Trailblazing Women of Eagle Valley: Colorado change makers talk mentorship, resilience and action

In celebration of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail is honored to host “Trail Blazing Women of Eagle Valley,” a panel discussion of diverse nonprofit leaders, college educators and all-around remarkable women delivering meaningful impact in communities throughout Vail Valley and beyond. Hear about their unique backgrounds, advice for members of the community, their “why” and vision and call to action for the future.

The event will take place on Wednesday, March 27 at 4:30 p.m. in the Meadows Ballroom at Four Seasons Resort Vail and will be moderated by Tricia Swenson, video host of Vail Valley Live and arts and entertainment reporter for the Vail Daily. The event, followed by light refreshments and opportunity to connect, celebrate and network, is free and open to the public. All community members and anyone involved in helping raise young future women leaders in our valley are encouraged to attend.

Kara Heide – Previous senior manager of corporate contributions and public affairs at Vail Resorts, board member, Small Champions

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Heide is proud of her long history of community involvement in Eagle County, most recently term limited as president of Edwards Metro Board. As a previous executive director of the Eagle Valley Land Trust, she was dedicated to increasing awareness of the importance of conservation and habitat protection within our entire valley. In 1994 she was awarded the coveted Hornblower/Citizen of the Year Award by the Vail Valley Foundation for her accomplishments in serving the special needs community. She continues to dedicate time to Small Champions, a nonprofit that serves the needs of our under served special needs children.

Kristina Brooks-Olk – Dean of the School of Business, Colorado Mountain College

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As a first-generation Latina Colorado Mountain College alumna, Brooks-Olk has experienced roles in private company accounting as well as holding positions as adjunct, term, associate and full professor at Colorado Mountain College throughout her career. Her appointment as dean of the School of Business provides her with the opportunity to impact a larger population than her role as program chair for the accounting program. 

Dr. Laurie Moroco, Ph.D – Assistant director of instruction, Colorado Mountain College, female entrepreneur and empowerment coach

Dr. Laurie Moroco is a dynamic blend of academic and entrepreneurial excellence, serving as a certified business coach, professor, college dean and a working mom of four. With over 25 years of industry experience, teaching in higher education and business coaching, Dr. Moroco is passionate about mentoring, especially entrepreneurs, encouraging them to elevate their success through hard work, perseverance and desire.

Melina Valsecia-Monreal – Executive director, Eagle Valley Community Foundation

Melina Valsecia-Monreal serves as the executive director at the Eagle Valley Community Foundation, overseeing transformative programs such as The Community Market, MIRA and ELEVAR. With a background in health education and nonprofit management, she has been instrumental in enhancing the well-being of individuals and families in the Vail Valley. Her leadership and strategic vision continue to drive positive change, making a lasting impact on the lives of those served by the foundation.

Susie Kincade – Founder of Women’s Empowerment Workshop

An aspiring Olympic athlete, Kincade was the first woman to compete on a men’s varsity collegiate athletic team, diving for UCLA in 1972-74. After a long career in marketing, Susie founded Women’s Empowerment Workshop in 2009 to empower girls and women of all ages and abilities with courage, confidence and self-awareness. Her unique nature-connected coaching and retreats guide women to their personal power using nature as the setting and teacher. Kincade has also been a successful environmental activist in Eagle County.