The news came out last week - after two years at the helm of Downtown Boulder Partnership, I’ve decided it’s time to step down as CEO. My last day will be December 8.
This wasn’t an easy decision. When I took this role, I imagined a longer tenure here. But life has a way of redirecting us, and changes in my personal circumstances have made clear that this is the right moment to pause, step back, and invest in my own creative pursuits. Writing this column has been incredibly meaningful to me, and I will dedicate my time going forward to deepening my writing practice and supporting my artistic life.
It has been an extraordinary privilege to serve this organization and this community. Together with an exceptional team, we’ve accomplished so much. It’s impossible to enumerate them all here, but a few come to mind: advocating for elevating economic development and business support at the City, streamlining our organization’s complex governance structure (DBP consists of three entities, including two nonprofit entities and the Business Improvement District), settling into a new office space, and playing a supporting role in bringing the Sundance Film Festival to Boulder. But more than any single achievement, I’m grateful for the opportunity to support and lead such talented, committed people.
I have always endeavored to show up solidly, whether for beloved community celebrations or through more challenging moments. During my time here, Downtown has experienced power outages, a terrorist attack, real and perceived safety issues, all within a larger macroeconomic context of seemingly intractable high office vacancy and a shaky economy. And yet, as a downtown resident, I’ve immersed myself in the amazing arts scene, explored the incredible food created by talented restaurateurs and the agribusinesses at Farmers’ Market, and of course, marveling at the breathtaking scenery.
I’ve always seen this role as one of stewardship - guiding something precious through a critical period, then passing it forward in incrementally better shape than I found it. 2026 is going to be a transitional year not just for me personally, but for the community of Boulder. With a realignment at the City to focus more on uplifting the business and arts sectors, the potential formation of a Downtown Development Authority to connect The Hill to Downtown and generate resources for needed improvements, a plan to redesign and revitalize the Civic Area, and preparing for the 50th Anniversary of the Pearl Street Mall, there is a lot to look forward to.
Downtown Boulder is more than the sum of its buildings and events. It’s about safeguarding the vitality, character, and soul of our community for generations to come. Every day, I’ve been moved by how this community rallies around that larger vision and I look forward to seeing what comes next.
To the business owners, colleagues, and community partners who have become friends: thank you. Your warm welcome and unwavering support of our mission have meant everything. I leave with gratitude, pride, and tremendous optimism for what’s next—for Downtown Boulder Partnership, for this community, and for myself. Thanks for reading and shine on.
- Bettina Swigger, CEO of Downtown Boulder Partnership, is deeply interested in public space and the intersection of creativity, commerce, and community
- This article was originally published in the Daily Camera on Sunday, November 16, 2025.
Tagged: Downtown Boulder CEO Update