Nancy Henjum

Nancy Henjum is a member of the Colorado Springs City Council, representing District 5. She assumed office on April 20, 2021. Her current term ends on April 17, 2029.

Henjum ran for re-election to the Colorado Springs City Council to represent District 5. She won in the general election on April 1, 2025.

Henjum completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Nancy Henjum was born on Clark Air Force Base. She attended both Mascoutah High School and Foothills High School. Henjum earned a bachelor's degree from Whitworth College in 1982 and a graduate degree from the Loyola University Chicago in 1988. Her career experience includes working as a licensed clinical social worker, organizational consultant, and executive/leadership coach.^[1]

Elections

2025

General election

General election for Colorado Springs City Council District 5

Incumbent Nancy Henjum defeated Christopher Burns, Jim Miller, and Cass Melin in the general election for Colorado Springs City Council District 5 on April 1, 2025.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Nancy Henjum (Nonpartisan)	49.1	7,463
	Christopher Burns (Nonpartisan)	28.4	4,327
	Jim Miller (Nonpartisan)	17.2	2,616
	Cass Melin (Nonpartisan)	5.3	806

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 15,212
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Endorsements

Henjum received the following endorsements. To view a full list of Henjum's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here.

Beautiful Colorado Springs

2021

General election

General election for Colorado Springs City Council District 5

Nancy Henjum defeated Mary Elizabeth Fabian, Matt Zelenok, Karlie Van Arnam, and Justin Hermes in the general election for Colorado Springs City Council District 5 on April 6, 2021.

		Candidate	%	Votes
✔		Nancy Henjum (Nonpartisan)	37.0	5,690
		Mary Elizabeth Fabian (Nonpartisan)	25.4	3,908
		Matt Zelenok (Nonpartisan)	13.5	2,073
	Submit photo	Karlie Van Arnam (Nonpartisan)	12.6	1,934
	Submit photo	Justin Hermes (Nonpartisan)	11.4	1,753

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 15,358
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

Nancy Henjum completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Henjum's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am running for re-election as City Councilmember for District 5. How did I get here? I moved to Colorado Springs 35 years ago

with my husband, and we’ve lived in the same house in District 5 since 1991. We came without jobs, knowing we wanted to raise a family in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. For me, it was a homecoming. My dad, Joe Henjum – a career Air Force pilot who taught at the Academy when I was a kid – retired in Colorado Springs, where his legacy of community service inspires me every day. (More about my dad later!) I am a mom of two children, grown and married, and grandmother of two. My husband spent his career teaching in District 11. Our kids went to D11 schools in the heart of Colorado Springs. I love the outdoors: hiking, biking, and gardening. Professionally, I’ve been a social worker and the Chief Operating Officer for a public/private partnership managing Medicaid behavioral health dollars for 43 of the state’s 63 counties. After that I ran my own small business as an executive leadership coach

and organizational consultant serving diverse industries.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

The most important challenge (and opportunity) facing Colorado Springs is growth, and I believe it can be managed in a responsible and balanced way that benefits all residents of Colorado Springs. How? Approving annexations and development projects that are logical extensions of the city; prioritize those that don’t simply increase housing stock but also commit to attainable housing; oppose so-called “flagpole” extensions that risk public safety by increasing response times for us all, that stretch our infrastructure beyond what it can handle, and that threaten to compromise our water supply.
Divisiveness gets us nowhere in solving the problems of Colorado Springs residents. I have been disappointed in the past year that some of the divisiveness on the national level has seeped into our work in local government. Ours is supposed to be a non- partisan body. We need to work together and find common ground – of which there is plenty if we don’t get distracted! I will continue to do my best to keep our focus on the issues that affect our neighborhoods here in District 5 and Colorado Springs generally.
Community engagement and responsive communication make all the difference to me. Whether it’s been stopping the extension of Constitution Avenue, helping ensure road and stormwater infrastructure got built in Rustic Hills, or partnering to improve public safety around the Citadel Mall – these important initiatives have happened because I value citizen input and collaboration to solve problems.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I get energized about public policy when it can directly impact the well being of individuals and the well being of communities where people engage. Where City Council and CSU Board of Director's responsibility coincide with my personal passion - that would be policies related to the environment, urban planning, housing, and transportation.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the state government and legal system?

I often tell people this: Local elections have a much lower turnout than national elections do, and that’s a real shame, because chances are excellent that City Councils around the country are making decisions that have a greater impact on citizens’ daily life than what happens in Washington DC. The Colorado Springs City Council makes decisions about housing, zoning, land use, annexations, transportation, utilities rates, infrastructure (roads and sidewalks), parks and public space, and, of course, taxes, and budget around key matters such as public safety. Our Council also provides our version of checks-and-balances in our “strong mayor” system of government. We must pass the budget. We hire and oversee our City’s Auditor, who provides important accountability for us all. And I want to highlight constituent services: Although this is an informal aspect of the job, it is one of my favorite and I take great pride in performing it well. When residents have a question or concern, they often reach out to the

Councilmember to figure out how to get that addressed. During my first term I made it a high priority to develop extensive and constructive relationships with dozens of key City administrative staff, and I truly enjoy connecting my constituents with those who

can directly address solve their concerns.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

