Emily Barbo

About Emily Barbo

Knowing how the world needs to change is not enough. I\'m driven to turn my knowledge into action. I am an experienced communications professional passionate about utilizing my marketing, nonprofit management, and strategic thinking skills to support communities in creating happier, healthier environments to live and thrive. As the Public Information Officer for the Colorado State Land Board, I lead agency-wide communications for one of Colorado’s oldest and most consequential land-management institutions. I manage media relations, crisis communications, executive messaging, internal newsletters, and public-facing storytelling across digital, print, and live events. My work supports a dual mandate: generating sustainable revenue for Colorado’s public schools and beneficiaries while stewarding 2.8 million acres of trust land through agriculture, conservation, recreation, renewable energy, and emerging ecosystem services. I work closely with agency leadership, board members, lessees, and partners to ensure transparency, public trust, and strategic alignment in a highly visible and politically complex environment.Previously, as Senior Communications Manager at the Salazar Center for North American Conservation, I spearheaded strategic multimedia campaigns that strengthened audience engagement and expanded the Center’s continental reach. I collaborated with NGOs, academics, Indigenous leaders, and policymakers to elevate innovative conservation models and foster cross-border collaboration throughout North America.I’m motivated by work that sits at the intersection of public service, environmental stewardship, and strong institutions—and by communications that don’t just inform, but move people toward action.\"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.\"- Margaret Mead, US anthropologist & popularizer of anthropology.

Experience

1. Outreach & Communications Manager

   Colorado State Land Board

   Jan 2025 — Present · Denver, CO, US

   In my role with the Colorado State Land Board, I lead efforts to create and maintain a consistent, engaging communications program that supports all aspects of the agency’s work. I represent the State Land Board externally, speaking at public events and engaging with stakeholders to share our mission and impact. I also manage public and media inquiries, collaborate with government officials, and build strong connections with lessees, beneficiary groups, and other partners. My responsibilities include overseeing the agency’s website, producing high-quality documents, and optimizing the use of our customer relationship management (CRM) system. Internally, I strengthen communication across teams and support business development initiatives. A big part of my work involves raising awareness about the State Land Board’s mission: to steward trust land for the benefit of Colorado public schools and other trust beneficiaries. This mission aligns deeply with my personal values and passion for conservation and community well-being. I’m proud to help share how our work supports sustainable land use, protects vital resources, and contributes to Colorado’s future.

Education

• Loyola University Maryland

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), English Literature, Writing

  2009 — 2013

• Colorado State University

  Graduate Certificate, Conservation Communications

• Questrom School of Business, Boston University

  Master of Business Administration - MBA, Social Impact, Marketing

• University of Auckland

  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), General Studies

  2012 — 2012

Skills

• Editing
• Writing
• Community Outreach
• Facebook
• Public Speaking
• Social Media
• Publications
• Event Planning
• Blogging
• Microsoft Word
• Social Networking
• Fundraising
• Nonprofits
• Creative Writing
• Critical Thinking
• Volunteer Management
• Program Development
• Time Management
• Teamwork
• Photoshop
• Event Management
• Photography
• Leadership
• Marketing Communications
• Digital Photography
• Publishing
• Editorial
• Storytelling
• Outlook
• Student Leadership
• Community Service
• Proofreading
• Copywriting
• Feature Articles
• Newsletters
• Copy Editing
• Microsoft Office
• Powerpoint
• Research
• Marketing