Durango Trails Announces New Executive Director
Durango, CO – [November 13, 2024] – Durango Trails, a leading nonprofit dedicated to trail development and community building, is excited to announce the appointment of Jen Gersbach-Venzara as its new Executive Director. A longtime Durango resident, Gersbach-Venzara brings decades of familiarity and involvement with Durango Trails and a deep-rooted commitment to the organization’s mission.
“I moved to Durango because of the trails. My unwavering commitment, enthusiasm, and strong desire to build upon the remarkable achievements that Mary and the entire Durango Trails organization have provided our community are exactly why I’m thrilled to step into this role,” said Gersbach-Venzara.
A graduate of CU Boulder, Jen raced professionally as a mountain biker, traveling the world and gaining a rich understanding of trails and trail development. She coaches for DEVO and FLC Cycling and has spent the past ten years as a nurse while raising her two young children. Jen has been a long-time supporter of Durango Trails. She is married to Miles Venzara, and they have a 10-year-old son and a 7-year-old daughter.
Jen will succeed longtime Executive Director Mary Monroe Brown, who will step down at the end of 2024 to focus on her business in the outdoor recreation space, Bluebird Consulting. Brown will stay on with Durango Trails to the end of the year to support the onboarding and transition process.
“I’ve known Jen for 20 years, and I’m thrilled to see her passion, excitement, and new ideas come to fruition,” said Brown. “Jen’s commitment to our community and her dedication to raising her family here bring both continuity and fresh vision to help elevate our mission.”
During her tenure, Mary has spearheaded numerous transformative initiatives that have significantly enriched the quality of life in Durango and beyond. Her leadership has not only expanded and improved our trail network but also fostered a culture of community and environmental stewardship among our volunteers and supporters.
“Mary’s impact on our community is immeasurable,” said Steve Schwartz, board member and interim president of Fort Lewis College. “Her passion, vision, and dedication have set a standard of excellence that will continue to inspire us for years to come. We are profoundly grateful for her leadership and the legacy she leaves behind.”
Brown’s leadership has been central to shaping Durango Trails. “She is more than a leader,” Schwartz added, “she is a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration.”
“We are thrilled that Jen has accepted this new role, and we’re excited to work alongside her,” said Christina Rinderle, board president of Durango Trails. “We owe immense gratitude to Mary and her family for nearly 20 years of commitment to this community. Jen is the ideal addition to carry forward the tremendous legacy Mary has built. Jen officially starts on December 1, and everyone is working closely to ensure a seamless transition. We feel incredibly fortunate.”
About Durango Trails
Durango Trails, formed in 1990, is a nonprofit organization with a mission to plan, build, and maintain trails; educate trail users; and foster community connectivity. Through trail development, volunteer engagement, and educational programs, Durango Trails enhances the quality of life for residents and visitors alike, promoting physical and mental well-being through outdoor recreation and community building.
Mountain bike was added to the Olympics in 1996 with Durango athlete Juli Furtado, continued with the 2000 Games with @ruthiematthes and the OG @tbrowntrip, the first Olympic mountain biker born and raised in Durango and continued with @yotwells @howardgrotts. Congratulations! Your trails are rooting for you!
