Photo: McBoat Photography
me toward a journey of healing. I began to recognize how deeply these stereotypes stifled not only my individuality but also my ability to lead authentically. Over time, I discovered that my greatest strength lay in embracing every part of who I am—not just as a professional but as a person. By challenging these harmful narratives, I’ve worked to create space for others to show up fully as themselves, without fear of judgment or restriction. This journey has taught me the power of inclusivity and the importance of ensuring everyone has both a seat and a voice at the table. True leadership thrives on authenticity and fostering an environment where people can lead with their whole selves isn’t just empowering—it’s essential for innovation. Cole: What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the Government today, and how do you see the Department of General Services overcoming them? Gardner: Government faces the challenge of balancing innovation with fiscal responsibility while maintaining public trust. At General Services, we tackle this by driving transparency, leveraging data-driven decision-making, investing in our talent pipeline, maintaining clear cross functional communication, and focusing on efficient resource allocation. We also prioritize cultivating a workforce that reflects the diversity and creativity of the community we serve. By aligning our mission with the needs of the
people, we continue to deliver impactful solutions that address today’s challenges while preparing for the future.
Cole: How clear is your vision for what the future of community responsibility should look like at the Department of General Services? Gardner: My vision for community responsibility is rooted in collaboration and equity. At General Services, we ensure that every decision— whether it’s procurement, infrastructure management, or employee development—reflects our commitment to serving all communities equitably. This includes creating opportunities for local businesses, prioritizing sustainability in our operations, and investing in our workforce to ensure long-term community impact. Cole: In what direction does the Department of General Services see itself going? Gardner: General Services is committed to becoming a model of operational excellence, sustainability, and inclusivity. We’re embracing innovation to modernize processes, enhance efficiency, and deliver exceptional service to the City and County of Denver and its residents. Our focus remains on empowering our workforce, fostering collaboration, and implementing technologies that align with our long-term vision. By maintaining our core values of service, integrity, and teamwork, we are poised to set new standards for public service excellence.
31 The Acumen
Powered by FlippingBook