VOC's CEO to Retire in April 2021

During that time, she founded or helped start 7 different youth and civilian service corps programs in Colorado and nationally. Immediately prior to VOC, Ann served as the founding director of the Colorado Youth Corps Association, where she was Executive Director for 11 years.
Ann has been a visionary, strategic, and bold leader for VOC, effectively guiding the organization with cost-effective and impactful programmatic development. During her tenure, Ann successfully led the implementation of three large-scale strategic plans, transitioning VOC from its historical “trail club” roots to a statewide stewardship leader, recognized across the country for its effective volunteer programs. Under her leadership, VOC has received numerous prestigious awards including the “Making a Difference Award” for exceptional contributions to conservation and management of public lands, the highest national award from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).
In 2017, Ann was recognized by the Denver Business Journal as a Colorado Thought Leader, reflecting the characteristics she embodied as she skillfully developed a talented professional staff team, including the establishment of two VOC partnership offices in the San Luis Valley and Weld County. Together with Ann, this team has championed effective ways to build lifelong outdoor stewards through VOC’s Boots on the Ground programs and expanded Colorado’s stewardship capacity and collaborative efforts through the organization’s Stepping Up Stewardship and Naturally United program areas.
In addition, Ann’s fundraising acumen successfully increased VOC’s overall operating budget three-fold to $1.4 million while also doubling the organization’s $2.0 million endowment. In 2014, she led a capital campaign to remodel the VOC office at Denver’s historic Dos Chappell Bathhouse in Washington Park, including the installation of a donor recognition patio to commemorate VOC’s 30 ^th anniversary. More recently, she was instrumental in VOC’s establishment of the Grossman Scholarship Program, a donor-advised education fund for post-secondary students pursuing careers in environmental science and conservation work.
“I am so very grateful to the whole VOC community,” said Ann, “I expressly want to thank the many donors, volunteers and talented VOC volunteer leaders who unselfishly give their time and talents in support of Colorado’s great outdoors. Their actions inspire and remind me to always pay it forward by giving back and giving often. And, never have I worked with a more talented staff team. I will miss them – largely because I may never have another group who will so patiently endure my bad jokes as this team has done. And my heartfelt gratitude extends to the current and former VOC Board members who believed in me in 2007 and have been my mentors and guides ever since. Together we have chartered an amazing positive stewardship course for Colorado! Thank you all.”
The VOC Board has formed a search committee to determine forthcoming details on securing Ann’s replacement. Please stay tuned to www.voc.org or sign up for our e-newsletter , The VOC Voice, for more information.

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Grossman Scholar Spotlight: Addison Elam

July 16, 2026

Agriculture has always been a part of who I am. As an eighth-generation rancher, I was raised with a deep respect for the land, livestock, and the responsibility that comes with both. From an early age, I learned that taking care of the land is just as important as the work we put into it, and that connection has shaped the path I am choosing for my future. After graduating, I will be attending Otero College, where I plan to pursue degrees in Soil and Crop Science along with Agriculture Business (Agribusiness). I chose these areas of study because I want to better understand both the land and the business side of agriculture. Soil and crop science will allow me to focus on improving soil health, increasing productivity, and managing natural resources responsibly. Agribusiness will give me the tools to make sound financial and management decisions that are necessary to run a successful operation. My passion for these fields comes from growing up in agriculture and seeing firsthand how everything is connected. Healthy soil leads to better crops and forage, which directly impact livestock and the success of an operation. I have learned that caring for the land is not just about today—it is about ensuring that future generations have the same opportunities. Whether it is through conservation practices, responsible grazing, or improving soil health, I want to be part of protecting and strengthening agriculture while continuing to produce food. In addition to my background at home, my involvement in 4-H, FFA, and conservation-related work has strengthened my connection to both agriculture and nature. Through these experiences, I have learned the importance of leadership, education, and sharing knowledge with others. I have also had the opportunity to work on soil moisture monitoring projects and participate in conservation efforts, which have further encouraged me to pursue a career that blends agriculture with environmental stewardship. Receiving this scholarship is an incredible opportunity that will help me continue working toward my goals. It not only provides financial support but also reinforces that the path I have chosen is meaningful. This support will allow me to focus more on my education and gaining the knowledge and skills I need to succeed without as much financial stress. In the future, my goal is to own and operate my own ranch. I want to build an operation that reflects strong business practices and a deep respect for the land. I also hope to work in a field such as natural resources or conservation, where I can continue to apply what I have learned and give back to the agriculture community. I am grateful for the support this scholarship provides. It is not only an investment in my education, but also in my future and the future of agriculture.