PUBLIC SERVICE
Colorado’s New Senate President is an Unapologetic Leader
S tate Sen. James R. Cole- man (Denver (CO) AL 2012) was elected by acclamation to become Senate President in Colorado in November. “We’re a family,” he said at the time. “We will show the country why Colorado is special and continues to be a model.” Coleman is known for stress- ing bipartisanship, even as his party has large majorities in the state legislature. The Executive Leader- ship of the Senate includes
career defined by resilience, faith, and an unyielding commitment to serve the people of Colorado. Growing up in Denver’s Park Hill neighborhood profoundly influenced Coleman’s path. “I was blessed to attend a school in Park Hill that taught Black history daily,” he reflects. “Growing up in Park Hill influenced my political career because I was inspired to pay back the community who raised me and pay it forward to those who would come after me.” His values, deeply rooted in faith and service, continue to guide his decisions and leadership style. A NEW STANDARD FOR LEADERSHIP At the core of Coleman’s approach is a leadership style he has coined “The Coleman Way.” It’s an ethos centered on inclusivity, trust, open communication, and empowering team members. “My leadership style is one of inclusivity, building trust, fostering open communication,
the Senate President, Majority Leader, and
Minority Leader. They are also ex officio members of the Executive Committee of the Legislative Council along with the Executive Leadership of the House of Representatives. The President is elected by a majority vote of the Senate, while the Majority Leader and Minority Leader are chosen by their respective caucuses. The Journal had the opportunity to discuss his journal and outlook with Brother Coleman. “I ran for the Colorado State House in 2016 and was
James R. Coleman's historic role as Colorado's second Black Senate President in the state's history carries profound significance.
blessed to win my primary election by 84 votes,” recalls Colorado Senate President James Coleman. “I was not expected to win; however,
by the grace of God, with hard work and support from family and commu- nity, we won.” This humble beginning set the stage for a
20 THE JOURNAL ♦ WINTER 2024-2025
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