Lesley Smith , Colorado House District 49

Lesley L. Smith is a Democratic member of the Colorado House of Representatives representing District 49, which covers portions of Larimer, Boulder, Gilpin, and Clear Creek counties. She assumed office on January 8, 2025, succeeding Judy Amabile.

Born in Los Angeles, California, Lesley Smith is a scientist, educator, and public servant with a career focused on environmental research, education, and governance. She worked for 30 years as a research scientist and educator at the University of Colorado Boulder's Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences , specializing in climate diagnostics, water issues, and greenhouse gas emissions from wetland systems. Notable achievements include being the first woman aquanaut at the underwater Aquarius research facility and serving on the City of Boulder's Water Resources Advisory Board following the 2013 floods. Currently, she serves as an at-large CU Regent , where she acted as vice-chair during COVID-19, became the first Democratic chair in 2022, oversaw a $5.2 billion budget, hired CU President Todd Saliman, advanced sustainability in strategic plans, developed the system's first Land Acknowledgement, and lobbied for in-state tuition for students with tribal ties to Colorado. Her priorities include protecting the environment and addressing climate change, strengthening public education, and improving affordability in housing and health insurance. She serves on the House Committee on Energy and Environment.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Bachelor's degree in aquatic biology from the University of California, Santa Barbara ; attended University of Maryland.
• Political Experience:
  • Elected to Colorado House of Representatives, District 49 .
  • CU Board of Regents, at-large .
  • Boulder Valley School District Board of Education .
  • City of Boulder Water Resources Advisory Board .