A Legacy of Service: Honoring Courtney Murrell

By Lindsay Hogan

For nine years of dedicated service, Courtney Murrell has helped guide the vision, culture and community on the Tahoe Donner Association Board of Directors. Her tenure from 2013 to 2016 and again from 2020 to 2026 reflects a deep commitment not only to governance but to the people and spirit that define Tahoe Donner.

Courtney on a hike at Lake Tahoe (credit: Courtney Murrell).

Courtney’s story in Tahoe Donner began long before her time on the board. Her family’s roots in the community stretch back decades and have been grounded in a love of the mountains and a belief in giving back. Her father played a key role in shaping Tahoe Donner’s future through his work on the General Plan Committee. At the same time, her mother helped build connections through service on the Elections Committee and by starting social clubs that brought neighbors together. Their legacy was one of quiet leadership and meaningful contribution.

In 2012, shortly before he passed, Courtney’s father asked her to consider running for the board. He believed the association needed the perspective of families raising children in Tahoe Donner. A year later, Courtney stepped forward to honor that request. She brought with her a fresh voice, a strong sense of purpose and a desire to represent a new generation of members.

Over the course of her service, Courtney became known for that perspective. She consistently advocated for decisions that made Tahoe Donner more welcoming for families, members and guests. Her focus remained on the long-term health of the community while ensuring that the experience of living and recreating in Tahoe Donner stayed vibrant and inclusive.

Courtney teaches an Aqua Zumba® class at Trout Creek Rec Center in Aug. 2013 (credit: Alyson Stetz).

Courtney also helped lead during times of significant change. Her tenure included periods of drought, the COVID-19 pandemic, staff transitions and broader organizational rebuilding. Through it all, she supported important financial policy updates that strengthened long-term planning and sustainability. Though she did not come from a financial background, she leaned into the work and consistently supported decisions that positioned Tahoe Donner for a stronger future.

Among her many contributions, Courtney played an important role in several of Tahoe Donner’s most impactful capital projects. She was involved in the planning and development of the Alder Creek Adventure Center. This transformational investment elevated the Nordic experience and created a year-round gathering place for members. She also contributed to the Downhill Ski Lodge project, a long-anticipated improvement that required persistence, collaboration and careful navigation of community input. Both efforts reflected her ability to remain committed to complex projects over many years while keeping members’ needs at the center of decision-making. She also supported adding snowmaking to the Downhill Ski Resort and Cross Country Ski Center and the Trout Creek Rec Center renovation.

Courtney gives a speech at the Downhill Snowmaking Ceremonial Ribbon Cutting in Dec. 2016 (credit: Gretchen Sproehnle).

Courtney cutting the ribbon at the Downhill Ski Resort Lodge Grand Opening celebration in Jan. 2026 (credit: Cynthia Cendreda).

In addition to these projects, Courtney was a strong supporter of the philosophical shift behind the Amenity Access Rule. Moving away from a pay-as-you-go model to a more inclusive approach represented a meaningful change in how members experience Tahoe Donner. It was a decision rooted in fairness, accessibility and a shared sense of community, and Courtney was proud to help advance that vision.

Courtney’s leadership also stands out for another important reason. In more than 50 years of Tahoe Donner governance, only a small number of women have served on the board. Courtney is part of that group and helped bring a valuable and much-needed perspective to the role. She has often reflected on the importance of showing up authentically and with energy, helping create space for diverse voices and ideas at the leadership level.

While her board service is notable, Courtney’s presence in the community extends far beyond meetings and decision-making. She has continued to teach fitness classes at the Trout Creek Rec Center throughout her tenure, connecting with members in a completely different way. “I wear many hats in Tahoe Donner – board member, mom, teacher – but the fun hat is my favorite one.” That joy and connection have been central to how she experiences Tahoe Donner and how others experience her.

Courtney teaches a Zumba® class at Trout Creek Rec Center in July 2011 (credit: Keri Oberly).

Perhaps one of the most meaningful impacts of Courtney’s service can be seen within her own family. Her children grew up watching her dedicate time and energy to something larger than herself. Over time, that example shaped their own understanding of service and community.

As her board service comes to a close, Courtney leaves behind a legacy of dedication, thoughtfulness and genuine care for the Tahoe Donner community. She helped guide important projects, supported lasting policy changes and contributed to a culture that values both progress and connection.

Her commitment to service continues today through her role as a board director with the Truckee Donner Public Utility District. Even as she looks ahead to new opportunities and a different rhythm of life, her connection to Tahoe Donner remains strong.

“Courtney Murrell’s nine years of service on the board are a testament to what thoughtful leadership and community commitment can achieve,” said Annie Rosenfeld, Tahoe Donner General Manager. “Her story reflects the power of showing up, staying engaged and leading with both heart and purpose.”