Chris DeRose: A Founding Voice at Mile High 360
Planting the Seeds
Chris DeRose is a Denver native with a master’s degree in American history and has a long-standing commitment to education and community. Right from the first day I met her, Chris’s devoted passion for these crucial life elements was exuberantly evident in how she expressed herself. What stood out, even more, was her unwavering dedication to supporting first-generation college students and her commitment to educational equity.
"I had people who pushed me [towards furthering my education]," she reflects, "and I’m just not so sure that’s the case today.”
A Club and a Cause
Mile High 360’s roots trace back to the Denver Athletic Club (DAC), where Chris served as Board President in 2005–06. With a deep comprehension of how positively higher education impacted her life, Chris and others saw an opportunity to create a space that reflected access and equity. In 2008, the team launched what would eventually become the Mile High 360, drawing inspiration from programs on the East Coast while modifying them to address the needs of DPS students.
The early days were modest—just a few board members, a small student cohort from Bryant Webster Elementary School (where Chris’s father once studied), and a vision for something more. Chris continued to serve as an original board member through 2017.
Pierre(left) and his wife, Jessica, Mario, Donna, Ava, Maralyn, Chris, Cath, Emily, & Eric
Growing Up and Moving On
After the first Executive Director stepped down, Chris encouraged MH360 to hire Eric Eiteljorg—initially as an interim director in 2011, then permanently—to usher in a new chapter. The team eventually outgrew the DAC, with COVID-19 accelerating their move in 2020. Reflecting on that transition, Chris notes, “It forced us to grow up. And that was a good thing," she emphatically added.
As of today, Mile High 360 supports 130 middle, high, and college students, and operates on a $1.7 million budget. Student programs encompass comprehensive academic support (SAT Prep, study skills, college scholarships, etc), health & wellness programming (cycling, cooking, and sports nutrition classes, mental health sessions with on-site mental health specialists), and life skills (sustainability and organic growing service learning trips, community service, networking events, etc.) and mentorship programming (building new relationships, broadening their perspective, resume building, internships, etc.). Furthermore, the organization intentionally works with the students' parents to ensure long-lasting outcomes comprising independence, choice, a sense of belonging, agency, and freedom. None of this would have been possible had Mile High 360 continued operating out of the DAC!
Chris (left) with other MH360 supporters at the 360 Summit Challenge Party
Learning from the Work
For Chris, mentoring students wasn’t just about giving back—it was about growth. One story stands out: after winning a Thanksgiving squash tournament, she brought the prize, a turkey, to the home of a student she mentored. Her gesture, though well-meaning, wasn’t received as she expected. The student’s father felt disrespected—something Chris hadn’t anticipated. “I should’ve asked first,” she says. The experience became a turning point, deepening her understanding of cultural humility and boundaries.
“It taught me to honor people where they are and to stop assuming.”
This lesson was eye-opening, and thankfully, it didn't deter her from embracing deep relationships. She attended birthdays, dinners, and quinceañeras. She got to know the parents, not just the participants. Years later, seeing students like Emily thriving—juggling college, motherhood, and academic success—reminds her what this work is all about.
"Christine DeRose was my mentor for many, many years. She was a big part and played a very important role in my support system all throughout my time in MH360. She was always giving me advice and pushing me to do my best. At my lowest points, she was also there for me. One thing I remember is that I enjoyed spending the night over at her house. She would even let me invite a few of my friends to sleep over. We would always go out to have lunch and talk about all the things going on in my life. I remember always thinking, “When I grow up, I want to be just like her.” She was one of the people I looked up to! I love her so much for being that role model and showing me such genuine love." - Emily Garcia
Looking Back, Looking Ahead, & Much Gratitude
From a few students in a club basement to a robust program that spans academics, wellness, mentoring, and college readiness, Chris has witnessed Mile High 360 evolve beyond her early dreams.
“It’s amazing,” she says. “I’ve seen dreams come true. I’ve seen kids graduate from college. I’ve seen kids find their way.”
Her legacy lives in Mile High 360’s origin story and its everyday impact—the small moments, the lessons learned, and the students whose lives were forever changed.
I, Vongai Chokuda, an African woman raised in an economically decimated country, am incredibly grateful to have met Chris. Education has undoubtedly altered my life's trajectory, and it is because of people like Chris that I am where I am.
Chris, thank you for planting the seeds, nurturing the vision, and walking alongside Mile High 360 every step of the way. Your heart, humility, and unwavering belief in the potential of young people helped lay the foundation for a program that continues to transform lives. We are better because of your presence, leadership, and love.
Chris, from the entire Mile High 360 community—thank you!
