Boulder is home to an incredible community of women, and this year, we celebrate a select group of these remarkable individuals. Through the historic wet plate collodion photography process, we are capturing their legacies in heirloom images, ensuring their stories endure for generations. These women are making indelible marks across various industries, including creative writing, education, technology, fashion, and even football. They are shaping their fields and creating indestructible footprints for those who will follow.
Lolita Buckner Inniss
Dean and Provost’s Professor of Law, University of Colorado Law School
Lolita Buckner Inniss is the first Black dean of the University of Colorado law school. A graduate
of Princeton and UCLA, she is not only a scholar but also a champion of academic equity.
Best career advice you’ve received.
There are many paths that reach the same location. Don’t be discouraged if your journey has been more circuitous or obstacle-filled than other people’s. Nobody likes or wants to encounter challenges. But surmounting challenges is a learning all unto itself, and it is an education that frequently makes you more qualified than others.
A surprising fact.
Though I am a fourth-generation Californian, I’m also descended from a great-great-grandfather who was an early Colorado resident. He served in the Civil War and was present at Appomattox. After the war, he lived and worked in Colorado while traveling as a cowboy and blacksmith.
One more thing …
Serving as the second woman dean and the first Black dean of Colorado Law is a profound responsibility and a privilege that carries deep meaning. It situates me in a lineage of campus women who have broken barriers, while also demanding that I navigate leadership in spaces where representation has too often been absent. I view this role as far more than a personal milestone—it’s a visible reminder to our students and to the broader community that leadership can look and sound different, and that it can be rooted in a wide range of experiences.
Andrea Guendelman
Founder, Speak_ AI HR Tech Platform; Creative Director, Taos Puelo Mendo (Concept Space Opening Late 2025)
Entrepreneur Andrea Guendelman holds degrees from Harvard and Massachusetts Institute of
Technology, but her impressive resume doesn’t end there. She’s the founder of several
leadership platforms that empower recruiters, companies and jobseekers.
Most rewarding part of your professional journey.
Launching [career networking platform] BeVisible Latinx. We gave Latinas, and eventually all underrepresented talent, a platform in tech. We worked with the largest and most influential tech companies before “diversity” was even a buzzword.
Go-to power outfit or confidence booster.
Every outfit has a story—pieces from interesting designers, vintage finds, or treasures from my mom’s 80s closet. One rule: never fast fashion. In Boulder, my favorite places are Max, Cedar & Hyde Mercantile, Apocalypse, and Carol Ann Wachter.
Next big personal goal or aspiration.
Growing Taos Puelo Mendo. Inspired by the wild frontiers of Taos, Patagonia’s Puelo, and Mendocino, it reimagines frontier living through objects, clothes, wine, and a real estate offering that embody untamed beauty and creative energy.
“Miss Peggy,” Peggy Coppom
University of Colorado Superfan
Everyone knows Miss Peggy. At nearly 101 years old, the local treasure has been a decades-
long fixture at University of Colorado football games, where she always brings a positive spirit
and contagious joyful energy.
Why you love football.
When I was growing up, we followed high school sports. We had only the radio, no TV. My dad and his brothers always listened to football, and we’re Irish Catholic, so I remember Notre Dame being on. Saturday was all about football. I grew up with it, that’s what we did, and I liked it!
A woman who’s inspired you.
My mother. She was such a good person. Her faith, her attention to my dad and our family, and her values that she taught me.
When your faith has encouraged you.
When you lose people, it helps. When my mom and dad died, or when my twin sister Betty died. When you have a crisis in the family. But it helps me every day. My faith has helped me all through life, and it’s gotten stronger through the years.
A defining moment from your CU fandom.
When the whole stadium sang happy birthday to me when I turned 100 years old. That was pretty defining. I just stood there and cried and cried. It still makes me cry to think that people think enough of me to do that. It’s unbelievable.
