2009 Colorado MESA Annual Report

Turning Big Dreams into Tomorrow’s Careers
Annual Report  2009

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LETTER ............................................................................... 3

MISSION STATEMENT ...................................................................................................................... 4
HISTORY......................................................................................................................................... 4
PURPOSE ........................................................................................................................................ 4
COLORADO MESA WORKS! ............................................................................................................. 4
MESA RECOGNIZED……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………..5
WHY MESA WORKS………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..……..5
COLORADO MESA BOARD OF DIRECTORS ....................................................................................... 6
COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIPS WITH CORPORATE &
HIGHER EDUCATION COMMUNITIES ............................................................................................. 7
MAJOR FY 2009 PROGRAM FUNDERS .............................................................................................. 8
PROGRAM ENROLLEMENT NUMBERS ................................................................................................. 9
2
MESA PROGRAM PARTICIPATION…………………………………………………………………………………………………….9
PROVIDING MATH & SCIENCE SKILLS
TO UNDERREPRESENTED STUDENTS ........................................................................................... 10
FY 2009 MESA PROGRAM, ADMINISTRATIVE &
FUNDRAISING COSTS ................................................................................................................ 11
COLORADO MESA STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION………………………………………………………………..12
OUSTANDING 2009 MESA STUDENTS........................................................................................... 13
OUSTANDING 2009 MESA PROGRAMS .......................................................................................... 15
2009 MESA SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS .......................................................................................... 16
MESA 2009 EVENT CALENDAR AT A GLANCE.................................................................................... 17
STATEWIDE MESA EVENTS & ACTIVITIES ................................................................................... 18
MESA ADVISORS RETREAT & KICKOFF (MARK) ................................................................................. 18
MESA FALL FLING ....................................................................................................................... 18
HIGH SCHOOL SCIENCE & ENGINEERING JAMBOREE ............................................................................. 19
COLORADO MESA DAY.................................................................................................................. 19
MESA USA ................................................................................................................................ 20
2009 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ....................................................................................................... 21
METRO DENVER WIRED JUMPSTART GRANT ................................................................................ 22
HOW TO BECOME A MESA SCHOOL ................................................................................................ 23
FY 2009 PARTICIPATING MESA SCHOOLS ........................................................................................ 24
GET INVOLVED - MAKE A LASTING DIFFERENCE .............................................................................. 29
Colorado MESA
PO Box 173364, Campus Box 104 | Denver, CO | 80217
(303) 556-8547 | fax: (303) 556-2344 | ColoradoMESA@ucdenver.edu
www.cmesa.org
Dear Friends and Supporters of Colorado MESA,
It is with great pride that we offer the FY 2009 Colorado MESA annual report. We have come so far
since the inception of MESA in 1980, and our goals remain unchanged - to expand student’s lives
and opportunities focused on promoting academic excellence in math, engineering and science.
Ultimately we are turning dreams into reality for underrepresented, economically disadvantaged,
and at-risk students throughout Colorado to help them successfully graduate high school, be
prepared for college, and to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
(STEM). Last year we positively impacted 3,650 students located throughout Colorado.
Today businesses are faced with many new, complex engineering and technical challenges. The
bottom line is that Colorado’s 21st Century economy will be based on a highly educated knowledge-
based workforce to meet the demand of the business community to successfully thrive. Our
economy and business success will be based on the dedication and strength of its greatest asset –
human capital.
Throughout the United States including Colorado we are not graduating enough engineers.
According to Richard Karlgaard, publisher of Forbes Magazine, China is graduating 600,000
engineers annually, compared to only 150,000 in the United States. As the baby-boomers are
retiring we will be experiencing a major exodus of employees leaving the high-tech business
3
community over the next decade.
At this rate, we will not be able to meet the critical demand for engineers necessary to support
the business community to compete globally. MESA is proud to say that more than 90% of
our MESA students matriculate to college, of which approximately 80% pursue STEM-related
degrees. In 2010 we are celebrating our 30th anniversary, and we are proud to report that
MESA’s proven educational program has positively impacted, and contributed more than
40,000 talented and STEM-ready students throughout Colorado.
It is imperative that Colorado leaders and businesses have the vision and commitment to
educational programs such as MESA to support the necessary financial resources to build Colorado’s
infrastructure to build the pipeline of our educated workforce. We encourage you to get involved
and make a difference in building our future labor force.
Colorado MESA would like to take this opportunity to thank our many dedicated financial and in-kind
sponsors, our tireless volunteers, MESA advisors, supportive schools and administrators. We are
able to provide positive and successful educational experiences for students because of the
commitment and generosity of all our partners.
Sincerely,
Karen Dawson Gloria L. Nelson

President, Colorado MESA Board of Directors Executive Director, Colorado MESA
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
MISSION STATEMENT
To enable and increase the number of historically underrepresented and economically
disadvantaged students throughout Colorado to graduate from college and successfully pursue
careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
HISTORY
The Colorado Minority Engineering Association (CMEA) was founded in 1979 and is a non-profit
organization with 501(c)(3) status. Since 1980, CMEA has managed the Colorado MESA program, a
proven out of school program enabling underrepresented students across Colorado to prepare for
and graduate from college with career opportunities in math, engineering, and science. MESA
contributes to their long-term achievement and helps build a strong Colorado economy.
PURPOSE
MESA motivates and challenges female, minority and disadvantaged students with high ability who,
because of various circumstances, are not achieving their maximum potential in school. Minorities
and women are underrepresented in science, math and engineering and represent a valuable and
diverse asset to future employers. MESA provides support, structure and direction early on so
students can build their expectations of achievement to the point where they succeed in higher level
science and math courses. 4
COLORADO MESA WORKS!*
• 3,647 students enrolled in • 80% of students come • 100% of MESA reported

programs (PreK-12) from gender and ethnic seniors graduate from high
groups underrepresented school fully prepared for
• 161 participating schools in engineering, college and require no
• 167 programs: Front mathematics and science remediation.
Range, Four Corners, San careers.
Luis Valley, Grand Junction • 90% college matriculation
and Garfield County • 50% participate in free rate for graduates.
and reduced lunch
• 3 Centers: CU Denver, CU programs. • 80% enroll in science and
Boulder and CSU math-based majors in
college.
• 4 major events: local, state
and national
• 1,150 participated in events
* DATA FROM PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS REPORTED TO COLORADO MESA.
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
MESA RECOGNIZED
In 2008, the Colorado School of Mines, one of the nation’s

pre-eminent engineering colleges presented Colorado MESA
with their Community Impact Award for promoting
engineering and other STEM based career fields to historically
underrepresented youth.
In October 2009, the Afterschool Alliance and MetLife

