Governor Jared Polis and Department of Personnel & Administration Executive Director Tony Gherardini recognized 23 state employees for their superior service to the people of Colorado during 2025. The lunch at the Governor’s Mansion on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 was part of Public Service Recognition Week.
To celebrate the important contributions of our State employees, the Governor’s Office and the Department of Personnel & Administration asked each State executive branch agency to select one employee for 2025 who most exemplify the significant and invaluable contributions public servants make to the quality of life in our State.
Department Honorees
For more information, you can read a full narrative on each employee that was recognized for their contribution to State government, and the citizens of Colorado.
- Colorado Energy Office – Natalie Doerre
Natalie has been an integral part of the CEO team for five years. As the person that oversees CEO's budget, she is heavily involved in our policy work at the legislature, in our interagency work to lead the climate agenda for the state, in federal funding from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency, and our internal programs and operations.
CEO has more than tripled in size since Natalie started, and while she now leads a team of direct reports in addition to serving as the Associate Director for the entire Finance & Operations department, she has also been the key point person on her own for much of this time - including through nights, weekends, crunch times, legislative sessions, budgeting and payroll, federal reporting deadlines, and end of fiscal years.
Natalie is easy to work with, incredibly smart, understands CEO's work and operations better than nearly anyone, and has served us incredibly well through incredible growth, a funding freeze, and an abrupt change in political, and budget direction at the national level. She is dedicated to her colleagues and to our mission.
- Department of Agriculture – Nikki Brinson
Nikki has been a dedicated public servant for over 15 years, and has helped numerous divisions at the Department of Agriculture on various committees. She has stretched her professional capacity to accommodate whatever the Department or stakeholders asked of her, often at times when she was covering multiple roles in her program. Her teammates have never heard her say, "I can't do that." or "I won't do that."
The work Nikki does in partnership with the Conservation Districts around Colorado empowers grassroots leaders to meet their most pressing conservation needs. The working lands, water infrastructure, forest health, and countless other conservation priorities depend upon the stewardship and leadership that stems directly from Colorado's Conservation Districts. Nikki is a true public servant in her steadfast dedication to these critical efforts, including her leadership within the National Association of State Conservation Agencies, where she advocates fiercely for conservation priorities at the state and national level.
We are lucky to count Nikki among our staff with the Conservation Services Division and the Colorado Department of Agriculture. A public servant through and through, she is a model for others to follow and a well-deserving recipient of this award.
- Department of Corrections – Lt. Jess Orin
Lt. Jess Orin exemplifies the highest standards of service, leadership, and integrity within the Colorado Department of Corrections. As a facility instructor, Lt. Orin’s dedication to excellence is evident through his initiative and commitment to staff development. Most notably, he took the lead implementing and teaching UKG system classes–without being assigned–demonstrating not only technical proficiency but a deep investment in the success of his colleagues and facility operations.
Lt. Orin’s Impact goes beyond instruction. His positive demeanor and genuine interactions uplift staff morale and create a welcoming atmosphere for staff, visitors, and volunteers alike. He consistently takes time to greet others and offer encouragement, setting the tone for a professional and respectful culture. Volunteers frequently note his professionalism, which reflects positively on the entire organization.
Despite a demanding schedule, Lt. Orin actively mentors both new and seasoned staff, ensuring team members have the tools and knowledge to succeed. Outside the facility, he continues to serve. He supports local youth athletics, providing transportation and mentorship to children in his community. His service, both inside and outside the facility, reflects the Department’s core values and strengthens public trust in our mission.
Lt. Orin embodies the true spirit of public service. He leads with humility, takes initiative without seeking credit, and consistently goes above and beyond to support others. For these reasons and more, Lt. Orin is a shining example of the impact one dedicated public servant can make on a facility, a department, and a community.
- Department of Early Childhood – Sena Harjo
Sena Harjo is the Tribal Liaison for CDEC. She is working on a PhD in Leadership in Educational Equity at the University of Colorado at Denver, while raising three young children with her partner. She exemplifies public service in all she does, she shows up with a dedication for all, especially those underrepresented and those in the Native American communities. She uses her lived and personal experiences to advocate for the most marginalized and has such passion for the children and family we serve.
