Photo: McBoat Photography
My grandmother, Marjorie Morrison, was a masterful strategist who understood that economic and political power were intertwined. She worked tirelessly to create pathways for Black leadership in our community, knowing that representation wasn’t just about visibility - it was about transformative change. My grandfather, George Morrison Jr.’s, impact on education and his numerous achievements, from presidential appointments to his athletic hall of fame induction, showed me that excellence knows no boundaries. But what truly set him apart was how he balanced his professional accomplishments with his deep commitment to faith, family, and community service. My aunt broke barriers as the first Black female officer of the U.S. Senate, earning recognition from presidents and Supreme Court justices alike. Her work in fair employment practices demonstrated how institutional change happens through persistence and courage.
Their examples taught me that true leadership isn’t just about personal success - it’s about creating lasting impact that extends beyond your own lifetime. The pursuit of equity isn’t just my professional mission; it’s my inheritance. I stand on the shoulders of giants who, from the stages of concert halls to the halls of Congress, showed me that when you fight for what’s right, you pave the way for generations to come. Cole: What inspired you to pursue a career in the nonprofit field, and how did you get started? Ross: My path to nonprofit leadership wasn’t a traditional one - it was forged through both success and adversity in the private sector. For 15 years, I thrived in healthcare administration, building systems, managing acquisitions, and driving strategy for Colorado’s largest healthcare systems. It was rewarding work that allowed me to develop crucial skills in system-building and organizational growth.
23 The Acumen
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