Meet Stephanie

Stephanie Piko is a dedicated public servant with over two decades of experience in local government and community leadership. As the current Mayor of Centennial, Colorado, she brings a pragmatic, solutions-oriented approach to complex policy challenges. Her leadership has guided the city through major initiatives focused on public safety, environmental responsibility, infrastructure, and economic resilience. She’s consistently championed policies that strengthen public safety, support small businesses, and ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively.

Under her leadership, Centennial has been recognized as one of the safest and most livable cities in Colorado. She’s expanded partnerships with law enforcement, invested in key public safety programs like School Resource Officers, and launched community advisory efforts to increase transparency and public trust.

Stephanie is also a strong advocate for workforce development, focusing on building bridges between the Cherry Creek Schools Innovation Campus and local businesses. By connecting students with internship and apprenticeship opportunities, she is helping shape the next generation of leaders and workers in the region.

One of Mayor Piko’s most impactful initiatives was her role in bringing professional women’s sports to Centennial. As part of the partnership with Denver NWSL, she helped secure a performance center and a temporary stadium, further cementing Centennial’s reputation as a hub for sports and youth engagement. The project reflects her ongoing commitment to fostering opportunities for women and inspiring athletes of all ages.

Mayor Piko’s leadership extends well beyond the boundaries of Centennial, where she has distinguished herself as a key figure on regional, state, and national boards and committees. Her involvement spans a broad range of critical areas, including transportation, economic development, flood management, and community health, showcasing her ability to engage in complex, multi-disciplinary discussions. As a board member for organizations such as the National League of Cities and Mile High Flood District, and as a leader in initiatives like the Arapahoe County Collaborative Transportation Forum and Regional Opioid Abatement Council, she has consistently worked to bridge local priorities with state and national agendas. This extensive network of leadership roles highlights her as not only a local champion but also a national thought leader, uniquely positioned to advocate for Centennial’s interests while driving innovative solutions that impact communities across the country.

During her tenure, Centennial has consistently ranked among the top mid-sized cities in the nation for safety, livability, and fiscal health. National recognitions include being named the #1 Safest City in America with a population over 100,000 by AdvisorSmith and placing in the top ten on multiple rankings for best cities to live, work, and rent. These accolades reflect Stephanie’s unwavering commitment to building a secure, thriving, and well-managed city.

Stephanie and her husband, James, moved to Centennial in 2001 to raise their two sons, Austin and Conner. She quickly became involved in her neighborhood and local schools, driven by a desire to serve and strengthen the community. The Pikos enjoy spending time in the Colorado outdoors skiing, hiking, and fishing. Her personal investment in Centennial runs deep, and her leadership reflects both professional dedication and heartfelt commitment to the place she calls home.