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Service, Civic Engagement, Community and Commitment: Meet Kyle Hybl, GlobalMindED Inclusive Leader Award Winner for Foundations and Funders
Kyle Hybl, CEO of the El Pomar Foundation has exhibited a lifelong dedication to community engagement and philanthropy. His service in the U.S. Air Force and on the CU Board of Regents emphasizes the importance of how individual involvement can be the catalyst for shaping progress.
What is your personal story? How did you find your purpose and passion?
I was fortunate to grow up in a family that values service and engagement in the community. It was instilled in my brother and me very early that each of us has an obligation to serve and improve the community in some fashion and at some level. “Community” includes country, state, city, and neighborhoods, sports clubs, churches, school groups, and voluntary associations. Through this, I have found a deep commitment to community service, civic engagement, and philanthropy as it is a passion of mine to help impact causes bigger than myself.
What led you to the leadership role for which you are being recognized? Were there people who were instrumental in your pathway?
After serving as a Judge Advocate in the United States Air Force, I had the opportunity to return to my home city of Colorado Springs in 2000. In nearly 25 years with El Pomar Foundation I have served as General Counsel, COO, and now CEO since 2019. El Pomar Foundation is a catalyst for good through grantmaking, leadership development, and community convening. I am proud to uphold the legacy of our founders, Spencer and Julie Penrose, and serve alongside my colleagues as we enhance, encourage, and promote the current and future well-being of the people of Colorado.
I firmly believe we all have something to learn from everyone with whom we come in contact - parents, family, teachers, bosses, colleagues, and the person on the street. My parents were wonderful role models and cheerleaders and my wife is a huge source of support, inspiration, and partnership. My grandfather was also a source of inspiration, and I carry with me many of his mottos, one of which was, “It does not matter whether you are CEO or an intern, just do your best in that role and good things will happen.”
What does inclusive leadership mean to you, and why is it important?
Being inclusive is recognizing and appreciating that individuals come from different backgrounds with unique experiences and world views, and inviting their thoughts, ideas, input, perspectives, and contributions. Bringing different views and competing thoughts to the table will make our ideas and ourselves stronger.
How can the GlobalMindED Inclusive Success Network inform, advance, and/or multiply your mission and goals?
GlobalMindED’s Inclusive Success Network can inform El Pomar’s grantmaking and leadership development. The network connects underrepresented students with role models, mentors, internships, and job opportunities, aligning with El Pomar’s commitment to community development and leadership.
For nearly 25 years, El Pomar’s Elevating Leadership Development (ELD) program has convened, trained, and empowered leaders of color in Southern Colorado to pursue leadership and community engagement opportunities. By ensuring we cultivate and celebrate diverse leadership we are helping strengthen the civic fabric of our society. GlobalMindED expands that network and bolsters a healthy civic infrastructure.
What legacy would you like to leave to the world?
I would like to leave a legacy of service, community empowerment, and inclusive leadership. I envision a world where diverse perspectives are valued, and everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
You can meet Kyle Hybl and the 14 other Honorees at the Inclusive Leader Awards Dinner on June 16th in Denver. Please read our newsletter each day as we continue to announce the 2025 Inclusive Leader Award Winners through January.
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