Our Team | Colorado Enterprise Fund

CEF-proud since 1987

What is it about your personality that aligned you with CEF?

I like the mix of business and mission. It’s intellectually challenging and emotionally rewarding to be helping people along their path of small business ownership and growth. Small business owners are truly trailblazers which is a mindset I relate to. I have always forged my own path whether that’s being among the first female graduating class at my alma mater, Notre Dame, to being an early advocate for expanding access to capital to grow the small business economy. With CEF I get to see people who are excited about their businesses. This touches me on a personal level. The impact these businesses have on their communities feels like we are making a difference on a larger scale.

What is it about Colorado that makes it so incredible?

Colorado is a place where people are welcoming, friendly and positive. This combination of culture means that we work together to accomplish big goals like few other places.

If you had a band, what would it be called and why?

I’m all about being a catalyst for success so my band would be called The Atomics. I like to set a rhythm for continued momentum so I’d play the bass guitar or the drums.

If you could choose one place in Colorado that epitomizes the state’s grandeur, where would that be?

Every visitor and Coloradan needs to experience Maroon Bells near Aspen.

If I had a magic wand, I’d…. make the world a place where everyone has clean water and enough food to eat.

CEF Circa 2018

• Guides the operations of CEF through strategic direction and support with an emphasis on leveraging technology for scale and efficiency. · 20+ years of experience in all facets of early stage and high growth business including C-Level positions in finance, operations and technology.

• Active in the non-profit community holding multiple Board roles in the past and currently.

• Earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Accounting from the University of Georgia and a Master of Business Administration degree in Marketing from Emory University. Non-practicing CPA.

What is it about your personality that brought you into the Operations role at CEF?

I have been in the startup world for over 20 years and enjoy every minute of it. I know firsthand how hard it is to start a business as well as the effort it takes to help support businesses on their journey. I feel like my collective experiences not only help CEF in our own growth but ultimately helps us better support our amazing borrower partners.

If you had a band, what would it be called and why? What instrument would you play?

We’d be the Wandering Stoics because I am a wanderer and a stoic, and I’d rock the banjo.

How do you do Colorado?

Coloradans are the best at embracing the “work hard, play hard” mentality. I explore Colorado any way I can from camping in a tent or a camper to staying with friends or checking into a hotel. Two of my favorite Colorado destinations are Red Rocks, especially with out-of-town guests, and Telluride.

If I had a magic wand, I’d….be able to fund every entrepreneur I met.

CEF-proud since 1994

• Monitors portfolio and credit quality, and manages our Northern Colorado lending activity including consulting with potential applicants about their business plans, performing credit analysis and loan underwriting, and providing ongoing business advisory services to borrowers.

• Is an entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience owning and operating a variety of successful business ventures with special knowledge of the restaurant and food service industry. Was the Director of the Small Business Development Center in Boulder, a Leading Edge Instructor for the State of Colorado, and also a for-credit instructor of business planning and related courses at Front Range and Arapahoe Community Colleges.

• Holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Cameron University in Lawton, Oklahoma.

What does the future for small businesses and entrepreneurs look like in Colorado?

Returning to local ownership and production so we can make the loans that make this happen.

What does Colorado do better than any other state?

Our knowledge base combined with entrepreneurial attitude should keep us in the front of the pack if we can limit the role of government in over-regulating small business.

What is your absolute favorite place to take people visiting from out of town?

I take people to the pistol range by the dozens per year. I am an instructor and shoot at least 10,000 rounds per year.

When you’re exploring Colorado, do you go with tent, camper, couch surf, or hotel? What is your favorite in-state destination?

Grand Lake….no camping!

When did you join CEF? ;

I joined CEF in fall 2017, eager to combine my many years of fundraising and finance experience! 

What is it about your personality that aligns you with CEF?

I admire ambitious and innovative entrepreneurs and believe all should have access to opportunity.  I love that CEF can connect small business owners with resources so they create their own opportunities—for themselves and others. 

What is it about Colorado that makes it so incredible?

