OUR FOUNDERS


Julie Garside

CO - FOUNDER &
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Julie has lived in the Aspen community for over 35 years. She is passionate about music, nature, writing, and creating opportunities for artists. Julie leads Inspire Aspen with a focus on education, mentorship, and community impact.


Tami Word

CO - FOUNDER 1964 - 2024

Tami co-founded Inspire Aspen Foundation in 2021, driven by a shared belief in the power of music to connect, inspire, and create opportunity.

A lifelong music lover and singer-songwriter, Tami brought an extraordinary love of people and community to Inspire Aspen. Her spirit remains deeply woven into the foundation and the work we continue today.


PROGRAM TEAM

Wes Lanich

ENGINEER & EDUCATOR

Wes is an accomplished session musician, engineer, and producer with a deep passion for recording and music education. He served as the Director of Audio and Media Production at the Aspen Music Festival and School and works with musicians, bands, and students at Mad Dog Ranch+Studios.

Doug Gelpi

PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT

Doug is a pianist and music educator in the Roaring Fork Valley. He has performed with numerous groups in New O
Orleans and is currently the keyboardist for the Derek Brown Band. Doug works with Inspire Aspen to support program development and educational initiatives.


BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Lisa Hatem

BOARD MEMBER

Julie Lampton

BOARD MEMBER

Amber Thomas

BOARD MEMBER


Joshua Reider

BOARD MEMBER

Trudie Porter Biggers

BOARD MEMBER