Diane joined the GOCO team in October 2021 as the communications manager.

What did you do before you came to GOCO?

Prior to joining the GOCO team, I was communications manager at Colorado Succeeds, a business coalition working to improve the public education system to better serve students. In that role, I advocated for innovative legislation, supported recruitment of coalition members, and elevated the stories and learnings of forward-thinking educators across the state. Leading up to my work at Colorado Succeeds, I was brand manager at Butterfly Pavilion, where I fostered engagement with exhibits and programs and worked to inspire the next generation of conservationists.

There’s a lot of issues I care about, so I would describe myself as a communications professional committed to making an impact for people and the planet.

What brought you to GOCO?

Throughout my life, the great outdoors has helped me to learn about the world around me, tested my strength and perseverance, and connected me with something bigger than myself. I’ve grown passionate in my belief that every individual should have access to these experiences. GOCO has given me the unique opportunity to apply the skills I have in marketing and communications to achieve that goal.

What are you most excited to tackle at GOCO?

I’m most looking forward to supporting the Generation Wild communications campaign. The focus on getting kids outdoors, and the many creative strategies and tactics being leveraged to get there, is exactly the kind of work that energizes and inspires me.

What is your typical day like?

A typical day in my role is spent planning, executing, and reviewing the results of communications across platforms like the website, social media, email, and other publications. Success in these areas is only possible through close collaboration with team members and partners. Much of my day is spent tapping into the insights and expertise of people in various roles to create the most impactful content possible.

What are some of your favorite things to do outdoors?

There’s nothing better than a good hike or camping trip during summer. I love searching for wildflowers and seeing pollinators, like bees and butterflies, in action.   

Where is your favorite place to get outdoors in Colorado?

One of my favorites is Golden Gate Canyon State Park. It’s not too far from Denver, and it’s a great place to exercise, relax, and enjoy beautiful scenery.

What is your most memorable outdoors mishap?

When I was very new to Colorado, I went with a friend to Copper Mountain to ski for the first time. I knew so little about the sport – being from central North Carolina – that I took his word for it that I would be fine without a lesson. As we went higher and higher on the chair lift, I realized I had made a terrible mistake. But, there was only one way down!

For the first half of the mountain, I was tense, slow, lost my skis a couple times, and watched everyone fly by me, while people in the chair lift above stared and probably wondered, “Is she okay?!” That was embarrassing. But by the second half of the run, I was simply too tired to struggle. It turns out that just loosening up and letting myself ski was just what I needed to get the rest of the way down at a good pace. Thankfully, I got down in one piece.

Since then, I’ve always made sure to be well-prepared for every new outdoor adventure!

What is the coolest wildlife you have spotted while outdoors in Colorado?

On hikes I’ve spotted a moose, mountain goats, a rattlesnake, and even a marmot! The marmot was exceptionally cute.