DCI IN THE GAME

Sessions:
Richmark: Building Greeley’s Future

Sessions:
Colorado Challenge Accelerator Workshop
Community Conversations: A Dinner for Connection, Hosted by Community Heart + Soul

Sessions:
How-To Talk: How to Design a Community Solution in 20 minutes!

Sessions:
Navigating Diverse Funding Streams for Urban Renewal Projects

Sessions:
The Greeley Brownfield Initiative: Removing Challenges for Investment

Sessions:
Strengthening Colorado’s Experience Economy

Bio: Amber dreams of one day growing wings and learning to fly. She is the Founder and Producing Director of Starry Night Productions (formerly Rainbow Militia Circus), and has over 15 years of PR, marketing, donor relations, theater, event planning, and production experience. Her most recent role was working in collaboration with ownership to build the entertainment program from the ground up for the iconic Casa Bonita Denver. Amber has been practicing the aerial arts for over 15 years, with fabric as her favorite apparatus. When not in the air, she also performs as a tarot reader, actor, and public speaker. She has worked all over the U.S. and thrives when she is able to perform with live musicians. One of her favorite collaborations was with Chimney Choir at the Levitt Pavilion in a space-themed circus extravaganza.

Sessions:
Building a BID or DDA: Why, When, and How

Sessions:
Navigating Diverse Funding Streams for Urban Renewal Projects

Bio: Andy is the Founder and Principal of the Pioneer Development Company, and specializes in rural economic development. He has assisted numerous communities and developers throughout Colorado, guiding development from conception to construction. Andy’s work helps bridge the gap between the public and private sectors in order to generate development that is politically, financially and equitably feasible. His work spans the community development spectrum, from strategically targeting federal and state grants, to performing market and feasibility studies, to reviewing developer proformas for funding gaps and matching those with incentives. Andy focuses on public-private partnerships, with a strong emphasis on Urban Renewal Authorities to encourage development with significant community benefits.

Sessions:
Urban Renewal
Land Use Barbie: Breaking Boundaries and Building Community
Unincorporated Commercial, Housing, TOD + Tax Increment Financing

Bio: With a broad command of real estate and land use law, Angela Hygh guides clients through complicated, controversial deals that span the public and private sectors. Her experience includes land use, zoning and entitlements, public finance, urban renewal and general real estate work including development, redevelopment, acquisitions, dispositions. Clients rely on Angela’s insights to get through development and entitlement processes, including board of adjustment, planning and zoning, affordable housing, and historic designation processes. She also performs due diligence for all phases of real estate deals, including title and survey, and is experienced in land use litigation, particularly Rule 106 actions. In the area of urban renewal and public finance, some of Angela’s other notable experience includes guiding clients through the process of the creation of urban renewal authorities, negotiation of tax increment finance sharing, and approval of urban renewal plans.

Sessions:
UNC Campus Bike Tour: Ride the College Vibes

Bio: Anna provides management for a variety of special districts throughout the Denver Metro area throughout for almost 25 years. As a public manager, Anna enjoys board facilitation and planning, organizing, staffing, directing, coordination, reporting, and budgeting. She brings a background of land use planning and project management to help districts realize their fullest potential and enhance quality of life for residents. Technical experience includes: Special district formation and management, Organizational and financial structures, Economic development strategies, and Health and equity in urban development.

Sessions:
How-To Talk: Merchandising to Create the Basket

Bio: In 2006, Anthony Russo was named the General Manager of Trade Development for the WTCA and currently serves as the Director of Trade Services for the World Trade Center. In this role, Russo works with manufacturers to identify gaps in operational processes and assist in the development of a strategy to mitigate risk and reduce both international and domestic costs. He holds a BA in Marketing and M.B.A. from Charleston Southern University.

Sessions:
Lessons from Launching a Grassroots Art Festival

Bio: Armando Silva is a painter, muralist, and performer who uses his artistic superpowers to tell powerful stories, build community, and inspire youth through art. As an artist and creative, Armando has collaborated with a varied roster of business, non-profit, and municipal partners. Previous clients include the Denver Broncos, UCHealth, Pfizer, Target Creative, Colorado Rapids, Modello, Denver Zoo, University of Northern Colorado, and the City of Greeley. Armando's large-scale mural installations give communities a way to tell stories that can't always be said in words. He lives in Greeley, CO and is co-founder and Creative Director of the WeldWalls Mural Festival.

Sessions:
Somewhere you can always go! Greeley’s Great Downtown Journey

Bio: Rebecca Safarik began her employment with the City of Greeley in planning and redevelopment positions and moving to the Director of Community Development. In that role she was responsible for Building Inspections, Code Enforcement, Engineering Development Review, Farmer’s Market, Natural Resources, the Poudre River Trail Corridor, Neighborhood Resources, Historic Preservation, Planning, and Urban Renewal. Appointed to the position of Assistant City Manager in April 2012, she oversaw the Community Development, Economic Health and Housing and Culture, Parks and Recreation departments and was responsible for a range of special and complex planning and construction projects. Ms. Safarik’s community work has included serving as an officer of the Greeley Creative District since its establishment in 2013 and she is co-author of the book Bears in the Backyard, recording and describing the intertwined history and development of the City of Greeley and University of Northern Colorado to modern day.

