With profound sadness, we share the passing of Emery Golson, the visionary founder of the community foundation’s Women’s Philanthropy Group, on January 4, 2025, due to complications with pneumonia. Emery was a radiant light, a bold philanthropist, and a heart-centered leader whose transformative vision inspired us all to think bigger and act boldly. Emery is deeply missed by her husband, Miles, and their two young children, Arlo (7) and Muna (5), who were the light of her life, along with her parents Charlie (Angie) and Laurie, and siblings Thomas (Brooke) and Grant (Katie).
In May 2022, Emery approached the community foundation with her dream of creating a philanthropic community of women—one of belonging, inspiration, and collective impact. She brought this vision to life through her thoughtful leadership, generously funding the group’s operations and encouraging the group to think boldly about their philanthropy. Her trust-based approach to philanthropy and uncanny ability to create synchronicity left a lasting mark on all who knew her.
In her memory, the Women’s Philanthropy Group is announcing the creation of a collaborative grantmaking fund, Emery’s Circle, co-chaired by Carly Brantz and Julie Rogers. This fund will directly support causes closest to Emery’s heart by providing essential services to vulnerable women and families in Boulder County.
Here’s how you can take action today:
Donate
Every gift, big or small, makes a difference. You can send a contribution with the memo “Emery’s Circle” to Community Foundation Boulder County (1123 Spruce Street, Boulder, CO, 80302) or make a gift online to the Women’s Philanthropy Group with the memo “Emery’s Circle.” If you’d like to wire a gift, or if you have any questions about Emery’s Circle, please reach out to our Director of Engaged Philanthropy, Helen Gemmill at helen@commfound.org.
Spread the word
Share this message with friends and family who care about vulnerable families and want to honor Emery’s memory.
