Mayor Yemi honors Dr. Wendy Birhanzel with Spirit of Colorado Springs Inspiration Award

Mayor Yemi Mobolade presented Harrison School District 2 Superintendent Dr. Wendy Birhanzel with the Mayor's Spirit of Colorado Springs Inspiration Award, recognizing her enduring leadership in public education and commitment to students and families in Colorado Springs.

The surprise presentation took place during a Harrison School District 2 Board of Education meeting on Thursday.

"Dr. Wendy Birhanzel has dedicated her life to our students and our next generation of world-changers, consistently putting students at the center of her leadership and opening doors to opportunity," said Mayor Yemi Mobolade. "Her legacy will be measured by the students who discovered what was possible and the educators who became better because she believed in them. Colorado Springs is better because of her service."

Dr. Birhanzel has dedicated nearly three decades to public education, including seventeen years serving Harrison School District 2. Under her leadership, Harrison students have gained greater access to opportunities including college and technology programs, athletics and activities, tutoring, and before- and after-school care. She has also worked with community partners to help address needs facing students and families beyond the classroom.

Her leadership has earned state and national recognition. Birhanzel was named Colorado's 2023 Superintendent of the Year and received the American Association of School Administrators' 2025 Women in School Leadership Award in the Superintendent category.

Thursday's recognition also marked a connection between Birhanzel and Mobolade that stretches back more than a decade. Both were members of the inaugural class of Mayor's Young Leader Award recipients in 2015.

"Dr. Birhanzel leads with a deep belief that every student deserves to be seen, heard and given every opportunity to succeed," said Michelle Wills-Hill, president of the Harrison School District 2 Board of Education. "She has built strong relationships across our schools and our community, always looking for ways to remove barriers and create opportunities for students and families. We are incredibly fortunate to have her leading D2, and it is wonderful to see her recognized for the difference she has made in our district and across Colorado Springs."

The Mayor's Spirit of the Springs awards recognize individuals and organizations that exemplify the spirit of Colorado Springs through leadership and service to the community.