Growing up in Colorado, you think you’ve seen it all—from life on the Front Range to weekend trips in the mountains. But when I became a Fellow supporting the Northeast Regional Council, I quickly realized how unfamiliar I was with the part of the state where communities are tucked away among the plains.
In just a few short months, supporting the Northeast has become a highlight of my work and one of the most fulfilling parts of my day-to-day responsibilities. The region has given me the chance to explore towns and local communities I likely never would have visited otherwise.
Back in November 2025, Caroline Monberg, my fellow Northeast Council Fellow, and I spent three days in the Northeast for one-on-one meetings with council members. What surprised me most was discovering that, despite the miles between towns, everyone knows everyone. That sense of connection is one of the region’s greatest strengths—it truly makes the Northeast stand out.
Over lunch with Council Member Trae Miller, it didn’t take long for multiple people to stop by and say hello to him. And this wasn’t unique to Trae—every council member seems to know everyone. It was the same with Gerald Keefe, as he greeted nearly everyone in the restaurant. That level of community connection is something special.
One standout moment was our one-on-one with Council Member Anna Scott, who was rolling off the council. This was her last meeting, and she gave us a tour of Julesburg, including the visitor center and the Hippodrome Arts Center—an entertainment hub and beloved gathering place that she played a pivotal role in bringing to life. It didn’t take long to see the vital role Anna has played in her community. I left Julesburg knowing Anna has made a lasting impact and helped shape the town into what it is today. It was an honor to step into her world for a day.
Another highlight of the trip was our time in Holyoke with Council Member Trisha Herman, who led us through the Holyoke Community Childcare Initiative construction site. Trisha is spearheading the effort to create a safe, affordable, and accessible licensed childcare center for the community’s children and families. Hearing firsthand about the dedication and collaboration behind this project was truly inspiring, especially given how critical childcare is for the Northeast.
From trying new restaurants to watching movie trailers at the Hippodrome, I left those one-on-ones feeling the impact of this regional council and the strong sense of connection that defines the Northeast. I’m looking forward to continuing to support this region and exploring everything it has to offer.
