By Chynna Cowart
After two decades of dedicated service, Elizabeth Garner, Colorado’s State Demographer, has announced her retirement effective November 29, 2024. Garner’s work and commitment have significantly shaped the state’s demographic understanding and planning, leaving an indelible mark on Colorado’s development.
Since joining the Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) in 2004, Garner quickly established herself as a leading expert in population trends, demographics, and their impact on Colorado’s economy, infrastructure, and social services. Her invaluable insights have been instrumental in shaping public policy and informing critical decision-making across various sectors.
“Elizabeth’s contributions to the State of Colorado are immeasurable,” said Maria De Cambra, Executive Director of DOLA. “Her deep knowledge, commitment, and passion for understanding our state’s demographic landscape have left a lasting legacy. We thank her for her years of service to our great state.”
Garner’s career highlights include:
- Population Projections: Garner’s accurate projections and analyses have been vital for planning in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development.
- Data-Driven Policy: She made demographic data accessible, guiding public policy, economic strategies, and community planning statewide.
- Public Engagement: Garner educated the public and officials, delivering over 800 presentations on Colorado’s demographic changes and its impact.
- Census Leadership: Garner led Colorado’s Census efforts in 2010 and 2020, ensuring accurate counts and effective outreach.
- Economic Insights: Her demographic analysis has supported workforce and economic development initiatives, identifying key trends and challenges.
“Working as Colorado’s State Demographer has been an incredible honor,” Garner stated. “I am proud of what we have achieved together and grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the understanding and planning for Colorado’s demographic and economic future. I look forward to seeing how the collaborations continue to evolve and how the state continues to thrive.”
While Garner is stepping down from her role, she will continue her work in demographic and economic analysis and spend more time traveling and volunteering with organizations that align with her interests, further contributing to the community in meaningful ways.
As Elizabeth prepares to retire, DOLA has posted the position of State Demographer to ensure a smooth transition and continued excellence in the State Demography Office. The job posting is now live, and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.
For more information about the position and to submit an application, please visit the job posting on DOLA’s Career Page.
Chynna Cowart writes for the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.
The Pagosa Daily Post welcomes submissions, photos, letters and videos from people who love Pagosa Springs, Colorado. Call 970-903-2673 or email pagosadailypost@gmail.com