Elizabeth C. Johnson
Education & Projects Manager
Elizabeth Cychosz Johnson supports the development of new Mizel Institute educational initiatives, updates existing programming, and assists in the implementation of both digital and in-person programs. She holds an M.A. in Peace and Justice Studies from the University of San Diego, a B.A. in both Anthropology and Journalism from Ohio University and is a Certified Associate in Project Management with the Project Management Institute.
Jacqueline Graham
Writing & Communications Specialist
Jacqueline Graham joined the Mizel Institute in 2022 to support the marketing team. She is an extremely passionate writer who believes in telling stories that empower the community. She holds an MA in Writing from Edinburgh Napier University and a BA in English Literature and Political Science from Denison University.
Leslie Hamdorf
Manager of Curriculum & Instruction
Leslie Hamdorf joined the team in 2023 and supports the educational programs of the organization. Leslie earned her Doctorate in Education from Fielding Graduate University in Educational Leadership and Change and a special focus on her educational theory, Action Leadership for Adolescents. Leslie brings experience in implementing various cross-cultural programs, management of K-12 educational programming, and service work with AmeriCorps to the Mizel Institute team.
Libby Hodgin
Associate Communications Manager
Libby plans, develops, and implements marketing and communications strategies. She joined the organization in 2024 and has a proven track record of making meaningful contributions to the nonprofit sector through marketing, project management, graphic design, and events. Libby holds an M.S. in Applied Economics from Oregon State University, a B.S. in Economics from Washington State University (GO COUGS!), a certificate in graphic design from Bellevue College, and a certificate in project management from Cornell University.
Becci Jacobs
Education & Outreach Specialist
Becci Jacobs, MSW joined the team in 2022 and supports the development, implementation, and evaluation of the organization’s educational programs. Becci earned her Masters in Social Work from the University of Denver with a specialization in Children and Youth: Risks and Healthy Development. Becci brings her experiences in nonprofit management, mental health, K-12 education, and community engagement to the Mizel Institute team to ensure we are meeting the needs of students, stakeholders, and partners.
Samantha Jones
Database & Administrative Coordinator
Samantha Jones joined the Mizel Institute in 2021 as the Database & Administrative Coordinator. Samantha believes that accurate data collection and efficient coordination are critical to assisting the organization in fulfilling its goal of developing more educated, conscientious, and empowered communities. In addition to data analytics, she also supports fundraising efforts and donor communications. Samantha holds a BA in English Literature Research from Colorado Christian University in Lakewood, CO.
Caitlyn Lauchner
Education & Outreach Coordinator
Caitlyn Lauchner joined the Mizel Institute in 2023 and supports the development and implementation of the organization’s educational programming, as well as assists with school and community partner outreach. She earned her B.A. in Religious Studies from Linfield University and her M.A. in Peace and Justice from the University of San Diego Kroc School. Caitlyn brings experience in educational programming, community engagement, and research to support the Mizel Institute’s efforts.
Rudolf Leyba
Education & Special Projects Coordinator
Rudolf is responsible for assisting with research, development, and implementation of new and existing programs across the organization. Rudolf received his M.A in International Security from the Josef Korbel School of International Studies at the University of Denver and a B.A. in Political Science from the University of New Mexico.
Samantha Neville
Database & Administrative Associate
Samantha has worked for the Mizel Institute since 2022. She is involved with the database management and administration of programs and events for the museum. She graduated with a B.A. in History from Brigham Young University.
Magdalena Perez
Education & Special Projects Coordinator
Magdalena Perez recently joined the Mizel Institute and is a part of the education team that delivers impactful messages to all ages and communities. She holds an M.A. in International Security specializing in human security and human rights from the Josef Korbel School of International Studies, University of Denver. Magdalena also holds a B.A. in International Studies and Italian from the University of Denver.
Megan Robbins
Education & Special Projects Specialist
Meg Robbins is an Education and Special Project Coordinator for the Mizel Institute. She is proud to have joined the Institute in November 2019. As part of the educational team, Meg is responsible for providing programming opportunities for elementary and high school aged students, developing engaging curriculum, and building partnerships with fellow educators across the front range. She is passionate about contributing to the museum’s mission of celebrating diversity, spreading messages of equality and equity, and combating hatred in all its forms.
Andy Stanley
Database & Administrative Associate
Andy helps ensure the organization is operating at its best. He has been with the team since 2023. Andy has a passion for helping others and a drive to make change a reality through his roles in the financial, service, and nonprofit sectors. Taking the skills and knowledge gained from his experiences, Andy hopes to help improve the lives of those in his community.
Bailey Yamshak
Special Projects Coordinator
Bailey Yamshak joined the Mizel Institute in 2022 and is responsible for coordinating a wide variety of events for the CELL, including the CAP and various community events. She recently earned her M.A. in International Security from the University of Denver, specializing in Intelligence and Counterterrorism. Bailey also holds a B.A. in both Criminal Sociology and Psychology from Auburn University. She has been working in the security and public safety fields for 7 years.
Hannah Haebig
Special Projects Intern
Hannah supports all areas of the organization, joining the team in 2024. She is a first-year graduate student at the Josef Korbel School of International Studies, University of Denver. Hannah is working on her Master’s in International Studies, focusing on conflict in the Middle East.