Last week, the Denver Public Schools (DPS) Foundation celebrated a historic milestone at the Achieve Gala 2026:“A Community of Possibility: In School and Beyond.” For the first time since before the pandemic, the organization surpassed $1 million raised in a single night and welcomed a record-breaking crowd of over 1,000 attendees to downtown Denver.
The energy in the room translated into direct action, with a nearly 10% increase in guests raising their paddles compared to last year. These funds will fuel critical initiatives, including afterschool programs, classroom grants, workforce development, and community hubs that support students, educators and families across the district.
The program was led by student emcees Maggie and Diego, seniors at George Washington High School. Throughout the evening, the stage featured the diverse talents of DPS students, including:
- The Montbello High School drumline and Skinner Middle School Choir.
- The George Washington High School Elite Patriot Dance Team.
- The Orchestra Academy and Bryant-Webster School’s mariachi band.
- A selection from Suffs: The Musical performed by North High School students.
“In moments that feel hopeless, I look at our students and I am immediately recharged,” said Sara Hazel, President & CEO of the DPS Foundation. “Hearing the impact students like Diego and Maggie are already having on the world gives me that hope. Every student tonight gives me hope.”
Student speakers Daniela and Veronika grounded the evening in the DPS Foundation’s mission, sharing how access to technology, afterschool clubs, and workforce development has shaped their futures. This sentiment was echoed in a featured video telling the story of Mo, a student whose journey was transformed through the Student Grantmaking Program.
The DPS Foundation also honored four champions of education with the Achieve Gala 2026 Awards:
- Achieve Award: Denver Broncos Foundation
- DPS Alumni Award: Victoria Scott-Haynes
- Community Partner Award: Gary Community Ventures
- DPS Educator Award: Dre Calloway (John F. Kennedy High School)
The success of the Achieve Gala 2026 was made possible by the unwavering support of our community and our sponsors. We extend a special thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Chevron, Reception Sponsor United Airlines, Exclusive Sponsors: Adolfson & Peterson, The Anschutz Foundation, Davita, Denver7, First Bank (now a part of PNC), Jansport / The VF Foundation, Kaiser Permanente, The One Group, Polsinelli, Suncor, and US. Engineering. A big thank you to our dedicated Gala Co-Chairs as well Amanda & Steve Gurr and Beth & Tyler Loy.
About the 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.
