Executive administrative assistant at the Food Bank for Larimer County
29 Years Old • Fort Collins
Tell us about yourself, your history and how you came to be where you are now.
I moved to Fort Collins 10 years ago from my hometown of Batavia, Ill., to attend Colorado State University. As a proud first-generation college student, this move marked a major milestone in my life. I always knew I wanted to be involved in my community—I just wasn’t sure how. That changed during my first internship with the Batavia Chamber of Commerce, where I discovered a passion for nonprofit work. Following that passion led me to the Food Bank for Larimer County, where I feel I’m exactly where I’m meant to be: at the perfect intersection of purpose, people and passion.
Explain your career, achievements and professional highlights.
I am the primary support to the CEO, executive team and board of directors. My role requires a great deal of discretion, initiative and organization, which is perfect for me as I am always looking to take on new projects, learn and grow. The most important and valued aspect of my role is my relationship with the CEO. I make sure her eyes can stay focused on the strategy and vision while I manage and execute the details.
In what ways do you give back to the community?
I volunteer for the Sexual Assault Victim Advocate Center’s 24/7 crisis hotline. Their work is deeply important, and it’s an honor and privilege to support survivors, their friends, families and loved ones during such vulnerable moments. Every call is a chance to offer validation and care to someone navigating an incredibly hard situation. It’s never easy to hear that pain, but there is meaning in listening without judgment or dismissal. I may not have every answer, but I can offer connection. In moments of crisis, connection can mean everything.
What do you consider your biggest accomplishment or challenge you’ve overcome, either professionally or personally?
I consider acting on my curiosity to be my greatest accomplishment. I’m fortunate to work with leaders who instill confidence in me and support my growth. With that support, I pursue personal and professional development opportunities. I participated in the spring 2024 Pint of Professional Development cohort, the 2024-25 Leadership Fort Collins class and CityWorks 101. I also attend Larimer Unlocked classes. Staying curious keeps me informed and engaged and makes me a better member of my community.
Tell us something unique about you.
I’ve never played basketball, which makes it especially interesting that I coached a grade school team from 2022-24. A friend needed a co-coach, and I thought, “Why not?” I had no idea how much that team would impact me. I’m forever grateful to them for making me “Coach Brooke” for the first time.
Where do you see yourself in five years? In 10 years?
I see the Food Bank for Larimer County as my “forever job,” and in five years, I hope to be part of the executive leadership team. Looking ahead 10 years, I hope to be on my way to leaving even half the legacy that our current executive team has built.
What piece(s) of advice would you give to your younger self?
If I could tell my younger self one thing, it’d be this: Believe in yourself and be confident, even when it’s hard. The biggest lie you’ll ever fight is the one that says you’re not good enough or smart enough. Once you stop buying into it, you become unstoppable.
Why are you passionate about helping victims of sexual assault?
I believe that no victim or survivor of sexual assault deserves to feel alone or think there isn’t someone out there who cares, believes them and wants to support them. We are here, we believe you and we want to support you. My involvement with SAVA has changed the way I understand advocacy, and it has strengthened my belief in the power of human compassion.
How has your professional development helped you succeed at your job and volunteer work?
I’ve always considered myself a lifelong learner. There’s just something exciting about chasing knowledge, challenging myself and leveling up a little more each year. With every new skill, learning opportunity or connection made, my confidence grows (and honestly, that feels pretty awesome). But beyond confidence, it’s the awareness that really matters. Being able to think critically, ask better questions, gain insight outside my specific field and show up for others in meaningful ways is what makes me successful in my job and volunteer work.
Local business shoutout:
My favorite local business is Road 34. Not only has this been my friends’ and my go-to spot since college, but it continues to be a place where I can be myself, meet new people and create some of my favorite memories. It has a great atmosphere, good food, good beer, pool, shuffleboard and an amazing staff.
