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Chopp Pushes for “Ethical Leadership” From the DU Community

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Author(s)

Jon Stone

Media Relations Manager

Jon Stone

Justin Beach

Chancellor speaks to faculty and staff during State of the University address

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Chancellor Rebecca Chopp’s message to the DU community during this year’s State of the University address was simple: Through ethical leadership we all can build a community where people thrive.

Chopp addressed over 700 faculty and staff inside Hamilton Gymnasium on Wednesday, Oct 5. “The University of Denver is only as strong as its faculty and staff,” she said. “It is your contributions – in scholarship, creative work, teaching and mentoring, in administrative and student support, food service, accounting, maintenance and coaching – that make us a university.”

Chopp, who is entering her third year at DU, highlighted the hard work and contributions of the University’s faculty and staff. She also highlighted several programs from academic and administrative units from across campus for the innovative work they are doing.

During the Chancellor's address, she also talked about the contributions made by students. The stories of two students were highlighted in this video.

However, the underlying theme of the Chancellor’s address was ethical leadership. “Ethical leadership is ultimately about creating a vibrant, informed, diverse and inclusive community for everyone touched by our institution – not just now, but in the past and in the future,” Chopp said.

She discussed how this leadership quality has helped the University reach beyond the borders of campus. “The University has an ethical responsibility to the Denver metro region. You may have seen our economic impact report that showed DU’s annual impact on the region is nearly $1 billion,” Chopp said. “That significant presence in Denver underscores our role as an anchor institution and our duty in being a good neighbor.”

Before ending her address, the Chancellor discussed how important it is for everyone to do more to make a positive impact on the DU community. “Diversity and inclusivity are part of our vision and mission — deeply woven into our strategic plan and embedded in much of the work we do,” Chopp said. “I ask you not to leave any stone unturned, any action uncorrected, or any possibility for justice unaddressed. Let us make this truly a beloved community for all and let us serve as a model to Denver and beyond.”