The efforts I lead focus on strengthening EDUCATE as an organization, from building a high-performing team to securing resources and funding to support our programs. Additionally, I serve as a key advocate for educational equity, representing EDUCATE in public forums and building relationships with stakeholders to amplify our mission. By fostering collaboration and innovation, I strive to create opportunities for students and educators to thrive in a dynamic and ever-evolving learning environment.
Organizational Development and Advocacy
As the CEO of EDUCATE, I am responsible for defining and driving the organization's vision, ensuring our initiatives align with our mission to empower educators and learners. I oversee strategic planning, foster partnerships, and ensure our programs evolve to meet the changing needs of the education landscape. My leadership focuses on creating innovative solutions and sustainable growth to expand our reach and impact.
Vision and Leadership
Background
Dana was raised in Pueblo County, where some of her fondest memories involve spending time on her grandparents' farm and ranch. The farmwork lifestyle instilled in her the values of collaboration, innovation, and integrity. As a first-generation college student, Dana earned her professional teaching license, counseling license, and doctorate in leadership and human relations through hard work and dedication.
“My background helps me bridge the gap between learning and professional practice, ensuring that future graduates are not only technically proficient but also adaptable and ethical leaders,” Dana explains. “Bringing this mindset to Microschooling practices means helping prepare the next generation of leaders to face the challenges of a constantly evolving world.”
These experiences shaped her belief in building strong, trusting relationships. As the CSU Pueblo Digital Equity Director and CEO of EDUCATE Microschool Managing Organization, Dana serves on the UCCS Women's Leadership Advisory Committee and the COCPA State Board of Directors. Recently, she was nominated to receive an Outstanding Woman Award by the Pueblo Library Foundation; Dana focuses on using business to create positive change. She is proud to lead efforts that have helped thousands of students and disrupted the cycle of high school dropouts, providing life-changing opportunities that impact families and communities.
As talent pipeline challenges continue to be a key concern in the profession, K-16 educator Dana Lambert, Ph.D., LPC, LPT, offers a fresh perspective to the COCPA Board. She brings her extensive experience in education, communication, and workforce development.
Dana believes that adaptability and a commitment to lifelong learning are essential in any profession, accounting included. “This generation of students needs more than just technical skills to succeed in today’s rapidly changing landscape,” she says. She emphasizes key skills in a digital, automated environment, students need to be equipped wit6h technology proficiency, critical thinking problem-solving, ethical decision-making, communication and interpersonal skills, adaptability, and continuous learning.
“I believe in the power of collaboration,” Dana says. “I was raised to embrace teamwork, knowing we’re stronger and more effective together than apart. Plus, teamwork makes the experience more rewarding and enjoyable.”
At the heart of everything, Dana’s most incredible pride comes from her family. She has been married to her high school sweetheart, and together, they have three wonderful children and a large, close-knit extended family. She feels truly blessed.