2008 Community Impact Foundation recognized Colorado MESA with their National
Award from CSM and the Afterschool Innovator Award “in recognition of the
MetLife After School program’s success providing at-risk high schools students with
Innovator Award.
a background in and understanding of math and the sciences
and helping them prepare for college.” Colorado MESA is one
of only six programs in the nation to receive this award.
WHY MESA WORKS

5
Students from underrepresented minority groups with academic potential in math and
sciences are identified in elementary and middle schools. Parents of MESA students are
involved so that they become an integral part of the team that delivers critical services to
their children. Parents attend orientations after which they sign an agreement with MESA to
support the program at their school. Parental involvement is extremely important and an
essential component to the success of the program.
MESA after-school programs engage students in hands-on inquiry based projects such as
designing mousetrap-powered vehicles, wind turbines and robots. MESA advisors, usually
math/science teachers along with university student mentors and practicing engineers, help
students discover relevant math/science principles necessary to achieve success with their
project. Local, state, and national engineering-based competitions provide additional
motivation to keep students involved.
MESA Centers are located at University of Colorado, Denver (CU Denver), University of
Colorado, Boulder (CU Boulder), and Colorado State University, Fort Collins (CSU). They
provide advisor training, program materials, and academic resources. MESA schools provide
stimulating project-based curriculum, career speakers, and roles models. Field trips are held
for students at university campuses and facilities where engineering and other math based
professionals are employed. These field trips are used to demonstrate the kind of work the
students will do as professional engineers and scientists.
The MESA students are taught the importance of taking math, science and English so that
they can complete a full four-year college prep curriculum in high school. In high school,
MESA students and their parents know exactly which courses they must take each semester
in order to stay on track in the college prep program. They participate in field trips, science
fairs, bridge building fairs, First Robotics, Odyssey of the Mind, and more. They are also
coached in effective study techniques and how to prepare for tests and the SAT and ACT
exams.
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
COLORADO MESA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
All MESA board members serve voluntarily providing leadership and expertise needed to ensure
organizational success.
President
Karen Dawson Partner, Engineer Rocky Mountain Mechanical Systems
VP/President Elect
Monisha Merchant Regent, Univ. of Colorado and Director, Level 3 Communications
Secretary
Ron Gorsché Attorney Brownstein | Hyatt | Farber | Schreck
Treasurer
Nilsa Mahon Certified Public Accountant NG Mahon Business Consulting, LLC
Resource Development Committee

Deverick Wilder* Business Development Manager QSE Technologies
Katheryn Coggon Attorney Holme Roberts & Owen, LLC
Ellie Greenberg, Ed.D. President & CEO EMG and Associates
Thomas Scanlan Retired Former Vice President, Lockheed Martin
Angela Sims-Ceja Senior Project IT Manager City of Aurora
Program Committee
Lisa Barker* Senior Manager of Business Development General Dynamics
Doug Gilbert* Director Mission Design United Launch Alliance
Maribel Crespin EHS Manager Coors Brewing Company 6
Louise Ecoff Business Manager U.S. Bureau of Land Management
Connie Fulmer Sr. Inclusions Manager Sun Microsystems, Inc.
Dan Mares Civil Engineer Bureau of Reclamation
Jeff Scott President SolSource, Inc.
Debbie Trujillo RA/QA Supervisor AlloSource
George Winski Project Manager Hewlett-Packard Company
Strategic Communications Committee

Gerri Howard* President The Gomez Howard Group
Theresa Szczurek*, Ph.D. President & CEO Technology and Management Solutions
Su Hawk President CSIA, Colorado’s Technology Assoc.
Board Development Committee

Lynn Jordan* President & CEO Jordan Resources, Inc.
Executive Dir. for Student Success, Diversity, Equity
David Aragon University of Colorado Boulder
& Community Engagement
Thomas Scanlan Retired Former Vice President, Lockheed Martin
All Committee Chairs * are members of the Executive Committee
MESA Advisory Council

