About Eric Nelson
Eric D. Nelson, Ph.D., is an entrepreneur, author, ordained minister, and community leader with over 25 years of experience serving the Aurora, Colorado area. As the owner of a local insurance company and investment firm, he brings strong business acumen complemented by a background in banking. He served in the U.S. Air Force, demonstrating an early commitment to service, which continues through his passionate advocacy for community development. Additionally, he has been battle-tested in politics, having served in elected office and successfully overcoming controversies, highlighting his resilience and steadfast commitment to public service.
Eric’s professional credentials are extensive and diverse. He is a Certified Addiction Counselor I and a unlicensed psychotherapist, Certified Family Mediator, Restorative Justice Facilitator, and ordained minister. He has also contributed to academia as an adjunct professor at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. His expertise in theology and counseling is grounded in rigorous academic achievement, including a Ph.D. in Theology and Apologetics from Christian Bible Institute & Seminary. Additionally, he holds an honorary Doctorate in Public Service from the Denver Institute of Urban Studies and Adult College.
Committed to continuous learning, Eric has earned multiple postgraduate certificates from The Colorado School for Family Therapy and Denver Seminary. He has completed coursework for an Executive Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in Healthcare at the University of Colorado Denver and pursued doctoral studies in ministry with an emphasis in leadership at Oral Roberts University.
A native of Georgia, he resides in Aurora with his wife and have three adult children and seven grandchildren. Outside of his professional and community work, he enjoys sports and is an avid fan of action, drama, and horror films. His multifaceted background and unwavering dedication make him a proven leader ready to serve and uplift his community.
My Commitment to Accountability and Service
A Message from Eric D. Nelson
I want to speak openly about my past and the journey that has shaped who I am today. Decades ago, as a young Black man growing up in poverty with limited resources and being told that I would never amount to be anything, I made serious mistakes involving the falsification of educational, and military credentials. Regardless of the reasoning, these actions were wrong, and I take full responsibility for them.
The challenges I faced growing up led me into public service, where I have had the privilege of serving my community effectively. I served on the Aurora Public Schools Board of Education, helping to improve the lives of our youth, educators, and citizens. My work focused on advancing educational opportunities and equity.
My past mistakes and missteps of a criminal history were not publicly known until I ran for higher office. When they were revealed, I accepted full accountability without excuse. I took immediate and responsible steps to address them. I acknowledged my mistakes openly, sought professional help to work through underlying issues, and committed myself to personal and professional growth.
This moment became a catalyst for deep personal reflection and growth.
Since then, I have pursued legitimate academic achievements, including completed coursework in the Executive MBA program at CU Denver, the Doctor of Ministry program at Oral Roberts University, a Biblical and Theological Studies Graduate Certificate from Denver Seminary, and a PhD in Theology and Apologetics from Christian Bible Institute & Seminary. I was also honored with an honorary Doctorate in Public Service from the Denver Institute of Urban Studies and Adult College.
My renewed faith and reordination as a minister have been central to my transformation. I am committed to serving with integrity, compassion, and accountability, supporting veterans and advocating for equity and justice.
I share this to be transparent and to affirm my belief in the power of second chances. I am dedicated to learning from my past and continuing to serve my community with humility and dedication.
Rebuilding trust takes time and consistent effort. I am grateful for the opportunities to continue serving and leading with honesty, accountability, and compassion.
Thank you for visiting and learning about my journey.