Sessions:
Next-Gen Downtown Management: The Power of BIDs + DDAs Moving Forward

Bio: Bettina Swigger is CEO of Downtown Boulder Partnership in Boulder, Colorado. Born in raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Bettina has a Bachelor's degree from Colorado College. She has 20 years of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector in Colorado and California. In her spare time, she writes nonfiction, short stories, and poetry.

Sessions:
Welcome to Greeley, Bianca Fisher, Greeley DDA + Greeley Mayor Pro Tem Dale Hall
Next-Gen Downtown Management: The Power of BIDs + DDAs Moving Forward

Bio: Bianca Fisher, Executive Director of the Greeley Downtown Development Authority (DDA), is incredibly passionate about the growth and vitality of downtown and is dedicated to creating a resilient business ecosystem, supporting private development, and promoting meaningful experiences in Downtown Greeley. She has been with the DDA for nearly 15 years and still enjoys the challenges and opportunities that continually present themselves in a growing urban environment. She earned her Master of Public Administration from CU Denver in 2021. In 2022 and 2023, she was named by BizWest as one of 50 most influential business leaders in the region.

Sessions:
Unincorporated Commercial, Housing, TOD + Tax Increment Financing

Sessions:
Colorado Challenge Accelerator Program Workshop
Challenge Place Making Discussion
Challenge Place Activation Discussion

Sessions:
Colorado Challenge Accelerator Workshop

Bio: Blase Leven is the Director of the Center for Hazardous Substance Research, and helps create/coordinate teams of university scientists and engineers, and other partners, to address important technical issues facing our society. From 1997 to 2007 he served as technology transfer and outreach programs manager for the Center, with funding from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This included oversight of the Technical Outreach Services to Superfund and Native American Communities (TOSC and TOSNAC) program, and the Technical Assistance to Brownfields (TAB) programs. Brownfields are distressed, blighted properties with environmental concerns that contribute to the decline of developed and natural areas. He currently oversees several TAB programs, which assist local governments in 21 states, and tribes nationally. Also, from 2007 to 2017 he led technology development and/or environmental evaluation efforts for developing nonlethal technologies, with Department of Defense funding. His expertise is in environ

Sessions:
Transforming Downtowns: Key Considerations and Overcoming Challenges
Next-Gen Downtown Management: The Power of BIDs + DDAs Moving Forward
Introduce 2026 Host

Bio: Brandon Stam is from Albuquerque, New Mexico and graduated from the University of New Mexico with Master’s Degrees in Community & Regional Planning and Public Administration. Brandon has served as the Executive Director at Downtown Grand Junction since 2016 and oversees three special districts which consist of a DDA, BID and Creative District. Brandon also serves as a Board Member for Downtown Colorado, Inc. He also enjoys exploring all the beauty Western Colorado offers.

Sessions:
Strengthening Colorado’s Experience Economy

Bio: BRIAN CORRIGAN is a creative placemaking artist-designer-entrepreneur working at the intersection of the experience economy, technology, and community development. His socially engaged practice spans rural/urban/suburban communities and focuses on sparking and supporting the development of healthy, inclusive, and vibrant neighborhoods for all people. NPR, PBS, Cool Hunting, Springwise, Denver Post, Streetwise, Business Journal, and Dwell Magazine has featured his work. He is an ArtPlace America Grantee, NewCities Global Urban Innovator Finalist, Knight Public Spaces Fellowship Finalist, and an International Award for Public Art Finalist. His projects have been published in Streets Reconsidered: Inclusive Design for the Public Realm and The Digital City: Media and the Social Production of Place. He recently founded Farm-to-Spaceship, an experience design agency working across the state to position Colorado as the nation’s leader in FUN.

Sessions:
Lessons from Launching a Grassroots Art Festival

Bio: Briana is a musician, artist manager, and creative entrepreneur focused on empowering creatives to make their best work. A versatile creator and collaborator, Bri has credits as a saxophonist, singer, songwriter, producer, arranger, and composer. Her multi-hyphenate career has led her from stages around the country with her funk band The Burroughs, to community arts advocacy and program development in her current hometown of Greeley, CO. Briana owns Harris Artist Management, a full-service management firm serving visual artists. She is the co-founder and Managing Director of WeldWalls Mural Festival.

Sessions:
UNC Campus Bike Tour: Ride the College Vibes

Bio: Spin is a micromobility company dedicated to providing transportation that eases traffic and allows greater freedom! We are very excited to partner with the City of Greeley and the University of Northern Colorado to provide this service to the public. Our fleet of electric scooters and bikes is available to the public through the Spin app- downloadable in your smartphone's app store. To use a scooter, simply download the app, create an account, and scan the vehicle's QR code to get riding. Remember to wear a helmet and ride safe!

Sessions:
Naturita Colorado - A Small Town's Drive to Promote Residential Well-being and Boost Local Tourism

Bio: Cammie Willis is a Landscape Architect and Associate with DHM Design. Based in the Durango studio, she is committed to fostering a deep respect for the environment through thoughtful design. Cammie has a passion for sustainable and artistic solutions and focuses on projects that enhance ecological systems while improving quality of life. Her expertise includes master planning, community engagement, designing for public spaces, and creating engaging outdoor environments for all. Cammie has worked extensively in rural communities, helping them leverage their natural and cultural resources through recreation planning, wayfinding and signage development, and regional branding.

