Callie Rennison announced several endorsements on Thursday as she campaigns for Congressional District 2’s seat on the University of Colorado Board of Regents.

Rennison, a CU professor and former associate dean, previously won the approval of current Democratic incumbent, Linda Shoemaker, who is not seeking reelection. 

At-large Regent Lesley Smith, Senate Majority Leader Steve Fenberg, D-Boulder, and former Lt. Governor Gail Schottler announced their backing of Rennison, as did dozens of current and former state legislators, county officials, and local elected officials across the congressional district.

“As former director of Equity and Title IX coordinator of both Denver and Anschutz campuses, Callie will bring unique experiences to the table that will help the Board of Regents grapple with these types of thorny issues we often face,” Smith said in a statement.

“As regent, I will fight to make college more affordable and accessible so that every student is able to achieve a great education,” Rennison said. “I will work to increase diversity and inclusion, and to prioritize academics.”

Dave Gross, a member of the Leeds School of Business faculty, is also running as a Democrat for the seat.

Regents serve six-year terms and are responsible for setting the university’s $4.8 billion budget and hiring the president.