The Denver Foundation’s Professional Advisors Council (PAC) would like to welcome longstanding member, Elizabeth Meck as our 2026 PAC chair and Heidi Gassman as our 2026 vice chair.
Elizabeth is a Senior Vice President with Northern Trust, where she brings a thoughtful, people-first approach to advising families as they navigate significant wealth events and transitions.
Drawing on deep experience working with multigenerational families, she serves as a trusted advisor to help align financial decisions with values – particularly when charitable giving and long-term community impact are central to the conversation.
With training in psychology and education, along with a background as a trust and estate attorney, Elizabeth guides families through both the technical and human sides of planning, often focusing on family education and governance to support stewardship across generations.
A fifth-generation Coloradoan, Elizabeth is deeply rooted in the Denver and greater Colorado community. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys skiing and spending time outdoors with her husband and two young children – experiences that continue to deepen her connection to the community she calls home.
Having served on the Professional Advisors Council for several years and now stepping into her role as chair, Elizabeth is passionate about advancing The Denver Foundation’s mission, championing its work, and helping expand its reach through meaningful collaboration with professional advisors throughout the region. She is excited for the year ahead and always welcomes opportunities to connect with fellow advisors, supporters of The Denver Foundation, and members of the community.
Can you tell us about your experience as a professional advisor and how you got involved in that world?
My path as a professional advisor has been shaped by a long‑standing interest in people, learning, and community. I studied psychology in college and then pursued a career in education. I went to law school thinking I would stay in education policy, but fell in love with the world of tax, trusts, and estates which led to my early legal career as an estate planning attorney.
In my current role at Northern Trust, I am honored to work with families as they navigate wealth transfer and legacy planning. At each stage of my journey, both personally and professionally, I have remained focused on helping individuals make thoughtful, values‑driven decisions, particularly as families think intentionally about how their resources can support both family and community over time.
How did you get connected to The Denver Foundation?
As a fifth‑generation Colorado native, I have been aware of The Denver Foundation for as long as I can remember, but I became more directly involved when working with clients seeking guidance on how to give back.
The Denver Foundation quickly stood out as a trusted partner with deep local knowledge and a practical, values‑driven approach to strengthening Metro Denver and the broader community. I was then fortunate to be introduced to the Professional Advisors Council through several important friends and advisors in the community.
“The Denver Foundation provides perspective, resources, and meaningful connections, helping advisors support clients in practical ways while contributing to a stronger, more equitable community.”
- Elizabeth Meck
What are your philanthropic priorities?
My personal involvement in philanthropy started early – we regularly volunteered as a family when I was a young child, and my parents instilled in us a strong sense of responsibility to connect with our community and to give back.
Today, my philanthropic priorities focus on identifying critical needs and strengthening our local community, with particular emphasis on education, healthcare, and protecting and enjoying the outdoors that is such a defining part of life in Colorado. I am especially drawn to organizations that create long‑term impact while also meeting people where they are.
How has your relationship with The Denver Foundation benefited you personally and professionally?
Personally, my relationship with The Denver Foundation has helped me be more intentional about how I give back and how I stay engaged locally. Professionally, it has been an invaluable resource for my clients, my colleagues, and me by offering insight, flexibility, and a deep understanding of community needs. The Foundation is particularly helpful as families think about philanthropy across generations and seek ways to align giving with evolving values and goals.
What can other advisors gain from a relationship with The Denver Foundation?
Other advisors gain a knowledgeable, collaborative partner is deeply dedicated to both philanthropy and the Metro Denver community. The Denver Foundation provides perspective, resources, and meaningful connections, helping advisors support clients in practical ways while contributing to a stronger, more equitable community. I would encourage any advisor interested in thoughtful, community-centered philanthropy to explore ways to engage with the foundation and its work.
