Steamboat Pilot & Today

Steamboat Springs — The Yampa Valley Community Foundation has named a new executive director.

Starting Aug. 1, Betsey Jay will assume the role previously held by Linda Haltom. Haltom, who has served as executive director and finance director for the past three years, will focus on the financial side.

"I've been doing both of the jobs, and we're growing so much I can't do both," Haltom said. "We really have grown so much that we needed change and to split some positions."

Jay currently works as the director of advancement communications and donor relations at Tufts University in Medford, Mass.

Previously, she worked as the vice president of communications for the Colorado Foundation from 1988 to 2003.

"We needed someone with a skill set in marketing, public relations and funding," Haltom said. "Her experience with the CU Foundation and Tufts University made her a fit."

Although Haltom will move from the executive director position to finance director, she will continue to work closely with Jay to develop a charitable giving program that includes estate gifts.

Jay, who has a master's degree from Columbia University and a bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts, has more than 25 years of experience with both public and private organizations.

"As a Colorado resident for 30 years and frequent visitor to Steamboat, I am thrilled to be returning to the state and becoming part of the Yampa Valley community," Jay said. "I am also proud to be associated with people who are committed to making their communities better and stronger."

The move was made after the Community Foundation had grown in the past couple of years. Haltom said the addition of Jay should continue helping the foundation grow in the Yampa Valley.

"I think it gives us the ability to grow exponentially," Haltom said. "We'll be able to raise money and offer more ways for people to give. It also will give us a bigger presence in the community."

- To reach Luke Graham, call 871-4229

or e-mail lgraham@steamboatpilot.com