Reception on the River
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.
Support The Greenway Foundation at Metro Water Recovery Reception on the River
Reception on the River is an Invitation-Only Event.
Join the region’s largest champions of river and environmental stewardship at Metro Water Recovery Reception on the River. It is a night to network and learn from one another. Live music, adult beverages and appetizers fuel a night spent in excellent company. Join us to learn about recent advances in The Greenway Foundation’s work and celebrate the future of our urban waterways. This event benefits The Greenway Foundation’s integral work in our community to help the South Platte be a cleaner, safer, more accessible river for all.
Alan Salazar, 2026 Keynote Speaker
The Greenway Foundation is thrilled to announce 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.
Past Speakers
Reception on the River features a local speaker every year who is connected to current projects or policies that impact our Colorado waterways. The Greenway Foundation has welcomed many guest speakers over the years, including some of the most recent individuals;
- Joshua Laipply – Chief Projects Officer, City and County of Denver
- Randy Ray – Executive Director at Central Colorado Water Conservancy District
- Rebecca Mitchell – Director of the Colorado Water Conservation Board
- Jim Lockhead – Denver Water CEO/Manager
- Laura Kroeger – Executive Director, Mile High Flood District
Thank You to the 2026 Reception on the River Sponsors
Presenting
Headwaters
Confluence
Supporting
Safety & Health Precautions
We care about creating a safe environment for all of our programs and events. See our health and safety page for up-to-date information on safety protocols.