Sessions:
Unincorporated Commercial, Housing, TOD + Tax Increment Financing

Sessions:
Ice Haus & Greeley History Museum: Chilling + Fun History

Sessions:
Unlocking Housing Potential: Small Project Success with Technical Assistance

Bio: Caroline Trani serves as Colorado Housing & Finance Authority’s (CHFA) Community Relationship Manager for the Southern Colorado region, based in Pueblo. Caroline earned a dual bachelor’s degree in mass communications and sociology from the University of Southern Colorado (now Colorado State University-Pueblo) and a master’s in organizational management from the University of Phoenix. Prior to her current position with CHFA, Caroline served as the executive director of Southern Colorado Small Business Development Center (SBDC) based at Pueblo Community College for 12 years.

Sessions:
Public-Private Collaboration to Preserve Downtown Buildings

Bio: As executive director since 2018, Catherine Stroh leads both the Colorado Historical Foundation and the CHF Revolving Loan Fund. She believes that leveraging existing buildings is a critical part of sustaining and revitalizing communities. Stroh was certified as a Historic Real Estate Development Finance Professional by the National Development Council (now Grow America) and earned her Master of Nonprofit Management degree from Regis University. Prior to her current roles, she was CEO of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Colorado where she led a merger of five separate corporations into a more unified, effective, and efficient operation. Other career highlights include overseeing a trade association’s operations, co-owning an advertising firm, and serving as an officer on two national nonprofit boards. Stroh views Colorado as a rich nexus of diverse geography, communities, and history, and she enjoys continually exploring and learning about her home state.

Sessions:
Next-Gen Downtown Management: The Power of BIDs + DDAs Moving Forward

Sessions:
Land Use Barbie: Breaking Boundaries and Building Community

Bio: Cheney is an AICP member and professional consultant with 20 years in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, urban design and planning. Cheney works with communities of all sizes - from visioning "big ideas" to implementing complex projects. With her roots in architecture, Cheney brings a unique design aspect and attention to detail to the planning field. As a mom who leads a busy life, she found freedom in being able to do what she loves while also being a mom first. She loves helping other women feel empowered to be their best selves and find their strengths, voice, and worth in this profession.

Sessions:
Ice Haus & Greeley History Museum: Chilling + Fun History
Dearfield: The Hidden History of a Black Town

Sessions:
The Greeley Brownfield Initiative: Removing Challenges for Investment

Bio: Christina Hiegel, PE, serves as the Western Development Service Manager for Ayres Associates and is a registered Civil and Environmental engineer in the States of CO, WY, and WI. She has focused her career on brownfield redevelopment for the last 22 years, working on complex sites throughout the US. Christina works to combine the strengths of the Ayres development team and our communities to use economic development, planning, architecture, environmental, and engineering to take Brownfield projects with perceived environmental risks to viable resilient projects for communities. She serves on a Downtown Development Authority board and is the president of the FE Warren Chapter of the Society of American Military Engineers. She was named 40 under 40 for the State of Wyoming, 20 under 40 for the City of Laramie, and a Wyoming Women of Influence award winner. Christina and her husband are avid hikers and has an aversion to pigeons that frequent brownfield sites.

Sessions:
Richmark: Building Greeley’s Future

Sessions:
Welcome to Greeley, Bianca Fisher, Greeley DDA + Greeley Mayor Pro Tem Dale Hall

Bio: Dale Hall represents Ward IV on the Greeley City Council, representing northwest Greeley. With over 35 years in property management, he brings extensive experience to his role, having also served as a Weld County Commissioner and Colorado State Representative. (next paragraph) Dale holds an AA in Criminal Justice and is a lifelong learner. He actively contributes to the community, including as Chair of the Poudre River Trail Board. Motivated by his passion for public service, Dale joined the City Council to apply his government experience to local issues. In his free time, he enjoys photography, traveling, reading, and cooking -- a newfound hobby his wife appreciates.

Sessions:
Go Cup: The Inside Scoop

Bio: Daniela Hernandez is Greeley DDA's Marketing and Event Coordinator, Daniela has extensive photography, video production, and marketing skills, a creative spirit, and the kind of positive, easy going attitude that makes her a perfect fit for the team.

Sessions:
Future Planning with Data
Telling your Story with Data

Bio: Dawn Thilmany is a Professor of Agricultural Economics, Director of the Northwest and Rocky Mountain USDA Regional Food Center and Co-Director of the Regional Economic Development Institute at Colorado State University. She serves on the Colorado Food System Advisory Council and her research and outreach focus on food systems and rural economic development, primarily focused on opportunities related to value-added food market supply chains.

Sessions:
Colorado Challenge Accelerator Program Workshop

Sessions:
Promoting Community through Transportation Planning + Design

Bio: With a strong background in transportation planning, environmental planning, and public outreach Denise brings a comprehensive perspective to every planning initiative. Her passion is focused on public sector planning from the private sector, where she emphasizes balancing the benefits and impacts of various projects to improve the quality of life in communities of all sizes. She is the Denver office managing principal and planning group leader at Bohannan Huston. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from UC Santa Barbara and a Masters in Environmental Planning from Arizona State University.

Sessions:
Promoting Community through Transportation Planning + Design

Bio: Derrick Webb is a Senior Planner with more than 10 years of experience working on a variety of planning projects, including transportation plans, land use code development/updates, design standard development/updates, and corridor studies for numerous communities. Derrick is skilled in long- and short-range planning with specific experience coordinating federal funding with planning and infrastructure implementation. Derrick has a BA in Architecture from the University of New Mexico, a Master of Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Colorado, Denver, and an MS in Information and Communication Technology from the University of Denver.

