Marketing Manager Libby Murphy Graduates from Leadership Northern Colorado
Marketing Manager Libby Murphy recently graduated from the Leadership Northern Colorado program, a regional leadership development initiative designed to build informed and engaged leaders who are ready to shape the future of Northern Colorado.
Jointly hosted by the Fort Collins, Greeley, and Loveland chambers of commerce, Leadership Northern Colorado brings together professionals from across the region to dive into topics that influence our communities like economic development, public policy, education, infrastructure, and regional collaboration. Through monthly full-day sessions, participants explore the complexities and opportunities in Northern Colorado while building connections with fellow leaders from a variety of industries.
Libby was selected to be part of the 2024 cohort, joining a dynamic group of professionals committed to creating meaningful impact in the region. Her participation reflects Brinkman Construction’s ongoing commitment to leadership, community engagement, and the development of forward-thinking professionals.
Below, Libby shares key takeaways and reflections from her experience:
What drew you to the Leadership Northern Colorado program, and how did it align with your professional goals?
I’m constantly looking for ways to better understand the world around me—and Leadership Northern Colorado offered a unique chance to zoom out and see how our region truly operates. I was drawn to the opportunity to explore the interconnected systems that shape Northern Colorado, from education and economic development to infrastructure and policy. It aligned perfectly with my professional goals: to grow as a more strategic leader, expand my regional perspective, and build meaningful connections with others who are just as invested in our community’s future.
The program covers regional topics like economic development, public policy, and collaboration across Northern Colorado. Which session had the biggest impact on you and why?
It’s hard to choose just one—every presentation, panel, tour, and workshop built on the next, illustrating that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. But if I had to pick, the day we focused on education and workforce development stands out. It underscored just how deeply K–12 education shapes the future of our local workforce and community, and the importance of creating opportunities for students going to college, entering the trades, and other avenues. I was especially inspired by Dr. Deirdre Pilch, Superintendent of Greeley-Evans School District. The programs she’s championed are so innovative, and they’re opening doors for students to set them up for extraordinary success.
What did you learn about our region that you didn’t know before?
I was struck by just how interconnected everything is, and how much relationships truly matter. The connections between people, businesses, cities, and agencies aren’t just nice to have—they’re critical to creating meaningful, successful outcomes in our region. The more we collaborate, stay curious, and challenge ourselves to understand new perspectives, the stronger and more resilient our communities become.
How has participating in this program shaped the way you approach your leadership role at Brinkman Construction?
Participating in Leadership Northern Colorado reshaped how I see my role—not just within Brinkman Construction, but within the broader ecosystem we’re part of. I’ve started thinking more like a systems connector, recognizing how our work ties into economic development, education, workforce pipelines, and community resilience. It’s pushed me to lead more strategically, focusing not just on what needs to get done, but why it matters and who it impacts. I’m stepping into conversations with a bigger-picture mindset, looking for long-term value, deeper collaboration, and outcomes that strengthen both our business and our region.
HR Business Partner Lindsey Miller Graduates from Leadership Fort Collins
HR Business Partner Lindsey Miller recently graduated from Leadership Fort Collins (LFC), a comprehensive program designed to educate and motivate leaders who are dedicated to shaping the future of the community. The program, created by the Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce, focuses on developing leaders while teaching them about the history, government, economy, social issues, needs, and opportunities in the city. The group met once a month from September of 2024 through may of 2025 for day-long sessions that encouraged collaboration, critical thinking, and active engagement with the community.
Read the Q&A below to learn more about Lindsey’s experience in the program!
Q: What did you enjoy most about participating in Leadership Fort Collins?
A: What I enjoyed most about Leadership Fort Collins was the opportunity to meet and connect with leaders from a wide range of industries and sectors. Over the 9-month period, you form deep relationships with your classmates and steering committee members which I hope to carry forward in my personal and professional life. I liked how each month focused on a different theme like government, social issues, history, etc. so it provides a well-rounded perspective on how our community operates.
Q: How has Leadership Fort Collins influenced your approach to leadership? What specific skills or knowledge do you plan to apply in your career going forward?
A: During Leadership Fort Collins, we continually came back to the theme of “showing up”. With so many leadership styles and approaches, LFC enforced that leadership begins with intentional presence and action. I’ve learned the power of small, incremental changes and collective action. Going forward, I want to focus on listening to needs of the community, finding where my passions and values align, and committing to take action. Even in the smallest of ways, it is impactful and contributing to a larger mission.
Q: What did you learn about the Fort Collins community that you didn’t know before?
A: So many things! I have a new awareness and appreciation for how many people and roles it takes to make our community run effectively every day. I have more respect for service providers who provide support and resources to underrepresented populations. It was also a good reminder of how interconnected every business is in shaping and growing Fort Collins.
Q: Did you have any opportunities to get further involved with the community during this program?
A: As part of Leadership Fort Collins, my project team and I partnered with Neighbor to Neighbor, a local non-profit organization that focuses on providing sustainable housing, support services, and education to prevent and end homelessness. We focused on fundraising and collecting donated items to create welcome baskets filled with essential household items that each new Neighbor to Neighbor resident receives upon moving into their new home. We also led a Community Garden Clean Up Day at a Neighbor to Neighbor property in North Fort Collins, preparing the space for residents to enjoy gardening this summer!