Our New Executive Director: Justin Levy

The Center for Health and Hope is delighted to announce that Justin Levy has been selected as the next Executive Director to replace Dr. Don Messer.  

He officially begins as Executive Director on Monday, October 28. In September and October, he will be working part-time as Assistant Director, to address the multiple tasks of transition. 

Levy, selected unanimously after a nationwide search, currently serves as Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications at the University of Denver Newman Center for the Performing Arts, where he specialized in strategic communications and community partnerships.

Ruth Ann Russell Honored with Paul & Paula Murphy Human Sexuality Award

Ruth Ann Russell, Denver, will receive the 2024 Paul and Paula Murphy Human Sexuality Award from the Board of Directors of the Center for Health and Hope. The honor will be bestowed at the annual Gathering to H.E.A.L. (Helping End AIDS in our Lifetime) Breakfast at Hope United Methodist Church, Greenwood Village, on Saturday, September 28, 2024.

The Murphy Award is designated for a "pastor or layperson" who has advanced the discussion of human sexuality and/or human rights within a religious organization.'' It recognizes the pioneering human rights work within church and society of the late Rev. Paul and Dr. Paula Murphy, founding members of the Center’s Board.

“Russell epitomizes how human rights advocacy and acceptance can become normative in daily living,” noted Dr. Donald E. Messer, Center Executive Director. “Whether focused on the stigmatized of Africa or America, she speaks forthrightly and acts affirmatively.”

"When Don told me about the award, I was speechless," said Ruth Ann. "I was so very surprised and honored and grateful. I loved and admired Paula and Paul Murphy so this deeply impacts me to receive this award. I have volunteered for the Center for Health and Hope for many years and so respect and admire the work done by the Center."