My name is Yolanda Ortega and I am proud to run for the University of Colorado Board of Regents in Colorado’s newest Congressional District (CD) 8. Our recently created congressional district covers much of Adams County and Weld County.

My personal and professional experiences have prepared me to represent CD 8 as a member of the University of Colorado Board of Regents to serve its students and academic community. I’m looking forward to serving alongside CU Regent Nolbert Chavez who has endorsed me. Former CU Regent, Dr. Irene Griego also endorses my candidacy. I am encouraged to continue their agenda of promoting equity and access for all students in the CU system.

I have spent my entire professional career as an administrator at a major Colorado university, affording me the opportunity to mentor countless students in support of achieving their academic and career aspirations. My appointment to the Auraria Board of Trustees provided me with the opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of the complex and unique needs that exist within the CU system.

Throughout my 35+ years as an administrator in higher education, I have been part of many initiatives that fostered leadership development, educational excellence and a deeper understanding of our global community. My overarching goal has always been to facilitate educational access and excellence for all, regardless of their background or financial status.

I am the eldest of 6 daughters raised in a military family and a first generation college student. My mother had a 6th grade education and attained her GED in her 40’s. My father, after retiring from the Air Force as a Chief Master Sergeant, attended college and received his BA when he was in his 70’s. My father taught me the value of an education and my mother, the value of compassion. They both raised me to be a good citizen by serving my community with purpose. After graduating from college, I moved to Denver in 1972 and established deep roots in Colorado. For the past 45+ years, I have served on several non-profit boards in the areas of education, health services and the arts.

As my background demonstrates, I am fully prepared to represent the interests of our students and the broader community of the University of Colorado system as a member of the Board of Regents.

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