Carolyn Ulrich – NOCO’s 30 Under 30

By: Staff

Carolyn Ulrich 

29
Residential Coordinator, Envision

Tell us about yourself, your history and how you came to be where you are now. 
While I was growing up, I always enjoyed helping others, and in high school I decided I wanted to work with individuals with disabilities. I went to the University of Northern Colorado and graduated in 2017 with my degree. I became a Residential Manager and then a Coordinator for Envision, a Weld County organization that supports those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I fell in love with the people we support and the mission that we follow.   

What are you passionate about professionally and personally, and why? 
After studying abroad for a semester in Lithuania, I have learned that I thoroughly enjoy seeing the world and learning how other people live.   

What is your superpower? 
My superpower is probably my ability to go into most situations and be able to talk to anyone. Whether it’s a small gathering or a large one, I am not afraid to walk in and start talking. I love talking to people from other countries and learning about their viewpoints.   

What do you consider your biggest accomplishment, either professionally or personally? 
I would have to say that one of my biggest accomplishments is graduating college. I struggled in school growing up and needed some extra support. When I made it through college and got my degree, I realized that I can do anything if I put my mind to it.   

Who has been the biggest influence in your life?
In my professional career, I would have to say that Celeste Ewert has influenced me quite a bit during my time at Envision. Her ability to work with others and be a strong female leader has always been something I admire and strive to be. I am also influenced by the people I support at Envision. The perseverance that these individuals show when they are dealt with some tough cards is amazing to see.   

Where do you see yourself in five years? In 10 years? 
I want to see that I am still helping others, and that I am happy in what I am doing. I hope that I have been able to see more of the world and learn more about other cultures. 

What piece(s) of advice would you give to your
18-year-old self?
 
I think the biggest advice I would give my 18-year-old self is even if something is outside of your comfort zone and makes you a little nervous, do it! There are going to be opportunities in your life that are going to push you, and those opportunities are going to become cherished moments that make you grow as a person.   

What do you enjoy doing in your downtime? 
During my downtime, I like to be able to spend time with the people I care about, whether that is painting the town or playing games. I also enjoy getting out into nature and walking the Poudre River Trail. I’m also a huge movie buff.

 What would you like to give back to your community? 
I would like to continue to give a voice to individuals with disabilities. They have a viewpoint that gets overlooked and could be a benefit to the community.