My dad, Joe Henjum. He died on January 1, 2010 from complications related to cancer treatment for multiple myeloma that was caused by his exposure to Agent Orange in Viet Nam. He lived a life of service and dedication to others that I not only admired and
looked up to, but believe is in my DNA. Most importantly, he made every person feel that they were important and special. I have lost count of the number of people who have told me about how my dad impacted their lives in very personal and meaningful ways. And he also left a legacy of founding the Homefront Cares (now Homefront Military Network), the Senior Resource Council and has two community awards named after him. He sang and brought light into the world.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

I’ll share three quotations/references that I hope will shed some light into my philosophy of governing (call it politics if you will):

From John Nalbandia: “Governing is not about finding right answers. It is more accurately described as forging alliances and compromises among advocates of different, often times, conflicting, values with the goal of (getting things done and) building and maintaining a sense of community.”
And from Margaret Wheatley: Who Do We Choose To Be? Facing Reality – Claiming Leadership – Restoring Sanity
This book and essentially all of Margaret Wheatley’s canon have been foundational to why I decided to run for public office and how I think about bringing my leadership to governing. A favorite quote from “Meg” that I refer to often is: “There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.”
In some respects, the rest of my approach and philosophy stems from those two quotes.

Another key framework that is essential to my thinking is found in countless of the wisdom traditions, but came to me first through the research and teaching of Barry Johnson who wrote a book on understanding polarities and the reality that most complex challenges require a both/and mindset. We typically approach these “wicked problems” with an either/or mindset. This philosophy is best summarized in the following quote by Elizabeth J. Canham: “Living with contradiction, holding together polarities, making room for divergence leads to vitality and enables us to see opposites not as dead ends but as a series of open doors. When we come to know ourselves as gifted and conflicted, we become more tolerant of the differences we encounter in others and can relinquish the illusion that we are the center of a harmonious universe.”

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

By far the most important principle is to have impeccable integrity. Many of the other characteristics I discuss in other questions are undeniably important, but they must be grounded in truthfulness, humility, empathy and the commitment to put those principles into practice. And we are all human, so we need to be able to admit when we have made a mistake, to take
responsibility for our actions, to apologize when we have wronged someone. I am humbled by the responsibilities of this office, and the people must be confident that elected officials have a core sense of right and wrong that they act on each and every day.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I listen to understand. I am responsive and keep my word. I am compassionate and care about the individual and the community. I am curious. I have a growth mindset. I am willing to make decisions and vote knowing that I am doing what I believe is ultimately the right thing, unhappy that it leaves some disappointed or angry - but my choice has been guided by what I believe is right for the City. I appreciate the value of good disagreements knowing that there is value in all perspectives. I can be passionate without
falling into certitude that I am right and others are wrong. I am willing and able to lead from a belief in power with, not power over.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

As far as personal responsibilities are concerned, Councilmembers must be genuinely responsive to their constituents and transparent in their decision-making, while performing the legally required responsibilities of passing the City’s budget and serving as a member of the Board of Directors of our publicly-owned, four-service Colorado Springs Utilities company. Councilmembers have a number of City Charter-mandated responsibilities, which you can find here: https://coloradosprings.gov/role-city-council
We couldn’t do this work without the dedicated civil servants who tend to and support the form of government and provide an essential foundation to local government that can survive the constant changes of elected officials. We are responsible to ensure that they have the resources to do their jobs as well.

What legacy would you like to leave?

I don't aspire to leave a legacy or be remembered. I simply want to walk and lead with love and an open heart.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The assassination of Martin Luther King. I was 8 years old. My father was serving in Viet Nam. My brother and mother and I were living near family in south Florida. My mom and I were in downtown Miami and what I remember is learning that he had been shot, people were protesting and shouting and crying. As I look back, I think it was a very impactful and influential experience for me.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was de-tasseling corn to make seed corn in the fields of southern Illinois. It was a summer job where I got up at 4:00 a.m. to beat the heat and humidity. I worked it for two summers in high school. It was hard physical work and I don't think I have ever been more proud of a paycheck!

What is your favorite book? Why?

I don't have a SINGLE favorite book, but favorite book in the past year has been Damon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver, for its honest and compelling examination of the impact of the opioid crisis on communities, systems, and individuals. While it is (partial spoiler alert!) a hopeful story ultimately, the novel does an amazing job of conveying the suffering that has occurred – and is ongoing – in this crisis. Barbara Kingsolver is a favorite author.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Will it go round in circles by Billy Preston. I love almost every genre of music.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

I had an eating disorder from about the age of 15 - 27. As a teenager I succumbed to the pressure and expectation of being thin to be acceptable. It was a profoundly painful and challenging time in my life. The shadow of that experience has never gone away,
though it has taught me so much about what true beauty and acceptance really is.

Are there any little-known powers or responsibilities held by this office that you believe more people should be aware of?

