Aurora Chamber of Commerce


Chamber Staff

Naomi Colwell
President/CEO

Chamber President and CEO Naomi Colwell has worked in many roles within Chambers in the metro area for more than 20 years. From event management, director of finance, and  sales and sponsorships at The Aurora Chamber, to the President and CEO of the Brighton, Colorado Chamber, she has developed and rebuilt programs and relationships with local businesses.

With strong community connections, Naomi is also the Executive Director of the Aurora Police Foundation, on the Board for the Open Space Advisory Board for the City of Centennial, and served on the Cycle of Hope Exec team working with Trish Downing in efforts those with disabilities to pursuing fulfilling lives.

Rene Simard
Chief Operating Officer and Chief of Military Affairs

As Chief Operating Officer and Chief of Military Affairs, Rene is Director of Leadership AuroraEmerging Leaders, and staff liaison for the Defense Council.

Before joining the Chamber, Rene was Director of Advising Services at the Community College of Aurora, and had retired from the United States Air Force in 2006 with more than 28 years of service. His last military assignment was as the Command Chief Master Sergeant for the 460th Space Wing at Buckley AFB.

Sophia Bibbey
Director, Events

As the Director of Events, Sophia is tasked with the comprehensive management and execution of all annual Chamber events. Her responsibilities include coordinating logistics, collaborating with vendors, developing event timelines, and implementing innovative ideas to enhance event quality. Through her role, she plays a crucial part in creating engaging and impactful experiences for Chamber members and the wider community..

Penny Krueger
Finance Director/Office Manager

As the Director of Finance/Office Manager, Penny is responsible for all financial aspects of the business of The Chamber including membership and event invoicing, accounts payable, and supply ordering. She serves as the staff liaison for the Board of Directors and manages relationships with The Chamber’s IT contractor, building maintenance, and all facility-related contracts. 

Prior to joining The Chamber, Penny worked for HealthONE/HCA in a variety of supporting roles at The Medical Center of Aurora and Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Medical Center – most recently serving as the executive assistant to the senior leadership team at the Behavioral Health & Wellness Center.  

Steve Phillips
Director, Membership Development

As the Director of Membership Development, Steve meets with potential members, listening to their questions and helping them understand the value and “return on involvement” that Chamber membership offers. Steve is also the staff liaison for the Ambassador Team, Tips and Leads 1, and Lead by Example tips and leads groups.

Mitzi Schindler
Vice President of Communications

Mitzi’s primary focus as Vice President of Communications is to keep the lines of communication open and flowing between The Chamber and its membership.

Mitzi is the primary writer and editor of the Chamber’s Impact Newsletter, weekly email updates, and the Chamber’s Website. She also has primary responsibility for social media content. She serves as the Assistant Director for the Leadership Aurora and Emerging Leaders Programs and is staff liaison for the Arts + Business Connection and Transportation committees.

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