CDEC staff appreciate Sena’s ability to connect, and her approachable nature. she has in a short time created great relationships with the Ute and Ute Mountain Ute tribes, as well as with urban Indians. Sena has built awareness within Tribal partners of potential resources that can be offered by CDEC. Her Tribal Council has set the tone for what is expected between the Department and the sovereign nations we have the honor of working with. Her attention and understanding of the engagement of the council allows CDEC to design policies, programs and services in true collaboration with those most impacted. Families have access to wonderful reading materials and activities that support optimum development for their young learners. Sena also is working on strategies to provide access to CDEC programs, like Universal Preschool and home visitation.
Sena embodies the helping professional. With her peers, colleagues, and our Tribal Partners she seeks to support others. Her work is exemplary, and she finds opportunities to educate others on ways to best partner and support Tribal Nations. All of this and more demonstrates the incredible example she sets as a true public servant.
- Department of Education – Alyssa Pearson
Alyssa Pearson is the deputy commissioner of the Colorado Department of Education, overseeing implementation of the department's strategic plan and work with the state board, legislature and external partners. She also leads the Student Pathways, State Library and Legislative Relations & Policy teams. Alyssa has worked at the Colorado Department of Education since 2003 and formerly served as the associate commissioner for Accountability, Performance and Support.
During her time at CDE, Alyssa has also supported Title I programs, coordinated and led the No Child Left Behind accountability and data reporting requirements, written a successful proposal to the U.S. Department of Education for approval for use of the Colorado Growth Model for federal accountability, and ensured approval of the state's ESEA waiver from the U.S. Department of Education.
Alyssa leads with integrity and focuses on how to effectively partner, both internally and externally. She is a go-to leader for the Board and the Governor’s office, and has stewarded the department as a Deputy Commissioner through several transitions. She has compiled a career of helping Colorado citizens get the most from their education, and for that she should be recognized.
- Department of Health Care Policy & Financing – Chris Underwood
Chris Underwood serves as the Chief Administrative Officer for the HCPF. He has worked for over 25 years as a public servant, holding numerous leadership positions including developing a project management team to coordinate HCPF’s strategic initiatives.
Previously he had oversight of HCPF’s IT systems and operations, Medicaid eligibility, safety net programs, and work to maximize federal Medicaid revenue. Coloradans covered by Medicaid, providers, HCPF employees and partners are ALL the better from Chris’ dedicated, passionate, expert public service and contributions. Chris was a pillar of strength and experience through multiple recessions, when fiscal challenges collided with a steep rise in Medicaid coverage.
He was a key player in advancing HCPF infrastructure through the Affordable Care Act while leading efforts to design the hospital provider fee which significantly increased Medicaid payments to hospitals and financed health coverage for more than 600,000 Coloradans. During the COVID Public Health Emergency he led efforts to cover another 550,000 Coloradans while assisting to build alternate care sites in case hospitals and nursing homes breached their capacity.
Chris is a seasoned leader who oversees 40+ HCPF goals annually and intervenes to get projects back on track. We are honored to recognize Chris during this year’s Public Service Recognition Week.
- Department of Higher Education – Twyla Esquibel
An employee with the State for 28 years, Twyla has lead the CDHE Outreach team since October 2022. In this role, Twyla leads the team to support and train school districts, workforce centers, correctional facilities, adults, students, families, foster youth and other stakeholders on college admissions, enrollment, scholarships, financial education, My Colorado Journey, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and the Colorado Application for State Financial Aid (CASFA).
She has been with the Colorado Department of Higher Education for 19 years in various roles, and most recently as program coordinator for My Colorado Journey. Twyla was born and raised in Denver. She is a Manual High School graduate and attended the Community College of Denver. In her spare time, Twyla enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She is dedicated, funny, hard working and brings brings heart and passion to her role in helping all Colorado students succeed.