Colorado is the BEST and I’ve lived here for most of my adult life.  Our landscape, our weather, our activities—cannot be beat!  I also love that we are a vibrant, diverse, and growing community full of possibilities.

If you had a band, what would it be called & why?

I don’t know my band name, but we’d be a 70s, 80s, & 90s tribute band!

If you could choose one place in CO to take people visiting from out of town, where would it be?

Summer and fall in the mountains are my favorite and I cannot choose one.  I love the Glenwood canyon drive and Hanging Lake hike, Herman’s Gulch hike in Summit County and SUPing on Grand Lake is spectacular.

If I had a magic wand, I’d…..

Make sure that “CDFI” is as commonly understood as “SBA”.  Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) are such a critical layer in the financial ecosystem that truly extends opportunity to those who are blocked from it.  Everyone should know the role and resources of CDFIs in helping small businesses, housing, personal finance, and community/economic development.

When you are exploring Colorado, do you go with a tent, camper, couch surf, or a hotel?  What is your favorite in-state destination?

Condo rental all the way – I need a kitchen and multiple bedrooms for my family! Favorite spot?  I wish I could spend more time in Crested Butte area.

Favorite food & where do you go to find it in Colorado?

Going to local craft breweries to try different IPAs is always fun- I have a favorite beer garden (small business!) in my neighborhood.  
 

CEF-proud since 2007

• Oversees our loan production strategy and team. Also consults with potential applicants about their business plans, performs credit analysis and loan underwriting, provides ongoing business advisory services to borrowers, and manages loan activity in the Denver Metro area and other parts of the state.

• Worked as a loan consultant for Pulte Homes and is fluent in Spanish.

• Earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in International Business from Regis University in Denver.

What is it about your personality that aligned you with CEF?

I’m purpose driven by nature and motivated by helping others. Many years ago while backpacking through South America, I learned more about Micro-Finance. Having the opportunity to witness how a micro loan was helping individuals create income or wealth for their families had an impact on me. By working at CEF, it allows me the opportunity to support entrepreneurs with starting or growing their businesses, which has been a great fit for my own personal and professional development. I’m very proud of the work we do here and look forward to continuing to support and improve our community and economic development in Colorado.

What is your vision for entrepreneurship in Colorado heading into the future and what do you want your role in it to be?

The future is exciting. We have a stronger purpose and drive, there’s a lot stirring. I feel the diversity of industries will help keep us strong despite the national economy. CEF has a good pulse on the Colorado market and tech will play a big role. I would love to see more referrals coming to us from businesses. I want to help people build their credit and push them to resources to build their business plan even if we can’t give them the loan so that instead of saying no, we’re saying “just not now.”

If you had a band, what would it be called and why? What instrument would you play or would you be lead vocals?

I think it would be called Sancocho (pronounced San-Ko-Cho), a traditional soup with variations across Central and South America and the Caribbean. The roots of our music would be in salsa, reggae, funk, jazz, rock-n-roll, heavy with a big percussion and horn section. We’d be the best band you never heard of! Weapon of choice would be guitar!

If I had a magic wand, I’d….end poverty!

CEF circa 2012

• Oversees corporate accounting and finance, prepares our budget, audit and other financial presentations, and compliance matters.

• Worked as an auditor and consultant at Arthur Andersen and Andersen Consulting, ran her own business for five years, and became a controller and director of finance in various private equity companies.

• Is an active CPA in Colorado with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Accounting from Portland State University in Oregon.

What aspects of your job make you feel like you’re making a difference?

My compassion for equity in opportunity is very much in line with CEF’s mission.

What makes Colorado stand out?

We balance pro-business and pro-environmental efforts.

What is your absolute favorite place to take people visiting from out of town?

Garden of the Gods

Tent, camper, couch surf, or hotel?

A camper anywhere in the mountains.

If I had a magic wand, I’d…. get rid of human greed!

Joined the CEF team in 2019

• Supports CEF staff through daily operations, major project management, and mentorship.

