• About the Alliance

    Alliance Boiard and Staff La Plata Economic Alliance

Our Vision

The Alliance will enable La Plata County to be one of the most vital, vibrant communities in the country to live, work, learn, and play.

Our Mission

To create a vibrant and resilient economy through the recruitment, retainment, and growth of business to preserve our quality of life. Our mission is achieved by fostering public and private partnerships that enable building business capacity, supporting attainable housing for the community workforce that is essential for long-term economic sustainability and providing workforce development.

Meet Our Staff

The team at the La Plata Economic Development Alliance is vital to fulfilling our mission and vision.

Sarah Tober

Executive Director

Sarah Tober has built a career in entrepreneurship, communications, and advocacy in a wide array of industries including small business, sustainable building, community development, and environmental stewardship. Achieving an MBA at the University of Texas accelerated Tober’s growth as a leader and solidified her prowess to make systemic changes in equity, equality, and resource access.

Sarah Tober has built a career in entrepreneurship, communications, and advocacy in a wide array of industries including small business, sustainable building, community development, and environmental stewardship. Achieving an MBA at the University of Texas accelerated Tober’s growth as a leader and solidified her prowess to make systemic changes in equity, equality, and resource access.

Tober’s work has centered around building community resilience, and she is currently addressing the housing crisis in La Plata County and SW Colorado. Additionally, Tober helped the Durango Dark Sky effort as a mentor through DarkSky Colorado and the Colorado Tourism Office, working with Visit Durango and the City of Durango to achieve International Dark Sky Place (IDSP) certification.

In her previous role as president of a 40 year-old-statewide nonprofit, Tober focused on educating the public, strengthening partnerships, and city, county, and statewide advocacy. By passing two bills in the 87th Regular Legislative Session, Tober helped establish the State Scenic Byways Program through Senate Bill 941 and further protecting the Dark Skies with Senate Bill 1090. She recruited 14 board members, fundraised more than $500,000, and created the 1 Million Trees Across Texas initiative.

Always community-minded she has served on various boards and commissions and currently serves on the Durango Creative Economy Commission.

Coming from a long line of farmers, ranchers, and gardeners accounts for her passion in horticulture and led her to become a Master Gardener. Living life outdoors has created a deep appreciation for adventuring and whenever Tober has a free weekend she can be found mountain biking, hiking, skiing, sailing, camping, or homesteading on nearly four acres near the Florida River.

She resides in Durango with husband Bobby, son Wyland, pug Fiona Apple, cat Calisto, and their micro-farm of chickens, ducks, and turkeys.

blank

Louise Snodgrass

Communications Manager

With over a decade of experience, Louise Snodgrass leverages their background in communications and graphic design to drive impactful campaigns and strategic initiatives. They are committed to elevating the Alliance’s mission and community presence through their broad range of skills—including photography, copywriting, and content analysis.

blank

Libby Baumchen

Program Manager

Libby Baumchen is an experienced nonprofit and program leader with over a decade of expertise in grant management, systems development, and data-driven program design. She is experienced at building partnerships, strengthening operations, and aligning programs with community need. She holds a B.S. in Psychology from Colorado State University and certifications in Adult Basic Education and Teaching English as a Foreign Language. Outside of work, Libby finds balance through time outdoors, especially skiing, hiking, running, and camping in the Colorado mountains with family and friends. She is an avid traveler/wanderer who loves exploring new cultures and meeting new people.

blank

Annie Lawson

Project RUN Program Navigator

Annie Lawson is a community-centered educator and musician with over five years of experience in adult and higher education. She is committed to fostering growth both in and outside the classroom, creating spaces where learners can explore new opportunities and paths to thriving futures. Annie holds a BA in Music and in MA English (2020), both from Abilene Christian University. Outside of her work in education, she is a passionate musician, a dedicated plant cultivator, and participates in community-led volunteerism.

Annie Lawson is a community-centered educator and musician with over five years of experience in adult and higher education. She is committed to fostering growth both in and outside the classroom, creating spaces where learners can explore new opportunities and paths to thriving futures. Annie holds a BA in Music and in MA English (2020), both from Abilene Christian University. Outside of her work in education, she is a passionate musician, a dedicated plant cultivator, and community-led volunteerism.