- Department of Human Services – Nicole Drake
Nicole is a consummate civil servant and proof that a single individual can be the spark that ignites a powder keg of change. As the supervisor of the Division of Child Welfare, Nicole leads a first-of-its-kind rapid response team to surge support to county departments of human/social services in times of crisis or unprecedented challenge. Armed with a tremendous depth of expertise in child welfare, child development, process improvement and behavioral health, her team is built on the ideals of adaptability, innovation, empathy and steadiness, and provides services in a way that is both tailored to individuals and empirically-driven. Nicole relies on a model of continuous improvement to track and strengthen her team’s services based on a suite of metrics, and even developed an equity tool to ensure that all children and youth’s needs are prioritized and escalated through a consistent and fair process.
Nicole embodies the axiom of “whatever it takes,” and on any given day, she can be found in communities across Colorado providing hands-on support. From training new child welfare supervisors when counties are short-staffed to calling community providers to match children with services to meeting with hospitals to understand the needs of kids in inpatient care, Nicole is unwavering in her commitment to every corner of Colorado.
If impact itself is the ability to change a life, Nicole’s impact measures in the thousands. She is a true catalyst for positive change, and we are grateful every day for her leadership, drive, and perseverance.
- Department of Labor & Employment – Alex Reynolds
As a Content Strategist in the Division of Workers’ Compensation, Alex has transformed how the Division connects with employers, helping increase workers’ compensation coverage compliance across Colorado. Through strategic outreach, he’s collaborated with organizations such as the Colorado Restaurant Association, the American Council of Engineering Companies, and the Colorado Funeral Directors Association to provide industry-specific training, resources, and website updates. He’s also worked with multiple city building departments and state agencies to distribute critical coverage information.
Beyond outreach, he has modernized essential Division resources, updating the Employer Guide, rewriting the Insurance Requirements for Employers pamphlet, and launching the Workers’ Compensation 101 for Employers video series. He also spearheaded seven targeted social media campaigns to expand the Division’s reach and promote compliance.
Alex’s contributions extend to worker education, creating educational webinars and videos to help workers navigate the system. Additionally, he made the Division’s first Dependent’s Claim brochure. Committed to accessibility, he has ensured critical resources are available to all by remediating dozens of resources and web pages.
His creativity and enthusiasm strengthen CDLE’s culture, from organizing a division-wide “Family Feud” event to leading volunteer outings. Alex’s dedication to innovation, outreach, and engagement makes him a true asset to CDLE.
- Department of Local Affairs – KC McFerson
KC has dedicated significant and sustained effort for several years toward the goal of improving local government planning for housing. KC worked in the 2021 legislative session to develop HB21-1271 (IHOP/IHOI) and to launch this incredibly successful, popular, and oversubscribed program. The next year she worked similarly on HB22-1304 (Strong Communities).
Recently, she worked closely with Governor's Office, Colorado Energy Office, CDOT, local and regional governments, and nonprofit advocates over two years to support development of land use legislation to promote affordable housing and strategic growth. She provided research, analysis, educational materials and speaking points, and attended countless work sessions. This work created a shift in thinking about the state's role in land use planning.
KC is now tasked with leading implementation of this critical legislation for the State, and supporting local governments in successfully doing so. She has led with communication and engagement of local governments, and has received feedback from communities who praise the transparency, helpful tools and presentations, one-on-one assistance, and clear guidance. KC represents all that is great about DOLA.
- Department of Military & Veterans Affairs – David Hinton
David consistently exceeds expectations in ensuring DMVA facilities operate at peak performance. He provides exemplary service, assisting with diverse maintenance needs across the Southern Region, including lock and door repairs.
As a certified locksmith, David has saved the state thousands of dollars by repairing and replacing specialized locking systems. His leadership, positive attitude, and innovative ideas motivate colleagues, while his expertise is valued by team members and building occupants alike.
DMVA is proud to recognize David for his dedication and pride. They are evident in the care he provides to all facilities.
- Department of Natural Resources – Tim Mauck
Tim Mauck exemplifies the motto “service above self." Tim is integral to DNR’s work and has been instrumental on working on some of the DNR’s most critical priorities including the Colorado Geographic Naming Board, our Wildly Important Goals, Strategic Priorities, as a voting member of the Mined Land Reclamation Board, and working to coordinate and collaborate on Colorado’s Outdoor Strategy.
