Curated News
By: NewsRamp Editorial Staff
July 10, 2025

Colorado FIRST Mourns Loss of STEM Advocate Tony English, Welcomes Debbie English as New Leader

TLDR

  • Tony English's legacy with Colorado FIRST offers a blueprint for leveraging STEM education to build a competitive edge in future technology and engineering fields.
  • Colorado FIRST's programs, under Tony English's guidance, systematically nurture STEM skills through mentor-based robotics, from FIRST LEGO League to FIRST Robotics Competition.
  • Tony English's work with Colorado FIRST has created a lasting impact, inspiring students to pursue STEM and making the world a better place through education.
  • Tony English transformed a family LEGO team into a legacy, inspiring over 150 students towards STEM careers with Colorado FIRST's innovative programs.

Impact - Why it Matters

The passing of Tony English and the subsequent leadership transition at Colorado FIRST underscore the critical importance of STEM education and mentorship in shaping future innovators. Tony's legacy and Debbie's appointment highlight the ongoing need for dedicated individuals to inspire and guide young minds in science and technology. This news matters because it reflects the broader societal impact of STEM education programs in preparing students for the challenges of tomorrow, ensuring a continuous pipeline of skilled professionals in these vital fields.

Summary

The Colorado FIRST community mourns the loss of Tony English, a revered Board Director and Executive Director, whose dedication to STEM education and mentorship left an indelible mark on students and colleagues alike. Tony's journey with Colorado FIRST began in 2006, leading to the creation of Team 4499 'The Highlanders', a FIRST® Robotics Competition team that has influenced over 150 students towards STEM careers. His contributions were nationally recognized in 2015 with the Woody Flowers Finalist Award. Following his passing, Debbie English, his wife and a long-standing advocate for STEM education, has been appointed to continue his legacy as the new Executive Director and Board Member of Colorado FIRST. This transition ensures the continuity of Tony's vision to expand STEM opportunities for Colorado's youth.

Colorado FIRST, a nonprofit organization, plays a pivotal role in inspiring the next generation of science and technology leaders through its mentor-based robotics programs. These programs, including FIRST® LEGO® League and FIRST® Robotics Competition, are designed to foster STEM skills, teamwork, and confidence among students aged 4 to 18. The organization's commitment to connecting students with real-world challenges and industry mentors underscores its mission to cultivate innovators and problem-solvers. The leadership transition from Tony to Debbie English symbolizes a seamless continuation of this mission, ensuring that Tony's passion for STEM education and his impact on the community will endure.

Source Statement

This curated news summary relied on content disributed by 24-7 Press Release. Read the original source here, Colorado FIRST Mourns Loss of STEM Advocate Tony English, Welcomes Debbie English as New Leader

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