• Came to CEF with more than fifteen years of experience in the nonprofit sector.

• Active coach, mentor, and volunteer in organizations developing entrepreneurial leaders.

Why is Colorado such fertile ground for small businesses and entrepreneurs?

The culture of this state is a magical mix of creativity, grit, and strong community. We aren’t so formal here and that social flexibility gives people permission to be brave.

If you had a band, what would it be called and what instrument would you play?

I would hate being in a band. I just want to go to bed early.

Favorite food and where do you go to find it in Colorado?

There is no more perfect Colorado food than Palisade peaches.

If I had a magic wand, I’d… eliminate global economic inequality.

Joined Team CEF in 2019

• Manages all CEF marketing and communications efforts to increase brand awareness, connect new borrowers to our team and products, and nurture relationships with existing stakeholders.

• Experienced in developing and implementing effective brand and marketing strategies for nonprofits, start-ups, and global, corporate companies.

• Holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a Minor in Music Industry Studies from the University of Colorado Denver.

What drew you to CEF?

As a third generation Colorado native, once I found out about CEF, I knew I had to find a way to be a part of what they do. It is an honor to serve Colorado entrepreneurs in helping their dreams become a reality.

What energizes you?

People, music, and pizza.

Where do you take out-of-towners visiting Colorado?

Hiking in Boulder followed by lunch and a stroll down Pearl Street. Then, a classic Denver Sunday Funday to include a patio brunch, hopping on some b-cycles or scooters to explore some boutiques, wall art installations, and a brewery or two. Then, if there’s still time (and they’re still awake) a show at one of our great music venues.

CEF circa 2010

• Manages our team of in-house small business consultants trained to help our borrowers succeed.

• Has a track record of small business success, identifying harmful constraints and implementing solutions to restore long-term organizational and financial health. Also served in various senior management roles in high-tech businesses with national and international presence. Is a lecturer in the Monfort College of Business at the University of Northern Colorado.

• Earned his Master of Arts degree in English from the University of Arkansas and an MBA from the University of Memphis.

What is it about your job that makes you feel like you’re making a difference?

My consulting team is small so I get to help nurture the team’s professional growth and offer a business practice approach to a non-profit train of thought. Practices need to be the same as for-profit, so I’m bringing that for-profit perspective to the non-profit.

Why is Colorado such fertile ground for small businesses and entrepreneurs?

Colorado is a good place for entrepreneurship. It’s definitely a place where young people can make a name for themselves. We’re in the right place where entrepreneurs like to be.

If you had a band, what would it be called and why? What instrument would you play or would you be lead vocals?

In my fantasies, I am John Lennon, playing his six string Rickenbaker. George is still alive, and the four of us are performing in the Royal Albert Hall before the Queen.

What is your absolute favorite place to take people visiting from out of town?

The Continental Divide above the Loveland ski area.

With CEF since 2012

• Consults with our applicants about their business plans, performs credit analysis and loan underwriting, is involved with ongoing business advisory services to borrowers, and also conducts marketing visits with our community partners and referral sources.

• Joined CEF originally as a Loan Processor/Closer and was promoted to Loan Officer in 2016 before being hired as the new Loan Closing Manager in 2018.

• Holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Finance from the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

What is it about your personality that aligned you with CEF?

I feel very strongly about the social and economic impact small businesses have on their communities and working for an organization that supports those efforts has been the perfect fit. Fresh out of school and starting at CEF, I never imagined that I would be as fortunate as I have been to work for an organization that suits my personality so well. I’ve been able to grow professionally with a company that is making a difference in our communities, I find the work intellectually challenging which keeps me engaged, and I get to work with like-minded people who share my passion for the work we do. Being a part of someone’s journey in pursuing the American Dream, whether we play a small role or we’re instrumental in making it happen, is deeply rewarding.

What is your vision for entrepreneurship in Colorado heading into the future and what do you want your role in it to be?

I see innovation with socially and environmentally minded companies. I see Colorado companies setting the standard for the new way to operate, with profit still being an important piece, but impact into the communities and the environment being the true driving force behind decision-making.

