadership to identify opportunities for innovation and growth, ensuring that initiatives align with CU Denver's mission of accessible, urban-integrated education. This role involves coordinating complex projects, managing stakeholder engagement, and driving progress on critical university-wide objectives. By facilitating strategic planning and execution, the Chief of Staff ensures that the university remains at the forefront of educational innovation. Daniel Maxey's work directly supports the university's ability to adapt to evolving academic landscapes and enhance its research capabilities within the dynamic Denver environment.

Kenneth Nelson, the Associate Vice Chancellor Human Resources, Chief Human Resources Officer at CU Denver, leads the comprehensive human resources strategy for the university. Nelson is responsible for cultivating a supportive and productive work environment for faculty and staff, ensuring alignment with CU Denver's educational and research objectives. This critical role involves overseeing talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits, all designed to attract and retain top talent. By championing employee well-being and professional growth, the Chief Human Resources Officer directly contributes to the university's operational success and its ability to deliver exceptional educational experiences. Kenneth Nelson's leadership ensures that the university's most valuable asset—its people—are empowered to achieve their full potential.

Edward Kubek, the Founder & Chief Medical Officer at CU Denver, established and now directs the medical vision and clinical operations for a key university initiative. Kubek oversees the strategic development of medical services, ensuring the highest standards of patient care and clinical excellence. This foundational role involves guiding the integration of medical practice with academic research and education, directly supporting CU Denver's mission. By leading clinical strategy and fostering innovation in healthcare delivery, the Chief Medical Officer ensures that the university's medical programs are at the forefront of the field. Edward Kubek's expertise is instrumental in shaping the future of medical education and practice within the urban Denver setting.