DENVER, August 6, 2025 — The Boettcher Foundation is proud to announce the 2025 cohort of the Doers & Difference Makers Fellowship, a program designed to elevate the leadership and impact of extraordinary Coloradans who are deeply rooted in their communities and committed to making a difference.
Now entering its fifth year, the fellowship was created to support and strengthen the work of community champions, particularly those in rural areas, who are known for bringing people together, bridging divides, and driving positive change. Through this experience, Fellows deepen both their personal insight and professional influence, sharpening their ability to lead with courage, authenticity, and vision.
Over the course of nine months, Fellows engage in a curriculum experience focused on both inner and outward-facing leadership, receive individualized coaching, and gain access to funding opportunities. The program is designed to grow not just what Fellows do, but who they are—amplifying their voices and expanding their capacity to serve Colorado’s diverse and dynamic communities.
“Authentic leadership begins within,” said Vanessa Roman, director of scholarships and foundation programs. “This fellowship provides space for Fellows to reflect, recalibrate, and reconnect with their values and purpose. Our aim is to nurture the whole person because that’s what leads to sustained, meaningful impact in communities.”
The 2025 Fellows were selected through a highly competitive process from a pool of more than 90 applicants. They represent a broad spectrum of industries, sectors, and lived experiences; these include economic development, nonprofit work, education, entrepreneurship, and local government. The cohort joins 37 Fellow Alums united by a shared commitment to advancing opportunity and hope across Colorado. The Doers & Difference Makers Fellowship launched in 2021 with a cohort of six Fellows.
Meet the 2025 cohort and their communities below.
2025 Boettcher Fellows
Randi Addington, Pueblo
Nicole Armstrong, Greeley
Jocelyn Catterson, Del Norte
Pam Denahy, La Junta
Jeff Engell, Grand Junction
Ricardo Esqueda, Gunnison
Amanda Leck, Las Animas
Chris Masters, Grand Junction
John Mitchek, Kit Carson
Enrique Orozco-Perez, Durango
Kennedy Pugh, Pueblo
James Roy, Denver
Alejandro Salazar, Montrose
Julie Stiewig, Weldona
Ginger Williams, Deer Trail
Contact:
Curtis L. Esquibel
Senior Director of Communications & Community Engagement
curtis@boettcherfoundation.org
303.565.6291
About the Boettcher Foundation
At the Boettcher Foundation, we believe in the promise of Colorado and the potential of Coloradans. Every day, we build up and connect doers and difference makers from across the state, working to elevate people, programs, and organizations. Because by investing in Colorado leaders, we provide a foundation for transformational impact and community building across Colorado.
