“I'm thrilled to visit Durango and the Durango Creative District during Durango Arts Month. I look forward to connecting with the arts and culture leaders, artists and cultural institution managers who drive Durango's vibrant arts and culture scene and its creative economy. I'll be asking for direct input regarding the current opportunities, challenges and priorities for the region's creative industries, which will inform CCI's strategic plan, programs and vision for the next 3-5 years.” — Josh Blanchard

Josh Blanchard (He/him) serves as Director of the Colorado Creative Industries (CCI) in the Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) where he is responsible for the strategic planning, direction, management, implementation and evaluation of Colorado’s state arts agency’s operations, programs & services. As CCI Director, Josh works to advance Colorado’s thriving creative economy by strengthening alliances, initiatives and programs involving arts, culture, business and government leaders. Previously, Josh served as a Summit County Commissioner focusing on housing and land use, water and land management, economic development and transportation policies.  Additionally, Josh has held leadership positions in arts administration, arts education, non-profit management, higher education, resort management, tourism and event production.