DeFord longs for mountains of work
by Nicky DeFord ('99)

Nicky DeFord hits the slopes in Breckenridge where she also handles media relations.

Very few people are fortunate enough to fall into their dream job right after graduation. I now realize I was one of the really lucky ones. I was hired as the PR assistant for Vail Mountain, which seemed like the perfect fit – growing up in the Colorado mountains, skiing had always been an integral part of my life.

At the time, I thought I had my first great job, perfect for someone just starting out. It just happened to be in an iconic mountain resort where I could ski as much as I wanted. I thought I would stick with it for a couple of years and then move on to something in the "real world." It's funny how things work out.

Almost nine years later, I have my dream job and I still get in at least 55 ski days a season. At Breckenridge Ski Resort, I handle all the national, regional and local media relations, and public affairs and community relations as well as media for our development company for their projects in Breckenridge.

Most importantly, I have been able to experience amazing places and people; and the people in the ski industry, at Vail Resorts and the media I work with have become my family. I love coming to work each day.

Editors Note:

Nicky DeFord joined the University of Colorado Foundation in May as director of public relations.
Nicky.DeFord@cufund.org