The Forty Under 40 Experience
I’m under 40. Yes, it’s true and just barely! I am so humbled and honored to join the Denver Business Journal’s 2013 Class of Forty Under 40 honorees. Believe me, I’ve thought to myself on more than one occasion – given the exceptional work of the 39 other winners – that perhaps someone slipped someone a $20 to get my name on that list! But I digress…
I am awestruck and inspired by the exceptional service and commitment to our community of the other honorees. To hear their stories is to discover the promise of our generation… they are advancing the causes of our time and creating opportunities that I’m certain will have lasting impacts in Denver and beyond. These are innovators, entrepreneurs and philanthropists. I do hope you’ll reach out and read their stories…
I’m also energized by the support I see for business in the Denver area. This community is engaged. It’s a place to grow ideas and reach for your dreams. I know for me personally, I’ve found guidance through the Small Business Development Center. I’ve sharpened our practices and gained new opportunities through our Mentor-Protégé Agreement with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. We’ve gained exposure and developed relationships through the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, the Colorado Women’s Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau Serving Denver/Boulder. And… we’ve been so moved by the work of our non-profit community, that we’ve created and expanded our giving efforts, including our Fireside Day of Service.
I’ve had several interviewees recently refer to Denver as “the center of the world.” For me, this part of Colorado is a remarkable place to call home and it has provided me career opportunities I never thought possible. Many thanks to all of you who have reached out with your congratulatory messages and to the Denver Business Journal for this extraordinary honor… thank you to the incredible Fireside team for embracing our vision and to all of our Clients who trust us with their projects and allow us experiences beyond compare. Most importantly, though, my deepest gratitude to my family for filling my world with joy and for Tom, in particular, for being my exceptionally talented, driven partner with an unceasing ability to do whatever it takes to make great videos. If he were just a few years younger, I’m certain this honor would be his!