Board Of Directors
Meet our leadership team!
The Visit Aurora Board of Directors is a dedicated team of community leaders, business professionals, and passionate individuals committed to promoting and advancing the city of Aurora, Colorado, as a premier destination for visitors and residents alike. Together, they collaborate on strategic initiatives to drive tourism, economic growth, and community development, ensuring Aurora's vibrant offerings are showcased to the world. Contact the team here.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Rick Crandall, Board Chair - Colorado Freedom Memorial
Rick Crandall serves as the board chair at Visit Aurora, where he champions tourism and economic development in the vibrant city of Aurora, Colorado. Additionally, he holds the esteemed position of President at the Colorado Freedom Memorial, where he honors the sacrifice of veterans and preserves their legacy for future generations.
Deanne French, Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center
A multifaceted leader serving as the Director of Marketing & Public Relations at the esteemed Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center, Deanne contributes her expertise to Visit Aurora's board of directors.
Joel Boyd, Town Center At Aurora
An innovative manager overseeing operations at The Town Center At Aurora, Joel Boyd helps to cultivate dynamic retail environments while creating community connections. With a keen interest in both commerce and community advancement, Joel also contributes his expertise to Visit Aurora as a board member.
Brad Pierce, Treasurer At Large
A seasoned public servant, Brad Pierce previously served as a City Council Person in Aurora, where he worked tirelessly to enhance the community's well-being and prosperity. Now, he continues his dedication to the city's advancement as a member of the board of directors at Visit Aurora.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Daniel Benton, Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver
Daniel Benton brings a wealth of hospitality expertise to his role as General Manager at the Hyatt Regency Aurora-Denver Conference Center, where he orchestrates exceptional guest experiences and events. Additionally, as a board member at Visit Aurora, he plays a pivotal role in promoting the city as a premier destination.
Crystan Blanco, Southlands Shopping & Lifestyle Center
A strategic marketing leader at the Southlands Shopping and Lifestyle Center, Crystan innovatively promotes a diverse range of retail experiences and local events. As a board member at Visit Aurora, Crystan leverages her marketing expertise to champion the city as a vibrant destination.
Naomi Colwell, Aurora Chamber of Commerce
Serving as the President of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce, Naomi champions the interests of local businesses and fosters economic growth in the community. Leveraging her passion for Aurora's prosperity, Naomi extends her impact by serving on the board of directors at Visit Aurora.
Mike Coffman, Mayor, City Of Aurora
A lifelong Aurora resident, combat veteran, and former U.S. Congressman with decades of public service experience at the local, state, and federal levels. Before being elected mayor in 2019 and re-elected in 2023, Coffman served as Colorado State Treasurer, Colorado Secretary of State, and represented Colorado’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. Known for his focus on public safety, economic development, and community revitalization, he has played a key role in shaping Aurora’s growth and regional influence.
Stephanie Hancock, Aurora City Council
A dedicated public servant representing Ward 4 on the City Council of Aurora, Stephanie advocates for the needs and interests of her constituents. Additionally, her commitment to the city's growth and prosperity extends to her role on the board of directors at Visit Aurora.
Chance Horiuchi, Havana Business Improvement District
As the Executive Director for the Havana Street Business Improvement District, a bustling corridor known for its diverse array of businesses and cultural attractions, Chance is dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality and vibrancy of this community. Additionally, she plays a pivotal role in Visit Aurora as a board member.
Laura Perry, City Of Aurora
A leader serving as the Deputy City Manager for the City of Aurora, Laura oversees diverse municipal operations and initiatives. Leveraging her expertise and commitment to community advancement, Laura also contributes her insights as a board member at Visit Aurora.
Kim Stuart, Communications Department, City Of Aurora
A skilled communications strategist serving as the Director of Communications and Marketing for the City of Aurora, Kim adeptly shapes the city's public image and fosters community engagement. With a passion for promoting Aurora's vibrant offerings, Kim extends her impact by serving on the board of directors at Visit Aurora.
Laurie Troge, Fitzsimons Innovation Community
Chief of Staff for the Fitzsimons Innovation Community, Laurie helps support one of Colorado’s leading hubs for health and life sciences innovation. With a background spanning nonprofit leadership, operations, and community engagement, Laurie brings a collaborative and people-focused approach to advancing the organization’s mission of fostering breakthrough research, entrepreneurship, and economic growth in Aurora.
Ginger White-Brunetti, City Of Aurora Library & Cultural Services
The Director of Library and Cultural Services for the City of Aurora, Ginger oversees the city’s libraries, cultural programs, public art initiatives, and performing arts venues. With more than 25 years of experience in the public and nonprofit sectors, she previously served as Executive Director of Denver Arts & Venues, managing iconic cultural assets including Red Rocks Amphitheatre and the Denver Performing Arts Complex.