The University of Denver and Quarterly Forum, a nonpartisan, not-for-profit leadership organization of 100 of the Rocky Mountain region’s most influential business and community leaders, have announced that the University will serve as the organization’s exclusive academic partner.
Founded in 1999, Quarterly Forum is a community of leaders that comes together for programming and social events that cultivate professional growth and community engagement. DU will provide Quarterly Forum with academic thought leadership and venues for its events. In turn, the University’s faculty and students will enjoy opportunities to engage with the Colorado business community.
“We are always seeking deeper connections to the business community and more opportunities for our students,” says Chancellor Rebecca Chopp. “Partnering with Quarterly Forum achieves both of these objectives and will help us all to generate a more comprehensive understanding of how education and commerce — working together — contribute to the vitality of our state.”
Each year, Quarterly Forum hosts 10 to 12 events and small group discussions that focus on business, politics and culture. Recent speakers include Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper; Mike Fries, president and CEO of Englewood-based Liberty Global, the nation’s second-largest cable provider; and Kent Thiry, president and chief executive officer of Denver-based DaVita Healthcare Partners.
In the past year, Quarterly Forum events have focused on the Colorado oil and gas industry and the growing Colorado technology ecosystem. The forum’s next event, scheduled for May 7, examines “B Corporations,” which promote social and environmental excellence in addition to financial success. Representatives from New Belgium Brewing and Rally Software will share their experiences in becoming and operating as certified “B Corps.”
In addition to its educational programming, Quarterly Forum provides scholarships to deserving students of need throughout the state. The partnership with the University of Denver aims to help outstanding DU students develop their leadership potential.
“Quarterly Forum members are very proud of their role in the community, and this partnership with DU further elevates our organization,” says Ryan Heckman, executive director of Quarterly Forum. “Our mission is to serve the community through promoting professional growth, civic engagement and leadership development. This partnership will create new possibilities for our members and the broader community.”