If you had a band, what would it be called and why? What instrument would you play or would you be lead vocals?

‘Hannah and the Banana Peels’. We’d be a mix between indie and country music, I would play guitar and be the main vocalist, although all band members would have the opportunity to take the lead from time to time if they wanted.

Tent, camper, couch surf, or hotel?

My favorite in-state destination is my family’s very rustic cabin in Rand, Colorado. Beyond the endless amounts of childhood memories, it’s at the base of a mountain range, there’s tons of wildlife and beautiful scenery to explore, and on clear nights, the stars are unbelievable – you can see the Milky Way which is one of the most incredible things I’ve ever seen firsthand!

CEF-proud since 2008

• Ensures the security of all borrower assets and oversees any legal actions involving our borrowers.

• Spent 25 years at Citibank as a Portfolio Manager and is a veteran of the Vietnam War.

• Holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing and Finance from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley.

What is it about your personality that aligned you with CEF?

The friendliest atmosphere, attitude and the desire to help small business, new and existing, succeed.

How does Colorado excel?

Colorado provides many different routes to go to and obtain financing.

Tent, camper, couch surf, or hotel?

Hotel near Norrie, Colorado for great hiking and fly fishing

If I had a magic wand, I’d….travel the universe and see the wonders of space.

With CEF since 2017

• Supports our loan portfolios and disbursements, accounting reconciliation and financial reporting plus report developments and special projects.

• Worked at Kaiser Permanente in Claims Accounting and Financial Planning & Performance as an interim Financial Analyst.

• Attended Colorado Technical University where she earned her Master’s in Finance and Bachelor’s in Accounting with a strong focus on Information Technology.

What do you and CEF have in common?

I’m service-oriented and enjoy seeing to other peoples’ needs.

Your Colorado shout out?

We keep our state clean, rank high in fitness and other healthy metrics.

If you had a band, what would it be called and why?

The Immovables. CEF stands firms in building a strong community or at least a foundation for capacity. I’d play the keyboards.

If I had a magic wand, I’d…. end war, restore peace and feed the poor.

CEF Circa 2009

• Analyzes credit and financial reports to determine the risk involved in lending money or extending credit to our applicants, and serves as our SBA Community Advantage 7(a) loan specialist.

• Worked in various capacities for a community bank as loan officer, interim loan operations supervisor and loan reviewer.

• Holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Colorado State University in Fort Collins.

What drew you to CEF?

I like to learn new things and know how they work. I enjoy learning about the different industries we help. The types of businesses are endless so we get to learn a lot.

What is your vision for Colorado’s entrepreneurs?

My belief is that entrepreneurship will continue and be stronger. Colorado has so many talented, committed, and innovative people, and I think people are always looking for something new/different. Our borrowers are very tenacious and determined to realize their dreams.

What is your absolute favorite place to take people visiting from out of town?

My family lives in Colorado, so when they visit I like to take them to whatever special is happening in and around Denver. This varies by season, but can be concerts, plays, the neighborhood shops, or outdoor activities or visiting a new borrower that I know interests them.

If I had a magic wand, I’d…. like all people to feel good about themselves, get what they need to succeed by their definition, and feel happy.

Joined Team CEF in 2018

• Consults with our applicants about their business plans, performs credit analysis and loan underwriting, is involved with ongoing business advisory services to borrowers and also conducts marketing visits with our community partners and referral sources.

• Previously employed in mortgage banking, business startup and development, and marketing.

• Holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications, as well as an MBA in Business Management and Entrepreneurship, from Florida Atlantic University.

What do you see for the future of entrepreneurship in Colorado and where do you see yourself in this future?

I am fascinated by how much locals love to support small business here in Colorado. As our state undergoes tremendous growth, not only in population but in the variety of people starting a business, the team at CEF plays a crucial role. We can help a small business owner just getting started that may have been turned down elsewhere. That borrower will make a positive impact in their community and our local economy.

What is your fantasy rock band and what would you play?

