The Denver Park Trust (DPT) is thrilled to announce the newest members of the Board of Directors. This group of visionary, civic-minded leaders will help guide and support the organization during this pivotal time in its development.
After six years of steadily building the organization and delivering impactful park projects across the city, the Denver Park Trust embarked on its first-ever strategic plan in 2025, collecting input from community partners, city leaders, donors, and other stakeholders. With a clear vision and plan in place, new Board Members will help DPT advance toward its vision of a thriving, resilient, and sustainable Denver where everyone has access to exceptional parks, trails, and recreation.
Each Board Member brings a unique passion for parks, a commitment to equity, and a dedication to making Denver a healthier, more vibrant, and more connected city. Board Members serve as ambassadors and stewards of the Denver Park Trust, playing a vital role in advancing its mission and upholding its values. Please welcome this team of dedicated individuals with a donation at bit.ly/supportparks!
Dan Aschkinasi, Civic Centered Consulting
Favorite Park: Crestmoor
Why I joined the Board: I love our parks!!! Growing up in Denver, parks have played a tremendous role in my life and I believe its our job to ensure that legacy lasts for generations to come. I also believe in strong philanthropic support for the arts, parks and rec, and preserving green space in our growing city.
Courtney Levingston, RVi Planning + Landscape Architecture
Favorite Park: Babi Yar and Cheesman
Why I joined the Board: Denver Park Trust’s mission emphasizes collaboration and inclusivity in advancing equitable access to parks and recreation. As someone who spent much of my career in city planning and public service, I know first hand how transformative great public spaces can be, particularly when they’re shaped by and for the communities they serve.
Nessa Mogharreban, Denver Urban Gardens
Favorite Park:Harvey Park
Why I joined the Board: I’ve seen firsthand how access to green space can build healthier, more connected communities, and how intentional investment in parks and recreation can address deeper issues of climate resilience, public health, and social cohesion.
Grace Rink, AECOM
Favorite Park: Wash Park
Why I joined the Board: The projects funded by the Denver Park Trust demonstrate its values in a tangible way. All of these resonate with me because the organization has articulated its mission well and is focused on delivering results for Denver’s communities.
Craig Spalding, Vermilion
Favorite Park: Cheesman Park
Why I joined the Board: Ensuring equitable access to parks and urban green spaces is vital for environmental justice, because neglected neighborhoods are the first to experience a lack of trees, urban canopies, and recreation, magnifying health disparities and vulnerability to climate impacts.
Michael Whitehorn, MAC Group Consulting
Favorite Park: Cook Park
Why I joined the Board: I believe strongly in the power of play and nature, and have dedicated my career to supporting candidates that prioritize outdoor access and conservation. I also lived the experience and know the power an outdoor education can have for children, especially the most marginalized communities.
These new board members join our existing 6 members:
- Shannon Fender, Scout Motors, Denver Park Trust Board Chair
- Meredith Wenskoski, Livable Cities Studio, Denver Park Trust Board Treasurer
- Danielle Vaughan, FirstBank, Denver Park Trust Board Secretary
- Kendra Black, Museum of Denver, Denver Park Trust Co-Founder and Former Board Chair
- Javonni Butler, Evergreen Real Estate
- Laura Newman, Golub & Company
- Allison Stuart, Daniels Fund
- Jolon Clark, Denver Parks & Recreation, Denver Park Trust Ex-Officio
Please join us in welcoming this team a donation at bit.ly/supportparks!