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After 35 years of service to CU Denver and the School of Education & Human Development (SEHD), Ritu Chopra (PhD ‘02) is closing a remarkable chapter—one defined by vision, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to inclusionary excellence.

Chopra’s journey began long before she stepped onto campus in 1990. Raised in a family of educators in India, she learned early that “education and character are two things nobody can take away from you.” That belief carried her across continents and through challenges as she built a career that transformed how schools support students with disabilities.

Chopra with her mom at her PhD graduation in 2002

“When I first came to CU Denver, our school’s PhD program didn’t even exist,” Chopra recalls. “I started as a graduate assistant at The PAR²A Center —short for Paraprofessional Research and Resource Center— and now, three decades later, I’m retiring as executive director of the center after 18 years in this position.”

The PAR²A Center became Chopra’s professional home and the platform for her life’s work. Its projects strengthened early childhood education, improved inclusive practices, and created pathways for paraeducators to become teachers.

Her impact reaches far beyond Colorado. Chopra spearheaded the development of paraeducator training programs and supervision models now used nationally and internationally. Under her leadership, the Center sustained its longstanding record of 100% external funding and broadened its impact. Over the years, Chopra served as principal investigator and project director on more than $39 million in federal and state-funded grants and contracts—some of the largest awards ever received by the school.

Chopra and SEHD colleagues at a 2022 celebration for a new federal grant.

A Strong Advocate for Paraeducators

Chopra’s advocacy for paraeducators—a group often overlooked in education—has been central to her mission. “Paraeducators are the backbone of special education programs and the bridges that make true inclusion possible,” she emphasizes. Her efforts have elevated their role, ensuring they receive the training and respect they deserve while helping teachers learn how to supervise and collaborate effectively.

Her leadership also advanced SEHD’s commitment to diversity and equity. Through her center's paraeducator-to-teacher projects and being part of the leadership team of the SEHD's Teacher Quality Partnership grants such as NxtGEN, Chopra helped diversify Colorado’s educator workforce and expand access to high-quality preparation for teachers and paraeducators alike.

Chopra accepting the 2013 Teacher Educator Award of the Council of Exceptional Children (CEC) from CEC President, Christy Chambers, EdD, and Robin Brewer, EdD, CEC President Elect

Honors and Highlights

Chopra’s contributions have earned widespread recognition, including the Sue Stuska Award from the School Paraeducator Association of Colorado and the national Excellence in Teacher Educator Award from the Teacher Education Division of the Council for Exceptional Children. Yet, for her, the most rewarding moments are personal: meeting former paraeducators who became teachers through her programs and hearing how professional development changed lives. “Seeing that growth and knowing we helped build capacity that directly benefits students has been incredibly fulfilling,” she says.

“Dream big, trust your instincts, and never compromise on what you believe in,” she says when asked what advice she’d give her younger self.

Looking Ahead

Although officially retiring, Chopra isn’t stepping away entirely. She will return in a limited role to support the transition of PAR²A Center activities into SEHD’s Continuing and Professional Education programs. Beyond that, she looks forward to family time, travel, gardening, and perhaps writing a book with colleagues.

Chopra collaborates with Ashley Simpson, EdD, Education Program chair at Aurora Community College

A Lasting Legacy

From her first days as a graduate assistant to her role as executive director, Chopra has exemplified resilience and innovation. CU Denver was, in her words, “the foundation of my entire professional life in the U.S. It truly became my second home.”

Dean Marvin Lynn expressed deep gratitude for Chopra’s service: “Ritu Chopra’s leadership has had a transformative impact on our school and on inclusive education across the nation. Her dedication to paraeducator development and equity has strengthened the education workforce in ways that will resonate for generations. We are profoundly thankful for her vision and her tireless commitment.”

As she turns the page, one thing is clear: the story of Chopra is not just about a career—it’s about creating bridges where they didn’t exist and opening doors for countless educators and students. Her legacy reminds us that inclusion isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Thanks to her, that journey is stronger.

Here’s to the next chapter, Ritu Chopra, PhD! May it be as bold and inspiring as the many publications you have written during your career.