Developmental Pathways (DP) is honored to present Nancy Sharpe Kennedy, a departing board member, with the prestigious Developmental Pathways Board of Directors Lifetime Achievement Award. This recognition demonstrates a board member’s significant, lifetime achievement of supporting people with disabilities through DP and the community.
After nine years of dedication to our Board of Directors —culminating in her role as Board Treasurer for FY 2025— we extend our heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to Nancy as she concludes her service. Her invaluable contributions, from her involvement in the Finance and Mill Levy Committees to her impactful leadership as a former Arapahoe County Commissioner, have left a lasting legacy.
Nancy Sharpe Kennedy represented District 2 as an Arapahoe County Commissioner, where she oversaw key departments such as human services, finance, and human resources. She chaired the Colorado Counties, Inc. Health and Human Services Steering Committee and served as vice chair for the National Association of Counties Human Services and Education Steering Committees. Additionally, she was appointed by the Governor to the Colorado Executive Leadership Council on Child Welfare.
In 2014, Nancy co-launched the “Not One More Child” initiative in Arapahoe County in partnership with 18th Judicial District Attorney George Brauchler. This coalition of community partners worked to prevent child abuse and neglect. Nancy actively represented the county on various boards and committees, including the Denver South Economic Development Partnership Board, C-470 Policy Committee, Arapahoe County Water and Wastewater Authority Board, and the Cherry Creek Basin Water Quality Authority. She also contributed to the High Line Canal Trail and Cherry Creek Basin Working Groups, the Arapahoe County Housing Authority, Arapahoe County Public Airport Authority, Denver South Transportation Management Association, and the Urban Drainage and Flood Control District Board of Directors.
Nancy’s dedication and leadership have profoundly shaped our organization and the broader community. Her legacy will continue to inspire and positively impact countless lives for years to come. “Nancy has been a passionate advocate for our community and an indispensable member of our Board during her time with us,” said Matt VanAuken, CEO and Executive Director of DP. “Her dedication to serving others is extraordinary, and we feel truly fortunate to have had the opportunity to work alongside her. Nancy’s insights and unwavering commitment to our mission have helped guide us through important decisions and challenges. She has not only contributed her expertise but also inspired everyone around her with her drive to make a meaningful impact.”
We truly appreciate her dedication to our board and years of service. Thank you, Nancy, for your incredible contributions and commitment to making a difference. We wish you all the best!