Reception on the River 2026
August 27 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Metro Water Recovery Reception on the River
Reception on the River is an Invitation Only Event
Metro Water Recovery Reception on the River is a networking fundraiser that celebrates the past, present, and future of our urban waterways. This event hosts over 200 local leaders in engineering, law, architecture, governmental entities, water provision and environmental non-profits. This evening offers live music, adult beverages, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and a chance to learn about ongoing water projects in our state.
Alan Salazar, CEO/Manager of Denver Water, is this year’s keynote speaker. He was appointed in 2023 and is the first person of color to hold this position in Denver Water’s 100-plus year history.
He was born in Leadville, Colorado and is a fifth generation Colorado native. He graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder, earning a bachelor’s degree in history and political science, and a Juris Doctorate law degree from the University of Colorado School of Law, where he focused his elective course work on water law, mining law, natural resources and public lands policy. He was a recipient of the Phillip A. Danielson scholarship for promise of achievement in public service and a published member of the University of Colorado Law Review.
Immediately prior to his appointment at Denver Water, Salazar served as chief of staff for former Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock, starting in 2016. As chief of staff, he oversaw operations for 24 city agencies and the mayor’s office staff. In his six years with the city, Salazar had daily responsibility for municipal operations, as well as strategic direction for the mayor’s policy agenda.
Salazar has been active in civic affairs, including prior service on the Equality Colorado Board of Directors, as a public interest trustee for the Federal Home Loan Bank Board of Topeka, as a board member for History Colorado, and as a Commissioner for the Denver Public Library. He currently serves as a trustee for the Denver Art Museum, the Denver Center for Performing Arts, and the Denver Botanic Gardens. He is also active as a trustee for the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce, as a member of Colorado Concern, and as a member of the Board of Governors for the Downtown Denver Partnership.
Thank You to the 2026 Reception on the River Sponsors
Presenting
Headwaters
Confluence
Supporting
