KATHMANDU: The United Sherpa Association of Colorado (USAC) has elected a new executive board under the leadership of Lhakpa Sherpa, owner of Sherpa House in Golden, Colorado.

A general convention of USAC, attended by members of the Sherpa community residing in Colorado, also named Dawa Sherpa as vice president, Kami Tenji Sherpa as general secretary, Lhakpa Yangji Sherpa as first treasurer, and Ang Lakpa Sherpa as second treasurer.

Nima Lhamu Sherpa, Mendo Lama, Pemba Gyalzen Sherpa, Ang Phura Sherpa, Pa Nuru Sherpa, Ang Ngima Sherpa, Pemba Sherpa, Mingma Temba Sherpa, and Dawa Sherpa have been elected as executive members of the board.

"I will try to do my best to serve the interests of the Sherpa community in Colorado," Lhakpa said after being elected president of the association.

The association stated that Lhakpa's leadership, dedication, and commitment to the Sherpa community are truly inspiring, adding that under his guidance, the organization will continue to grow stronger, preserve Sherpa culture, and unite the Sherpa community in Colorado.

A restaurateur, brewer, landscaper, and philanthropist, Lhakpa has been a steady, often understated presence in Colorado since 1997. But now, he is pursuing his most meaningful project yet: Colorado's first-ever Sherpa Community Center, one inspired by profound personal loss and sustained by an unwavering devotion to his heritage.

His philanthropic footprint across Nepal is deep and enduring. He has been a dependable source of support in times of crisis—from rebuilding after the 2015 earthquake to extending aid during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has contributed millions to reconstruct his school, build hostels, open health posts, improve road access, and establish a Vipassanā meditation center. Through his nonprofit, Hike for Help, he turns adventure into impact: leading American students through Solukhumbu and channeling every dollar earned into community development.