The Petritz Foundation is an independent grant-making organization, established by Dr. Richard L. Petritz in 2000. Our mission reflects both the life’s work of Dr. Petritz and the collective values of his family. Recurring themes of Richard’s life centered on innovation and entrepreneurship in technology and the arts. Through-out his life he held a steadfast belief in the ingenuity of people to achieve, when personal drive and intelligence were nurtured with encouragement and mentorship. He was also a strong supporter and advocate for the role of art and culture in building a diverse and economically viable community. These principles provide the guiding philosophy of our philanthropic pursuits.
The Foundation’s activities are managed by Pamela Petritz Cooper and Jeffrey M. Cooper:
Pamela Cooper, President – Moved to Boulder, Colorado in 1978, after receiving a Master’s Degree in Psychology from the New School for Social Research in New York City. She was a counselor and doctoral candidate at Denver University’s Psy.D. program before choosing to dedicate herself to family, children and community voluntarism. Her special interests focus on artistic expression, wholistic health and education.
Jeffrey Cooper, Executive Director – Moved to Boulder, Colorado in 1979 to pursue an undergraduate degree in Behavioral Neuroscience. After several years work as a clinician and researcher, he received an MBA (Finance) from the University of Colorado and joined Dr. Petritz in 1992 as a Principal in New Venture Resources, a venture capital and venture management company of Colorado Springs. Upon Richard’s retirement in 1999, Jeff became Managing Director of New Venture Resources, putting together a second seed fund and working as a family office executive. He currently works as an entrepreneur, private investor and board member in early-stage companies and in support of venture philanthropy. (READ MORE)