Alumni Awards News

The Alumni Partner Appreciation award is given to alumni within organizations who have demonstrated a commitment to CU Denver and its mission through opportunities for current students and alumni. 

CU Denver is proud to recognize Joe Rice MPA ’06 with the Alumni Partner Appreciation Award for his pivotal role in securing career pipeline opportunities for students at CU Denver to Lockheed Martin Space. Joe earned his BA in history from Metropolitan State University of Denver and his Master of Public Administration from CU Denver’s School of Public Affairs. He also earned a Master of Strategic Studies degree from the U.S. Army War College.

Prior to joining Lockheed Martin Space as Director of Government Relations, Joe served as an Army Officer for more than 30 years including multiple deployments. He also served as Mayor of the City of Glendale, Colorado and as a two-term member of the Colorado State House of Representatives. 

Mr. Rice has given back to his alma mater by volunteering with the Boots to Suits program, offering his time for informational interviews, and mentoring students, several of whom ultimately secured employment at Lockheed Martin Space. Joe’s commitment to the community is further evident in his volunteer service with Big Brothers, Dismas House, and on several boards related to space advocacy. His military awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, two Bronze Stars, the Combat Action Badge, the Expert Infantryman’s Badge, and he is one of three recipients of the Thomas R. Hobson Aerospace Distinguished Service Award presented by the Aerospace States Association.