Welcome to The Quarterly Connection!
We’re glad you’re here. This month, we’re especially excited to spotlight two incredible team members: Gabriela Jacobo and Nicolás Cusi and their work with the Rising Leadership Collaborative. Dive into their story and see how their efforts are making a real impact and helping shape our community.
The CU Anschutz Office of Access and Engagement (OAE) Community Engagement team is a dynamic force, fostering external community relations in Greater Aurora, Northeast Denver, and surrounding areas. With an unwavering commitment to building connections, the team bridges the university and its richly diverse neighboring communities, laying the foundation for transformative partnerships that address systemic challenges. At the helm are Gabriela Jacobo, Program Director, and Nicolás Cusi, Program Coordinator. Their passion drives impactful initiatives like the Rising Leadership Collaborative (RLC) and the Shop Local Initiative. While their focus remains on external communities, their collaboration with on-campus stakeholders enriches both community impact and institutional reach.
Originally founded in 2014 and named the Resident Leadership Council, the story of the RLC emerged when CU Anschutz first engaged with key community leaders in North Aurora. Recognizing the region’s astounding diversity, with over 165 languages spoken, this grassroots initiative developed as a partnership with the university driven by the mission of creating authentic relationships, addressing prevalent issues, and uplifting the voices of the community members living near the campus. What began as meaningful conversations blossomed into a collaborative dedicated to improving the social determinants of health.
In 2025, the Resident Leadership Council underwent a transformative shift, rebranding as the Rising Leadership Collaborative, a name that better reflects its mission of empowering diverse leaders and fostering collective action. At its core, the RLC is guided by CU Anschutz’s anchor mission, which emphasizes collaborative, community-centered approaches. Early partnerships with UCHealth, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and the CU School of Medicine, School of Public Health, and other campus allies were instrumental in building trust and highlighting the profound potential of university-community alliances to drive lasting change.
The Rising Leadership Collaborative operates on a proven Community Outreach and Engagement model, where the community’s needs and perspectives are at the forefront. This approach is powered by two essential strategies: empowering residents to lead change and fostering collaboration between community members and institutional partners.
Leadership development lies at the heart of the RLC’s mission. Through skill-building workshops, the creation of an interpreter network to overcome language barriers, and support for local enterprises, the program equips community members with tools to advocate for their needs and by giving voice to distressed communities. These efforts, which focus on targeting disparities in education, healthcare, public safety, and economic development have not only transformed individual lives but also sparked waves of positive change throughout neighborhoods.
The RLC amplifies its impact through vibrant programming, including Connection Campaigns, along with monthly community-led meetings and events. Since 2015, these initiatives have engaged thousands of community members, addressing pressing concerns with tailored solutions. Reports from these events reveal meaningful outcomes, such as improved community safety strategies and expanded access to mental health resources.
Resilience and adaptability define the RLC’s journey, especially during crises. In 2020, as the COVID-19 crisis disrupted lives and communities, the RLC became a lifeline. It united community members and campus representatives to share vital resources and ensure no one was left behind. This unwavering commitment was supported by CU Anschutz leadership from the Office of Access & Engagement (OAE).
Personal stories bring the RLC’s impact to life. Lourdes L., a community leader, expressed how the program gave her tools and confidence: “The RLC helped me find my voice and see my impact on my community.” Sheryl H., a campus collaborator, shared: “Working with the RLC has been transformative, showcasing the power of authentic partnerships.” Reid H., a community collaborator, praised the collaborative’s inclusive approach: “It’s inspiring to see diverse voices come together for a common goal.” These stories reflect the trust, empowerment, and collaboration at the heart of the RLC.
The future of the RLC is filled with promise. Its work, initially rooted in North Aurora, has grown to encompass the various neighborhoods surrounding the CU Anschutz campus and beyond. These expansions underline the collaborative’s commitment to meeting the needs of our community. Plans include advanced leadership development certification programs for campus staff and community leaders to build a sustainable network of empowered individuals ready to tackle emerging challenges.
Community programming will also evolve, responding to new needs through innovative events and initiatives. Strengthened partnerships with local organizations, institutions, and leaders will drive these efforts, fostering collaboration and inclusion. The RLC’s vision for a stronger, more equitable future continues to inspire and unite.
For those eager to support this vital work, there are opportunities abound. Whether as a donor, volunteer, or partner, your involvement can sustain and expand the RLC’s mission. In times of uncertainty and division, the RLC shines as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the transformative power of diversity, connection, and resilience.
For more information about the Rising Leadership Collaborative and how you can support their work, please visit their website or contact the team at rlc-community@cuanschutz.edu. Together, we can create a community where every voice is heard and every individual can thrive.
