30 Facts About Jared Polis

Early Life and Education

Jared Polis has a fascinating background that shaped his journey into politics. Here are some intriguing details about his early life and education.

1. Born on May 12, 1975, in Boulder, Colorado, Jared Polis grew up in a family deeply involved in public service and business.
2. His parents, Stephen Schutz and Susan Polis Schutz, founded Blue Mountain Arts, a greeting card and book publishing company.
3. Polis attended La Jolla Country Day School in California, where he graduated as valedictorian.
4. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Princeton University in 1996.

Business Ventures

Before diving into politics, Polis made a name for himself in the business world. His entrepreneurial spirit led to several successful ventures.

5. At 23, he co-founded American Information Systems, an internet access provider, which he later sold.
6. In 1998, he launched Bluemountain.com, an online greeting card website, which he sold to Excite@Home for $780 million.
7. Polis also founded ProFlowers, an online flower retailer, which became a major player in the industry.
8. His business success earned him a spot on the Forbes 400 list of the wealthiest Americans in 2000.

Political Career

Polis transitioned from business to politics, where he has made significant contributions. His political career is marked by several milestones.

9. In 2000, he was elected to the Colorado State Board of Education, serving until 2007.
10. Polis won a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2008, representing Colorado's 2nd congressional district.
11. He co-founded the Congressional Blockchain Caucus, focusing on blockchain technology and cryptocurrency.
12. Polis has been a strong advocate for education reform, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental protection.

Governorship

In 2018, Polis made history by becoming the first openly gay man elected as a governor in the United States. His tenure as governor has been notable for several reasons.

13. He was inaugurated as the 43rd governor of Colorado on January 8, 2019.
14. Polis prioritized expanding access to early childhood education and full-day kindergarten.
15. He has been a vocal supporter of renewable energy, aiming for Colorado to use 100% renewable energy by 2040.
16. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Polis implemented measures to protect public health while balancing economic impacts.

Personal Life

Polis's personal life is as interesting as his professional one. Here are some facts about his family and interests.

17. He is married to Marlon Reis, an animal rights advocate and writer.
18. The couple has two children, a son named Caspian and a daughter named Cora.
19. Polis is an avid gamer and enjoys playing video games in his spare time.
20. He is also a philanthropist, having donated millions to various causes, including education and LGBTQ+ rights.

Awards and Recognition

Polis's work has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and recognition for his contributions.

21. In 2007, he was named Outstanding Philanthropist by the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
22. The Colorado Technology Association honored him with the Technology Advocate of the Year award in 2010.
23. He received the Stonewall Award from the American Library Association in 2016 for his support of LGBTQ+ rights.
24. In 2019, Polis was awarded the Climate Leadership Award for his efforts in promoting renewable energy.

Fun Facts

Beyond his professional achievements, there are some fun and lesser-known facts about Polis.

25. He is fluent in Spanish, which he often uses to connect with Colorado's Hispanic community.
26. Polis once held the Guinness World Record for the largest recorded snowball fight.
27. He has a passion for cooking and enjoys experimenting with new recipes.
28. Polis is a fan of science fiction and fantasy literature, with "The Lord of the Rings" being one of his favorite series.
29. He has a pet dog named Gia, who often accompanies him to public events.
30. Polis is known for his colorful and quirky fashion sense, often sporting bright ties and socks.

Jared Polis: A Multifaceted Leader

Jared Polis isn't just another politician. His journey from entrepreneur to Colorado's governor shows his diverse skills and dedication. He's known for his progressive policies, especially in education and healthcare. Polis has also made strides in renewable energy, aiming to make Colorado a leader in sustainability. His background in business gives him a unique perspective on economic issues, helping him create jobs and boost the state's economy. Beyond politics, he's a family man and an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, making him relatable to many. His leadership style is inclusive, often seeking input from various communities. Jared Polis continues to shape Colorado's future with a blend of innovation and compassion. Whether you're interested in politics, business, or social issues, Polis's story offers valuable insights into effective leadership and public service.