Weld County wins two leadership awards at annual conference

Published on December 20, 2022

DHS Director Jamie Ulrich and Commissioner Scott James

Weld County Commissioner Chair Scott James and Director of Human Services (DHS) Jamie Ulrich were both recognized by their peers for their dedication and leadership at Colorado Counties, Inc (CCI) Foundation’s Winter Conference last week.

“I am honored to be named a Commissioner of the Year,” James said. “I am extremely passionate about county government. Working on these projects and serving on various committees is not only helping better my county but also other counties in Colorado.”

In nomination letters submitted by county commissioners from across Colorado, James was commended for serving in various leadership capacities, including being the Vice Chair of CCI’s General Government Steering Committee since 2021, overseeing the Upper Front Range Transportation Planning Region as Chairman, and serving as Vice Chairman of the North Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization.

James has also worked to advocate for energy production as he was the driving force in developing a symposium on green energy production, land use, and air quality. He has also been, and continues to be, a strong voice for agriculture, contributing greatly to the joint efforts of the National Western Stock Show, City of Denver, Colorado Cattleman’s Association, CCI, and fellow ag-producing counties to preserve Colorado’s reputation as a leader in agriculture.

Recognized for cultivating community relationships and dedication to aligning human service programs across Weld County and the region, Weld County DHS Director Jamie Ulrich was also honored at the conference. Ulrich, who has committed over 20 years of her life to human services by working for both Weld County and the state of Colorado, was one of two to receive the 2022 Colorado Human Services Directors Association (CHSDA) Director of the Year Award.

“Receiving this award is very special,” said Ulrich. “It is always humbling to be acknowledged by your peers, and I appreciate it greatly!”

Under Ulrich’s leadership, Weld County has been recognized multiple times for the data measures used by the state of Colorado to monitor and guide human services departments. Ulrich understands that DHS does not work alone and is passionate about bringing together all parties needed to solve current issues. She was recently appointed to the Behavioral Health Administration Advisory Council, which aims to bring the voice of individuals, family members, providers, local government and other sectors and subject matter experts to inform the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration.

Nominations for the awards are submitted from counties across the state. CCI bases its final selections on participation in CCI committees, taskforces, or district caucuses as well as activities in the county and outside agencies that go above and beyond the call of duty. CCI is a nonprofit membership association that assists county commissioners, mayors, and council members and encourages counties to work together on common issues. For more information about CCI, visit https://ccionline.org/about/cci/.