DSF and DPS Host Explore Auraria Campus Event for DPS Students and Families | Denver Scholarship Foundation

In partnership with Denver Public Schools (DPS), the Community College of Denver (CCD), University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver), and Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver), Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF) recently hosted the Annual DPS and DSF Explore Auraria Campus event, welcoming students and their families for an immersive visit filled with support and resources.  

This vibrant and colorful downtown Denver campus is home to the Community College of Denver (CCD), the University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver), and Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver), three of our thirty DSF College Partners. Held in late April, this event is intentionally designed for DPS students and their families, introducing them to the college experience and helping them navigate the resources available for postsecondary education.

DSF College Advisor Presenting on Financial Aid

This year’s event brought together Denver high school students along with their families for a day of exploration and inspiration. The day began with a bilingual welcome from DSF and DPS representatives and presentations in both English and Spanish to ensure accessibility for all attendees. These sessions covered vital information about the college experience, available support services, and essential financial aid information. Presenters from each institution shared insights into their academic programs, student life, and campus-specific resources, making the experience both informative and engaging. 

DSF Scholars Panel

Following the presentations, participants enjoyed a lunch break that allowed time for informal conversations and community-building. The highlight of the afternoon was the DSF Scholar Panel, an inspiring session where current DSF Scholars shared their personal journeys through higher education. These current college students offered authentic insights into overcoming barriers, finding a sense of belonging, and making the most of available support systems. Their testimonies resonated deeply with many families, especially those navigating the college process for the first time. 

Resource Fair

The event concluded with an expansive resource fair featuring key campus departments, student support programs, and community organizations from each of the three institutions. Families had the opportunity to speak directly with representatives about programs such as academic advising, first-generation student support, multicultural services, and more. The fair also included exciting prize giveaways, adding a celebratory tone to an already impactful day. 

The continued success of the DPS and DSF Explore Auraria Campus event reflects the dedication and collaboration of volunteers, DSF Campus Partners, DSF staff, and panelists. Their collective efforts ensure that DPS students are not only exposed to college opportunities early in their high school journey but are also supported in developing the knowledge and confidence they need to take the next steps in their educational journey. 

This day is especially meaningful because it centers the entire family in the college exploration process. For many families, it was their first time stepping onto a college campus. By demystifying the higher education process and creating a welcoming environment, the event helps families understand what it truly means to support a college student. Together, our partners DPS, CCD, CU Denver and MSU Denver, continue to foster a college-going culture that uplifts and inspires students with a sense of belonging to pursue their goals and create a brighter future with many opportunities for themselves, their families and communities.