February

Beyond the call of duty

Congrats to Dean Elizabeth Hinde and alumnus Ken MacKenzie for their commitment to their careers and their communities.

By Rachel Bruner

February 1, 2017

Elizabeth R. Hinde, dean of the School of Education, was one of 175 deans nationwide to sign a Declaration of Principles authored by Education Deans for Justice and Equity. The declaration calls on Congress and the Trump Administration to advance democratic values in America’s public schools.

The declaration explains that U.S. public policy should uphold the role of public schools as a central institution in the strengthening of our democracy; protect human and civil rights of all children and youth, especially those from historically marginalized communities; develop and implement policies, laws and reform initiatives by building on a democratic vision for public education and on sound educational research; and support and partner with colleges and schools of education to advance these goals.

EDJE formed in 2016 as an alliance of deans to address inequities in education while promoting its democratic premises through policy, research and practice. More information about EDJE and the declaration can be found in the National Education Policy Center’s press release.

Ken MacKenzie (B.S. engineering technology ’97) was promoted to executive director of the Urban Drainage and Flood Control District in Denver. MacKenzie has over 20 years of service to UDFCD, moving from a student intern to a project engineer to a project manager until he landed his new role. He has led legislative and regulatory pursuits both state- and nationwide, has been nationally recognized as a leader in stormwater quality management, and has played a key role in the development of criteria and software for the region.

He has contributed to the success of many UDFCD projects. As executive director, MacKenzie will continue to lead through UDFCD’s mission: to protect people, the environment and property by advocating for public safety; managing public funds responsibly; stewarding watersheds and streams; supporting local government; and advancing the practice.