Ciera Kathryn Blehm
University of DenverAs an undergraduate student, Ciera is dedicated to continually connecting her academic learning with her remarkable service to the community. She is a natural relationship builder, is at the forefront of Inclusive Excellence work at the University of Denver (DU), and is positioned for long-term civic engagement through her influential roles on campus and in the community.
Ciera currently serves as the DU Undergraduate Student Government Secretary of Inclusive Excellence and plays a critical role on the DU Student Commission on the Co-curricular Experience. Reflecting her commitment to Inclusive Excellence on campus, she was selected as a Puksta Scholar, participates in the Excelling Leaders Institute and the Social Justice Learning & Living Community, and is working toward her CRIMSON leadership and Inclusive Excellence certification.
Ciera's passion for civic engagement carries far from campus as well. She has served as an intern for Senator Michael Bennet, a Youth Ambassador in the development of a new brand for Colorado, and as a Member of the State Farm Youth Advisory Board, where she commits time and talent to reviewing grant proposals and advocating for funding for service learning programs across the country.
Personal Statement
When I was nine I experienced the power that comes from public service for the first time. Building a house alongside a family in need through Habitat for Humanity opened my eyes to realizing that the work that we can achieve together, and for others, is far more rewarding than the work we do ourselves.
My passion for supporting others and addressing social issues led me to serve on the State Farm Youth Advisory Board, where I have helped communities across the country create their own change, supported by $5 million in annual service learning program grants. My current role at the University of Denver as the Secretary of Inclusive Excellence for Undergraduate Student Government has shown me that creating a stronger and more inclusive community must come through the engagement of everyone, not just individuals themselves. When I took this position, I thought back to my nine year old self, and remembered the lessons I learned about a house built with community support. I am committed to inclusive excellence and through that work, I see my role as encouraging and supporting communities to come together to solve problems they are currently facing.