What has been a defining moment in your leadership journey, and how did it shape you?
A defining moment in my leadership journey was my decision to step out of the corporate healthcare world and into nonprofit leadership. After years leading complex operational strategy, mergers, and expansion initiatives, I felt called to apply those same skills in service of economic equity and community impact. The transition required courage, moving from well-established systems into a space where resources are leaner and the work is deeply mission-driven. That shift reshaped me as a leader. It reinforced that operational excellence and heart-centered leadership are not separate disciplines. In fact, nonprofits need strong business discipline just as much as corporations need purpose. Stepping into the CEO role at the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce affirmed that my work is not only about driving growth, it’s about building systems where women and communities can thrive.
How did your Leadership Fellows experience shift your perspective on leadership and prepare you for stepping into bigger roles?
Leadership Fellows in 2023 reminded me that leadership in Colorado is deeply interconnected. The program pushed me beyond my sector and into conversations with leaders whose experiences and viewpoints challenged and sharpened my own. It reinforced that leadership isn’t about having all the answers, but it’s about convening the right voices and building alignment around shared goals. That perspective has been invaluable as I step into larger civic and business leadership roles where collaboration across industries is critical.
What’s a lesson you’ve learned as a leader that you wish more people talked about openly?
Leadership can be lonely, and that’s normal. We don’t talk enough about the emotional weight that comes with responsibility. There are moments when you are the decision-maker, the stabilizer, and the vision-holder all at once. I’ve learned that building a trusted circle and investing in personal resilience is just as important as building strategy. Vulnerability and strength are not opposites; they coexist in effective leadership.
How do you see civic and business leadership evolving in Denver, and what gives you hope?
Denver’s leadership landscape is becoming more inclusive, more cross-sector, and more community-driven. We are seeing business leaders understand that economic growth and equity must move in tandem. What gives me hope is the next generation, especially the young leaders I work with, who already expect inclusive systems and shared accountability. They are not waiting for permission to lead differently. That expectation is powerful.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Trust your voice earlier. There were moments early in my career when I waited to feel fully “ready” before stepping forward. Growth rarely feels comfortable. I would tell my younger self to embrace the stretch, seek mentors boldly, travel often, and remember that leadership is a journey, not a title.
