Fostering Access, Value, and Purpose in Higher Education with Dr. Angie Paccione

In this episode of Signals, Laura Glaab sits down with Dr. Angie Paccione, Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Higher Education, for a conversation about leadership, opportunity, and the evolving value of higher education. From her groundbreaking path as the first African American woman to receive a full-ride basketball scholarship at Stanford, to teaching, coaching, serving in the state legislature, and ultimately shaping Colorado’s higher ed policy, Dr. Paccione’s story is as inspiring as it is wide-ranging. She shares the bold initiatives Colorado has launched—from awarding associate degrees retroactively to expanding tuition support for foster and homeless youth—while unpacking the uncertainty of higher education funding and the growing focus on workforce value and outcomes.

Beyond policy, Dr. Paccione reflects on the personal lessons that shaped her journey, from navigating college on a shoestring budget to defining leadership through service and the activation of human potential. With her signature energy and candor, she discusses how experiences, values, and passion intersect to drive both personal growth and systemic change. Listeners will also hear her powerful perspective on Title IX, equity in education, and why she believes every student carries “stored greatness” just waiting to be activated.

Key Moments

03:31 Colorado's New College Credit Initiative

07:05 Evaluating Credentials' Workforce Value

11:54 Expanding College Access and Success

14:46 "Title IX Opened Doors in 1978"

16:50 College Life Financial Challenges

22:35 Journey to Educational Leadership

26:12 Unexpected Candidacy Announcement

27:27 Activating Stored Human Potential

31:29 "Legacy of Strong Women"

33:48 Future Plans Beyond Politics

38:19 "Align Passion, Purpose, Values, Skills"

39:44 "Team Loyalty and Commitment"

Why You’ll Love This Episode

This is a conversation that blends heart and policy, vision and pragmatism. If you care about higher education, equity, or leadership, you’ll be inspired by Dr. Angie Paccione’s relentless commitment to student success and her belief in creating conditions that help people thrive. You’ll walk away with not just a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in higher ed today, but also timeless lessons on resilience, purpose, and activating potential in yourself and others.

Connect with Dr. Angie Paccione

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angiepaccione

Follow Us On

Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-glaab 

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kyronlearning/ 

Company Website: https://www.kyronlearning.com/ 

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