Rachel Hartgen is a strategic powerhouse with a deep-seated passion for community-led initiatives that uplift women and girls. Bringing over 17 years of leadership experience across both the non-profit and for-profit sectors, Rachel’s career is defined by her ability to drive impact at scale. From local Colorado communities to global initiatives across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, she has dedicated her life to expanding access to opportunity and education.

Currently, Rachel serves as the Senior Director of Education and Skills for CARE USA’s Program Strategy and Innovation Team. In this high-impact role, she oversees a vast global portfolio of programs designed to equip adolescents and youth with the skills necessary to succeed in a modern economy. Her professional expertise is backed by a dual Master’s degree in Economics and International Development.

In 2025, Rachel and her husband traded the Front Range for the mountains of Durango. Deepening her roots in the local community, she opened Thrive Artisan Boutique on Main Street—a curated space featuring ethically made, handmade finds. When she isn’t managing global portfolios or her boutique, Rachel is an avid reader and world traveler who embraces the outdoor lifestyle of the Southwest.