Pagano: Stay hopeful about what can be created together

Editor:

After nearly 25 years serving Gunnison County, I recently stepped down from my role in community and economic development. As I close this chapter, I’ve been reflecting on what has made this work—and this place—so meaningful.

When I began working at Gunnison County in November of 2001, one of the first things I noticed was that this was both an organization and a community that genuinely valued women’s voices and leadership. At that time, three of the five separately elected officials were women (Joanne Reitinger, Judy Smith and Alva May Dunbar), and more than half of the department heads were women (Marlene Crosby, Linda Nienhueser and Joanne Williams) who had already built long careers of public service here.

As a young 20-something, seeing women leading across disciplines was both exciting and empowering. I’m proud that this community continues to value diverse leadership and civic engagement.

When I started this work nearly 25 years ago, my goal was simple: To make a positive impact in the community I call home. Over the years, I’ve come to understand that meaningful public service is never about one person. It is about a shared commitment to doing the hard, often unglamorous work of protecting public health and safety, stewarding our natural resources, planning thoughtfully for growth and holding a long view for future generations.

Gunnison County is a special place—not only because of its incredible landscape, but because of the people who care enough to engage. This is a community that shows up. We don’t shy away from tough issues, and we don’t always see them the same way. But when we choose curiosity and compassion over division we strengthen both our decisions and our community. Continuing to show up for each other and care for our neighbors might be the most important work of all.

This work has been meaningful. It has been challenging at times. And it has also been deeply rewarding.

We are living in a time when division, fear and uncertainty often feel overwhelming. I believe the antidote is found in love, creativity and community. We have that in spades here in Gunnison County. Please keep showing up for one another, keep doing the good work and stay hopeful and open about what can be created together.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve this community for nearly 25 years. I will always be grateful for the trust placed in me and proud to have been part of this place.

Cathie Pagano