5 Questions With Dee Hiatt, Colorado State Director

Colorado State Director Dee Hiatt says her path to Dungarvin was a winding road. She started her career in health data analysis and community health education, and later transitioned to nonprofit management and grant writing. She eventually changed careers to become a behavior therapist and ran behavioral health clinics. She was hired to be Colorado’s State Director in 2022.

What do you like most about your job?

I always joke that I love a good spreadsheet, and honestly, I do! But what creates meaning for me is being part of an organization that thrives on mutual support. It’s not just about the work we’re paid to do —supporting individuals with disabilities — it’s about being woven into a network of people who understand that we’re all connected.

What characteristic, or adjective, would people use to describe you?

Fast paced, passionate, or snarky, depending on the situation.

How did the place where you grew up shape who you are today?

I grew up in the north Denver suburbs in the 1970s and 1980s. I lived just a couple of miles from where our current office is located. Growing up, I felt like I lived in the most average, bland and boring place on the planet. However, when I look back with the benefit of a broader perspective, I see a community that is very diverse, but struggling to understand it. I think the community evolved and learned that we have to embrace progress if we want everyone to thrive. I ‘ve had to learn some of those same lessons.

What do you like to do for fun?

It might surprise people to learn that I do “Lord of the Rings,” “Star Trek” and “Dr. Who” cosplay (dress up like the characters). It’s something I started doing with my niece when she was 12 or 13. She’s 24 now, and we’re still doing it.

What do you most value about your Dungarvin team?

I’m so proud of my team’s dedication to the people we serve. I’ve never had so many discussions, debates and “arguments” about how we should be supporting choice and autonomy. These discussions have been fruitful in teasing out the complexity and nuance that is required to serve people. I’ve learned and been humbled, not only by the dialogue, but by the passion that each person on my team brings to the conversation.