R.D. Sewald | Co-founder & Principal
The co-founder of Sewald Hanfling, RD Sewald works with Josh Hanfling to chart the course for the firm and to ensure every client engagement has the bold, strategic and outcomes-driven approach that has defined Sewald’s 30 years in state and local government. RD’s deep connections in the community and his vision for the possible are key factors in the results he consistently delivers for clients. From efforts to modernize and restructure regional cooperation to support some of Colorado’s most prized community assets to fostering business environments that allow new businesses to thrive and positioning Colorado as a national and global leader for the future economy, RD has led some of the firm’s most impactful engagements. His skills navigating complex political and regulatory environments led 5280 to include him among the Power List’s Rising Stars.
When it came time to look to the future, Adams County officials looked to RD’s expertise and vision as they sought FAA approval for Spaceport Colorado. In August of 2018, with the issuance of its operators license, Colorado became one of only 11th facilities of its kind, setting the stage for continued growth of the robust aerospace industry in Colorado. In 2013, RD was instrumental in the firm’s efforts on behalf of Uber and creating a regulatory environment that allowed the growing business to operate and create jobs for thousands of Coloradans. These successes on behalf of clients come from RD’s understanding of Colorado’s long history of leading the way for the nation through the community’s frontier spirit and his experience navigating complex regulatory environments. RD also understands the value of some of Colorado’s most loved institutions and the need to ensure they have the foundations to grow into the future. In 2018, he worked with the Denver City Council to create the Metropolitan Football Stadium District, navigating the political and financial challenges of crafting the District that includes all or part of the seven counties in the Denver metropolitan area and establishes long-term strategies for the management and growth of the home of the Denver Broncos.
RD’s ability to craft effective strategies that deliver results for Sewald Hanfling clients and his leadership of the firm’s growth is built on his decades of experience inside local and state government. Prior to founding Sewald Hanfling in 2012, he was the Senior Strategic Advisor and Director of Government Affairs for Colorado’s Governor John Hickenlooper. Drawing on his skills bridging divides between stakeholders and building consensus, RD served as one of the Governor’s primary relationship managers among state and local elected officials, government agencies, community boards and a wide range of stakeholders. RD’s trusted position representing Governor Hickenlooper in the community was a continuation of the role he previously served in as then Mayor Hickenlooper’s Council Liaison where he was responsible for all contracts and ordinances going through Denver City Council, monitored and evaluated legislative actions for the administration and was responsible for the administration’s legislative team. During his time in the Mayor’s office, RD was the Mayor’s lead on the zoning rewrite and redesign, setting the foundation for Denver’s balanced and robust growth.
Sewald has more than 20 years of experience in state and local government with an emphasis on public policy and political management. Before his mayoral appointment, Sewald was the Director of Government and Community Affairs for the Denver Auditor’s Office, appointed by Auditor Dennis Gallagher. He also was the Deputy Director of Denver’s Planning Department and Zoning Enforcement for the Webb Administration and worked as Director of Neighborhood Inspection Services from 1998 to 2002.
Sewald’s political experience includes work on several campaigns, including Roy Romer for Colorado Governor in 1994, Wellington Webb for Denver Mayor in 1995, Denis Gallagher for Denver Auditor in 2003, Hickenlooper for Denver Mayor in 2007 and Hickenlooper for Colorado Governor in 2010 and 2014. In 2014 Sewald was tapped as Political Director for Latino Outreach for the state and ran the “Get Out The Vote” effort in the last 60 days of the campaign.
Outside of the office, boardroom and capitol, RD is an active member of the community and makes giving back to the community part of every week. He serves as the varsity lacrosse coach at Denver East High School and as a volunteer lacrosse with Cherry Creek Youth Sports. RD has served as Board of Trustee of The Denver Academy and on dozens of planning committees, boards and non-profit organizations in his community. RD lives in Denver with his wife Abigail and the two have three sons.
JoshUA Hanfling | Co-founder & Principal
Josh Hanfling is a co-founder of Sewald Hanfling Public Affairs. During his 27 years in Denver, Josh has worked with officials and stakeholders in a range of industries, including real estate and construction, telecommunications, technology and software, disruptive businesses, professional sports, retail, financial services, restaurants, private equity, non-profits, and more. Josh delivers results for his clients. He secured the approval of a $1.8 billion, 34-year public/private partnership remodel of the Great Hall at the Denver International Airport; led Uber’s successful effort in obtaining licensing to operate legally in Colorado; and ensured his clients’ perspectives were heard in the crafting of state regulations for the marijuana industry. In addition to these achievements, Josh has successfully navigated real estate, zoning, and licensing issues, such as ensuring Century Link was given the opportunity to compete in the Denver market.
Josh’s passion for Denver drives his work. As an active supporter of the community, he feels fortunate to have called Colorado his home for almost three decades. Outside of work, Josh frequently donates time and resources to Denver non-profits, political organizations, and candidates. He currently serves on the boards of the Foundation for the Denver Fire Department, AMP the Cause, the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, the South Kent School, and the Mohamed S. Farsi Foundation. Additionally, he is the chairman of the board for the Denver Health Foundation and Imagination Library Denver. Josh also organizes the Denver Public Safety Luncheon and the Denver Rustlers each year and ran for the Colorado State House of Representatives in 2008.
