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November 7, 2011
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Metro State partners with Hispanic chamber on leadership program
The Denver Hispanic Chamber Education Foundation has accepted a proposal developed by Metro State for a Hispanic Leadership Development Program (HLDP).
“I’m proud to add this program to Metro State’s latest achievements and collaborations with the community,” says Metro State President Stephen Jordan, who is a Hispanic Chamber of Commerce board member. “We knew instantly that coupling Metro State with the Hispanic chamber to develop a regional leadership program would be a great fit.”
Leroy Garcia, incoming foundation board chair, says, “We are fortunate to have partnered with Metro State and believe this program will serve a tremendous role in fostering growth and personal development within the Hispanic community. Without the hard work and vision of our tremendous board of directors and the support of Metro State and the business community, this project would never have become a reality.”
Over a year ago, the chamber identified the need for a program for local professionals to support Latino advancement in the civic and business community. They contacted the Jordan as well as other several other urban institutions for proposals.
Jordan turned to Political Science Professor Norman Provizer, who developed Metro State's minor in leadership studies, to write a proposal for the program's curricula. "I based the new program on the leadership courses I teach already," Provizer says.
According to Cheryl Lucero, foundation executive director, the leadership program will identify a diverse set of professionals representing multiple industries and service sectors. Monthly sessions held at the chamber will begin in February 2012. Metro State professors and community leaders will teach topics such as identity, culture, policy, purpose and principles. “The goal is to teach the emerging leaders how to overcome obstacles that traditionally hinder Latinos from receiving promotions,” Lucero says.
Although the HLDP was established to help chamber members develop stronger leadership skills, the program will encourage and recruit outside participation to ensure diversity of thinking and backgrounds, Lucero says. The program is the first of its kind in Colorado, but it follows a proven model used by other chambers across the country.
According to Extended Campus Associate Director Arliss Webster, who has been handling the administrative and financial aspects of the program, the HDLP is not revenue-generating for the College. The chamber will, however, make a lump-sum payment to cover certain expenses in developing the program as well as speaker stipends.
Program applications are being accepted and the deadline for submission is Nov. 30, 2011. Scholarships are available to applicants who qualify from program sponsors such as MillerCoors, United Healthcare, PCL Construction and State Farm. For full details about the program and to apply visit HDLP.