Sessions:
The Greeley Brownfield Initiative: Removing Challenges for Investment

Sessions:
The Greeley Brownfield Initiative: Removing Challenges for Investment

Sessions:
Creating an Inclusionary Mindshift in Our Downtowns

Sessions:
Distortions Unlimited: Creepy Cool Creations

Sessions:
Colorado Downtown Excellence Awards

Bio: Eric Bergman serves as the Director of the Division of Local Government within DOLA, leveraging his extensive background in legislative policy issues cultivated during his tenure as the policy director for Colorado Counties, Inc. (CCI). With over twenty-five years of experience working with local governments, including leadership roles such as director of the Office of Smart Growth in DOLA, Eric is dedicated to advancing sustainable community development. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Colorado at Boulder and a Masters in Environmental Studies from The Evergreen State College, Eric's expertise spans a wide range of areas, from elections and open records to transportation, telecommunications, land use planning, and marijuana regulation.

Sessions:
Building a BID or DDA: Why, When, and How

Bio: Ethan Greene is an emerging urban planning professional with experience working in the nonprofit and private sectors. His strengths include community engagement and collaboration, mapping/GIS, research and data analysis, and urban design. As a project assistant with Progressive Urban Management Associates, Ethan supports the firm’s community and downtown planning efforts by conducting data analysis for market assessments, researching best practices, producing graphics, designing final plan documents, and aiding with in-person and virtual community engagement. Ethan also played an integral role in the research and narrative writing for P.U.M.A.’s “2023 Top Ten Global Trends Affecting Downtowns and How to Respond at Home” report.

Sessions:
How-To Talk: Ideas to Build Community From Within
Greeley's Art In Motion: Murals, Music & Masterpieces

Bio: Gii Astorga is a proud Greeley native with a deep passion for his community. As the Event Coordinator and Business Engagement lead for the Greeley Downtown Development Authority, he works closely with local businesses to bring exciting events to life. A musician for over 15 years, Gii has performed at numerous venues across Downtown Greeley. With strong ties to the community that helped shape his career, he is dedicated to making Downtown Greeley a vibrant place to live, work, and play.

Sessions:
A Tale of Two Distilleries

Sessions:
Telling your Story with Data

Bio: Since 2007, I've run HeidiTown.com, and have been to and written about almost everywhere in Colorado and beyond. I founded HeidiTown Consulting in 2023 to shift mindsets; make people understand how and why they can and should love where they live. Because every town is extraordinary!

Sessions:
Distortions Unlimited: Creepy Cool Creations

Sessions:
Promoting Community through Transportation Planning + Design

Bio: Jared manages Bohannan Huston Inc's Colorado Engineering group from BHI’s Denver office. His expertise includes leading design teams in all civil engineering aspects of various design and development projects, including private and public infrastructure projects. He has experience in leading transportation, drainage, and utility design projects; residential and commercial developments; subdivision planning; and award-winning civil site development projects while still maintaining an active role in the design process. As a LEED Accredited Professional, he has experience with green building practices and design services for several LEED registered and/or certified projects. Jared has been with BHI since 2003.

Sessions:
Transforming Downtowns: Key Considerations and Overcoming Challenges

Bio: Jenny Starkey is the President of Starkey Strategies, a Denver-based consulting firm specializing in strategic planning, communications, and community engagement for place management organizations. With over 15 years of experience in public relations, marketing, economic development, and organizational strategy, Jenny brings a creative, collaborative approach to helping communities thrive. In addition to her consulting work, Jenny serves as the Executive Director of the Littleton Downtown Development Authority (LDDA). Hired in 2022 to launch and lead the newly established DDA, she has built the organization from the ground up—developing its operational framework, strategic priorities, and core services. Now in its third year, the LDDA is a trusted leader in advancing the economic vitality of Downtown Littleton, one of Colorado’s most vibrant and historic Main Streets.

Sessions:
Networking for Business Resources
How-To Talk: Bridging the Digital Divide for Impactful Business Growth

Bio: Jessi Burg knows that community support is vital for successful business owners. She launched her first business, a landscaping company, by spending her evenings researching in the public library and enrolling in a business boot camp for low income entrepreneurs. As the business grew, she joined networking and industry groups, with a focus on learning additional skills from more experienced entrepreneurs. With her current company, Outgrow Your Garage, Jessi focuses on using these skills to support business communities across the United States. By working with public institutions, local governments, non-profits, lending institutions and more, she is helping to create a more equitable economy and stronger communities in rural and urban areas. Jessi lives in western Colorado and spends her free time working on her small farm with her spouse and dog.

Sessions:
Attracting Retail to a Suburban Core

Bio: Jill Mendoza is a hybrid professional working at the intersection of marketing, economic and business development. She is an urban innovator who is passionate about building communities that enhance the quality of life and quality of place for their residents and businesses through community-based economic development strategies. A strategic thinker with a keen interest in entrepreneurship, she facilitates public/private partnerships to leverage investment and improve the economic vitality in the communities in which she works. She has over 10 years of experience in economic development and has worked as both a consultant and a practitioner in communities across the country. Her specialties include strategic planning, marketing and data management. She is a Certified Economic Developer and holds a BSBA in International Business/Economics/Spanish from the University of Colorado and an MBA from the Thunderbird School of Global Management. She is currently the Economic Vitality Manager for the City and County of

Sessions:
Colorado Challenge Accelerator Program Welcome and the Importance of Building Small
Small-Scale Sparks: Developing Colorado's Next Generation of Developers Dinner + Discussion
Collaborating for Small-Scale Development: Adapting our lending and lenders' practices to foster local developers.