Our Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors consists of public and private sector representatives who guide the work of our organizations.

blank

Elizabeth Howe

Chair

Howe & Associates

Elizabeth Howe is the owner and principal of Howe & Associates, based in Durango, Colorado. She is a fractional Chief Operating Officer and executive advisor who helps mission-driven organizations with complex operations build scalable systems that strengthen people, performance, and long-term value.

Elizabeth Howe is the owner and principal of Howe & Associates, based in Durango, Colorado. She is a fractional Chief Operating Officer and executive advisor who helps mission-driven organizations with complex operations build scalable systems that strengthen people, performance, and long-term value. Her work is rooted in a practical, community-centered approach to leadership and economic development.

Prior to launching Howe & Associates, Elizabeth served as Chief Operating Officer at La Plata Electric Association, a member-owned electric cooperative serving Southwest Colorado. In that role, she worked closely with elected boards, employees, and community partners to support reliable service, and long-term value for member-owners, experience that informs her strong belief in cooperative principles and locally driven decision-making.

Elizabeth joined LPEA after a 30-year career in ski area operations, most recently as Chief Operating Officer for Mountain Capital Partners. Her background in tourism-based economies gives her a deep understanding of how infrastructure, workforce availability, housing, and quality of life intersect to support sustainable regional growth.

Elizabeth is currently an MBA candidate at University of Denver’s Daniels College of Business. She also serves on the Business Advisory Council for the Fort Lewis College Katz School of Business and the Global Advisory Council for the Women’s Energy Network.

A longtime Southwest Colorado resident, Elizabeth is passionate about building resilient local economies that reflect community values and support families, small businesses, and future generations. Outside of work, she enjoys skiing, hiking, biking and being out in the community—often cheering her son on at the hockey rink.

blank

Sam Krier

Vice Chair

Nuun Construction

Sam brings over 17 years of experience in the construction industry to lead Nuun Construction’s Southwest Division in Durango as Vice President of Southwest Operations.

Sam brings over 17 years of experience in the construction industry to lead our Southwest Division office in Durango. His experience ranges from oversight of field staff and personnel, to creating and managing budgets, drafting contracts, scheduling, planning and maintaining excellent architect and owner relations. He recently managed all aspects of a $155M Performing Arts Center, and has worked in the Healthcare, Commercial, Higher Ed, and Hospitality market sectors.

Sam will coordinate the project management and field staff teams in our Durango office and continue to build our presence and work program focused in southwest Colorado.

Jason Portz board member at La Plata Economic Alliance

Jason Portz

Treasurer

Bank of Colorado

Jason Portz joined Bank of Colorado in 2003 and is currently the Market President in Durango.

Jason Portz joined Bank of Colorado in 2003 and is currently the Market President in Durango. He is a Business Management graduate from St. John’s University and graduated from Pacific Coast Graduate School of Banking at the University of Washington in September 2012.

Jason grew up in a small farm community in NW Iowa. After graduating from St. John’s, he moved to Durango to pursue a banking career working with a wide variety of businesses and industries in the Durango community. He is committed to the La Plata County community and has served on boards for Big Brothers Big Sisters and Durango Daybreak Rotary. He currently serves on boards for the Durango Education Foundation, Fort Lewis College Foundation, Durango Industrial Development Foundation (DIDF) and was appointed by Governor Polis to the state board of Colorado Health Facilities Authority (COHFA). He is also a graduate of the 2010 Leadership La Plata program.

blank

Clark Craig

Secretary

Town of Ignacio

Clark Craig was elected Mayor of the Town of Ignacio in 2022. Before this, he served as chair of the Town of Ignacio Planning Commission.

Clark Craig was elected Mayor of the Town of Ignacio in 2022. Before this, he served as chair of the Town of Ignacio Planning Commission. He is the Vice Chair of the La Plata County Planning Commission, President of the Ignacio Chamber of Commerce, and Chair of the Ignacio Community Library.

Clark graduated from Durango High School and completed his BS in Mathematics from Northeastern State University—Tahlequah, OK. He held various leadership positions in Oil and gas Information Technology and Production Automation for nearly 25 years. These roles took him, his wife, and three children to several states, including NM, TX, and OK, and a short five-year assignment in Alberta, Canada.

