• 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. Tober’s work has centered around building community resilience and economic mobility. She is currently focused on helping businesses scale, attainable housing, workforce development, and early childcare in La Plata County and SW Colorado.

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 economic mobility. She is currently focused on helping businesses scale, attainable housing, workforce development, and early childcare in La Plata County and SW Colorado. Through her work with the Alliance she has raised and managed more than $5M in assets. Additionally, Tober established DarkSky Colorado a 501(c)3 focused on protecting the night skies and is supporting Durango becoming a designated International Dark Sky Place.
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.
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, and their micro-farm of dogs, cats, chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, and pigs.

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 content creation, copywriting, public relations, and content analysis.

Libby Baumchen

Program Manager

Libby Baumchen is a nonprofit and program leader with more than a decade of experience in grant management, systems development, and data-informed program design. She specializes in building collaborative partnerships, strengthening organizational operations, and developing programs that respond to community needs. Libby holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Colorado State University and certifications in Adult Basic Education and Teaching English as a Foreign Language.

Libby Baumchen is a nonprofit and program leader with more than a decade of experience in grant management, systems development, and data-informed program design. She specializes in building collaborative partnerships, strengthening organizational operations, and developing programs that respond to community needs. Libby holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Colorado State University and certifications in Adult Basic Education and Teaching English as a Foreign Language.

Outside of work, Libby enjoys spending time in Colorado’s mountains, where she can often be found skiing, hiking, trail running, or camping with family and friends. She is also an avid traveler who loves exploring new cultures, connecting with people from diverse backgrounds, and discovering new places.

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.

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.

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.

Jordan Bulwan

Public Sector Board Member

Ignacio Town Board of Trustees

Jordan Bulwan serves as a Town Trustee for the Town of Ignacio, Colorado, and works as a project systems and training professional supporting large-scale utility and construction operations.

Prior to his current work, Jordan spent ten years in education, including seven years as a teacher serving students in grades 3–12 and three years as a school principal. His teaching career included two years in the Bronx, New York City, and five years in Berlin, Germany, providing him with a unique perspective on leadership, community development, and cross-cultural collaboration.

Jordan is also involved in Leaning Tree Farms, a small family farm in Southwest Colorado focused on raising beef and Berkshire pork.

His professional and volunteer experiences span education, local government, workforce development, project systems, and small business. He is passionate about helping rural communities remain places where families can live, work, raise their children, and build long-term prosperity.

Jordan lives in Ignacio with his wife, Cassidy, and their children.

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.

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.

Jeremiah Aukerman

Public Sector Board Member

Bayfield Town Board of Trustees

 As a top-producing Realtor, Jeremiah Aukerman brings extensive experience in housing, land development, construction, and business, helping individuals, families, and investors make informed real estate decisions throughout the region.

Jeremiah Aukerman is a Colorado native and longtime Southwest Colorado resident who has called the Durango and Bayfield area home since 2001. As a top-producing Realtor, he brings extensive experience in housing, land development, construction, and business, helping individuals, families, and investors make informed real estate decisions throughout the region.

Before entering real estate, Jeremiah built a career in the plumbing, mechanical, and water treatment industries, providing him with a practical understanding of infrastructure, development, and the challenges facing growing communities. His diverse background allows him to approach economic development with both a business perspective and hands-on technical knowledge.

Jeremiah is passionate about strengthening Southwest Colorado through responsible growth, housing opportunities, thriving local businesses, and collaborative community leadership. He also serves as a Bayfield Trustee and has been actively involved in local nonprofit and education initiatives. As a board member of the La Plata Economic Alliance, he is committed to fostering partnerships that support long-term economic vitality and improve quality of life throughout La Plata County.

Clark Craig

Private Sector Board Member

CSC Holdings

Clark Craig has served Mayor of the Town of Ignacio from 2022-2026. 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.

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.

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.

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