Denver's political landscape is shifting with the recent announcement that Al Gardner has been appointed as the city's Deputy Mayor. Gardner, who is currently the executive director of General Services, will assume new responsibilities, including stepping in for Mayor Mike Johnston as necessary. “I trust Al to bring his commitment, leadership and passion to serve the residents of Denver,” Johnston said, as per the City and County of Denver. The duo is set to collaborate on their shared goal of turning Denver into a city that embodies vibrancy, safety, and affordability.
In the course of his long and varied career, Gardner has consistently demonstrated a level of expertise and leadership that has earned him wide respect. The man started at a Denver-based startup hospitality company and guided his team to a successful IPO in 2022. Most recently, he got into the mix with Colorado’s Board of Health following an appointment by Governor Polis. His resume is further fleshed out with active roles on boards for the Denver African American Commission and the Denver Citizens Oversight Board, among others.
Holding a headshot that reveals a smiling Al Gardner, the residents of Denver are getting a Deputy Mayor who represents experience coupled with a forward-thinking mindset. He's not just a board executive, Gardner also invests time teaching as an adjunct instructor at the University of Denver School of Technology and Communications. His accolades include the Denver Business Journal's C-suite award, and he was also featured in the PBS series "Leaders," part of the Road Trip Nation documentary saga.
In terms of technology and its influence on the city, Gardner is poised to significantly contribute to the emerging culture of innovation. Currently sitting as a Commissioner on the Denver Civil Service Commission Board, and as a board member of the Colorado Technology Association, Gardner is evidently eager to continue sharing his knowledge and furthering his influence in the area's tech sphere. Such a background is indicative of the level of expertise he intends to apply directly toward enhancing the network and digital infrastructure of Denver.