Clark and Sharon returned to SW Colorado in 2016 and are co-owners of Meadow Brook Mobile Home Park in Ignacio, CO.

Jessica Buell board member at La Plata Economic Alliance

Jessika Loyer

Public Sector Board Member

Durango City Council

Jessika Loyer is an entrepreneur, coach, trainer, and currently serves as Mayor of Durango.

Jessika Loyer is an entrepreneur, coach, trainer, Mayor Pro-Tem, and, most importantly, a mom. She moved to Durango in 2001 to attend Fort Lewis College, where she obtained degrees in English Literature and English Education with endorsements in Spanish and Math. Jessika is a dedicated mother raising her two boys in Durango. Her interests include working out, supporting and cheering on her boys in their various sports activities, coaching their hockey teams, reading, spending time with friends, and engaging in business-related endeavors.

With over 22 years of experience living and working in Durango, Jessika started her professional career as an English and Math teacher in the Durango Schools. She later transitioned into marketing, business development, and project executive roles for one of the largest construction firms in the country. In 2016, Jessika established her first business in Durango, Lucky Services, which has grown to employ over 50 individuals and operates in multiple locations across different states. Lucky Services provides services that are utilized by both locals and visitors in the community. Recognizing the need for digital marketing services for small businesses, Jessika founded Marketing Concepts Squared (MC2) in 2018. Through MC2, she collaborates with and supports numerous exceptional businesses in the region by managing their social media presence. In 2019, Jessika had the opportunity to become a co-owner of The Vault, a gym she has cherished for years. As a co-owner, she not only participates in training and working out but also finds inspiration from the remarkable individuals within the community.

blank

Brenna Morlan

Public Sector Board Member

Town of Bayfield

Brenna Morlan was elected to the Bayfield Town Board in 2017 and is currently serving her second term on the board as Mayor Pro Tem.

Kent Curtis is President and CEO of First Southwest Bank, a $500 million certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). He is also President of First Southwest Community Fund, a 501c3, and he is Co-founder of HelloBello.biz. In a unique way, these three entities fulfill the bank’s mission in serving the underserved and unbanked.

Kent began his banking career upon graduation from Fort Lewis College in 1982 and he has spent his entire banking career, spanning over 35 years, as a community banker on the Western Slope, including the last twelve years in Durango. He is a former board member of the Durango Chamber of Commerce and FastTrack Communications, and currently sits on several local boards and committees, including the Homes Fund loan committee. Kent met his wife April while they were both working at the Durango Herald during his college years and they have one son (Ben) that is also a Durango area resident.

blank

Elizabeth Philbrick

Public Sector Board Member

La Plata County, CO

As County Commissioner, Elizabeth Philbrick serves as a Board Liaison to the La Plata Economic Development Alliance.

Elizabeth Philbrick was raised in Washington state and has lived in La Plata County since 2017, residing in Hesperus. She and her husband own EsoTerra Ciderworks, which includes a Durango commercial space as well as an estate winery in the county. She holds a master’s degree in landscape architecture from Colorado State University.

As County Commissioner, Philbrick represents represents District 1, which includes western, southern and northern portions of La Plata County including the communities of Redmesa, Kline, Marvel, Hesperus, Bondad, Hermosa and Purgatory.

blank

Shirley Gonzales

Private Sector Board Member

Pedal the Peaks Durango

Shirley Gonzales served as Coucilwoman for San Antonio City Council District 5 before moving to Durango with her family in 2022. She is now co-owner of Pedal the Peaks Durango with her husband, Kevin Barton.

Shirley Gonzales is a dynamic leader with a passion for community development, equity, and sustainability. After serving an eight years as a San Antonio City Councilwoman for District 5, Shirley relocated to Durango, Colorado, in 2022. She now channels her love for cycling and community into her role as the owner of Pedals the Peak Durango, a local bike retailer dedicated to promoting active lifestyles and sustainable transportation.

During her time on the San Antonio City Council, Shirley championed policies that prioritized equity, mobility, and urban planning. She chaired the Planning and Land Development Committee and the Transportation and Mobility Committee, leading initiatives like the San Antonio Tomorrow Plan and the Vision Zero policy to enhance safety and infrastructure for all road users. Her work on the City’s Equity Budget policy set a precedent for directing resources to historically underserved neighborhoods.