Donna August Founder Leave a Little Room Foundation
Wanda Austin, Ph.D. President & CEO Aerospace Corporation
Carole Basile, Ph.D. Prof., School of Education & Human Dev. University of Colorado Denver
Howell M. Estes, III Retired, Commander in Chief NORAD
Delores M. Etter Director, Caruth Institute of Eng. Education Southern Methodist University
Daniel Hernandez Senior Vice President, Global Strategy Sykes Enterprises, Inc.
Cynthia Howell, Ed.D. Director, Office of Education National Renewable Energy Laboratory
George Sparks CEO Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Peter B. Teets Retired Former Undersecretary, Air Force
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
COLLABORATIVE PARTNERSHIPS WITH CORPORATE &
HIGHER EDUCATION COMMUNITIES
In FY 2009, board members and volunteers contributed over 6,249
hours and $756,190 in services and in-kind support to Colorado MESA.
In addition to the board members and their companies, the following
universities, corporations, and governmental agencies contributed in-
kind resources and support of MESA.
American Association of Cancer Research
Arapahoe Community College
Ball Aerospace
Boulder Outlook Hotel
Catholic Charities
Center for Applied Science and Mathematics
for Innovation and Competitiveness (CASMIC)
Centennial BOCES and Partnerships for Informal
Science Education in the Community (PISEC)
Challenger Learning Center
Colorado School of Mines University (CSM)
$756,190
Colorado Community College System
Service & In-kind
Colorado State University (CSU) - Research and Development Contributions
Center for the Advancement of Student Learning 7
Community College of Denver
Coors Hispanic Employee Network
Denver Museum of Nature and Science
Denver Area Council Boy Scouts of America
East Asian Regional Council of Overseas School & Global Issues Network
EnCana Oil & Gas (USA), Inc.
Google Boulder
Holme Roberts & Owens LLC
Global Ozone Project
IBM
JASON Project
Laboratory for Atmospheric & Space Physics
Lockheed Martin
Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation (MDEDC)
Microsoft Corporation
National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR)
6,249
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
Northrop Grumman
Project Management Institute
Rocky Mountain Mechanical Systems
Rocky Mtn. Middle School Math Science Program Science Explorers
Volunteer
Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE/HENAAC) Hours
University of Colorado (CU) Boulder
- Cooperative Institute for Environmental Studies
- Institute of Arctic and Alpine Research
- Integrated Teaching & Learning Lab
- Space Grant
- Multicultural Engineering and Women in Engineering Programs
University of Colorado (CU) Denver - College of Engineering & Applied Science
US Bureau of Land Management
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
MAJOR FY 2009 PROGRAM FUNDERS*
Corporate, foundation and individual financial support is
critical to the success of MESA programs, its students,
teachers, advisors, schools and staff. Their continued
dedication and support allows MESA to serve thousands of
Colorado students.
Diamond - $50,000+
“
• Daniels Fund
• National Science Foundation (NSF)
- Rocky Mountain Middle School Math Science Partnership MESA has done more than
Platinum - $20,000+
influence my interests; as a
• US Department of Labor – (Metro Denver EDC) – WIRED Grant direct result of joining MESA
• United Launch Alliance (ULA) I became interested in math,
science and engineering.”
Gold - $15,000+
• Adolph Coors Foundation - Derek Linan, 11th grade,
• Chase Bank Wasson High School
8
“
Silver - $10,000+
• Intel Foundation
• Lockheed Martin
• Northrop Grumman College has been a life-long
• Xcel Energy dream, and MESA is helping
make it a reality. I would have
Bronze- $5,000+
• Anschutz Family Foundation never thought that I could be
• Coors Hispanic Employee Network going to college because I'm the
• EnCana Oil & Gas only one in my immediate
• Kinder Morgan Foundation
• Micro Motion family that has tried to make
• Noble Energy Foundation an effort for further education. I
• National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) am planning on going to
• Quick Foundation
• US Bureau of Land Management
veterinary school."
- Amanda Thomas, Graduate of the
Friends - $1,000+ Alternative Center for Education
• American Council of Engineering
– Companies of Colorado (ACEC/CO)
• Community Center (The)
• Jared Polis Foundation
• Karen Dawson
• Merrick & Company
• US Bureau of Reclamation

* The organizations listed above have all contributed a minimum of $1,000 to Colorado MESA. Thank you also to the
many other organizations and individuals, not listed here who have also financially contributed less than $1,000.
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
PROGRAM ENROLLMENT NUMBERS
Colorado MESA enrollment has grown from its first year with 30 students in three schools to 3,647
students in 161 schools in 24 districts. Expanding from Denver outward, MESA now has a concentration
of schools along the Colorado Front Range and is beginning to impact distant and rural student
populations through MESA programs in the Four Corners, San Luis Valley and Grand Junction areas.
3,647 Total Students

Served by MESA 169 Educational
Institutions 270 Advisors
MESA GRADE SCHOOL BREAKDOWN

LEVELS SERVED
MESA PROGRAM PARTICIPATION

The below chart indicates the progressive annual growth in number of MESA students in the program. In
FY 2009 Colorado MESA had the highest enrollment in 18 years with 3,647 students.
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
PROVIDING MATH & SCIENCE SKILLS TO UNDERREPRESENTED STUDENTS
Colorado MESA’s primary mission and goal is to serve underrepresented and economically
disadvantaged students throughout Colorado to graduate from college and successfully pursue
careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
“
51%
Minority
With the help of MESA, I have been able to apply
10
Students both my skills and love for engineering. Although

MESA has influenced my high school career, it will
52%
Female
have an even greater effect on the rest of my life.”
- Adrian Linan, Grade 12, Wasson High School
Students
MESA ETHNICITY
Student Demographics MESA CO*
African American 4.42% 6.00%
Anglo American 48.55% 60.90%
Asian American/Pacific
Islander 5.46% 3.60%
Hispanic/Latino 38.37% 28.40%
Native American 3.21% 1.20%
*Source: Colorado Department of Education
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
FY 2009 MESA Program, Administrative & Fundraising Costs
51% of MESA funding comes from
foundation and corporate donations.
Last year 8% was raised by
corporate sponsorships of the MESA
USA National Engineering Design
Competition. 26% came from DOL
and NSF sub-grants and
approximately 15% from
miscellaneous sources including board
member contributions. The largest
in-kind donations are from
participating school districts and
higher education institutions.
Significant expenses include