Tim is a skilled problem solver who honed his skills while working on some of his community’s most challenging issues: from addressing traffic issues on the I-70 mountain corridor to reducing the impact of the closure of the Henderson Mine on his community.
Tim is also an avid sportsperson, and his personal passion for outdoor recreation and wildlife management is prevalent in his sound policy and issue advice to the department.
Tim models and promotes a culture of respect and open communication for every employee. Tim lifts up others and helps us be our best selves through support, humor, and modeling accountability through his own actions. He is often behind the scenes giving credit to others. There’s a Tim McGraw song called “Humble and Kind.” The lyrics: “when you get where you're goin’, don’t forget [to] turn back around, and help the next one in line” sums up Tim’s leadership style.
- Department of Personnel & Administration – Rano Fatulova
As a member of the Mail Security Team at DPA’s North Campus facility, Rano discovered a suspicious piece of mail containing an unidentified white powder that was addressed to the Secretary of State. Rano immediately put her training into action, isolating the piece of mail and notifying her manager to start the emergency protocol for such an instance. The entire incident was handled calmly and professionally while ensuring everyone's health and safety.
This quick action allowed for her manager to contact law enforcement for the start of an investigation by state and federal authorities, while securely containing the mail piece without it ever leaving the mail screening facility.
As it turned out, this incident was one of 15 such incidents across the country, and part of a much larger investigation. While many news outlets reported that the Secretary of State’s office had intercepted a suspicious package, we knew that it really was Rano, by doing her job diligently, who actually saved the day.
Through her quick actions, Rano exemplified DPA’s core values of Service, Teamwork and Integrity, and ensured a best-case outcome for a potentially very dangerous situation.
Within her role as the incoming mailroom team lead, Rano has remained steadfast in her work to help secure and deliver nearly 2.5 million pieces of mail each year. She routinely screens and secures mail and packages for over 130 different State and public service agencies each day, and helps keep her fellow Colorado State employees safe from mailborne threats.
- Department of Public Health & Environment – Andrés Guerrero
Andrés Guerrero serves the State of Colorado with passion and commitment and is driven to improve the health and wellbeing of all Coloradans. Andrés serves as one of the state’s leading experts on overdose prevention and works closely with federal, state, and local partners to reduce overdose deaths in Colorado. In this role, he and his team lead and contribute to efforts to conduct public health surveillance to understand drug overdose trends, and make it easier for health care providers to use the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.
Andrés has consistently exhibited outstanding leadership in the field of public health. He and his team have strategically advanced the department’s wildly important goal of reducing deaths from all opioids, including fentanyl. He is a highly regarded and trusted public health professional who has fostered collaborative relationships with key partners including the Colorado Consortium for Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention, Attorney General’s Office, representatives from the Governor’s Office, Rocky Mountain High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, Drug Enforcement Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, colleagues at the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration and local public health agencies.
Andrés draws on his expertise in prevention and intervention with vulnerable populations as well as his experience managing local grantees and statewide partnerships, to ensure the success of the local grants program, linkage to care, and provider support.
He advances a vision of public service that’s driven by compassion and a profound sense of empathy for those he serves. Andrés and his team have saved lives with their work, and the Department of Public Health and Environment is proud of these extraordinary accomplishments.
- Department of Public Safety – Lori Brill
Since 2022, Lori has managed over $12 million in state funding to assign and distribute critical PPE safety equipment to the Colorado’s Fire Service. She shouldered the bulk of the work establishing the program, selecting vendors, developing the application and review process, and made consistent reports to the General Assembly.
She managed political pressure, pressure from departments and vendors, with a desire to help those most in need in standing up this new program. Her work ensured that critical PPE needs were met. The number of departments that were using old, outdated gear, sharing SCBA masks and other PPE was shocking. Due to her efforts, 205 projects were funded.
As one recipient put it:
“Thank you for passing our grant proposal on, allowing us to receive this generous grant. Your grant of $74,500 to allow us to buy modern SCBA equipment makes a huge impact on protecting our first responders. We are humbled that you chose to help our mission with this generous donation.
We feel passionately about our mission to protect lives and property, and our volunteers are always willing to drop everything when there is a need. However, we cannot perform that mission without the proper PPE to protect our priceless volunteer first responders. Because we receive no tax funding of any kind, grants like this are appreciated more than words can tell.
