Discover the Three Unlikely Heroes of Aspen: Rugby, Folklore, and Business Come Together for a Better World

Aspen, Colorado is a vibrant and diverse community known for its stunning natural beauty, world-class ski resorts, and thriving cultural scene. Among the many organizations that call Aspen home, three stand out for their unique contributions to the community: the Aspen Rugby Club, the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet Folklorico, and the Aspen Institute Business & Society Program.

At first glance, these organizations may seem unrelated, but upon closer inspection, they share a common thread: a commitment to excellence and a dedication to making a positive impact on the world around them.

The Aspen Rugby Club is a prime example of this commitment to excellence. Founded in 1967, the club has a long and storied history of success, including multiple national championships and a reputation as one of the top rugby clubs in the country. But the club’s impact goes far beyond the field. As club president John Bangley notes, “We believe that rugby has the power to bring people together and promote respect, camaraderie, and sportsmanship.” Through outreach programs and community events, the club works to share these values with the wider Aspen community.

Similarly, the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet Folklorico is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Mexico and the American Southwest. Founded in 1996 as a collaboration between the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet and local Mexican-American dancers, the group has since grown to become a beloved fixture of the Aspen community, performing traditional dances and music at festivals and events throughout the year. As the group’s director, Francisco Nevarez, explains, “We want to honor our ancestors and keep our traditions alive, while also sharing them with others and fostering a sense of community.”

Finally, the Aspen Institute Business & Society Program takes a more academic approach to making a positive impact. Founded in 1998, the program brings together scholars, business leaders, and policymakers to explore ways in which business can be a force for good in society. Through research, conferences, and partnerships with leading organizations, the program seeks to promote sustainable, responsible business practices that benefit not just shareholders, but also employees, communities, and the environment.

So what ties these three organizations together? At their core, they are all committed to making a positive impact on the world around them. Whether through sports, culture, or business, they share a belief in the power of human connection, community, and excellence to make the world a better place.

As Aspen Rugby Club president John Bangley puts it, “We believe that rugby is more than just a sport – it’s a way of life. And we hope that by sharing that way of life with others, we can make a positive impact on our community and the world.” The same could be said of the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet Folklorico and the Aspen Institute Business & Society Program – they too are more than just organizations, they are communities of people working together to make a difference.

If you’re ever in Aspen, be sure to check out these amazing organizations and see for yourself the impact they are making on the world around them.