Bio: Jim is an infill developer and sustainable development advisor based in Sonoma County, California. Known for his aspirational but practical approach, he works with a range of tools and best practices to communicate the value of inspired design and sustainability within the realities of local market norms. With over forty years experience as an urban designer, land planner, sustainability strategist and now infill developer, he brings a broad range of perspectives and skills to the discussion about how communities grow. Trained as a landscape architect, he received a Masters in Real Estate Development from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) as way to more effectively integrate economics, development and design thinking.

Sessions:
Next-Gen Downtown Management: The Power of BIDs + DDAs Moving Forward

Sessions:
The Greeley Brownfield Initiative: Removing Challenges for Investment

Sessions:
How-To Talk: 10 Tips for Retail Attraction
Attracting Retail to a Suburban Core

Sessions:
Naturita Colorado - A Small Town's Drive to Promote Residential Well-being and Boost Local Tourism

Bio: Karen joined DHM in 2001 with experience in both private and public communications, PR, business communication and design. With a degree in Communications, and a decade of marketing experience, Karen has developed the skills to create, implement and manage marketing materials, identity concepts, publications, signage, brochures and interpretive displays for a wide variety of projects.

Sessions:
Welcome to IN THE GAME 2025 in Greeley, CO
Strengthening Colorado’s Experience Economy

Bio: Kat is an innovative and creative strategist, who serves as a resource choreographer for local governments, non-profits, and private businesses hoping to achieve more with less. She brings broad experience from forming co-operatives of rural women, initiating local government strategic reforms, expanding professional development and volunteer networks, and spanning the fields of outreach and engagement, community and economic development, not-for-profit administration, strategic planning and logic frameworks, project development and management, local government planning, marketing and communications, financial and economic development services, and education.

Sessions:
Ice Haus & Greeley History Museum: Chilling + Fun History

Sessions:
Colorado Challenge Accelerator Program Welcome
Turning Private Eyesores Brownfields Into Community Opportunities: The Role of Local Governments

Bio: As a planner specializing in entitlements, conceptual site design, land planning, and community engagement, Kate Lucas has worked with over 30 different municipalities and numerous resident groups. She has managed the design, entitlement, and CEQA process for projects ranging from quarter-acre single-use sites to mixed use projects of several hundred acres. Kate is the KSU TAB state point of contact for Colorado.

Sessions:
Future Planning with Data
Telling your Story with Data

Bio: Kate Watkins is Colorado’s State Demographer. She leads the State Demography Office within the Department of Local Affairs. The State Demography Office produces population and economic estimates and forecasts for use by the business community, nonprofits, and state and local governments. Kate has nearly two decades of experience analyzing economic and demographic trends in Colorado and beyond. Her career history includes serving as the Chief Economist for Colorado’s state legislature, as an economist at the Denver Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, and as a private sector consultant. Kate holds a Ph.D. from Cornell University.

Sessions:
Unlocking Housing Potential: Small Project Success with Technical Assistance
How-To Talk: Creating a Career in Your Hometown

Bio: Kaylee Romero is the Community Relationship Manager serving the San Luis Valley and surrounding region. In her role, Romero supports CHFA’s mission to strengthen Colorado by investing in affordable housing and economic development. An Alamosa resident born and raised in the San Luis Valley, Romero previously served as the Project Director for the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP) at Adams State University, where her work centered on supporting migrant seasonal farmworker youth and their families. She is also a proud double alumna of Adams State, having earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the university.

Sessions:
Unincorporated Commercial, Housing, TOD + Tax Increment Financing

Sessions:
Greeley's Art In Motion: Murals, Music + Masterpieces

Sessions:
Building Stronger Economies Through Partnership

Bio: Kim brings over 18 years of experience in non-profit and economic development management. She plays a crucial role in all aspects of EDCC's operations and program efforts, from daily operations and budgeting to strategic planning, marketing, and development. Kim also oversees programs, trainings, events, member retention, expansion, and attraction, as well as sponsor development. Before joining the EDCC, Kim served as the operations manager for the Metro Denver Economic Development Corp. (Metro Denver EDC). In this position, she successfully managed a $4 million budget and coordinated meetings for the Metro Denver EDC and its three industry coalitions. Kim also played a key role in leading events management, including the annual Site Selection Conference. Additionally, she supported company expansion and recruitment activities for the Metro Denver region.

Sessions:
The Future of DDAs and BIDs: Building for Tomorrow
Next-Gen Downtown Management: The Power of BIDs + DDAs Moving Forward

Bio: Kimberlee McKee is the Executive Director of the Longmont Downtown Development Authority. The DDA works to promote, support and develop a vital and valuable downtown. She worked with the community to have downtown designated as a certified Colorado Creative District and under her tenure, more than $125 million has been invested into the Downtown District. Previously she was president of the Downtown Akron Partnership in Akron, Ohio where she began a clean and safe ambassador program. She has experience in non-profit and higher education communications and marketing. She is currently the Vice President of the Visit Longmont Board and volunteers with the St. Vrain Valley School District and Longmont Baseball League. She lives in Longmont with her husband and two children.

