Jamie Rasmussen, also known as JR, is pursuing a Master of Public Policy and Administration at Colorado State University to further equitable systemic change in northern Colorado. Her area of focus is public policy through a social equity lens. Her area of focus is mobilizing and educating people of color to impact systemic change through positions of power. As the Program Director for The BIPOC Alliance of Larimer County, she focuses on building spaces for people of color to connect, grow, learn, and collaborate on initiatives to make change locally. JR received a bachelor’s degree from Bradley University in 2010, graduating with several communication and leadership awards. From there, JR’s career began in Chicago’s advertising industry where she managed multi-million-dollar advertising budgets for automotive clients. Eager for nicer weather and mountain views, in 2015. JR began leading the marketing efforts for a local Colorado restaurant group based in Fort Collins, Colorado. After establishing herself in the community, JR accepted a position with United Way of Larimer County as Director of Marketing & Engagement. Once settled in Colorado, JR noticed the lack of diversity within her community - the missing voices and perspectives in decision making, the lack of awareness and perspective in business decisions. JR identifies as a mixed-race Hispanic woman and acknowledges the privileges of her mixed-race identity. She is motivated and inspired to make systemic change for future generations, including her six nieces.