MESA advisor stipends, program
staff salaries, statewide and
national academic competitions
and activities, student computer
awards and scholarships,
program materials and supplies,
11
student field trips, and university
mentor stipends.
Cash and In-Kind
167 Graduates
FY 2009 MESA Program Services - Cash $381,096
Program Services – In-Kind $740,410
General & Administrative $23,382
Fund Raising - Cash $21,038
Fund Raising - In-Kind $4,710
Mgmt - In-Kind $4,712
Total $1,175,348
% Total for Fundraising &
5.12%
“
Administration
MESA programs have really meant to me the

chance to use my brain and work on stuff that could
eventually give me a job.”
“
- Andrew “AJ” Schlechten, 8th grade, West Middle School
MESA means to me a place where you can show

your talents and be proud of it.”
- Andrea Gutierrez, 5th grade, Stellar Elementary School
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
Colorado MESA Statement of Financial Position
Sept. 1 - August 31, 2009
90%
ASSETS
Cash $ 192,495
Cash - Restricted 60,897
Grants & Accounts Receivable 71,376
Prepaid Expense 773
Property and Equipment, Net (note 2) -
TOTAL ASSETS $ 325,541
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
Unrestricted 259,422
Temporarily Restricted 66,119
TOTAL NET ASSETS 325,541
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS $ 325,541
12
Colorado MESA
Statement of Activities and Changes in Net Assets
For the Year Ended August 31, 2009
Temporarily
REVENUES AND OTHER SUPPORT Unrestricted Restricted Total
Grant Income $ 234,419 $ 10,000 $ 244,419
St Vrain Operations 104,067 - 104,067
Contributions 65,130 - 65,130
Special Events 30,476 - 30,476
In-Kind Contributions 749,831 - 749,831
Interest & Dividends 3,035 - 3,035
Total Revenues and Other Support 1,186,959 10,000 1,196,959
Net assets released from restrictions

due to satisfaction of program requirements 6,750 (6,750) -
Total Revenues and Other Support 1,193,709 3,250 1,196,959
EXPENSES
80% Science
Program Services - Expended 381,096 - 381,096
Program Services - In-Kind 740,410 - 740,410 & Math
Total Program Services 1,121,506 - 1,121,506
College Majors
Supporting Services
Management and General 23,382 - 23,382
Management and General - In-Kind 4,712 - 4,712
Fundraising 21,038 - 21,038
Fundraising - In-Kind 4,709 - 4,709
53,841 - 53,841
Total Expenses 1,175,348 - 1,175,348
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS 18,362 3,250 21,611
NET ASSETS, Beginning 241,060 62,869 303,929
NET ASSETS, Ending $ 259,422 $ 66,119 $ 325,540
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
OUTSTANDING 2009 MESA STUDENTS
The 2009 Outstanding MESA Student Award recognizes 21
outstanding MESA students from around the state. Nominated
students have shown exemplary leadership, creativity and
commitment to MESA’s mission. Selection criteria used by the
panel to select the finalists included GPA, MESA participation and
other honors. Outstanding student winners are selected by a
panel of Board Members.
Fadi Albishera, Grade 11
“
Wesson High School
Colorado Springs School District 11
Elvia Castillo, Grade 12 MESA is such a success that it

Denver North High School encourages many students to
Denver Public Schools
appreciate the wonderful world of
Brooke Ellis, Grade 6 mathematics, science and
Escalante Middle School
Durango School District 9-R
engineering. MESA taught me
how to work as a team.” 13
Andrea Gutierriez, Grade 5
- Elvia Castillo-Hernandez, Denver
Stellar Elementary School
North High School, Metropolitan State
Adams 12 Five Star School District
College of Denver – Civil Engineering
Maddie Kerr, Grade 6

Hill Campus of Arts and Sciences
“
Derek Lifian, Grade 11

Wasson High School I owe a lot to the MESA club,
Colorado Springs School District 11 because without it, I would have
probably never had all of these
Yang Lin, Grade 11
Wasson High School incredible experiences.”
- Ernesto Chairez, Grade 12, Career
Education Center
Adrin Linan, Grade 12
Wasson High School
Julio Lopez, Grade 7

Panorama Middle School
Harrison School District
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
OUTSTANDING 2009 MESA STUDENTS (continued)
Jothselyn Macias, Grade 5

Stellar Elementary School
Adams 12 Five Star School District
David Mezies, Grade 7

Trail Ridge Middle School
St. Vrain Valley School District
Jareth Morrison, Grade 11

Wasson High School
Terran Morrison, Grade 11

Wasson High School
“
Sebastian Nieto, Grade 3
Platteville Elementary School
Weld County School District
MESA has made me realize 14
Samantha Prinett, Grade 7 that when I work hard on
Rocky Top Middle School
Adams 12 Five Star School District something that I really want, I
will end up getting a reward for
Kathryn Rogers, Grade 8 all my hard work.”
Adams 12 Five Star School District - Jothselyn Macias, 5th grade, Stellar
Elementary School
Andrew Schlecten, Grade 8
“
West Middle School
Mesa Valley School District 51
Yayue Tang, Grade 11 MESA not only teaches me

Wesson High School
new things through teamwork
and cooperation, but also helps
Leslie Taylor, Grade 8 me apply what I learn.”
Adams 12 Five Star School District - Fadi AlBisharra, 11th grade, Wasson
High School
Amanda Walker, Grade 12
Wasson High School
Thomas Williams, Grade 12

JFK High School
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
OUTSTANDING 2009 MESA PROGRAMS
The following six MESA schools were selected for its
outstanding MESA programs based on pro-active recruiting
of target students, participation in MESA project based
curriculum and statewide MESA sponsored activities.
Centennial Elementary
Keith Liddle, Principal
Helen Douglass, MESA Advisor
Denver South High School

