Nikole Bruns

Nikole Bruns has decades of leadership experience in government, education, and nonprofit settings. From early work in shelters to director roles in detention and after-school programs, much of her career includes work to improve outcomes for youth and families. Bruns managed special projects and strategic planning for Denver Public Schools before serving as deputy and interim executive director for the City and County of Denver, where she advanced cross-sector strategies in crime prevention, behavioral health, and support for justice-involved individuals. Prior to joining Keep Our Republic, Bruns led a 24-hour youth services center through the pandemic, serving two counties and 10 municipalities.

Bruns has served as a volunteer lobbyist and on multiple committees and councils working in justice reform, collaborative management, and process improvement across agencies and government bodies. She’s a proud “Blue Star” parent and spouse, and credits her upbringing on a family farm for an enduring belief that shared responsibility, civic engagement, and service to others are essential to healthy communities and a resilient republic.