Most Powerful People List Includes DU Connections

Two members of the University of Denver family are being recognized by ColoradoBiz magazine. The current issue includes a ranking of Colorado’s 25 most powerful people. Making the list are Chancellor Emeritus Dan Ritchie and Erik Mitisek, executive director of DU’s Project X-ITE.

Ritchie is a graduate of Harvard University and was CEO of Westinghouse Broadcasting before taking over as chancellor at DU in 1989. During his 16 years at the helm of the University he oversaw a $274 million fundraising campaign that spurred numerous capital improvements on campus, including new buildings for student living, business, science, law and music education, as well as a performing arts center and an athletics and recreation center.

After stepping down as chancellor in 2005, he went on to become CEO of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. He held that position for 10 years.

Mitisek is a graduate of the University of Denver, and in addition to his role with Project X-ITE, he serves as the chief innovation officer for the state of Colorado. He is the founder of Denver Startup Week, created Commons on Champa and launched BuiltInColorado. Mitisek is also the co-chair of Quarterly Forum, a leadership organization that connects, educates and inspires the state's best emerging community leaders. Together, these efforts help advance innovation and entrepreneurship in Colorado.

The 25 people who made the list were selected by the editorial staff of ColoradoBiz magazine.

You can read more about ColoradoBiz magazine’s coverage of Ritchie and Mitisek and view the entire list by clicking here.