On behalf of all the women and men who volunteer their time to our fire department, I thank you and your commitment to help the local community.”
- Department of Regulatory Agencies – Tracy Green
Tracy’s dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence have profoundly impacted the development and success of the examination staff.
Tracy embodies the true spirit of public service through her unwavering commitment to developing others. Her work ensures that examiners are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to protect consumers.
She has demonstrated exceptional initiative in enhancing examiner training programs, ensuring that commercial bank and trust examiners receive structured, career-advancing education. She introduced the Commercial Bank Training Workbook and collaborated with supervisors to develop a Trust Examiner Training Workbook. Additionally, Tracy integrates industry-leading training resources ensuring examiners stay ahead of regulatory changes.
As a leader, Tracy exemplifies professionalism and mentorship. She successfully onboards new examiners, creating structured development plans and providing hands-on guidance. Her commitment to performance management ensures employees receive timely feedback and the resources needed to excel.
Beyond her technical expertise, Tracy fosters a collaborative work environment, inspiring and supporting her colleagues. Her dedication to staff development and the betterment of public service makes a lasting impact on the Division and the communities it serves.
- Department of Revenue – Ashlee Dutton
Ashlee has been with the State for over 16 years, working her way up from Financial Aid in Higher Education, to Human Resources, and then she brought that expertise to the Department of Revenue where she has been for the past three years.
In those three years, she has made a huge impact to the Department in the area of culture, employee engagement, and leadership development.
Her creativity and initiative has propelled her to develop and implement various programs. To note a few: Fill Your Values Pie, which provided tangible applicability to the Department's shared core values. She served as a liaison with the Department's Employee Engagement Committee, as well as assuming program management of the Department's Mentoring Program providing enhancements and further participant engagement.
An invaluable member of the DOR team, Ashlee embodies public service and exceptional dedication to the citizens of Colorado.
- Department of Transportation – John “Sage” David
We recognize John “Sage” David for his 35 years of commitment to the State of Colorado and his dedication to excellence.
Starting his career as a snowplow operator in 1989, He has worked his way up through the ranks to his current position as Section 2 Maintenance Superintendent, the leader of one of the largest Maintenance Sections in the state. His current position has him overseeing the Maintenance and Operation of the I-70 corridor from the Utah State Line to Silverthorne, along with US 50 from Grand Junction to Gunnison.
John’s first priority is and has always been the safety of the traveling public and the team with whom he works. Whether it is stopping to assist a stranded motorist, or making sure his plow operators have the tools to do their jobs, or simply sharing his experience and knowledge, he continuously supports the Department’s mission.
John has done an outstanding job of keeping roads open through everything from heavy winter storms to unexpected natural disasters such as the 2021 Glenwood Canyon flood that closed the interstate for weeks, as well as the most recent US 50 Blue Mesa Bridge emergency closure.
He provides a vast knowledge of roadway maintenance and CDOT history along with a strong yet quiet leadership style that is respected by employees, peers, and management at CDOT. John is an unflappable, dedicated public servant who doesn’t expect recognition because he is simply doing his job. It is for this reason that CDOT wanted to recognize him here today.
- Governor’s Office – Saul Tapia Vega
It is with great enthusiasm that the Governor’s Office nominate Saul for recognition as one of the most hardworking and dedicated individuals in the Executive Branch. As a leader, Saul exemplifies what it means to serve with integrity and compassion. He is responsive, knowledgeable, patient, and kind—always willing to take the time to answer questions and support those around him.
Saul manages the front lines of Constituent Services with extraordinary care and commitment, often handling the most difficult and complex cases—frequently serving as the last line of defense for Coloradans in need. His ability to navigate these challenges with empathy and effectiveness is truly remarkable. He also leads community engagement events effortlessly at the Governor’s mansion, lifting up voices from around the state.
In addition to his service in this role and on the Lafayette City Council, Saul was instrumental in launching our paid internship program, advocating for its creation and ensuring it became a reality.
His tireless dedication continues to make a meaningful impact on countless lives across the state.
