For 57 years, the Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival has celebrated more than the city’s rich agricultural heritage—it has celebrated the people who have helped shape our community. One of the Festival’s longest-standing traditions is recognizing individuals whose leadership, volunteerism, and commitment have made a lasting impact on Wheat Ridge. Each year, community members nominate outstanding individuals to serve as Count and Countess, while the Grand Marshal is selected from among distinguished Wheat Ridge residents whose lifetime of service has enriched our community. We are proud to introduce the 2026 Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival Royalty.
Grand Marshal Jerry DiTullio
Jerry DiTullio is a proud first-generation American on his father’s side and a lifelong Colorado resident who proudly calls Wheat Ridge home. His educational journey began in local schools before earning a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Management from Metropolitan State University, followed by both a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Education from Regis University.
Throughout his career, Jerry has embraced the belief that “it is always in one’s best interest to keep re-inventing yourself—it helps keep your mind clear and open.” That philosophy has led him to found a software consulting firm, own a Wheat Ridge coffee shop, work in banking, and serve as a special education teacher at Wheat Ridge High School.
Inspired by President John F. Kennedy’s call to public service, Jerry was elected to Wheat Ridge City Council in 1995 and later served as Mayor and City Treasurer. Since 2018, he has served as Jefferson County Treasurer, continuing his lifelong commitment to serving the community.
Countess Kristi Davis
Kristi Davis is a fourth-generation Wheat Ridge native with deep roots in the community. The Davis family was among Wheat Ridge’s original carnation growers, and Kristi’s connection to the city began early—she was born at Lutheran Hospital and graduated from Wheat Ridge High School, “Home of the Farmers.” After earning degrees in Biology, Chemistry, Business Administration, and Health Administration, she built a career in healthcare leadership while always finding her way back to Wheat Ridge.
Inspired by her family’s commitment to community service, Kristi volunteered at Lutheran Hospital as a “pink lady,” later served two terms on Wheat Ridge City Council and the Urban Renewal Authority Board, supported local schools through fundraising, and has organized her neighborhood block party for the past 19 years. Today, she serves on both the Lutheran Hospital Foundation Board and the Wheat Ridge Water Board.
Being named Countess is especially meaningful because her mother, Barbara Davis, was the Festival’s very first Countess, making this honor a continuation of a cherished family legacy.
Count Hunter Owen
Hunter Owen is a financial advisor who is passionate about helping individuals, families, and business owners achieve their financial goals. Equally important to him is giving back to the community through service and leadership.
Hunter is an active member of the Wheat Ridge Kiwanis Club, the Wheat Ridge Chamber of Commerce, and the Rotary Club of Wheat Ridge. He has also been involved with the Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival for many years, making this recognition especially meaningful.
When he’s not working or volunteering, Hunter enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife and daughter, taking advantage of everything Colorado has to offer.
“I’m truly honored to have been selected as this year’s Wheat Ridge Carnation Festival Count,” Hunter said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to celebrate the people, traditions, and community spirit that make this festival so special, and I look forward to representing the Carnation Festival throughout the year.”