Catherine Yrisarri
Owner, Ursi.co | Elemental Goods; Director and Producer, See Why Creative
Documentarian and commercial filmmaker Catherine Yrisarri has crisscrossed the globe to tell
critical stories of conservation. She also founded Ursi.co, a website offering plant-based oils that
serve as alternatives to traditional candles.
How your first job influenced you.
Right out of college, I went to the Arctic ice shelf for National Geographic. We worked alongside Inupiat whalers and whale biologist Craig George, and I witnessed how much environmental wisdom the Inupiat held from generations of following migrations. That experience, along with witnessing the fragility of the ice and the wonder of the bowhead whale, changed me forever. It taught me to see science and Indigenous knowledge as deeply connected and gave me the foundation for the work I still do today.
Most rewarding part of your professional journey.
The chance to be in wild, inspiring places and to learn directly from scientists, elders, botanists, and even the plants themselves, which I now incorporate into my business, Ursi. Over time, I also learned to listen to the natural world, which became one of my greatest teachers.
Go-to confidence booster.
Meditation by light and a morning walk at sunrise. Though more elusive these days with a toddler, it can transform the energy of my entire day.
Emory Hall
Poet and Bestselling Author, “Made of Rivers”
Emory Hall has a way with words, evident in her bestselling book of poetry, “Made of Rivers.”
The mother of two boys, with a girl on the way, is also an artist and photographer with prints for
sale on her website, EmoryHall.com.
Most rewarding part of your professional journey.
Getting my first book deal was a moment in time I’ll never forget. It was a deeply personal victory for me, one that felt a lifetime in the making. All I could think about was eight-year-old me, pouring her heart out into countless journals, writing through the hardest of times because it was all she knew to do. And then, there I was, holding my first book published by one of the largest publishing houses. It meant more than I’ll ever be able to express.
Advice for a young woman entering your field today.
Keep creating. You never know where something will lead you. Have the courage to put your work and heart out into the world. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be true to you. Life will amaze you.
What you love most about your professional life.
I wake up every day and get to do what my creative heart loves: write. Because of my path as an author, I’m free to be in awe of and continually inspired by this life. It brings a brilliance and wonder to my days, allowing me to question, discover, and heal, then share those reflections with people all over the world. It’s a gift.
Glenda Strong Robinson
Small Business Owner, Minister, Historian
She marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1968 — a defining moment in her life, to be
sure. Glenda Strong Robinson is also a longtime minister, devoted mother and grandmother to
London “LoLo” Robinson, also featured this month in Cherry Creek Lifestyle.
Why it was important for you to participate in the Civil Rights Movement.
I became involved as a junior at Memphis State University, where I joined the newly formed Black Student Association in 1966. Jim Crow laws were very much practiced in the South. Signs read, “White” and “Colored.” The basic freedoms that we enjoy today were not allowed then. Thus, the fight for Civil Rights escalated around 1954 with Brown v. Board of Education, followed by the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Freedom was not free then, and it is not free now. I know people who died so that we can enjoy the freedoms that we enjoy today.
Most memorable experience of your career.
On March 28, 1968, in the “I Am a Man March” down Beale Street in Memphis, I held two hands: one was a Jewish Rabbi from New York City, the other was a Catholic priest from San Francisco. This little black young lady (me) marched between them singing, “We Shall Overcome.” It was a defining moment. It was the belief that the literal “Beloved Community” endorsed by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is possible.
A surprising fact.
I grew up on a farm in the country outside of Memphis, where we lived off the land with no electricity and no running water.
How you hope to see the profession of ministry evolve for women.
Women represent about 19.9% of ministers in the U.S. For this number to increase, it would require a change in laws, beliefs, and mindsets toward women in leadership, such as it was during the Civil Rights Movement.
Annie Ryu
CEO and Founder, Jack & Annie’s / The Jackfruit Company
When Annie Ryu first learned about jackfruit in 2011, she was a medical student in India. Now,
she runs two of her own companies that stock national grocery shelves with the nutritious fruit
and its delicious plant-based recipes.
Best career advice you’ve received.