Sessions:
Colorado Challenge Accelerator Program Workshop
Challenge Place Making Discussion
Challenge Place Activation Discussion

Sessions:
Byways and Beyond: Strengthening Local Engagement Through Colorado’s Scenic Byways

Bio: Lenore Bates has worked at the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) as the Scenic and Historic Byways Program Manager since May 2010. From 2006 to 2010, she was the Colorado Safe Routes to School Program Manager. She is a veteran of the U.S. Army and Colorado Army National Guard and holds a BS and an MBA. She has a 13-year old daughter that loves National Parks. A fifth-generation Colorado native, Lenore enjoys travel near and far, outdoor activities, reading, cooking, visiting family, and Colorado history.

Sessions:
Strengthening Colorado’s Experience Economy

Bio: Libby is a Program Manager for Colorado Creative Industries, where she oversees the CO Change Leader program, the Folk and Traditional Arts program, and the Creative Industries Summit. She serves as co-lead of OEDIT’s IDEA Committee and oversees the implementation of a cross-divisional strategic plan focused on DEIA. Previously, Libby ran the Arts in Society grant program at RedLine, has led non-profit arts education programming, and has taught visual arts at the university level. Libby holds a BFA in Painting and Art History from CSU and a MFA from MICA. She has participated in multiple artist residencies and her artwork is included in corporate and public collections, including Meow Wolf Denver.

Sessions:
Distortions Unlimited: Creepy Cool Creations

Sessions:
Colorado Challenge Accelerator Program Welcome
Turning Private Eyesores Brownfields Into Community Opportunities: The Role of Local Governments

Bio: Maggie Belanger has over 20 years of experience in environmental assessment, cleanup, regulatory compliance and property revitalization. Her experience encompasses public speaking, supervision of staff including team building, project management, leading workgroups to develop technical guidance and policies, statutory and regulation writing, and applying for and managing federal grants. Kate Lucas is an AICP planner who specializes in community engagement, site design, and economic development. She has worked in the brownfields industry since 2017 and is passionate about providing services to communities. Kate has lived in four different states and moved 19 times so she can always find something in common with communities of all shapes, sizes, and locations.

Sessions:
Transforming Public Spaces: Modular Solutions for Sidewalks, Seating & Shelters
Johnstown on the Move: Exploring Downtown Development & Future Plans

Bio: Maggie Kavan is the Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of MODSTREET, a company revolutionizing outdoor spaces with innovative modular solutions. With a deep passion for branding, strategic growth, and placemaking, Maggie has played a pivotal role in shaping MODSTREET’s identity, market presence, and expansion across the U.S.

Sessions:
Colorado Challenge Accelerator Program Welcome
Turning Private Eyesores Brownfields Into Community Opportunities: The Role of Local Governments

Bio: Mark Rudolph has been an Environmental Protection Specialist with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) for over 20 years and has 30+ years of experience working on environmental projects including Superfund project management, site assessments, sampling investigations, and Brownfields redevelopment. Additionally, Mark has extensive knowledge in mine site reclamation, regulation and operations. He has experience in monitoring of air, water, emergency response and Quality Assurance and Quality Control planning.

Sessions:
Distortions Unlimited: Creepy Cool Creations

Sessions:
A Tale of Two Distilleries

Sessions:
Next-Gen Downtown Management: The Power of BIDs + DDAs Moving Forward

Sessions:
Greeley's Art In Motion: Murals, Music & Masterpieces

Sessions:
LINC: Greeley’s Innovation Hub
LINC: Greeley’s Innovation Hub (second tour)

Sessions:
Greeley’s Model Train Wonderland

Sessions:
Future Planning with Data
Telling your Story with Data

Bio: Michelle Kobayashi is a thought-leader in the field of survey research and evaluation, and has written numerous books and articles on the subject. As a community survey expert with experience working in local government, she travels the country to speak professionally and lead workshops about resident surveys, public-sector employee surveys, strategic planning and more. Kobayashi has lead the innovation efforts of National Research Center (NRC) for over 25 years, and keeps Polco / NRC at the cutting edge of the survey industry.

Sessions:
Cache Le Poudre Trail + Windsor Adventure

Bio: I am currently the Executive Director for the Windsor Downtown Alliance. In my capacity, I am responsible for creating and implementing various revitalization projects, economic development strategies, including business development, retention, expansion, and small business support. I enjoy continued partnerships with the Town of Windsor, Windsor Chamber of Commerce, and other entities to promote business and economic interests within the community. I joined the WDA in January 2023 from the Windsor Chamber of Commerce as the Executive Director. I was able to grow the Chamber membership to over 400 valued members and develop eight new community events with a net revenue of over $100k and attracted over 5,000 potential customers to our members.

Sessions:
The Greeley Brownfield Initiative: Removing Challenges for Investment

Bio: Mike has two decades of nationwide planning experience with consultants, community groups, and most recently as economic development manager for the City of Loveland, Colorado. More than five years as a legislative assistant to U.S. congressmen adds to the depth of Mike's understanding of planning, from funding through community implementation. Mike's responsibilities include research and evaluation of data related to social, housing, economic, population, environmental, and land use trends; developing planning studies and reports; performing plan reviews; preparing permits; researching and analyzing residential and commercial development projects; reviewing and preparing environmental assessments, plans, and documents; and conducting field evaluations and assessments.