William Kohut, Principal
William Sauaia, MESA Advisor
“
Eaton Middle School 15
Jim Orth, Principal The MESA program is one of
Stacy Duncan and Dave Anderson, MESA Advisors
Eaton School District
the most rewarding programs I
have been involved in during my
Henry World School life. Through the MESA
Wendy Lanier, Principal program I learned to become a
Mamie Garceo & Elaine Giromini, MESA Advisors
stronger student, and it provided
hand’s on learning experiences
John F. Kennedy High School which to me was a huge success
Jeannie Peppel, Principal in leading me to become an
Kevin Lindauer and Steve Round, MESA Advisors
engineer.”
- Antonio Kaufman, Coronado High
Spangler Elementary School, Colorado State University
Michelle Johnstone, Principal Pueblo – Mechanical Engineering
Nina Amabile, Megan Brookhart, and Christina Smith,
MESA Advisors
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
MESA 2009 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
Seven (7) scholarships between $1,000, and $3,000 were
awarded to eligible MESA seniors. Three of the scholarships
were endowed with donations inspired by the memory of
Mr. Robert Rodriguez and Mr. Charlie Farel, two
extraordinary people who were long time supporters of
Colorado MESA and diversity education. The remaining
scholarships were funded by the American Council of
Engineering Companies (ACEC), National Renewable Energy
Laboratory (NREL), and Micro Motion, valuable supporters of
Colorado MESA.
Selection criteria used to select the finalist includes: financial

need, GPA, MESA participation, academic and other honors
and personal recommendations.
Ernesto Chairez
Career Education Center
Micro Motion and NREL Scholarships 16
Matt Gosche
Denver East High School
NREL Scholarship
CBS4 Meteorologist
Lauren Jensen Dave Aguilera

Skyline High School
NREL and ACEC/CO Scholarships Congratulates
Adrian Linan MESA Award Winner
Roy J. Wasson High School
Charlie Farel Scholarship
Andrew Neufeld
John F. Kennedy High School
ACEC Scholarship
Benjamin Putnam
Roy J. Wasson High School
Micro Motion and Charlie Farel Scholarships
Brandon Simmons
Grand Valley High School
Robert Rodrigez Scholarship
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
MESA 2009 EVENT CALENDAR AT A GLANCE
Dates Event Details
MESA Advisor Retreat and Kick Off

September 11 - 12, 2008
(MARK)
October 24 – 25, 2008 STEMapalooza
November 6 – 7, 2008 MESA Fall Fling
MESA High School Engineering & Science

April 9, 2009
Jamboree
17
April 17, 2009 MESA Day
June 6 - 10, 2009 CSM Prep
CSM SUMmer Minority Engineering

June 7 - 27, 2009
Training Program (SUMMET)
9th Annual MESA USA National Design

June 25-28, 2009
Challenge
Create a New Future for

Elementary, Middle & High School Students!
Invest in MESA
Call Debbie Woodward at 303-352-3869
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
STATEWIDE MESA EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
MESA Advisors Retreat & Kickoff (MARK) - Sept. 11 & 12, 2008
The MARK professional development workshop is the kick-off event of MESA events for the academic
school year. The MARK, held at CU Boulder, provided more than 100 educators with support,
stimulation and statewide networking opportunities with college and industry representatives and MESA.
Project-oriented workshops offered innovative science and math curricula, teachers/advisors also learned
about the Multicultural Engineering and Women in Engineering Programs at CU Boulder and CSM, and
what other resources they offer to MESA students. New advisors participated in orientation workshops
while veteran advisors met with college admissions and financial aid specialists or toured the Integrated
Teaching and Learning (ITL) labs. The ITL labs offer courses, workshops, and K-12 engineering outreach
programs.
The poster session provided MESA advisors with the opportunity to meet and talk with representatives of
organizations that offer resources and activities for MESA students.
L: Chris Bonilha,
Program Director, 18
provides training to 100
MESA advisors at the
annual kick-off MARK
event.
R: Students compete in
the boat competition at
the MESA Fall Fling.
MESA Fall Fling - Nov. 6 & 7, 2008
Approximately 200 high school students attended the MESA Fall Fling supported by the CU Boulder -
Multicultural Engineering Program to participate in hands-on activities, learn about applying for college
and financial aid, and tour the campus. The two-day event was designed to give students a taste of an
engineering student’s lifestyle and provide valuable academic, financial aid, and career information.
MESA students applied their math and science skills to design and build boats out of duct tape, wood
firing strips, and plastic gallon jugs. Their objective was to create a boat large enough to transport at
least one passenger across a swimming pool. It emphasized real life engineering scenarios, students
worked against a scoring method that compelled them to design a performance craft.
MESA students tested their ability to work in teams to build a wind energy generator device. Students
brushed up on their physics skills to develop efficient designs. The wind turbine device was tested for its
ability to lift weights, pull vehicles and efficiency. This scrimmage event prepares students to train for
the spring competition.
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
STATEWIDE MESA EVENTS & ACTIVITIES (continued)
Students competing at
the Colorado MESA
Day hosted by the
Coors Hispanic
Employee Network at
CU Denver.
High School Science & Engineering Jamboree - April 9, 2009

19
Approximately 340 high school students from all over Colorado competed at the Colorado School of
Mines (CSM) in activities that included website design, mathematics, and straw tower building. Also, a
Helicopter Egg Drop competition, where students loaded the News4 helicopter with containers designed
to protect their “delicate” cargo. The helicopter ascended to approximately 100 meters and the egg
bearing containers were tossed. Many of the eggs survived but the containers that had design flaws
disintegrated to the amusement of all (except their designers). All events were designed to encourage
and develop creativity and analytical skills.
Top winning teams received trophies for their school, and all first, second and third place team members
received handsome gold, silver and bronze medallions. Approximately 50 industry volunteers participated
in the Engineering Jamboree.
Colorado MESA Day - April 17, 2009
Sponsored by the Coors Hispanic Employee Network, this popular event attracted over 600 middle
school students to CSM. During the day, students participated in nine competitions designed to test
their ability to work in teams to solve problems and design all kinds of items ranging from air-powered
vehicles, balsa wood bridges, and multipurpose trebuchet. Colorado MESA is very proud of the students
from Heaton Middle School who, once again, won the statewide competition and defended their
competition title in the MESA USA National Competition in Denver. Students also created MESA Power
Point presentations that express their school spirit, and many created projects and presentations that
demonstrated their knowledge of science and math. Team members were awarded trophies and
medallions.
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
STATEWIDE MESA EVENTS & ACTIVITIES (continued)
MESA USA - June 25-28, 2009
This three-day national MESA USA engineering design competition comprised of 56 middle and high
school state champions from Arizona, California, Colorado, Maryland, New Mexico, Oregon and Utah
was held at the CU Denver PE Event Center. Hosted by Colorado MESA, the event created opportunities
for top MESA students from around the nation to come together in the spirit of friendly academic
competition and creative entrepreneurship through their research, design, construction, presentation and
performance of their multitask trebuchet, a new twist on the gravity powered medieval catapult. MESA
students competed in four tasks including an; academic display, oral presentation, technical paper and
device performance. The middle school and high school team with the highest collective score were
declared the MESA USA National Engineering Design Champions.
20
Colorado MESA to Host MESA USA for the