My band would be called Guns & Rosé since I loved the rock bands of the 80’s/90’s but with a fun and refreshing twist. I would play guitar.

Your ideal taste of Colorado?

I love giving visitors a mix of the Colorado experience. Spending some time downtown, exploring RiNo or visiting some breweries. Then taking them to the mountains for a hike or other mountain fun depending on the season. When I’m exploring Colorado, tent camping gives me an appreciation for our wilderness but I would never say no to some pampering at a mountain resort hotel. My favorite destination is Breckenridge; I love the old mining town feel and the buzz on Main Street. It’s hard to beat a day on the slopes.

If I had a magic wand… I’d make sure my kids would always listen to me.

Joined Team CEF in 2019

• Consults with our applicants about their business plans, performs credit analysis and loan underwriting, is involved with ongoing business advisory services to borrowers and also conducts marketing visits with our community partners and referral sources.

• 10 years of enterprise software and technology-based project experience spanning from sales, professional services with a focus on functional/data requirements, and analysis and process improvement.

• Holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in International Business from the University of Colorado Denver.

How did you find your way to CEF?

I had three objectives while looking for an organization to join: 1. Wanted to continue learning about financial services as it applies to multiple verticals in the commercial space 2. It had to be community-centric. I’ve lived in Colorado my entire life and want to continue to be a part of growing and sustaining our community. 3. I wanted to represent a product that I am passionate about that produces high value for customers.

What do you see for Colorado’s entrepreneurial future?

With the help of CEF, grassroots organizations, and state and federal agencies, I feel barriers of small business ownership are becoming lower over time. There are many brave, committed, and disciplined people in our community that have the aptitude to start a business. Lastly, Colorado continues to grow at a faster pace than the rest of the nation and continues to become diverse in many ways which opens the door for new businesses to start and prosper.

What is your favorite place to take people visiting from out of town?

It’s been a family tradition to take visitors to Estes Park. Its breathtaking scenery and peaceful atmosphere always makes it enjoyable.

If I had a magic wand, I’d… Provide every person the opportunity to experience all cultures around the world.

Joined Team CEF in 2019

• Consults with our applicants about their business plans, performs credit analysis and loan underwriting, is involved with ongoing business advisory services to borrowers and also conducts marketing visits with our community partners and referral sources.

• o Previously worked in retail banking as a business lending specialist, and digital marketing advocate to insure the relationship with retail and commercial cliental was developed and well managed.

• Currently attending Regis University for B.A. in Psychology and M.A. in Counseling

What drew you to CEF?

CEF was the only company that I had ever heard of that could positively assist small business owners with their dreams, while attending to several disadvantaged demographics. I finally felt as though I could positively impact my community.

Why is Colorado such fertile ground for small businesses and entrepreneurs?

Colorado has always been a State that holds the potential to bring out the best in all that reside here. Small business and Entrepreneurs are encouraged to believe in their legacy due to the massive expansion of Colorado, and within that regard there is nothing more promising than for businesses and entrepreneurs to grow.

Tent, camper, couch surf, or hotel? What is your favorite in-state destination?

If I had a magic wand, I’d….Bring food to all developing countries and homeless across the world.

With CEF since 2013

• Coordinates the pre-underwriting and closing of our loans with other team members to ensure proper supporting documentation.

• Provided support to local small businesses in the area of employee benefits as an account manager for a local insurance brokerage firm.

What brought you to CEF?

I love helping people! As a Colorado native who grew up in small business (my family has owned and operated a pet shop in Denver for over 25 years), CEF’s mission is very near to my heart and I am so proud to be a part of this team.

What do you see for Colorado’s entrepreneurial future?

I’d like to see Colorado continue to be a leader in small business and for CEF to really become the go-to lender for entrepreneurs in the state. It would be really amazing to see CEF become more involved in a meaningful way with under-represented communities.

If you had a band, what would it be called?

That’s a tough one for me as I’m more of a behind the scenes person but if I had to pick … I’d have to channel my inner Beyoncé because she embodies female empowerment.

