Dear RMFI friends and supporters,

RMFI is pleased to announce that Jolie NeSmith has been selected to lead the organization as RMFI’s new Executive Director and she will begin her role effective March 13^th. Jolie brings years of non-profit management experience, an impressive background in conservation and wilderness leadership, and a passion for protecting our public lands. Jolie has served the last five years as the Executive Director of PikeRide, the first-ever non-profit bike share program in Colorado Springs. Jolie’s experience building and establishing PikeRide will serve her well in her new role at RMFI.

Previously, Jolie served as the Southeast Region Manager for Special Olympics Colorado, as the Southwest Region Unit Leader for AmeriCorps NCCC, and as a Programs Specialist for the City of Longmont. Additionally, Jolie has experience working directly with RMFI through her position with AmeriCorps NCCC, supervising work on the Manitou Incline and revegetation efforts in the Waldo Canyon burn scar. Jolie is skilled at building long-term strategic partnerships and known for her ability to connect with teams, volunteers, and supporters to create positive community impact. Jolie earned a Master of Social Work from the University of Denver with a concentration in Conservation Social Work and Non-Profit Management. 

A longtime resident of Colorado Springs, Jolie is active in the community and is excited to give back to the parks, trails, and open spaces that we all enjoy. When she isn’t working to improve the lives of the community, Jolie can be found enjoying one of the many trails around town, or out on a ride with her lab/great pyrenees pup, Gypsy.  

Please join us in welcoming Jolie (and Gypsy) to the RMFI team!