Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook’s chief operating officer and the author of “Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead,” will be on hand to help Democratic gubernatorial candidate Mike Johnston kick off a coalition of women supporting his campaign at a panel discussion in Denver, his campaign announced.

“I first got to know Mike through my husband Dave,” Sandberg said in a statement. “He admired Mike for a lot of reasons, but especially his integrity and his commitment to education. As governor, one of Mike’s core goals will be to fight for better schools for all of Colorado’s kids. That’s why I support him.”

Calling Sandberg “one of our country’s most compelling thinkers and leaders,” Johnston said in a statement that he looked forward to her participation in a conversation about Colorado’s future at the launch of “Women for Mike.”

“Her success in business, her commitment to equity, and her honest articulation about what makes us all humans are inspiring to millions of people across the country. We are committed to building a Colorado where everyone’s voice is heard and everyone’s contribution is valued equally. We are delighted to welcome Sheryl and women from across the state who share the conviction to build a plan for progressive action that will carry us all forward together.”

Prominent Colorado women in business, politics and the nonprofit field are expected to participate in a talk about the importance of women’s issues in Colorado led by Johnston and Sandberg at a campaign fundraiser that will open to the public.

The event is scheduled 1-2:30 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 19, at the Denver Athletic Club. Ticket prices range from $30 to $1,150 – the maximum allowable contribution to a gubernatorial candidate.

Johnston is one of five leading Democrats running to succeed term-limited Gov. John Hickenlooper, a Democrat. The others are U.S. Rep. Jared Polis, Lt. Gov. Donna Lynne, former State Treasurer Cary Kennedy and plastics manufacturer and civic leader Noel Ginsburg.

The primary election is June 26.