Sessions:
District (BID + DDA) Management + Recruitment
Return on Emotion, ROE© - How to measure your downtown’s impact
Rural Downtown Return on Emotion

Bio: With over 30 years of experience building communities, and creating vibrant downtowns, Molly is your expert-at-hand for turning around struggling retail districts. In 2022, Molly created Imagine the Possibilities (ITP) Consulting working with clients and communities to stimulate economic development, retail revitalization and placemaking. In addition to her consulting firm, she owns and operates two award-winning retail establishments in downtown Elgin, TX – The Owl Wine Bar & Home Goods Store and Elgin Dry Goods. In her spare time, she serves on numerous community boards including Frontier Bank of Texas and the Texas Downtown Association Board of Directors. In 2023, Molly was recognized by the American Institute of Architects, Austin Chapter and the Austin Foundation of Architecture with their highest honor the Alan Taniguchi Award for Public Architecture (2023) for her three decades of work in Austin, TX and Elgin, TX. In 2023, the Elgin, Texas Chamber of Commerce honored Molly with the Business Leader of t

Sessions:
WeldWerks Brewing Co: Crafting Greeley’s Flavor
Tour: WeldWerks Brewing Co: Crafting Greeley’s Flavor

Bio: Neil Fisher is the Founder and Owner of WeldWerks Brewing Co. Established in 2015, WeldWerks Brewing Co. is an award-winning and locally-owned craft brewery in Greeley, Colorado recognized for brewing an array of beer styles including Juicy Bits, one of the most highly regarded IPAs in the country, and creating chef-driven and intentionally crafted dishes in its in-house kitchen. Comprised of a passionate group of individuals dedicated to bringing innovative and quality craft beer to the community it serves, WeldWerks Brewing, which operates on both a 15-barrel 3-vessel steam brewhouse and a 30-barrel 4-vessel steam brewhouse, has garnered numerous medals and acclaim on the way, including being named best new brewery by USA Today’s 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards in 2016 and multiple medals at both the Great American Beer Festival and World Beer Cup. At WeldWerks, being “dialed-in” is a way of life, helping to ensure outstanding excellence in craft beer, service and beyond.

Sessions:
UNC Campus Bike Tour: Ride the College Vibes

Bio: Nic Carlson works for CliftonLarsonAllen where he assists cities and developers to create and operate Title 31 and Title 32 special districts that help to finance, build and maintain public improvements.

Sessions:
Harnessing AI for Vibrant Downtowns

Bio: Nichole Sterling is the CEO of My Town AI specializing in digital twins and AI for local governments to expedite productivity and improve decision-making. She started building for the public sector because she serves as the Mayor Pro Tem of Nederland, Colorado. In this role, she has made significant contributions to the town’s strategy, particularly through her leadership in affordable housing, economic development, resilient growth, and preparing towns like Nederland for the future of technology. She also co-chairs the GovAI Coalition's Internal LLM Committee and advises For Humanity's Digital Worker committee. Nichole has also been instrumental in shaping the conversation around how AI can positively impact women’s lives as she is also the co-founder of the non-profit, Women Defining AI (WDAI). WDAI is an organization dedicated to redefining the role of women in the AI industry with a mission to empower and ensure that AI technologies are developed with inclusivity, ethics, and equity at the forefront.

Sessions:
Expanding Access to Capital for Local Investors
Empowering Local Investment: New Paths to Capital

Bio: As Chief Operating Officer of Colorado Enterprise Fund, Inc. (CEF), Nim Patel is responsible for the core business operations of CEF (lending, underwriting, technical assistance, marketing, and technology). He has developed and led strategy and implementation of new systems that increase CEF's overall efficiency and organizational capacity, including CRM, ERP, and workflow optimization solutions that increase capacity for broader impact in the communities we serve. Nim has also been involved in capacity building through new lending and grant product formation and implementation. Before joining CEF, Nim had a 20+yr career that spanned Finance, Operations, Investing, Governance, and Consulting in the public and private sectors and has been involved in over $1B of financing-related activities.

Sessions:
Building Stronger Economies Through Partnership

Sessions:
How-To Talk: Building New Leadership

Sessions:
Branding as the New Economic Development

Bio: Ryan Short is the co-founder of CivicBrand, a place branding consultancy based in Salida, CO that specializes in engagement-led projects across the United States. Over the past 17 years, Ryan has guided CivicBrand’s team in crafting strategies that elevate communities through place branding, placemaking, and destination marketing. His work has impacted downtowns, cities, towns, and regions nationwide, helping them become more vibrant, equitable, and loveable places. Ryan advocates for a people-first approach to branding and placemaking. He is committed to ensuring that place branding not only fosters connection and identity but also champions sustainability and equity for the betterment of both people and the planet.