Second Consecutive Year, Celebrating it’s 10th
Anniversary! Get Involved Today.
Call Debbie Woodward at 303-352-3869
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
2009 GOALS & OBJECTIVES
MESA accomplishes its goals and objectives with partnerships among school districts, colleges,
universities, businesses, other community organizations, and parents through the MESA
programs. Listed below were overall goals and objectives to continue to provide excellence in
MESA programs, and to expand our reach to more schools and students in Colorado.
1. Continue to expand program support and services by pursuing development of MESA

Centers at CSU in Pueblo, Mesa State College in Grand Junction, Arapahoe Community
College, and Southern Colorado.
2. Develop funding resources via state appropriation for STEM after-school programs and the
Colorado Homegrown STEM Workforce Act of 2007 (HB 1243).
3. Continue its major emphasis to provide minority students to Colorado colleges and
universities where these students will pursue math, engineering or science related majors
and become an available source of skilled professionals. 21
4. Continue the building of collaborative relationships with all the Colorado colleges and
universities (2-year and 4-year).
5. Sustain MESA program cost effectiveness, while addressing the challenge of locating and
acquiring new and diversified funding resources. Continue to recruit corporate and
foundation partners in order to increase financial and in-kind support base.
6. Assist MESA students in obtaining summer jobs, internships, grants, college entrance and
scholarships.
7. Improve public knowledge of the need for women and minorities in math, science and
engineering careers with emphasis on how MESA helps identify, support and prepare these
students in grades K-12.
8. Provide support for MESA schools in four additional Jefferson County schools, and pursue
program expansion in Mapleton School District via RMMSMSP grant.
9. Support and increase the numbers of university engineering and math/science education
majors to mentor MESA students.
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
METRO DENVER WIRED JUMPSTART GRANT
In FY 2008/2009, MESA received funding through the Metro Denver

Workforce Innovation in Regional Economic Development (WIRED)
grant which was provided by the U.S. Department of Labor and
Employment and administered by the Metro Denver Economic
Development Corporation (MDEDC). The Metro Denver WIRED
Initiative was a partnership among industry, workforce, education,
and economic development in the nine-county Metro Denver region. The vision of WIRED to
create a home-grown skilled workforce for the region’s fastest growing high-wage industries,
aerospace, bioscience, energy and information technology-software.
WIRED and its partners implemented transformational and sustainable changes in Colorado’s
education and workforce systems to enhance its region’s global competitiveness. WIRED
strengthened the talent pipeline at all levels to produce a workforce skilled in STEM.
Through the WIRED grant Colorado MESA launched new programs and initiatives. Including
enriched after-school mentoring, additional hands-on academic activities and projects, STEM 22
project-based curriculum and a rigorous assessment of the project. It expanded its current
college partnerships establishing a MESA Center at CU Boulder and in northern Colorado, at
CSU. In keeping with MESA’s philosophy, it continues to focus on students who are
underrepresented in STEM careers.
Major Accomplishments Made Possible Through the WIRED Grant
• MESA Center at CSU

• MESA Center at CU Boulder
• NREL Scientist/Mentor Enrichment Programs
• University Student Mentors: 25 Mentors (over 2700 hours)
• LASP: Project SPECTRA Materials and Curriculum
• Smart Energy Living Alliance: Energy Science in the Home Enhanced Curriculum
• Added Mathematics Component to Project Based Curriculum
• Project Assessment for Nine-County Area
• Field Trips for 80 MESA Schools
• Education Materials: 80 Schools
• Substitute Teachers for MESA Advisors
• Support for MESA High School Science and Engineering Jamboree
• Support for CU Denver MESA Fall Fling
• Support for MESA Advisor Retreat and Kickoff (MARK)
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
HOW TO BECOME A MESA SCHOOL
Colorado MESA takes pride in successfully providing an

academic structure to ensure success for both our
students and participating schools.
GET INVOLVED
Minimum requirements
• One committed math or science teacher
TODAY!
• Regularly scheduled weekly MESA meetings.
• One “New MESA Member” recruiting activity per
Volunteer or
semester become an investor
• One family orientation program per semester of Colorado MESA!
• A scheduled student tutoring program
• One college/university campus field trip per school year
• Three guest speakers per semester from Call us at 23
university/business/industry with the focus on available 303.556.2344
careers and job requirements
• One individual student/advisor counseling session per
semester
Visit us online at
• Student curriculum that will insure four years of college www.cmesa.org
prep math, science and English.
• For high school students, a 3.0 minimum GPA in Email us at
combined math, science, English curriculum, or agree to coloradomesa@ucdenver.edu.
work toward attainment of the minimum during the
school year.
We look forward to
hearing from you.
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
FY 2009 PARTICIPATING MESA SCHOOLS
MESA served 161 participating schools in 24 school districts with 3,647 students in Colorado.
These schools are located along the Front Range and into the Four Corners, San Luis Valley,
Grand Junction and Garfield County.
Participating Schools
District School City