“Don’t do it unless you can’t live without it.” This was advice from my violin teacher in high school, when I was considering becoming a professional musician. In my case, great advice for not becoming a musician, and for knowing what I should do (this company).
A surprising fact.
I climb 5.12s [advanced grade rock climbing]. I may be small, but I am dense.
Next big personal goal or aspiration.
To crush our huge growth target in food service and find my life partner. (“Jack” is jackfruit!)
How you hope to see your industry evolve for women.
I hope that up-and-coming women CEOs see more women in leadership roles, and more different styles of women in leadership roles, so they have an easier time arriving to their own style. I don’t see myself as a woman CEO—just a CEO driving our company forward to the best of my ability.
Gray Carr Bridgers
Assistant Head for Enrollment Management, Watershed School; Author, “Kiss the Butterfly”
Longtime educator, outdoors enthusiast and founder of kids TV show “Wild Kratts,” Gray Carr
Bridgers serves as the assistant head for enrollment management at Watershed School. Her
recently released book for teens, “Kiss the Butterfly,” explores themes of adventure, survival and
human connection.
A surprising fact.
I lived on the floor of the Peruvian Amazon, in a tent! Currently, I’m the one walking around in skirts and high heels, so my image to others is a bit posher than when I was in my 20s.
Next big personal goal or aspiration.
I’m launching a podcast. It’s already in production, called “Outspoken and Untamed". It’s a bold mix of real talk about raising kids, nature, nutrition, education, modern life, and yes, the hilarious (and sometimes jaw-dropping) stories from my years as a director of admissions.
One more thing …
Children today face an overwhelming flood of information, and constant screen time isn’t helping their growth. They need time outside, exploring the world, collaborating with peers, and engaging in hands-on learning, not just sitting at desks memorizing facts. The future depends on critical thinkers, creative problem-solvers, and people who can work together for the common good.
Natasia Smith and Sandy Baisley
Natasia Smith and Sandy Baisley are co-owners of Re-Find, an interior design firm that also
partners with Sandy’s husband Landon Baisley’s Tight Lines Construction. Re-Find creates
character-filled spaces that blend traditional design elements with modern functionality.
Natasia Smith
Co-Owner/Lead Designer, Re-Find
What you love most about your professional life.
My partner, Sandy. I couldn’t do this without her. We laugh every day, and sometimes we cry. We have a similar work ethic but different approaches. We balance each other, we push each other, we respect each other, and we make the work fun.
Mentors who helped guide your path.
My earliest mentors were my parents. They were teen parents and had to grow up quickly. My dad joined the military, and they both worked multiple jobs to provide for us and put my mom through undergraduate and law school. Leading by example, they showed me that hard work, sacrifice, and dedication are needed to succeed.
Advice for a young woman entering your field today.
To someone in design, I would say have clear goals and define your aesthetic early on. And then, revisit them often. It’s easy to get lost in the work and business side of things.
Sandy Baisley
Co-Owner/Lead Designer, Re-Find
Best career advice you’ve received.
To never assume how clients are willing to spend their money. Everyone has unique priorities and different levels of how they evaluate worth. Holding back because of fear of rejection doesn't benefit anyone.
Next big personal goal or aspiration.
Natasia and I, along with [my husband] Landon Baisley from [our partner] Tight Lines Construction, have just moved into our newly renovated showroom and office in South Boulder. My goal is to fill this space with happy, engaged employees and clients. I hope to focus on building a strong team that allows us to grow the business.
One more thing …
Our firm is big on upcycling. It’s hard to see all the waste that goes into remodeling and interior design. We’re proud to say one of our most recent projects was 80% reuse. The results are stunning, and we hope to continue this trend with our future projects.
Hanna Sloan
COO/CFO, Sloan Construction
Hanna Sloan left her role as a water resources engineer to join her husband’s construction
business 11 years ago. Her resilience, problem-solving abilities and organizational skills are vital
to the team’s projects, whether a remodel or custom home.
How your first job influenced you.
My first official job was at Bruegger’s Bagels in high school. It taught me the importance of customer service, working efficiently in a fast-paced environment, and being a reliable team member. It also showed me that even seemingly simple jobs require dedication and a good attitude.
