DENVER PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

Denver

News: The Denver Public Schools Foundation’s new chief executive is a woman familiar with the job: Sara Hazel.

She joined the foundation in the spring of 2020, as the vice president of development and impact, and put in a year as interim president/chief executive officer until Richard Tagle was hired in 2021.

Tagle resigned in late 2023 to become president and executive director of the E3 Alliance in Austin, TX., and on Feb. 1, Hazel put in her first day as the foundation’s ninth president and chief executive officer.

“When the DPS Foundation board of directors began the search (for Tagle’s successor), we sought an experienced leader to lead the foundation’s next chapter of growth,” said board chair Carmon Hicks. “Someone with the experience and ability to lead the foundation’s overall vision, strategy, operations and fundraising. Sara embodies this, and more.”

Hazel’s commitment to the Denver Public Schools Foundation’s mission is reflected in her community involvement, including roles that include serving on the Denver Women’s Commission, on the board of City Year Denver, the development committee for Lighthouse Writers Workshop and as a volunteer leader at Geneva Glen Camp. In addition, she’s an alumnus of Leadership Denver and of the Denver Business Journal’s 40 Under 40.

“As a proud DPS parent,” Hazel said, “I witness the transformative power of strong relationships between educators and students. Public education is the cornerstone of our society, and I am deeply committed to championing its importance for the city of Denver.”

One of her first duties is to oversee the launch of the foundation’s New Arrivals, Student& Family Fund, an initiative that supports schools experiencing a surge of new to country students. Then, on April 11, she will be a speaker at the foundation’s signature fundraiser, the Achieve Gala. Its theme is Ode to Our Future.

About the organization: Established in 1992, the Denver Public Schools Foundation with the belief that public funds alone cannot adequately support the ambitious efforts to advance student achievement in the Denver Public Schools. Today it is recognized as the portal of philanthropy for community investment in the Denver Public Schools and a critical partner to the district for community engagement.

Website: dpsfoundation.org

Have news or announcements for the Nonprofit Register? Email nonprofits@coloradopolitics.com and include a contact name and number if more information is needed.