Darrin Bodner

Darrin Bodner serves as Deputy Executive Director of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), where he oversees a broad portfolio of administrative and operational functions that support one of Colorado’s largest state agencies. His responsibilities include strategic planning and performance management, human resources, budgeting and finance, business technology, facilities operations, compliance functions, and enterprise modernization initiatives.

Over a career spanning more than three decades, Bodner has held senior leadership positions across state government, nonprofit organizations, political campaigns, and the private sector. Prior to joining CDPHE, he served as Executive Deputy Secretary for Administration and Management at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, where he functioned as the agency’s chief operating officer, overseeing approximately 2,400 employees and a budget exceeding $700 million. During his tenure, he led major modernization efforts in permitting, inspections, customer service, information technology, and organizational performance.

Before entering environmental and public health administration, Bodner worked in technology and operations leadership roles, including serving as Operations Director for Oblong Industries in Los Angeles. He was also a co-creator and senior executive at Media Matters for America, helping build the organization during its formative years into one of the nation’s most influential media-monitoring and accountability organizations.

His earlier career included leadership positions in fundraising, communications, and public affairs. He served as Development Director for the Atlantic Theater Company in New York City and worked for New York City Council Speaker Peter F. Vallone, Sr., including directing fundraising efforts for Vallone’s 2001 mayoral campaign.

Throughout his career, Bodner has been recognized for his ability to bridge strategy and execution—translating ambitious ideas into practical systems, programs, and organizational improvements. His professional interests include government modernization, organizational performance, public health, environmental protection, technology, civic engagement, and the effective use of innovation to strengthen public institutions.

Outside of work, Bodner is an avid traveler and lifelong student of history, art, architecture, politics, religion, science, and popular culture. He is particularly interested in the intersection of technology, democracy, and public life. He has also been active in the arts community, including performing with both the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington and the New York City Gay Men’s Chorus.

Bodner holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Dramatic Arts from Dickinson College.