Val was drawn to the Colorado Lab because of its focus on building relationships and the use of data to address social issues in Colorado. Prior to joining the Colorado Lab, Val worked as a project manager for the Colorado Department of Human Services and for a software start-up in Chicago. In these roles, she honed her skills in meeting facilitation, process implementation and improvement, and project planning and execution. Val earned her bachelor’s degree in English and international studies from Loyola University Chicago.

The Colorado Lab’s Essential Elements that resonate with Val are prioritizing relationships and learning together. She believes that truly meaningful work results from authentic relationships and curiosity about learning from one another.

Val finds joy in human connection, tasty food, and beautifully formatted spreadsheets.