Daniel L. Ritchie

Daniel L. Ritchie (September 19, 1931 – January 30, 2025) was an American businessman who served as the Chancellor of the University of Denver and as a CEO of major communication corporations.

Background Ritchie was born on September 19, 1931, in China Grove. He attended Harvard University where he earned a bachelor's and master's degree in Business Administration from Harvard Business School. After graduating from Harvard, he briefly served in the Army and worked as a securities analyst in New York.

Career Early career Ritchie moved to Colorado to manage Columbia Savings and Loan in the 1960s.

University of Denver Ritchie became involved when the University of Denver faced financial strain due to a local economic downturn in the 1980s. In an interview, Ritchie recalled borrowing money to cover payroll, emphasizing the uncertain financial situation of the university at the time. During his tenure, the University emphasized the teaching of ethics, and Ritchie collaborated with Bill Daniels to incorporate ethics, values, and social responsibility into the business school curriculum. The Cherrington Global Scholars initiative expanded study abroad opportunities for students, and the International Human Rights Advocacy Center was established. He served as the Chancellor for 15 years from 1989 to 2005. houses the 17 Division 1 University of Denver varsity sports programs and the Coors Fitness Center.

The Ritchie Center includes: A work out area A squash court and two racquetball courts Seven personal training studios Six outdoor lighted tennis courts A two-story climbing wall An Olympic-size pool

Chairman of the Board: University of Denver After serving as the Chancellor of the University for 15 years, Ritchie stepped down. He continued to be involved in the University by becoming chairman of the Board of Trustees from 2007 to 2009.

Denver Center for the Performing Arts Ritchie had an interest in the performing arts and supported the building of the Newman Center for the Performing Arts on the University of Denver's campus. He increased his involvement with the Denver Center for Performing Arts in January 2007, becoming chairman and CEO, succeeding Donald R. Seawell, who founded The Denver Center in 1972. Ritchie also served as chair of the Education Committee of the National Park System Advisory Board. Honorary Professor at Bundelkhand University, Jhansi, India (2000) Tourism Hall of Fame Inductee (2005) Ethical Leadership Award from the University of Denver