Mentor who helped guide your path.
My husband Dave and I have been working with a business and financial coach for over 11 years. She gave me the confidence to transition from my career as a water resources engineer to working with Dave in his general contracting business. She helps us set intentions and goals, and recognize challenges and successes, which has been instrumental in helping us work on our business, rather than in it.
Go-to power outfit or other confidence booster.
Our daughter and I have the same favorite pre-game/activity song, “Can’t Hold Us” by Macklemore. I also make it a priority to get my daily early morning gym fix in.
How you hope to see your industry evolve for women.
More acceptance and trust for women in the building industry, whether they are swinging a hammer or managing projects. Women have a knack for organization and attention to detail, and that’s what helps make a project run smoothly.
Libby Alexander
Owner, Common Threads Consignment Shop
As owner of Common Threads consignment boutique, Libby Alexander lives and breathes the
world of sustainable fashion. The store, open now for 17 years, is a go-to destination for luxury
resale.
How your first job influenced you.
I worked at Gap in high school. It was back in the day when everything was folded. You would get everything looking great, then a customer would pull out all the sizes, so you’d have to start over. Nevertheless, I realized that I loved clothes and knew I wanted to do something in that industry.
Best career advice you’ve received.
To not be afraid to pivot. What you think will work isn't always what works. You need to be flexible and go with the flow of the business. It’s easy to stay with what has worked in the past, but you need to evolve to grow.
What you love most about your professional life.
That I get to be in fashion and give back to the community. We offer sewing classes in our Creative Lab, and so many young adults have gone on to design school after taking them. We also host classes for Boulder’s Trash the Runway event at Common Threads.
How you hope to see the industry evolve for women.
I think the industry is going to continue to grow, especially as people are becoming more aware of the waste in fashion. Buying secondhand helps the environment and our future. As women become more aware of the environment and are more cost-conscious, opportunities will explode for them to become a part of this industry.
Michelle Sander
Real Estate Broker, LIV Sotheby’s International Realty Boulder
Experienced real estate professional Michelle Sander brings a unique set of skills to her clients
— one that combines extensive knowledge of the local housing market with expertise in farming
and ranching.
Most rewarding part of your professional journey.
I live and breathe ranch life, real estate, and design. For 12 years, I ran an equine nonprofit with a dozen horses on our property at any given time. This lifestyle gives me a deep understanding of the details that matter in farm and ranch—water, fencing, land use, infrastructure. At the same time, my life has also been rooted in real estate, interior design, and construction. I don’t just see homes and properties for what they are; I see what they can become. I can advise in unique ways because I’ve lived it, built it, and put it to use myself. My goal is to give my clients clarity, not only around their options, but also around the future each property could hold. Each transaction feels personal, and every perfect fit feels magical.
Advice for a young woman entering your field today.
Know your stuff. You can’t guide clients, build trust, or create opportunities without it. In real estate, effort, knowledge, and integrity shape your success. It’s challenging, rewarding, and what you make of it, so dive in, stay curious, and keep raising the bar.
A surprising fact.
I’m a huge 80s car nerd. My first car was a 1983 VW Scirocco, and I’ve regretted selling it ever since, so I recently picked up a Euro-spec 1991 Scirocco GT2. I’ve always dreamed of rally racing—Group B legend Michèle Mouton is my hero. My dream car at 16 is still the same today: a mid-80s Alfa Romeo GTV6, red with black leather interior.
The images created for this feature were made using the historic wet plate collodion process. A photographic process dating back to the Victorian Era (1851).
Nicola Huffstickler is a wet plate collodion photographer based out of Denver, Colorado. She has almost 2 decades of professional photography work on her resume with the last 5 years dedicated to wet plate collodion and other various forms of alternative photographic processes. Nicola is very passionate about analog photography and helping keep all historic forms of it alive.
Nicola can be contacted through her email nicola@nlphoto.co for business inquiries. Her portfolio is available at nlphoto.co.