Catharina Hughey

Director

Catharina is the Executive Director of Roots Colorado dba DIRT Coffee, a nonprofit social enterprise dedicated to reducing underemployment among neurodivergent individuals through innovative and transformative hiring practices.

With a profound personal connection to disability justice—stemming from her own journey navigating disability systems—Catharina brings passion and empathy to her work, underpinned by nearly 13 years of experience in non-profit organizational leadership.



Under her leadership, DIRT Coffee has launched four high-quality, evidence-based programs—internships, workshops, job development, and workforce employers—as well as the mobile initiative, 'DIRT on the Road'. These programs are meticulously designed to empower neurodivergent individuals and assist employers in creating inclusive, supportive workplace environments.

In 2023 alone, these initiatives have positively impacted over 900 individuals, significantly advancing neurodivergent inclusion. Additionally, across two brick-and-mortar coffee shops, DIRT has reached more than 40,000 people, actively challenging ableist views and promoting diversity.

Catharina also holds significant roles outside of DIRT Coffee. She serves on the Littleton Downtown Development Authority, striving for universal design and sustainable development in the area. As Chair of the DEI committee on the University of Denver Alumni Council, she works to ensure inclusive educational environments for all.

A graduate of the University of Denver, where she specialized in Organizational Leadership and Policy Practice Master Program at GSSW, and the Executive Director of Color Institute, Catharina is equipped with a robust understanding of racial equity and inclusion. These insights greatly influence her leadership style, which is centered around disability justice and an unwavering commitment to improving intersectional societal equity.