DENVER ~ In a recent announcement, Governor Jared Polis revealed that Dr. Angie Paccione will be stepping down from her role as Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE). Dr. Paccione has been in this position since the start of the Polis administration in 2019 and will officially leave on January 9, 2026. The governor plans to announce the next Executive Director before Dr. Paccione's departure.

During her time as Executive Director, Dr. Paccione has been a dedicated and passionate leader in higher education for Colorado. She has made significant strides in breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for students from all backgrounds to access quality education and training. Governor Polis expressed his gratitude for Dr. Paccione's hard work and dedication, stating that she has laid a strong foundation for future leaders to build upon.

Dr. Paccione is the second longest-serving executive director of the CDHE and her contributions will be greatly missed. However, she is excited to return to the private sector and continue making an impact in education.

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Reflecting on her time in office, Dr. Paccione shared that her main focus has always been on unlocking the potential of every student. Under her leadership, Colorado has expanded access to higher education, improved affordability, increased degree attainment, and made significant progress in closing equity gaps for students of color.

One notable achievement during Dr. Paccione's tenure was Colorado becoming the first state in the nation to allow its four-year institutions to confer associate degrees to students who complete at least 70 credits. This initiative has helped thousands of students gain a meaningful credential and increase their earning potential.

Additionally, Colorado established full scholarships for youth formerly in foster care and high school students experiencing homelessness, further demonstrating the state's commitment to providing educational opportunities for all.

With over 27 years of experience in secondary and postsecondary education, Dr. Paccione brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. She began her career as a high school teacher, coach, and administrator before earning a Ph.D. in education and human resource studies from Colorado State University (CSU). Dr. Paccione then served on the CSU faculty for nine years as a teacher educator in the "Project Promise" program, which is nationally recognized for its excellence in preparing mid-career professionals for teaching roles.

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Dr. Paccione's research in the field of teacher education has also been published in Teacher's College Press and has been cited in over 75 academic papers. Her findings have informed teacher preparation programs and have had a significant impact on promoting diversity and inclusion within the education system.

As Dr. Paccione prepares to leave her position, she expressed her deep gratitude to Governor Polis for the opportunity to serve and to all the educators, institutions, and partners who share her belief in the potential of Colorado's learners.

Governor Polis will now begin the search for the next Executive Director of CDHE, with hopes of finding another great leader who will continue to drive Colorado forward in terms of higher education and training opportunities for all.

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