Deborah Jordy Announces Resignation After Eight Years Leading SCFD
Denver, CO – Deborah Jordy, the executive director of the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD), will resign from her position effective June 30, 2025, after eight impactful years. Jordy will transition into a newly created senior adviser role to focus on the SCFD’s upcoming reauthorization vote in 2028. Since its inception in 1987, SCFD has generated $84 million this year alone to support over 300 nonprofit arts and science organizations across the seven-county metro Denver area.
Jordy’s tenure has seen a 50% increase in available funding, reflecting a robust local economy, even during the pandemic when she adapted funding strategies to provide crucial support. "At a time when we were all struggling, we wanted to keep our organizations in business," Jordy stated.
During her leadership, she emphasized breaking down access barriers and fostering trust among the SCFD’s benefactors. Notable challenges have included the distribution of funds, particularly the controversial tier system that allocates 64% of proceeds to five Tier I organizations, leaving Tier III organizations with just 14%.
Community leaders, including Denver City Councilwoman Jamie Torres, praised Jordy’s contributions, with Torres noting, “It is difficult to overstate the impact that Deborah has had on arts and culture in our region and beyond."
Tony Garcia, Producing Artistic Director of Su Teatro, acknowledged the importance of addressing the equitable distribution of SCFD funds moving forward. He hinted at the challenges to be navigated by Jordy’s successor, remarking, "There’s going to have to be a lot of changes."
Jordy reflected on her distinguished career in arts administration, crediting her team’s support: “You’re only as good as the people you surround yourself with.” Her leadership has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the Denver metro area.
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Photo credit denvergazette.com