- Office of State Planning & Budget – Soumanetra Ghosh
Soumanetra demonstrates a tireless work ethic to support the Governor’s goals related to K-12 education. The K-12 education portfolio includes unique financial and policy challenges, including the implementation of a new school finance formula given existing caseload pressures and the broader budget environment.
Soumanetra’s success is a result of a deep understanding of the complexities of high-profile areas in K-12 education like school finance, categorical programs, and Healthy School Meals for All, as well as a nuanced comprehension of the range of high-impact K-12 programs statewide.
In addition, she has developed a strong, collaborative relationship with the Colorado Department of Education, coordinates effectively between competing priorities amongst stakeholders, and provides thoughtful, objective, fact-based analysis to decision makers. Through hard work and long hours, Soumanetra has not only become the “go-to” person for all things K-12, but an important contributor to the quarterly OSPB forecast as well. Her work includes analysis of economic expectations, state revenue projections, and insightful education-related forecast analysis. These efforts help lay the groundwork for the availability of funds which underpin the Governor’s budget submissions.
In the totality of her work, Soumanetra has received numerous accolades from internal and external stakeholders for her willingness to engage in difficult work, provide objective, high-quality analysis, and ensure the best possible outcomes are given due consideration. Soumanetra exemplifies the term public service - she doggedly provides her knowledge, expertise, and a significant amount of time to achieve the best possible outcome to benefit all of Colorado.
- Behavioral Health Administration - Kayla Martin
Kayla Martin is effective, dedicated, and making a significant impact in the service of the people of Colorado. In advance of the launch of the Behavioral Health Administrative Service Organizations in July, Kayla has taken on work far beyond the scope of her position to effectively deliver this transformational change in our behavioral health system.
She is a collaborator - a thought partner, a listening ear, and she delivers. Kayla is the go-to expert for so many team members at BHA, and she never fails to answer, even if she can only make a connection to the "correct" staff member. At her core, Kayla is always thinking about the outcomes of her work in the context of service for Coloradans.
Kayla embodies the spirit of a public servant. She represents herself, BHA, and the State in meeting the needs of all in Colorado.
- Office of Economic Development and International Trade – Niki Holland
Niki stepped into a whirlwind when she took on the role of Procurement Director a little over a year-and-a-half ago. She has navigated it with a calm, organized, level-headedness.
Notably, she successfully trained and integrated three new procurement specialists within the span of three months, providing critical training and support while simultaneously juggling a demanding workload. Niki consistently works extended hours to ensure critical projects move forward, often going above and beyond to meet tight deadlines and address urgent procurement needs. She approaches every complex procurement with a "find a way to yes" attitude, demonstrating a commitment to problem-solving and collaboration.
Additionally, she has worked to integrate the new accessibility requirements into the procurement process. She continues to collaborate with the Governor's Office, CEO, OSC and the OIT TAP team to find ways to adhere to the accessibility requirements, while making improvements to prevent delays in the procurement process.
She has worked to increase communication with staff by implementing monthly office hours and by creating the "Above the Bottom Line" finance newsletter to provide important updates and reminders. She is always approachable, kind, and knowledgeable.
Niki's dedication to public service, her work ethic, and ability to find solutions in challenging situations makes her an invaluable asset to the State of Colorado.
- Governor’s Office of Information Technology – Nyasha Levy
Nyasha Levy has dedicated 25 years to public service with the State, starting her career the Department of Human Services and later with OIT. Her lived experiences as a single mother relying on state services, fuel her commitment to helping others. As the manager of OIT's 15-member Identity and Access Management team, she ensures seamless service delivery to state employees and agencies.
Nyasha’s influence extends beyond daily operations; she spearheads critical tech debt and audit remediation efforts, contributes to OIT’s EDI work, and actively participates in the BIPOC Employee Resource Group. Her passion for service is further demonstrated through her extensive community volunteer work in suicide prevention.
Nyasha’s positive energy, exceptional work ethic, and genuine care for her team and customers are truly remarkable. She embraces continuous learning, and is a role model for reliability and compassion, especially in challenging times. Nyasha’s fact-based approach and servant-leader heart embody the true spirit of public service.