Community Well-Being
John Afdem (MBA ’27), a High Growth Venture Fellow, returned to university after 12 years of distinguished service in the U.S. Army, bringing award-winning leadership and strategic insight to the entrepreneurial ecosystem at Leeds.
In just five years, Matthew Brady has become a standout at Leeds. As an award-winning assistant teaching professor, he’s not only showing students how to use tech for good—he’s also helping them turn big ideas into real, innovative ventures.
Steffie Ungphakorn, Leeds’ PhD Program Manager, is a powerhouse of progress and advocacy. Over 10 years, she’s championed students, expanded the program, fostered faculty ties, and helped advance AI at Leeds.
Kate M. Harris is the 2025 recipient of the Leeds Young Alumni Achievement Award.
Jeremy May is the 2025 recipient of the Leeds Distinguished Alumni Lifetime Service Award.
Dalton Ford-McGee is coding his future—and building community at Leeds. As a business minor, welcome desk specialist and computer science student, he’s learning what it means to know the people around you and to build something together.
Amanda Freeberg Donovan is the 2025 recipient of the Leeds Luminary Award.
Chenhui Qu came from China to pursue her PhD, and from day one she has found invaluable support every step of the way to thrive in the Leeds community.
Rebecca Slezak (MBA’27) was already at CU Bolder as an adjunct professor in the journalism department, but pursuing her MBA at Leeds is bringing her closer to her dream of becoming a marketing or creative director.
Leeds is launching its inaugural Community Leader-in-Residence program on Sept. 25 and 26, featuring Wendy Lea, a nationally recognized ecosystem builder and entrepreneurship innovator.