Gary Herbella, president. Gary has lived in Highlands Ranch for more than 30 years. The open space, parks, and recreational facilities are what originally attracted him to the area. He has enjoyed watching the community mature and being a part of that process. Gary served 10 years on the Metro District Board of Directors and held several volunteer positions with the Highlands Ranch Community Association. He can often be spotted working as a volunteer docent at the Highlands Ranch Mansion. His motivation with the Foundation is to help the community develop a character that brings a sense of pride and satisfaction to its residents.
Bob Epstein, vice-president. Bob has lived in Highlands Ranch for more than two decades. Bob enjoys the opportunities to socialize in Highlands Ranch, the many events and activities in which he participates, the variety of shops and restaurants, the great recreation facilities and programs, and last but not least the people! Bob serves on the Foundation because he believes in the mission and accomplishments of the Foundation and thinks there is more to be accomplished for the benefit of all community residents. Bob is one of the original trustees and a former president of the Foundation board.
Andrew Kotaska, treasurer. Andrew has lived in Highlands Ranch for more than 15 years with his wife and four kids. He enjoys living in Highlands Ranch because it is a beautiful place to raise a family. He joined the board to get more involved in the community and make a positive impact to a wonderful place.
John Bartlett, trustee. John has lived in Colorado for more than 30 years and moved to Highlands Ranch in 2021 to be near family. He has multiple tech certifications and a Masters of Business administration. He loves everything about the area from the events, outdoors, community and of course the Highlands Ranch Mansion. These all make the community what it is. He likes hiking, sports, getting involved, helping out, and just trying to make things a better place for all. He joined the board to get more involved with the community and try to have a positive effect on the future of Highlands Ranch.
Riley Coltrin, trustee. Riley is a Senior Proposal Writer in the pharmacy services industry. Relevant skills include policy advising, event planning, and scholarship application reviews. Notable volunteer experience includes the UCCS Alumni & Association (scholarship reviews) and Sons of Norway (event advertising), he also performed on trumpet at Carnegie Hall and the Lincoln Center as part of a traveling youth symphony group. Riley is passionate about creating and enhancing public spaces that families and friends can enjoy together. Serving on this board has been a great way to engage with the community while helping preserve what is special about Highlands Ranch.
Roy Mapp, trustee. Roy has lived in Highlands Ranch for more than 20 years. He enjoys Highlands Ranch because it is a beautiful area where people take pride in their community. He volunteers his time on the Foundation board of trustees so that he can contribute to the place he calls home.
Mary Parker, trustee. Mary has lived in Highlands Ranch since 2003 with her husband and four kids. She loves exploring the many parks and trails nearby as well as attending community events. The sense of community, people willing to help one another, and its proximity to so many amenities are just a few reasons she loves living here. Mary joined the board of trustees to become even more involved in maintaining the beauty and history of Highlands Ranch.
Foundation seeking new board members
The foundation is currently seeking new board members to fill vacancies on its Board of Trustees. To learn more about this opportunity contact Neil Alderson at 720-240-5922.
- Serve as an ambassador for the Foundation by promoting its mission, programs, and community impact.
- Advocate for projects and programs that enhance parks, recreation, cultural opportunities, and community wellness in Highlands Ranch.
- Attend and actively participate in regularly scheduled Foundation Board meetings and committee meetings.
- Support fundraising initiatives by identifying and cultivating donor and sponsorship opportunities.
- Assist with Foundation-sponsored events, campaigns, and community outreach activities.
- Build relationships with community members, local businesses, civic organizations, and potential partners.
- Help identify opportunities for grants, charitable gifts, planned giving, and corporate sponsorships.
- Support stewardship efforts by recognizing and thanking donors, sponsors, and volunteers.
- Contribute professional expertise, skills, and community connections to strengthen the Foundation’s effectiveness.
- Support recruitment of future Foundation members, volunteers, and community advocates.