Our Mission
Rocky Mountain Diversity Events is committed to enhancing the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals in Colorado through education, advocacy, and community engagement. We strive to raise funds and awareness by hosting inclusive events that celebrate diversity and foster understanding. Our mission is to create safe, vibrant spaces where all community members can connect, learn, and thrive together. By empowering voices and promoting acceptance, we aim to build a brighter, more inclusive future for everyone in our community.
Our Team
Nathan Turner (President / CEO)
Nathan Turner (He/Him) is a Colorado native born and raised in Arvada. During the day he works as a systems admin for a large non-profit organization. He has been planning events privately and professionally for well over a decade. He is best known for his work as chair of the Rendezvous Planning Committee for 2023 and 2024. His work in event planning lead him to co-found RMDE hoping to unite members of the greater LGBTQIA+ Rocky Mountain community in events not seen in colorado traditionally.
Aaron Blaine (CFO / Treasurer)
Aaron Blaine (He/Him) is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with 15+ years of experience in public accounting and tax compliance, specializing in services for small and medium businesses and individuals. Recently, Aaron has become involved in co-founding Rocky Mountain Diversity Events, an initiative born from his passion for creating safe, inclusive spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. This project was inspired by Aaron’s positive experiences at gay campgrounds and outdoor venues out of state and his desire to establish similar community-building opportunities in the Denver area.
Robert Schamel (COO / Secretary)
Rob (He/Him) was raised in Iowa and graduated from the University of Iowa and the Southern Methodist University School of Law. His legal practice has consisted of litigation and contract law. In addition, Rob spent over a decade working as a regulatory expert and landman in the energy law field. In 2022, Rob and his husband chose to re-boot their respective careers and venture anew with a residence in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico along with their “grumble” of pugs. Rob now makes frequent trips back to Colorado and the States to visit family and continue to participate in new business ventures.
Crystal Shaw (Vice President of Operations)
Crystal is based in New Mexico and has several years of experience managing and running large-scale events such as rendezvous. She is a huge ally for the LGBTQIA+ community and can be seen regularly at events across the globe.
Vash Madack (Artistic Director)
Vash is an expert with Adobe Suite and the powerhouse behind our artistic designs from merch or promotional media.
Devon Dougherty (Entertainment Director)
Originally from New Jersey, Devon spends his day job in information technology as a systems engineer. He also works on marketing and organizing events for various LGBTQ bars/organizations in the Denver region. In his free time, he enjoys working out and playing video games.
Sean Maas (Logistics Director)
Sean has a healthy amount of experience in logistics and construction. he is one of the owners of Denver’s own Wild Corgi Pub and before that, was avidly involved in construction.
Jeremy Haig (Public Relations Director)
Jeremy has been a PR manager for a local property management firm for several years. He also produces his own podcast and has a significant following on social media platforms as his alter ego, Betty Swallows Alnite
Shawn Carpenter (Volunteer / Team Member Coordinator)
Shawn lives in western Colorado. he has several years of experience in team management and is excited to assist in helping bring awesome events to the Rocky Mountain region
