- Hometown: Littleton, Colo.
- Role: Chief economist with the Colorado Legislative Council
- Years of legislative service: Nine
“I like to call myself a ‘statriot,’ meaning I love my state. I grew up in Colorado, and so did my mom and my grandfather. The state—the land, the people, the giant group project that we call government—has given me so much, and I’m enthusiastic about giving back to it.”
Why did you choose to work at the Legislature?
I am an emphatic believer in democratic government. A legislature is a group of mere citizens entrusted with a very difficult job. As someone who feels a responsibility to give back to my state, I can think of no nobler service than the advisory role I perform as nonpartisan legislative staff.
What skill or talent are you most proud of?
I co-facilitate a public speaking seminar for my colleagues. I enjoy speaking publicly, and I love building confidence in other staff to take on that challenge.
What’s the best advice you were ever given?
Don’t forget to have fun.
Who or what inspires you?
I’m inspired by so many people at the Capitol but most of all, I think, by the children and teens who take time to advocate for themselves, their peers and their futures.
What’s one thing you love about your state?
I love our exquisite summer evenings, when towering mountains are silhouetted against the explosive colors of the Western sky.
What are you currently reading/listening to/watching?
“The Tragic Science: How Economists Cause Harm (Even as They Aspire to Do Good),” by George F. DeMartino.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
For its “Staff Snapshots” series, State Legislatures News is asking legislative staff about their role in the legislature. To suggest a staffer for this series, please use the email icon above to contact Holly South.