Adams County District #12 Bollman Technical Educational Center Thornton
Adams County District #12 Crossroads Alternative Middle School Thornton
Adams County District #12 Federal Heights Elementary Federal Heights
Adams County District #12 Legacy High School Broomfield
Adams County District #12 Leroy Drive Elementary Northglenn
Adams County District #12 Mountain Range High School Westminster
Adams County District #12 Niver Creek Middle School Thornton
Adams County District #12 North Star Elementary Thornton
Adams County District #12 Northglenn High School Northglenn
24
Adams County District #12 Northglenn Middle School Northglenn
Adams County District #12 Prairie Hills Elementary Thornton
Adams County District #12 Rocky Top Middle School Brighton
Adams County District #12 Shadow Ridge Middle School Thornton
Adams County District #12 Silver Hills Middle School Westminster
Adams County District #12 Skyview Elementary Thornton
Adams County District #12 Stellar Elementary Thornton
Adams County District #12 Thornton High School Thornton
Adams County District #12 Westlake Middle School Broomfield
Adams County District #14 Adams City High School Commerce City
Adams County District #14 Adams City Middle School Commerce City
Adams County District #14 Kearny Middle School Commerce City
Adams County District #50 Ranum High School Denver
Adams County District #50 Scott Carpenter Middle School Denver
Adams County District #50 Shaw Heights Middle School Westminster
Adams County District #50 Westminster High School Westminster
Alamosa School District RE-11J Alamosa High School Alamosa
Alamosa School District RE-11J Ortega Middle School Alamosa
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org

Aurora Public Schools Aurora Hills Middle School Aurora
Aurora Public Schools Rangeview High School Aurora
Aurora Public Schools William Smith High School Aurora
Boulder Valley School District Angevine Middle School Lafayette
Boulder Valley School District Broomfield High School Broomfield
Boulder Valley School District Centaurus High School Lafayette
Brighton 27J Overland Trail Middle School Brighton
Brighton 27J Prairie View High School Henderson
Brighton 27J Prairie View Middle School Henderson
Colorado Springs District #11 Coronado High School Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs District #11 Doherty High School Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs District #11 Holmes Middle School Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs District #11 Irving Middle School Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs District #11 Jenkins Middle School Colorado Springs 25
Colorado Springs District #11 Mitchell High School Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs District #11 Palmer High School Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs District #11 Russell Middle School Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs District #11 Sabin Middle School Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs District #11 Wasson High School Colorado Springs
Denver Public Schools Abraham Lincoln High School Denver
Denver Public Schools Career Education Center Denver
Denver Public Schools CCI Denver
Denver Public Schools Contemporary Learning Academy Denver
Denver Public Schools Denver Online School Denver
Denver Public Schools East High School Denver
Denver Public Schools George Washington HS Denver
Denver Public Schools Goldrick Elementary Denver
Denver Public Schools Grant Middle School Denver
Denver Public Schools Hamilton Middle School Denver
Denver Public Schools Henry Middle School Denver
Denver Public Schools Hill Middle School Denver
Denver Public Schools Kennedy High School Denver
Denver Public Schools Kepner Middle School Denver
Denver Public Schools Kunsmiller Middle School Denver
Denver Public Schools Martin Luther King Jr. Early College Denver
Denver Public Schools Merrill Middle School Denver
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org

Denver Public Schools Montbello High School Denver
Denver Public Schools Morey Middle School Denver
Denver Public Schools North High School Denver
Denver Public Schools Place Bridge Academy Denver
Denver Public Schools Skinner Middle School Denver
Denver Public Schools Smiley Middle School Denver
Denver Public Schools South High School Denver
Denver Public Schools West High School Denver
Denver Public Schools Whittier K-8 School Denver
Durango School District 9-R Escalante Middle School Durango
Eaton School District Eaton Middle School Eaton
Fountain School District 8 Fountain Middle School Fountain
Garfield 16 Grand Valley High School Parachute
Garfield 16 L.W St. Johns Middle School Parachute 26
Harrison School District #2 Bricker Elementary Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Carmel Middle School Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Centennial Elementary Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Chamberlin Elementary Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Fox Meadow Middle School Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Giberson Elementary Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Harrison High School Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Monterey Elementary Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Mountain Vista Community School Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Otero Elementary Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Panorama Middle School Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Pikes Peak Elementary Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Sierra High School Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Stratmoor Hills Elementary Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Stratton Meadow Elementary Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Turman Elementary Colorado Springs
Harrison School District #2 Wildflower Elementary Colorado Springs
Huerfano School District RE-1 John Mall High School Walsenburg
Jefferson County Public Schools Golden High School Golden
Jefferson County Public Schools Jefferson High School Edgewater
Jefferson County Public Schools New America School Lakewood
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org