Sessions:
Naturita Colorado - A Small Town's Drive to Promote Residential Well-being and Boost Local Tourism

Bio: Sara Bachman is a resident and business owner in Naturita. Sara grew up on a ranch in the neighboring town of Nucla. She is a graduate of the University of Northern Colorado earning a bachelor’s degree in political science. She worked in Greeley as a non-traditional educator teaching GED and employment classes at a correctional facility before moving to Laramie, WY where she simultaneously earned her Juris Doctorate degree and master’s degree in public administration. When Sara moved back home after her 10-year hiatus from the area to build her private law practice, she brought her husband and 8-month-old daughter in tow. She became deeply saddened by the state of Naturita’s Town Park and began working with Naturita as a volunteer grant writer and DHM Design to elevate the park’s potential. While it was nearly six years in the making, the park is now a favorite local venue and stop for people traveling through the area.

Sessions:
Johnstown on the Move: Exploring Downtown Development & Future Plans

Bio: Sarah Crosthwaite serves as the Economic Development Manager for the Town of Johnstown. Her role as Economic Development Manager includes establishing and leading all economic development activity for the Town including business retention, expansion, and recruitment. Specific focuses include development of key corridors along I-25, Hwy-60, and Hwy-34 along with the revitalization and expansion of Historic Downtown Johnstown. She is the 2022 recipient of the Economic Development Council of Colorado “Rookie of the Year” award. She is a California native and holds a master’s degree in public administration with a focus on local economic development from California State University of San Bernardino.

Sessions:
Next-Gen Downtown Management: The Power of BIDs + DDAs Moving Forward
How-To Talk: Place-Making Through Tenant Curation

Bio: Inspired by Jane Jacobs’ legacy of street-level activation, Sarah believes great cities are built from the ground floor up, focusing her career on place-making through tenant curation. Originally from Massachusetts, Sarah has both lived in and explored cities across the world, finally settling in Colorado in 2014. She now leads the Economic Development team at the Downtown Denver Partnership, recently launching the tenant recruitment website: www.whydowntowndenver.com

Sessions:
The Future of DDAs and BIDs: Building for Tomorrow
Next-Gen Downtown Management: The Power of BIDs + DDAs Moving Forward

Sessions:
Creating the Core in Suburban Cities

Bio: Stephanie Otte is the Business Navigator for the City of Westminster. Stephanie is focused on the retention and recruitment of national and local retailers and restaurants. Stephanie is also actively involved in the process of developing and implementing the Westminster Redevelopment and Adaptive Reuse Toolkit. Stephanie has over twenty years of experience working in commercial real estate. She has worked as a property and leasing manager for several retail projects in the Denver metro area. Stephanie has a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Management with an emphasis in Marketing from The University of Northern Colorado.

Sessions:
Union Colony Civic Center: Behind the Curtain

Sessions:
Conference Welcome
Colorado URA Dinner

Bio: Steve is the Economic Development Manager for the City of Wheat Ridge and the Executive Director of the City’s Urban Renewal Authority. Steve promotes intelligent growth for the community while promoting the values of Wheat Ridge. He has been with the City for over 8 years. Steve was born and raised in California and relocated to the Denver area in 2011 where he lives with his wife Peggy. Steve works regionally with the area Economic Development professionals and is a past board member for the Economic Development Council of Colorado. Steve also sits on the Jefferson County Economic Development Corporations and is the President of the Jefferson County Business Resource Center. Steve has been an integral part of new development in Wheat Ridge through the City’s Renewal Wheat Ridge, the City’s Urban Renewal Authority. This work has allowed Wheat Ridge to see unprecedented City growth over the past 36 months with the development of new housing options, shopping centers, and the creation of a new downtown

Sessions:
Opening Plenary - Downtown Leadership
Next-Gen Downtown Management: The Power of BIDs + DDAs Moving Forward

Bio: Terri Takata-Smith is a seasoned marketing and PR strategist with 16+ years as VP of Marketing & Communications for the Downtown Boulder Partnership. Passionate about community building and idea-sharing, she is Board Chair for Downtown Colorado, Inc. and a Visit Boulder Board Member. Terri is excited to be a 2025 Special Districts Association Leadership Academy Fellow. She is also a 2020 International Downtown Association Emerging Leaders Fellow and holds a Leadership in Place Management Certification from IDA. Terri is dedicated to fostering vibrant downtowns through strategic storytelling, collaboration, and advocacy.

Sessions:
Local Engagement and Tourism Management: The Durango BID Ambassador Model

Bio: Tim Walsworth has over 25 years of experience working for community-based organizations. For the past 11 years, he has served as the Executive Director of the Durango Business Improvement District (BID). Tim has implemented new programs and services for businesses in Downtown and in the North Main District. For example, BID’s Rewards Programs have generated over $1 million in sales at local businesses. Prior to leading Durango BID, Tim ran the local United Way for a decade, generating more than $6.1 million for local needs. He is married with three children.

Sessions:
Distortions Unlimited: Creepy Cool Creations

Sessions:
Unlocking Housing Potential: Small Project Success with Technical Assistance

Bio: Trisha has been the Eastern Community Relationship Manager at CHFA since October 2022 and currently resides in Holyoke. Before beginning her career at CHFA she worked various jobs in education and the nonprofit field. Trisha serves on the board for Holyoke Community Childcare and Women’s Golf League. Trisha opened her own business, Holyoke Fitness Club, in 2015 and is a Boettcher Doers and Difference Makers Fellow Alumni. Trisha graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in Family Life and Community Service. Her husband, Justin, works for Pioneer and they have two children, Kaden and Braylin and two bulldogs.

Sessions:
UNC Campus Bike Tour: Ride the College Vibes