If I had a magic wand, I’d….be off to Hogwarts!

Joined Team CEF in 2017

• Coordinates the pre-underwriting and closing of our loans to ensure proper supporting documentation.

• Worked in the legal field as an executive assistant in Denver and as an immigration paralegal in Chicago.

• Has a Bachelor’s degree in Urban and Public Affairs, with a Certificate in Sociology, from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Your vision and your role for the future of Colorado entrepreneurship?

Vision: Business corridor improvements, creating more walkable neighborhoods, providing community wealth building, and a diverse economy.

Role: Helping small businesses succeed. Colorado points of pride: Coffee and sunsets!

Tent, camper, couch surf, or hotel?

Tent in Mesa Verde National Park.

If I had a magic wand, I’d….provide everyone with a free, high quality college education.

With CEF since 2017

• Coordinates the pre-underwriting and closing of our loans to ensure proper supporting documentation.

• Worked for the University of Notre Dame Public Affairs Department as part of an off-campus educational initiative, and for Notre Dame Trio Programs as a Program Liaison and Baccalaureate Advisor. Also interned for the South Bend (Indiana) School Corporation.

• Graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology and Constitutional Studies.

What is your vision for entrepreneurship in Colorado heading into the future and what do you want your role in it to be?

I’d love to see CEF continue to grow and help more communities all over the state.

What does Colorado do better than any other state?

Mountains

What is your absolute favorite place to take people visiting from out of town?

Coors factory

If I had a magic wand, I’d….

travel all the time without the hassle of airplanes.

What drew you to CEF?

I was a client of CEF and I LOVED how I was treated. I have also been a SBDC consultant and have seen how CEF does the right thing for small business – each and every time. I wanted to be part of that culture.

What is different about Southern Colorado’s small business community compared to other places?

The difference is that communities have their own personalities. Growth is happening in each community for different reasons and as a lender we need to keep up with what is happening.

What is your absolute favorite place to take people visiting from out of town?

Colorado based companies – local eateries and places they are not going to find anywhere else!

If I had a magic wand, I’d…

Help every business owner understand that making it 1 year does not equal success.

Joined Team CEF in 2010

• Helps pre-screen our applicants, conducts site visits with our borrowers and referral sources, represents CEF at outreach events, and provides administrative support to the lending team.

• Employed many years as an administrative assistant in various industries.

• Completed professional training during the years she held administrative positions.

What is your vision for entrepreneurship in Colorado heading into the future and what do you want your role in it to be?

I think that it’s getting stronger. I think there are more people who have these dreams and want to put their vision into it. 

What is it about your job that makes you feel like you’re making a difference?

I’m on the front line, when people are pretty close to applying but aren’t quite ready. I help them think of things they haven’t thought of. I help them put together a business plan. I recommend they talk to a small business development center. Sometimes they just want to talk and I talk them through the process. People want to be heard. They want someone else to be excited, giving them the positive feedback makes them feel better. 

Started working at CEF in 2018

• Supports development, finance, marketing, and operations projects and administration. Facilitates efficient systems and communication for partners, boards, leadership team, and staff.

• Served homeless and at-risk teens in Oklahoma for 20 years through relationship development, resource and event management, and volunteer coordination, as well as held corporate positions in video production, conference planning, and advertising in Texas and Virginia.

• Holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism from the University of Oklahoma.

How did you find your way to CEF?

When I moved to Colorado, I wanted to continue to serve my community through my work. As the opportunity to join CEF arose, I felt it an ideal match for my mission-oriented focus and experience in nonprofit governance and operations, fundraising, grant management, and community outreach.

Favorite food and where do you go to find it in Colorado?

I am trying to visit CEF borrowers’ food and beverage outlets (and other borrowers’ businesses) to expand my culinary and geographic knowledge. Always something wonderful at the end of the quest!

If I had a magic wand, I’d… give every person, dog, and cat a home that is safe yet fun, and the people and tools they need to be happy in their play and successful in their work.