DPP President and CEO Elsa Holguín Inducted into Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame

On Friday, March 21, Denver Preschool Program (DPP) President and CEO Elsa Holguín was inducted into Temple de la renommée des femmes du Colorado. 

Founded in 1983, the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame is a volunteer-operated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Denver. The organization is “dedicated to recognizing and preserving the history of the accomplishments of past and present Colorado women.” 

Elsa was among 16 women inducted into the 2024 Hall of Fame class. Inductees are nominated by people in the community and must have strong ties to the state, either through birth, residence, or influence. Nominees must also meet the following criteria: 

• Contributed to her field(s) or specific life focus in notable and lasting ways 
• Lifted up the status of women and helped increase new opportunities for women and others 
• Through her actions and behaviors, served as a role model and inspiration for others, especially girls and women

Elsa joins a distinguished group of trailblazers, including Denver Preschool Program Board Chair Dr. Lydia Prado and Mile High Early Learning founder and DPP Board Emeritus Anna Jo Garcia Haynes, both past inductees. 

An excerpt from her nomination reads: “Elsa has made exceptional strides in early childhood education as President and CEO of Denver Preschool Program. She has pioneered initiatives that have significantly enhanced equitable access and quality of preschool education for countless children in Colorado. Her visionary leadership and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on Colorado’s educational landscape, empowering communities and transforming lives.”

Elsa has been DPP’s President and CEO since 2019 after serving as a senior program officer for Child & Family Development at the Rose Community Foundation for more than 20 years. In addition to her recent honor, Elsa has been honored for her commitment to early childhood education for years, including the following list of accomplishments: 

• Named 2024 Remarkable Woman of Denver 
• 2023 9NEWS Leader of the Year Finalist
• The 10 Most Influential Women Leading the Business in 2023
• MSU Denver Distinguished Alumna of the Year