Citizen of the West

The National Western Stock Show proudly announces Larry A. Mizel as the 2027 Citizen of the West. This prestigious award recognizes those who embody the spirit and determination of the Western pioneer– a true representative of Western lifestyle, ideals, agricultural heritage, and traditions. A committee of community leaders selects recipients.

Larry A. Mizel embodies the spirit of the American West — not through the saddle — but through enduring principles associated with the frontier: integrity, determination, and self-reliance. That spirit is manifested in his ability to see opportunities where others see obstacles and in his belief that true success is measured not only by what is achieved, but by what is left behind for future generations.

An entrepreneur since his first paper route, Larry grew up in Tulsa and graduated from the University of Oklahoma. After visiting friends Denver, he chose to continue his studies at the University of Denver College of Law. Before graduating, he made his first real estate venture, investing $18,000 for 10 percent interest in 1.3 acres of raw land — a property he still owns today — now home to a successful apartment community. He received his Juris Doctorate from DU in 1967 and decided to call Colorado home.

In 1972, with vision, courage, an unwavering work ethic — and an investment of $50,000 — he founded what would become M.D.C. Holdings. Over the next five decades, he led the evolution of the company into one of the nation’s largest homebuilders, with Richmond American Homes delivering more than 250,000 homes across America. He also chaired REITs Asset Investors Corp and Commercial Assets, Inc. and led Omnibank until its 1995 sale to KeyCorp.

For Larry, homebuilding was never simply about construction; It was about helping families put down roots and achieve the American Dream.

Believing that strong communities depend on strong economies, Larry co-founded Colorado Concern in 1986 and served as its inaugural Chairman. Over the last 40 years, the organization has become one of Colorado’s most influential voices for economic growth, business leadership, and sound public policy.

Through the Mizel-Mandarich Foundation (formerly the MDC/Richmond American Foundation), the Mizel Institute, The Counterterrorism Education Learning Lab (The CELL), and numerous civic and charitable initiatives, Larry has advanced education, leadership, public safety, and opportunity. He has been resolute in his support of members of the military, first responders, and law enforcement officers whose service safeguards the freedoms Americans enjoy.

Larry’s commitment to Colorado and future generations of the agricultural community is reflected in his role as a founding member of The Denver Rustlers, supporting scholarships, youth development programs, and participants in the Junior Livestock Sale at the Colorado State Fair.

Perhaps no undertaking better reflects Larry’s grit and resolve than the Museum of Tolerance Jerusalem (MOTJ) — an educational institution advancing civic discourse, mutual respect, and human dignity — which he co-founded and chairs. Although many believed the project was impossible, he remained steadfast in his commitment through decades of political, legal, and financial challenges. 

Today, the MOTJ stands as a lasting testament to perseverance, moral courage, and conviction while hosting globally recognized conferences and diplomatic engagements. 

His longstanding involvement with the Simon Wiesenthal Center, including more than two decades as Chairman of its Board of Trustees, reflects a deep commitment to confronting antisemitism, defending human rights, and advancing tolerance. He also continues to serve on the board of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), strengthening the enduring partnership between the United States and Israel.

His many honors recognize a life of achievement, leadership, and service, including: the National Humanitarian Award from National Jewish Health, a Medal of Honor from Ellis Island, the Milken Institute’s Steve Ross Lifetime Achievement Award, the Navy SEAL Foundation’s Fire in the Gut Award, El Pomar’s Ben S. Wendelken Special Trustees’ Award, Honorary Irishman of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Honorary Dean of the University of Denver’s Burns School, Honorary Colonel of the Colorado State Patrol, the Colorado Business Hall of Fame, a Visionary of Wings Over the Rockies, and named by The Denver Post as one of the 150 Most Influential and Notable People in Colorado History. 

Larry and his wife, Carol (a Colorado native) built their lives around work, family, community, and service. Parents of two and grandparents of six, they share a commitment to strengthening the communities they call home, while raising a family grounded in those same values. They believe the most meaningful legacy is measured not by what one accumulates, but by the lives touched and the opportunities created for others.

The West has always celebrated builders, pioneers, and people of character; those who keep their word, face challenges head-on, and leave things better than they found them. Larry A. Mizel exemplifies those ideals.