Josh grew up in Washington, D.C. and has a B.S. in management with a major in entrepreneurial studies from Babson College. Prior to founding Sewald Hanfling, Josh was the founding CEO of the London-based Mohammed S. Farsi Foundation, an international foundation focused on global health, education and culture. Josh was named one of Denver’s 25 most powerful people by 5280 Magazine; elected to the "40 under 40" by the Denver Business Journal; named one of Colorado’s “Hottest Politicos” by Face the State; voted one of Denver’s “Movers & Shakers” by the Colorado Statesman; selected as one of Colorado’s top philanthropists by Colorado Company Magazine; and serves as the Honorary Consul to the Kingdom of Morocco for Colorado.
Sami Davis | Vice President of State Affairs
With a decade of legislative sessions in the Colorado General Assembly, Sami is a seasoned expert with a proven track record in advancing complex policy initiatives. She began her career as the caucus director for the Colorado Senate Majority Office under President Bill Cadman, where she led Senate Majority staff, managed legislative aides and interns, and oversaw outreach and office operations.
Sami then brought her talents to Sewald Hanfling Public Affairs, where her deep policy expertise and extensive network within the legislative community have driven successful legislation in cannabis, higher education, and transportation. Her experience spans all facets of the legislative process, from drafting and amending bills to strategic advocacy and stakeholder management. Sami is also highly skilled in public engagement and corporate communications, making her a valuable asset to her clients and the community.
A graduate of the University of Colorado Denver with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Sami launched her career at Novitas Communications, where she developed her skills in media relations, corporate communications, and issue management. When she's not working on legislative matters, Sami enjoys sports and exploring Colorado's outdoor lifestyle.
Mariah Cook | Vice president of State Affairs
As Vice President of State Affairs at Sewald Hanfling Public Affairs, Mariah specializes in lobbying across critical sectors including health care, technology, construction, education, and association representation. She brings extensive expertise in guiding clients through the legislative process, advocating for bills before the Colorado General Assembly, and ensuring clients' interests are represented at every stage—from drafting legislation to securing the Governor’s signature. Mariah also provides strategic monitoring of state agencies, boards, and commissions that regulate her clients' industries.
With a successful track record of passing, amending, and defeating bills, Mariah has built strong, bipartisan relationships within the Colorado legislative community. Her dedication to client advocacy is matched by her experience in public relations, event coordination, fundraising, and campaign management. She represents several pro-bono clients, and in her spare time, she fundraises for nonprofits, including the Alzheimer’s Foundation and the St. Baldrick's Foundation. Recognized for her leadership, Mariah was honored with the "35 Under 35" award and featured in Sigma Kappa Triangle in 2023.
Mariah holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science with minors in Legal Studies and Sociology from the University of Northern Colorado.
Tate Carpenter | Senior associate of Local government affairs
As the Senior Associate for Local Government Affairs at Sewald Hanfling, Tate Carpenter specializes in guiding clients through the intricate landscape of local government and community relations throughout Colorado, from rezonings to community engagement. With a keen insight into the dynamics of city councils, counties, and special districts across the state, Tate collaborates closely with clients—including businesses, developers, corporations, and nonprofits—to navigate regulatory challenges, build meaningful community relationships, and advance strategic objectives. Her work involves analyzing political environments, conducting comprehensive research, and implementing targeted outreach strategies. Tate also handles social media and strategic communications for the firm.
Tate brings over 15 years experience in local and state government across three states. Most recently, she spent over 7 years working in Denver City Council, where she was the senior council aide under City Council President Jolon Clark and council aide to Councilwoman Kendra Black, helping to develop and implement policies that improve the lives of Denver residents. Tate’s deep understanding of the city and counties and extensive relationships make her an asset to the firm. Tate also served as a legislative aide in the Colorado General Assembly under Western Slope State Representative Diane Mitsch Bush. She has managed several state and local campaigns across the Denver metro area. Additionally, Tate has worked as an aide in the Hawaii State Legislature and Montana State Legislature.
Tate graduated from the University of Hawaii at Manoa with a double degree in Political Science and Spanish Language. Tate is very active in the community. She serves on several boards including the Denver Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Colfax Marathon Board, and the Boulder Chamber of Commerce Community Affairs Council. In her spare time, Tate enjoys playing soccer, dancing bachata and traveling.
Emily Cordes | Executive Assistant & Associate
Born and raised in Denver, Emily brings over a decade of political expertise to Sewald Hanfling. A Colorado State University graduate with degrees in History and Political Science, Emily has built her career supporting prominent senate presidents and Republican leaders at the Colorado State Capitol.
Emily is instrumental in helping our team navigate government complexities and serve a broad client portfolio. Known for her attention to detail and organizational skills, she facilitates productive interactions among elected officials, city and state staff, and our firm’s stakeholders, enhancing the overall effectiveness of our lobbying efforts.
Outside of work, Emily is an avid sports fan who enjoys playing soccer and golf.
Alden Wheeler | Executive Assistant & Associate
Alden Wheeler serves as the executive assistant at Sewald Hanfling Public Affairs, managing research, coordinating special projects, and overseeing Josh’s calendar and logistics. Originally from Burlington, Vermont, Alden graduated from the University of Vermont with a degree in economics. As part of his degree, he applied regression analysis techniques to uncover insights, forecast trends, and support data-driven policy recommendations. Alden was also deeply engaged in local politics, canvassing for city council candidates and volunteering for election services. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, knitting, skiing, and playing baseball.