Becky Updike

Becky Updike, Ph.D., is a Principal at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, a law firm based in the Greater Denver area. She has extensive experience in public policy advocacy and research, particularly in child welfare, early childhood education, and human services. With over 20 years in the field, she has developed skills in coalition building, community relations, legislative analysis, and non-profit management.

Professional Background

• Current Role: Principal at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP since August 2019.
• Previous Experience:
  • Executive Director at the Colorado Association of Family and Children's Agencies (CAFCA) from July 2019 to present, where she advocates for quality care and services for children and families in Colorado.
  • Executive Director at the Rocky Mountain Children's Law Center from April 2016 to July 2019, focusing on legal advocacy for at-risk children.
  • Various roles in government relations and public policy, including positions with the Colorado Judicial Institute and the Indiana Health Care Association.

Education

Becky Updike holds multiple degrees:

• Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Indiana University Bloomington.
• Master's Degree in Child & Family Studies from the University of Denver.
• Ph.D. in Child & Family Policy from the University of Denver, focusing on education, social work, and public policy.

Her work reflects a commitment to improving outcomes for children and families, particularly those affected by trauma and instability.123