Jefferson County Public Schools Creighton Middle School Lakewood
Jefferson County Public Schools North Arvada Middle School Arvada
Mesa Valley School District #51 Bookcliff Middle School Grand Junction
Mesa Valley School District #51 Central High School Grand Junction
Mesa Valley School District #51 Central High School Grand Junction
Mesa Valley School District #51 Fruita 8/9 School Fruita
Mesa Valley School District #51 Fruita Monument High School Fruita
Mesa Valley School District #51 Grand Junction High School Grand Junction
Mesa Valley School District #51 Grand Mesa Middle School Grand Junction
Mesa Valley School District #51 Mt. Garfield Middle School Clifton
Mesa Valley School District #51 Orchard Mesa Middle School Grand Junction
Mesa Valley School District #51 Palisade High School Palisade
Mesa Valley School District #51 Redlands Middle School Grand Junction
Mesa Valley School District #51 West Middle School Grand Junction 27
Monte Vista School District Monte Vista High School Monte Vista
Poudre School District R-1 Rocky Mountain High School Fort Collins
Poudre School District R-1 Fossil Ridge High School Fort Collins
Poudre School District R-1 Poudre High School Fort Collins
Poudre School District R-1 Lincoln Junior High School Fort Collins
Pueblo School District #60 Corwin Middle School Pueblo
Pueblo School District #60 Freed Middle School Pueblo
Pueblo School District #60 Heaton Middle School Pueblo
Pueblo School District #60 Pueblo East High School Pueblo
Pueblo School District #60 Pueblo South High School Pueblo
Pueblo School District #60 Roncalli Middle School Pueblo
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Altona Middle School Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Blue Mountain Elementary Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Burlington Elementary Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Casa De La Esperanza Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Coal Ridge Middle School Firestone
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Columbine Elementary Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Erie High School Erie
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Erie Middle School Erie
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Frederick High School Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Heritage Middle School Longmont
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org

St. Vrain School District RE-1J Indian Peaks Elementary Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Loma Linda Elementary Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Longmont Headstart Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Longmont High School Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Longs Peak Middle School Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Lyons Elementary Lyons
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Lyons Middle School Lyons
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Mead Middle School Mead
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Prairie Ridge Elementary Firestone
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Rocky Mountain Elementary Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Sanborn Elementary Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Silver Creek Middle/High School Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Skyline High School Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Spangler Elementary Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Sunset Middle School Longmont 28
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Trail Ridge Middle School Longmont
St. Vrain School District RE-1J Westview Middle School Longmont
Thompson School District R2-J Walt Clark Middle School Loveland
Trinidad School District #1 Trinidad Middle School Trinidad
Weld County School District 6 Franklin Middle School Greeley
Weld County School District RE-1 Ft. Lupton High School Ft. Lupton
Weld County School District RE-1 Gilcrest Elementary Gilcrest
Weld County School District RE-1 Mirich Elementary La Salle
Weld County School District RE-1 North Valley Middle School LaSalle
Weld County School District RE-1 Platteville Elementary Platteville
Weld County School District RE-1 South Valley Middle School Platteville
Weld County School District RE-1 Valley High School Gilcrest
Widefield #3 Watson Junior high Colorado Springs
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org
GET INVOLVED – MAKE A LASTING DIFFERENCE!
Colorado MESA Staff
29
Pictured left to right: Debbie Woodward, Michelle Walker, David

Ramirez, Gale Day, Gloria Nelson, Melanie Haas
Colorado MESA State Office Staff

Gloria L. Nelson, Executive Director Bo Donegan, Accounting & Bookkeeping (not pictured)
Debbie Woodward, Development Director Chris Bonilha, Program Director (not pictured)
Michelle, Walker, Administrative Assistant David Ramirez, Program Director
Colorado State University MESA Center University of Colorado Boulder MESA Center
Melanie Haas, Director Gale Day, Director
Get involved or become an investor of

Colorado MESA!
Visit online at www.cmesa.org or
Email at coloradomesa@ucdenver.edu.
Colorado MESA
www.cmesa.org

2009 Colorado MESA Annual Report

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2009 Colorado MESA Annual Report

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Turning Big Dreams into Tomorrow’s Careers

Annual Report  2009

PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR LETTER ............................................................................... 3

Karen Dawson Gloria L. Nelson

COLORADO MESA WORKS!*

• 3,647 students enrolled in • 80% of students come • 100% of MESA reported

• 1,150 participated in events

* DATA FROM PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS REPORTED TO COLORADO MESA.

In 2008, the Colorado School of Mines, one of the nation’s

In October 2009, the Afterschool Alliance and MetLife

WHY MESA WORKS

Resource Development Committee

Strategic Communications Committee

Board Development Committee

All Committee Chairs * are members of the Executive Committee

MESA Advisory Council

3,647 Total Students

MESA GRADE SCHOOL BREAKDOWN

MESA PROGRAM PARTICIPATION

Students both my skills and love for engineering. Although

*Source: Colorado Department of Education

Significant expenses include

MESA programs have really meant to me the

MESA means to me a place where you can show

Sept. 1 - August 31, 2009

TOTAL ASSETS $ 325,541

LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS

TOTAL NET ASSETS 325,541

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS $ 325,541

Total Revenues and Other Support 1,186,959 10,000 1,196,959

Net assets released from restrictions

CHANGE IN NET ASSETS 18,362 3,250 21,611

NET ASSETS, Beginning 241,060 62,869 303,929

NET ASSETS, Ending $ 259,422 $ 66,119 $ 325,540

Fadi Albishera, Grade 11

Elvia Castillo, Grade 12 MESA is such a success that it

Maddie Kerr, Grade 6

Derek Lifian, Grade 11

Julio Lopez, Grade 7

Jothselyn Macias, Grade 5

David Mezies, Grade 7

Jareth Morrison, Grade 11

Terran Morrison, Grade 11

Yayue Tang, Grade 11 MESA not only teaches me

Thomas Williams, Grade 12

Denver South High School

Selection criteria used to select the finalist includes: financial

Lauren Jensen Dave Aguilera

Dates Event Details

MESA Advisor Retreat and Kick Off

October 24 – 25, 2008 STEMapalooza

November 6 – 7, 2008 MESA Fall Fling

MESA High School Engineering & Science

June 6 - 10, 2009 CSM Prep

CSM SUMmer Minority Engineering

9th Annual MESA USA National Design

Create a New Future for

MESA Fall Fling - Nov. 6 & 7, 2008

High School Science & Engineering Jamboree - April 9, 2009

Colorado MESA Day - April 17, 2009

MESA USA - June 25-28, 2009

Colorado MESA to Host MESA USA for the

1. Continue to expand program support and services by pursuing development of MESA

In FY 2008/2009, MESA received funding through the Metro Denver