A Colorado native, Brooke grew up in the small farming town of Fort Lupton, northeast of Denver, where her family raised chickens, sheep, goats, pigs and cows. Her grandfather, always accompanied by a feathery sidekick, taught her to treat animals with care and respect. Her childhood was filled with camping, fishing and exploring Colorado’s public lands. Summers spent with family in northern Mexico shaped her connection to her Mexican roots, where she learned Spanish and developed a love of the cuisine.

The first in her family to graduate from a four-year college, Brooke earned a full scholarship to the University of Colorado Boulder through the Daniels Fund and majored in Spanish language and literature. She went on to complete a master’s degree in education and taught English/language arts at her former middle school, working alongside some of her former teachers. Her interest in educational leadership led her to a district role supporting teachers with curriculum, assessments and professional development.

In 2018, after earning an Ed.S. degree from the University of Northern Colorado, Brooke joined the Colorado Department of Education as the Charter School Institute’s School Programs and Equity Initiatives manager. In 2022, seeking broader impact, she transitioned to Natural Habitat Adventures, heading human resources and diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.

Brooke lives in Colorado with her husband and four children. They enjoy traveling, especially to the Mayan Riviera, and cheering for the Colorado Avalanche. Her travel wish list includes the Galapagos Islands, Greece and a European culinary tour.