Presented by Colorado Early Colleges

Colorado Early Colleges 20th Anniversary Gala: Cleared for Takeoff

Registration ends Saturday, 10/10/2026 10:00pm MDT

About This Event

Celebrating Twenty Years of Student‑Centered Innovation

Join Colorado Early Colleges for an inspiring evening marking 20 years of extraordinary student success, innovation, and opportunity. Rooted in our mission to prepare a diverse population of students for life by developing their mind, body, and character, this milestone gala honors the belief that drives everything we do: all students can succeed—no exceptions, no excuses.

This inaugural signature event celebrates the legacy of our founder, Keith King, whose vision redefined what is possible when rigorous academics, character development, and community partnership come together. Through compelling storytelling, music, and immersive production, the evening will reflect CEC’s journey—honoring our past impact, celebrating our present achievements, and looking confidently toward a future shaped by growth mindset and limitless potential.

Designed as both a celebration and a connection point, the black‑tie‑optional gala will bring together educators, alumni, community leaders, partners, and supporters for an evening of reflection, recognition, and forward‑looking inspiration. Guests will enjoy a welcome reception, seated dinner, and an engaging formal program, followed by dessert, dancing, and celebration. Together, we will reflect on two decades of opening doors to college degrees, certifications, and real opportunities for students across Colorado—and look ahead to the next chapter of student‑centered innovation.

About This Event

Celebrating Twenty Years of Student‑Centered Innovation

Join Colorado Early Colleges for an inspiring evening marking 20 years of extraordinary student success, innovation, and opportunity. Rooted in our mission to prepare a diverse population of students for life by developing their mind, body, and character, this milestone gala honors the belief that drives everything we do: all students can succeed—no exceptions, no excuses.

This inaugural signature event celebrates the legacy of our founder, Keith King, whose vision redefined what is possible when rigorous academics, character development, and community partnership come together. Through compelling storytelling, music, and immersive production, the evening will reflect CEC’s journey—honoring our past impact, celebrating our present achievements, and looking confidently toward a future shaped by growth mindset and limitless potential.

Designed as both a celebration and a connection point, the black‑tie‑optional gala will bring together educators, alumni, community leaders, partners, and supporters for an evening of reflection, recognition, and forward‑looking inspiration. Guests will enjoy a welcome reception, seated dinner, and an engaging formal program, followed by dessert, dancing, and celebration. Together, we will reflect on two decades of opening doors to college degrees, certifications, and real opportunities for students across Colorado—and look ahead to the next chapter of student‑centered innovation.

Contact Us

For additional information regarding sponsorships, please contact Melissa Talan at melissa.talan@coloradoearlycolleges.org.

If you would like to donate to our online silent auction, please contact Lindsey Thrasher at lindsey.thrasher@coloradoearlycolleges.org

For general event questions, please contact Angela Cable at angela.cable@coloradoearlycolleges.org

Refund Policy & Attendance
All ticket purchases, donations, and sponsorship contributions are non‑refundable. If you are unable to attend or will have an unfilled seat, please notify us in advance so we can best accommodate guest seating and event planning.

Join the Silent Auction

Interested in donating or bidding for the CEC 20th Anniversary Silent Auction?

Visit the Silent Auction Site for more information!

CEC 20th Anniversary Store

Would you like to purchase CEC branded items or items celebrating CEC 20th Anniversary?

Visit the CEC 20th Anniversary Store!

A portion of all proceeds benefit fundraising for the 20th Anniversary Gala.

Coming Soon! 

Getting There

Wings Over the Rockies Exploration of Flight - Blue Sky Gallery
13005 Wings Way
Centennial, CO 80112

Hotel Accommodations

Hotel accommodations are not included with event registration. Guests traveling from outside the area are encouraged to make lodging arrangements at a nearby hotel of their choice. The following hotels and information are provided for your convenience.

PARTNER HOTEL

Four Points by Sheraton Englewood Centennial Airport is a preferred partner hotel for Wings Over the Rockies. Visit the link and check availability for negotiated rates valid October 23-25. (Make sure to scroll down on the page to check availability.)

 

Please note: Colorado Early Colleges does not endorse or manage third‑party hotel bookings.

Thank you to our 20th Anniversary Gala Sponsors!

Click "Explore Sponsorships" above to sponsor the event and be featured here!

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Table Sponsor

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Hosted Table Sponsor

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Thank you to our CEC 20th Anniversary Gala Event Vendors!

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Wings Over the Rockies 

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Catering by Design 

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https://www.peakbev.com/event-types/

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www.fastlaneproductions.com