Lockhart continues sharing communication talents through varied career
She arrives early for NFPW conferences, usually participating in the pre and post conference tours. She knows the value of networking and sharing her many communications talents with others. The community is better because of her willingness to help others. especially those in need. Meet another unique and unbelievable NPFW member, Ann Lockhart.
Name: Ann Lockhart
Ann Lockhart
City and State: Denver, Colorado
Affiliate and any leadership positions: Former president of Colorado Press Women (twice) and other officer and committee roles; NFPW parliamentarian for several years; current secretary of POPPS (Parlay of Past Presidents States)
Years a member of NFPW: 41
Tell us a little about you.
A small town girl from northeast Iowa, I edited my high school newsletter and community college newsletter and then got an English degree from the University of Iowa. I spent a year selling ads for the San Marcos, Texas, newspaper, then taught high school English and journalism in an east Texas oil town.
From there, I moved to Colorado and worked almost five years for several suburban weekly papers as reporter and then editor. Tired of long hours and low pay, I became editor of the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center campus newspaper. My next career change was both interesting, challenging and enjoyable– to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment as public relations director. My last nine years there dealt with community relations for a scientific study on the potential off-site health impacts of toxic emissions from the Rocky Flats Nuclear Weapons Plant northwest of Denver.
Retired in early 2002, I started part-time editing projects and three volunteer gigs: saving the history of Rocky Flats, tutoring refugees in English and teaching AARP Driver Safety classes to seniors. Tutoring refugees from Sudan, Iraq, Somalia, Bhutan and Nepal and currently a woman from Iran has been a great learning experience.
Any career advice you would give?
Network always, continually upgrade your career knowledge and skills, hone your public speaking skills through Toastmasters and become active in professional organizations.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Graphic design. (I’d also like more confidence.)
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
I love Denver, but a few weeks in the dead of winter at a beach resort would be so satisfying. Or maybe New Zealand.
What book are you reading?
My book club just read The Round House by Louise Erdrich, which I loved. I’m now reading A Superior Death by Nevada Barr (author of national park murder mysteries.)
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
That I’m an orphan…that I started two different recreational volleyball leagues…that I’ve climbed nine 14ers (14,000 foot mountains in Colorado)…that I’ve gone to the RAGBRAI three times (Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa)…that I’ve traveled a lot and plan to keep traveling.
Why is your affiliate and NFPW important to you?
My CPW and NFPW friends are like family and also have been career resources for me. Over the years, the programs and speakers have provided wonderful continuing education. I’ve loved the NFPW pre- and post-conference trips plus the 1989 NFPW trip to four cities in Russia including Sochi.
Way to follow you on a website, twitter, Facebook, etc.
I’m on Facebook.
Explore posts in the same categories: UncategorizedTags: Ann Lockhart, Colorado, NFPW
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Talking with Teri 
March 28, 2014 at 5:15 AM
It’s hard to recognize that Ann is retired with all of her passions. I am always inspired by her and lover her energy and enthusiasm. She is truly an inspiration. It was great to learn about her early career. Thanks for profiling her.
March 30, 2014 at 10:19 AM
I have always considered Ann a good friend and role model. I am glad to see her get the recognition she richly deserves.
Rayna – Boston