A lifelong advocate for cycling, Shirley’s leadership extended to chairing the Bicycle Mobility Advisory Committee and serving on the board of the Alamo Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, where she influenced regional transportation funding. Her dedication to public service also encompassed addressing domestic violence, improving senior and youth facilities, and fostering community engagement.

Originally from San Antonio, Shirley grew up immersed in her family’s business, Bill’s Pawn Shop and Jewelry Store, which instilled in her a deep appreciation for entrepreneurship. She holds a Bachelor’s and MBA from St. Mary’s University and has completed four Iron Man competitions, reflecting her commitment to discipline and perseverance.

Now rooted in Durango, Shirley continues to contribute to her community as a business owner, championing local economic growth and an active, connected lifestyle. She enjoys life in the mountains with her husband, Kevin Barton and their three children, Ian, Zachry, and Celina.

blank

Mark Lobato

Private Sector Board Member

First Southwest Bank

Mark Lobato is Chief Operating Officer, Executive Vice President of First Southwest Bank and has 30 years financial services experience.

Manuel Mark Lobato is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in the financial services sector. As Chief Operating Officer at First Southwest Bank since October 2022, Lobato leads Retail Operations, Compliance, Information Technology, and Marketing. Previous roles include Senior Financial Services Advisor at O’Connor Family Estate and Vice President of Service and Solutions at Congressional Federal Credit Union, overseeing member-facing departments. Lobato has also held positions such as Market Executive for Mid Atlantic Business Banking at Capital One/Chevy Chase Bank, Regional Director at EagleBank, Senior Vice President at Washington Realty Group, and various roles at Bank of America and Tradelink. Educational qualifications include a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Fort Lewis College and the University of Colorado Boulder.

blank

Dr. Heather Shotton

Private Sector Board Member

Fort Lewis College

Dr. Heather J. Shotton serves as the 11th President of Fort Lewis College and is a nationally recognized scholar and higher education leader.

An enrolled citizen of the Wichita & Affiliated Tribes and a descendant of the Kiowa and Cheyenne Tribes, Dr. Shotton is a nationally recognized scholar and higher education leader. Before becoming president, she served for three years as Vice President of Diversity Affairs and Acting Dean of Student Engagement at FLC.

Dr. Shotton’s scholarship focuses on Indigenous education and culturally responsive practices. As Board President of the National Indian Education Association, she led national advocacy efforts to strengthen educational outcomes for Indigenous communities. Her work has earned numerous accolades, including the Mildred García Senior Scholar Award and Educator of the Year from the NIEA.

At FLC, Dr. Shotton has been instrumental in advancing reconciliation work that acknowledges the institution’s history as a federal Indian boarding school, positioning FLC as a national model for institutions seeking to reconcile with their past while advancing equity and student success.

A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Shotton is passionate about supporting FLC’s first-generation students, who make up 42% of our student population. She earned three degrees from the University of Oklahoma and previously served as Chair of the Department of Educational Leadership & Policy Studies there.

Dr. Shotton’s husband, John R. Shotton, serves as Chairman of the Otoe-Missouria Tribe. They have two daughters: Sloan, an FLC alumna (Public Health, ’24), and Sophie, a student at the University of Oklahoma. Known for her relational leadership style, Dr. Shotton is a visible and engaged presence on campus, from Hozhoni Days Pow Wow to Skyhawks athletic events.

blank

Steve Winters

Private Sector Board Member

SEH

Steve Winters serves as Vice Principle and Regional Leader of SEH. With 21 years of public and private sector experience, he brings valuable insights to his work with clients and organizations, alike.

Steve leads SEH’s growth initiatives across the western U.S., focusing on clients in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Wyoming. With 21 years of public and private sector experience, he brings valuable insights into the perspectives of clients and employees alike. His strong relationships and expertise uniquely position him to deliver exceptional service to SEH clients.

Stay Connected!

Connect with the Alliance and our partners. Join us for our monthly Investor Member Meeting every 2nd Tuesday at 8:00am located at the Center for Innovation in the Main Mall. Sign up for our mailing list to stay up-to-date with the opportunities, events, and our work at the Alliance.

Join Our Mailing List
blank