My involvement in Junior Achievement goes back decades. I’ve chaired the board of directors and served on the executive committee for years, volunteered at Finance Park, attended numerous board retreats, countless meetings, fund-raising events and performed various roles as needed. I wholeheartedly believe JA helps youngsters see the value of free enterprise and capitalism, the importance of economic self-sufficiency, and the significance of getting an education in preparation for a career. I love JA’s spotlight on entrepreneurship as someone who enjoyed my own personal rewards in business.

All along my dear friend Robin Wise has been the CEO of JA and it has made my involvement more gratifying and enjoyable. It gives me even more pride to see the completion of the new Free Enterprise Center in Greenwood Village. It has been satisfying to see the kernel of the idea get planted at the board level, the fundraising begin only to be stalled by Covid, take-off with a ground-breaking in March 2022, and be completed with a handsome tribute to free enterprise only a year later! A surprisingly modest $18+ million was collected primarily by the persuasive powers of a very determined and motivated Robin augmented by a supportive staff, board and loyal hubby Steve. Her tenacity to stick to the budget, raise the money and get the project done despite occasional obstacles was inspiring and contagious. Robin’s fashionable style and practicable sensibility shows in the design, color scheme and modern finishes.

As an added bonus for me, my honorary retirement gift from the Boettcher Foundation was a significant financial donation to the Free Enterprise Center. It is commemorated in the portion of the building called the Dream Accelerator, a unique program where students are guided to uncover their strengths and encouraged to investigate various interests and jobs that might lead to careers. I’m deeply touched and humbled and so proud of this entire achievement — truly a dream come true.