- Home
- President's Newsletter
- President's Update
Dear FRCC Community,
I can’t believe March is already here. The semester is in full swing, and I continue to be inspired by the incredible work of our faculty, instructors and staff in shaping a meaningful learning experience for our students. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I find myself reflecting on the trailblazing women who have broken barriers and redefined possibilities. They have paved the way for future generations—for women like me, and the young women who walk through our doors every day, eager to learn and grow.
History is filled with pioneers whose courage and determination reshaped their fields. I think of Marie Curie, whose groundbreaking discoveries in radioactivity earned her two Nobel Prizes, forever changing the world of science. I think of Malala Yousafzai, who, despite unimaginable adversity, raised her voice for the right of girls to receive an education. And I think of Maya Angelou, whose powerful words on race, identity and the human spirit have had a lasting influence on me. Her memoir, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, became a defining work for Black women and continues to inspire me personally. Her resilience and wisdom remind us all of the power of storytelling, truth and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.
Their stories remind us that learning is not just about knowledge—it’s about challenging limits, daring to dream and forging paths for those who come next.
At FRCC, we hold the power to create spaces where all employees and students—and in particular women—can see their potential reflected in those who came before them and imagine the impact they, too, can have. So, as we move through this month, I encourage you to think about the women who have inspired you and the ways we can continue to empower the next generation to step forward, lead and make history of their own.
One place that reinforced this for me was the Center for Women’s History in New York City. Walking through its exhibits, I was reminded of the incredible resilience and contributions of women throughout history. I left feeling both humbled and inspired—more aware of the struggles that came before me and more determined to help create a future where women have the opportunity to thrive. If you ever have the chance to visit, I encourage you to do so. Or you can visit the National Women’s History Museum anytime online. Both serve as a powerful reminder that we are all part of a larger story—one that is still being written.
Top News
Shaping FRCC's Future: Defining the Student Experience
Thank you for being part of a transparent and inclusive Strategic Plan process in the selection of our Strategic Plan Committee. Because of your commitment and participation, we now have two committees dedicated to advancing our strategic plan.
To guide and implement key aspects of the plan, we’ve formed a cross-functional group of faculty, staff and instructors. You can view the full list of committee participants on the intranet.
- Strategic Planning Committee: Responsible for developing a comprehensive strategic plan that reflects the needs and aspirations of our entire college community.
- Creative Communications Committee: Focused on defining and designing the strategic plan’s brand, ensuring clear and engaging messaging across the college.
Together, these committees will help shape a strategic plan that is both visionary and actionable, grounded in the voices and experiences of our college community.
Stay tuned for more ways to get involved in shaping FRCC’s future!
Employee Spotlight
FRCC Journals Win Top Honors
FRCC’s two student literary and art journals have once again earned multiple awards this year, highlighting the incredible talent and dedication of our student artists, writers and editors. These accolades not only celebrate their creativity and hard work but also reflect the invaluable guidance of our faculty advisors, Tino Gomez and Patrick Kelling, whose support helps students produce such outstanding publications.
Howl Volume 9: Westminster Campus Student Literary and Art Journal
American Scholastic Press Association (ASPA):
- First Place
Community College Humanities Association (CCHA):
- Best Magazine: Third Place, Southwest Region
- Best Artwork: First Pace "As the World Falls Down" by Sara Kimbrough
National Council of Teachers of English:
- Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines (REALM)—Superior Award
Plains Paradox: Boulder County Campus Student Literary and Art Journal
American Scholastic Press Association (ASPA):
- First Place
Community College Humanities Association (CCHA):
- Best Magazine: Second Place, Southwest Region
- Best Artwork: Second Place 'CJ' by Caroline Behnke.
- Best Artwork: Third Place "Handy Study" by Robyn Eubanks
- National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary
Magazines (REALM):
Superior Award
Spread The Word
Call for Graduate Stories
As we gear up for commencement, the marketing team is looking for inspiring students to be the faces of our upcoming graduation campaign. Whether it’s on video, billboards, social media, or more, this is your chance to share our students’ story and celebrate their journey at FRCC.
The team is looking for spring graduates from all disciplines who have unique and inspiring experiences to share. No prior experience is needed—just enthusiasm and a willingness to participate!
Please help spread the word to our spring graduates and have them complete this interest form. We can’t wait to celebrate our students with you!
Student Needs Survey
FRCC is partnering with The Hope Center at Temple University to conduct the Hope Student Needs Survey, the nation’s largest assessment of student basic needs. This survey will provide key insights into food and housing security, mental health, childcare, transportation, and technology access—helping us enhance services and advocate for student support.
How You Can Help
Faculty and staff play a crucial role in encouraging students to participate. A simple
class announcement, D2L post, or quick reminder during advising can make a big difference.
Students who complete the survey will be entered to win gift cards!
If you have questions, please check this FAQ document. If you have additional questions, please contact Ryan Lambert at ryan.lambert@frontrange.edu. Students can learn more here.
Thank you for taking a moment to encourage participation!
Tools & Resources
Digital Accessibility: Training with YuJa Panorama
Creating an inclusive learning environment starts with accessibility, and we’re excited that our digital accessibility champions – Scott Davis, Stephanie Wickman and Connie Hannig – will be offering a hands-on training to help our FRCC community take the next step.
This training will begin with an introduction to the Accessibility Literacy Framework, a growth mindset tool designed for self-reflection and tracking progress on your personal accessibility journey.
You will then be able to dive into YuJa Panorama, learning how to review course content for accessibility and make meaningful improvements to support all learners.
Whether you're new to accessibility or looking to refine your skills, this session will provide practical tools to create a more inclusive digital experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, grow and enhance accessibility at FRCC!
Session Zoom Links:
In March, we also recognize Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. If you haven’t yet, I encourage you to read this inspirational blog post from FRCC student Nico Wilson. In it, he shares how living with disabilities has shaped his college journey—and how a new diagnosis, along with support from Disability Support Services, has made a meaningful impact in his life.

Thank you for all you do,
Colleen Simpson, EdD
President
Questions?
Larimer Campus
303-555-1212 | email us
Boulder County Campus
303-555-1212 | email us