Kourtny Garrett and Adeeb Khan named co-chairs for DPS Foundation’s annual fundraising celebration on April 17, 2025
DENVER (February 24, 2025) — The Denver Public Schools Foundation (DPS Foundation) is proud to announce the co-chairs for the Achieve Gala 2025, an annual event celebrating and uplifting the students, educators and programs shaping the future of public education in Denver. Kourtny Garrett, President & CEO of the Downtown Denver Partnership, and Adeeb Khan, Executive Director of Denver Economic Development and Opportunity, will lead the charge in bringing the community together to support and invest in the students of Denver Public Schools (DPS).
Garrett, a nationally recognized leader in urban development and education advocacy, has spent her career driving transformational initiatives. Before leading the Downtown Denver Partnership, she played a pivotal role in establishing Downtown Dallas’ first public elementary school in collaboration with Dallas ISD and has championed efforts to create equitable opportunities for urban communities. A DPS parent, Garrett is passionate about the role public schools play in fostering opportunity and shaping Denver’s future.
“As a proud DPS parent and a firm believer in the power of public education, I am honored to serve as a co-chair for this year’s Achieve Gala. Providing choice for high quality education for every family is fundamental to any great city – and great schools support the growth of local talent, connection for our communities, and enriched lives for our youth,” said Garrett. “The Achieve Gala is a celebration of the incredible students, educators, and programs that make DPS a strong foundation for our city. I look forward to joining our community in supporting DPS and ensuring that every student has access to the education and opportunities they deserve.”
Khan, a longtime advocate for economic mobility and educational access, brings deep experience across the nonprofit, corporate, and public sectors. In his role as Executive Director of Denver Economic Development and Opportunity, he works to advance economic prosperity and support workforce development across the city. Khan, also a DPS parent, has been named Community Change-maker of the Year by Colorado Youth for a Change and was appointed by Governor Polis to serve on the Early Childhood Leadership Commission.
“Public education is the foundation of a thriving city. As a DPS parent, I see firsthand the incredible potential within our schools. I truly believe DPS is the future of our city, and we must invest in that future to ensure the long-term prosperity of Denver residents,” said Khan. “The Achieve Gala highlights some of the best and brightest of the next generation, and it’s inspiring to see their passion and talent. This event allows us to step up and support our public schools, which serve as vital community hubs.”
The Achieve Gala 2025 will be an inspiring evening celebrating DPS students as they showcase their talents, share lessons learned, and highlight their journey toward becoming future leaders. The event takes place on Thursday, April 17, 2025. Sponsorship opportunities are now available and tickets will be available soon. To learn more about the event visit dpsfoundation.org/achieve.
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About Denver Public Schools Foundation:
Committed to realizing every student’s potential, Denver Public Schools Foundation removes barriers, provides support, and unlocks opportunities in the classroom and beyond. DPS Foundation helps ensure that investments in our public schools are directed in the most effective, impactful and lasting way. Denver Public Schools Foundation believes when all students have the opportunity to develop their talents and become engaged and contributing members of our community, our society thrives. Learn more at dpsfoundation.org.