Being a member of the Board of Directors of Colorado Springs Utilities is an extraordinarily under-appreciated responsibility. It was easily the steepest of my learning curves when I took office in 2021. Especially given mandates from the State regarding conversion to green energy, the ongoing challenge of providing water to residents and businesses, and the need to expand

infrastructure to accommodate annexations and further growth – the responsibility of Utilities board members is immense. Decisions we make in that context are easily as impactful as the decisions we make in City Hall as Councilmembers – and yet very

few residents of the City know we serve in that capacity, and few candidates for Council appreciate or are prepared for the complexities about to come their way should they win their election. Also, appointing members to various boards and commissions is a far reaching and extremely important responsibility.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for holders of this office to have previous experience in government or politics?

Whether in government, politics, or business, I believe it’s very beneficial for a Councilmember to have experience as a leader who listens, who collaborates widely, who is genuinely curious, and who embraces hard work and long hours. That does not require previous experience in government or politics. In fact, not having that experience can bring in fresh perspectives and views. But to focus narrowly on government, it’s important for a Councilmember to have a vision of what constitutes “good governance.” At my swearing in ceremony four years ago, I made the following points about governance, which I have done my best to enact:

"I am humbled by the duties and responsibilities of this office, which must deliver on the twin promises of good governance and leadership with integrity. What does that mean to me?
o Good governance is participatory, consensus-oriented, accountable, transparent, responsive, effective, efficient, equitable, inclusive and honorable.
o Good governance assures that the needs of ALL community members, including the most vulnerable, are respected in decision-making.

o Good governance is responsive to both the present and future needs of Colorado Springs.

What kind of skills or expertise do you believe would be the most helpful for the holders of this office to possess?

As mentioned elsewhere, I believe Councilmembers need to be good listeners and learners. We need to ask tough but fair questions and do our homework. We must be able to sort through conflicting opinions and examine complex matters related to legislation, the City budget, and utilities. In that sense, Councilmembers are generalists who need to comfortable with ambiguity
and who value and deliberately seek out diverse opinions. It strikes me that a person could come by such skills and expertise in a number of different settings.

What qualities does this office possess that makes it a unique and important part of the local government?

I often tell people this: Local elections have a much lower turnout than national elections do, and that’s a real shame, because chances are excellent that City Councils around the country are making decisions that have a greater impact on citizens’ daily life than what happens in Washington DC. The Colorado Springs City Council makes decisions about housing, zoning, land use, annexations, transportation, utilities rates, infrastructure (roads and sidewalks), parks and public space, and, of course, taxes, and budget around key matters such as public safety. Our Council also provides our version of checks-and-balances in our “strong mayor” system of government. We must pass the budget. We hire and oversee our City’s Auditor, who provides important accountability for us all. And I want to highlight constituent services: Although this is an informal aspect of the job, it is one of my favorite and I take great pride in performing it well. When residents have a question or concern, they often reach out to the

Councilmember to figure out how to get that addressed. During my first term I made it a high priority to develop extensive and constructive relationships with dozens of key City administrative staff, and I truly enjoy connecting my constituents with those who

can directly address solve their concerns.

Tell us your favorite joke.

I have never been a good joke teller, but I sure love people who do and I love some good stand up comedy!

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Colorado Springs Police Protective Association

Colorado Springs Professional Firefighters, Local 5

Other individual endorsements can be found on my website.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Transparency and accountability are both essential, and they go hand in hand. Transparency makes accountability possible. Trust in government as well as many other institutions is at an all time low. How do we help citizens of Colorado Springs trust their local

government and their elected officials?
One way is to make sure voters know how candidates' campaigns are funded. Fortunately, our City makes that relatively easy, though you need to know where to look. Go to Reports and Data - Campaign Finance to find the financial filings of all local candidates and elections. The names, donation amounts, employers, and contributors' occupations are required. While the City Attorney has stated publicly that a campaign contribution is not, on its own, evidence of a conflict of interest, voters naturally want assurances that their elected officials are not making decisions based on their own business interests or those of friends and associates.
I can assure Colorado Springs residents of these things: My re-election campaign is accepting no contributions from real estate developers. My husband and I own one home and no additional real estate. We own one car and no other personal property of any significance. We have no business interests (e.g., ownership or partnership stakes, etc.) in any local enterprises. I have filed the appropriate paperwork with the City Clerk attesting to that. I am motivated to do what is best for the residents of City Council District 5 and all of Colorado Springs. It’s that simple.

A second way is to make sure voters know how and why their elected officials are making their decisions, so that they can hold them accountable. I do my best to explain my vote – and, when I am struggling to make a particularly tough call, or one where people hold strongly diverging opinions, I have no problem describing my uncertainty and how I have arrived at my vote. I have received much feedback from constituents who value this aspect of my leadership.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

2021

Nancy Henjum did not complete Ballotpedia's 2021 Candidate Connection survey.

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Footnotes

↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on February 27, 2025

Political offices
Preceded by Jill Gaebler	Colorado Springs City Council District 5 2021-Present	Succeeded by -

[1] Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on February 27, 2025

[1]

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Nancy Henjum

Contents

Biography

Elections

2025

General election

General election for Colorado Springs City Council District 5

Endorsements

2021

General election

General election for Colorado Springs City Council District 5

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

2021

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

2025 Elections

2026 Elections

2024 Election analysis

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