John Hickenlooper, Colorado Governor

A geologist-turned brewpub pioneer who had never run for political office (not even student council) before being elected Mayor of Denver in 2003, John Hickenlooper was elected Governor of Colorado in November 2010. He took office two months later. His ambition for the state is even bigger than his name. Gov. Hickenlooper, drawing on his diverse background as an exploration geologist and restaurateur, is bringing bright, creative leadership and innovative thinking to the state Capitol. His boundless energy and Western spirit of collaboration are generating tremendous optimism and confidence in Colorado’s future.