Ray Rivera is a social entrepreneur, strategist, and coalition leader with more than 25 years of experience in political campaigns, public policy, and mission-driven organizations. He began his career as a union organizer, grounding his lifelong commitment to empowering people and strengthening communities.

Ray gained national recognition leading President Barack Obama’s first campaign for president in Colorado, helping secure a historic victory in the state. He later served in the Obama Administration under Secretary Ken Salazar at the Department of the Interior, where he helped launch youth and service initiatives. He also served at the White House Council on Environmental Quality, where he connected outdoor companies and advocacy groups to President Obama’s policy efforts.

In addition to his public service, Ray has advised companies and causes at the intersection of policy, politics, and social impact, including leading coalition and spokesperson efforts on behalf of Fortune 100 companies and advocacy organizations to advance major policy initiatives such as consumer choice and housing affordability.

Deeply committed to leadership development and equity, Ray has recruited and mentored emerging leaders—especially women and people of color—to take on roles in advocacy and public service. His board and advisory service include the Children and Nature Network, the Outdoor Foundation, Outdoor Alliance, and the Aspen Institute’s Fresh Tracks program, reflecting his passion for civic engagement and expanding access to the outdoors.

Originally from New Mexico, Ray grew up surrounded by public lands and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. He holds a Master’s in Public Administration from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government and now lives in Golden with his two sons, Mateo and Greg, where they enjoy skiing, biking, and team sports like baseball and lacrosse. When he’s not advising organizations and causes, he’s happily serving as their full-time driver and baseball coach.