The team at Catalyst has successfully confronted the public policy, political and community issues underlying everything from taxes and transportation to education and energy. Together, the team has built a relationship network that serves as a foundation for moving public opinion, educating stakeholders, influencing policymakers, raising profiles and guiding clients through difficult times.
The Catalyst team has the strategic acumen, experience and skillset to deliver success and winning results.
Jennifer Webster is an accomplished government and public affairs strategist. She began her career on Capitol Hill and honed her skills working in all levels of government and in a range of industry boardrooms. Jennifer counts an impressive number of wins among her many professional successes including the passage of statewide transportation funding measures and delivery of major, multi-billion energy and transportation infrastructure projects. Jennifer specializes in developing and executing effective public affairs and stakeholder outreach strategies.
Known for her ability to build successful coalitions, develop strategic community support, and guide clients through difficult issues, Jennifer brings a wealth of government and community relations expertise to the team.
Prior to founding Catalyst Public Affairs, Jennifer directed government and public affairs in the west for Pioneer Natural Resources – a large, independent oil and gas company. She previously served as Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications for the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and was Director of the Policy and Government Relations Office at the Colorado Department of Transportation and Secretary to the Colorado Transportation Commission.
Jennifer is a graduate of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and she and her family make their home in Denver, CO.
Key Expertise:
Amy Sherman brings more than three decades of leadership in nonprofit management, economic development, and public affairs to her role as Senior Vice President, Public Affairs at Catalyst Public Affairs, where she helps organizations amplify their voice, influence policy, and expand their impact. Amy has a proven track record of convening leaders, fostering collaboration, and championing community growth. Her strategic vision and organizational acumen have made her a catalyst for business success and civic impact.
Previously, she served as Vice President of Public Affairs at Junior Achievement–Rocky Mountain (JA-Rocky Mountain), where she led advocacy, community relations, development, and strategic partnerships, notably helping secure passage of HB25-1192, which makes personal financial literacy a requirement for Colorado high school graduation.
Before joining JA–Rocky Mountain, Amy served as CEO of Economic Literacy Colorado. Under her leadership, the organization laid the foundation for financial and economic education across Colorado, ultimately merging with JA–Rocky Mountain in 2024 to build on this growing momentum in youth financial and economic literacy.
She currently serves as Chair-Elect of the South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce and has been a longstanding board member of the Colorado Chamber of Commerce. These roles position Amy as a key driver in shaping Colorado’s business climate and driving statewide economic initiatives.
With 30+ years of experience across nonprofits, chambers of commerce, trade associations, and economic development, her work has earned recognition over the years, including honors from the Denver Business Journal: a spot on their 40 Under 40 list (2012), Economic Development Rookie of the Year (2013), and Top Women in Energy (2015). In 2023, she and her team were celebrated as Partners in Philanthropy.
Amy is a proud graduate of the University of Kansas, has a certificate in Organizational Management from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and is an Accredited Chamber of Commerce Executive. She and her husband reside in Littleton and are proud parents to twins.
Key Expertise
Whitney Cardenas leads strategic communications initiatives that strengthen brand presence, elevate public engagement, and advance client objectives across diverse sectors. She advises clients on messaging, media relations, and digital content strategy, providing strategic counsel that aligns communications efforts with organizational goals.
Whitney oversees the development and execution of comprehensive strategic communication plans, guiding projects from concept to implementation. She directs the creation of robust social media strategies, integrated content campaigns, and targeted media outreach efforts, leveraging her strong relationships with Colorado media to secure meaningful coverage and build public visibility.
Her background includes managing organizational programs, shaping social media content and analytics, and supporting graphic design and content development. Whitney has played key roles in multiple issue campaigns including participating in and organizing stakeholder engagement, coalition-building initiatives, and earned media efforts. She also manages event strategy and logistics, ensuring seamless execution for community relations programs and corporate partners.
Whitney earned her bachelor’s degree in writing from Point Loma Nazarene University. She previously served on the There With Care Young Professionals Board and is actively involved in her church community. She believes in giving back and contributing meaningfully to the places she calls home. Whitney and her husband, Andrew, reside in Centennial.
Key Expertise