Staff report

When the Mesa County Medical Society gathered to celebrate Dolores Bennett’s remarkable career in Palisade on Aug. 5, 2025, the plaque presented to her captured the sentiment felt by all: “With appreciation and respect for over 30 years of outstanding service, commitment, and dedication to the physicians of Mesa County.”

For more than three decades, Dolores has been the steady heart of the MCMS – a source of knowledge, continuity, and compassion for the physicians she served. Beyond her professionalism, she became a trusted friend to many, sharing in their milestones and offering support through challenges. “Dolores Bennet’s excellent people skills coaxed many fine speakers and arranged great events for Mesa County Medical Society, a major factor in our County Medical Society’s cohesion,” said Bronwen Magraw, MD, a Mesa County leader.

Dolores was a proud supporter of the work of the former MCMS Alliance, which was active for many years and made a lasting impact through its volunteer initiatives. The group championed causes ranging from domestic violence awareness and vaccine promotion to bringing health education into local classrooms – reaching families and helping shape a healthier future for the region.

Enno Heuscher, MD, shared, “Dolores dedicated a great part of her life to her work as executive of MCMS, and she deserves great credit in keeping physician participation one of the highest in Colorado. She also helped the physician Alliance in our county survive longer than any other Alliance. As former president of MCMS, I had her full support during my tenure, making my role easier. She also provided superb support in my recent role as Colorado Medical Society board member. Her people skills and physician support were unparalleled in her field, and she will be sorely missed.”

As Dolores enjoys retirement, the Mesa County Medical Society extends its deepest gratitude for her years of exceptional service, her unwavering dedication, and the kindness and care she brought to every part of her work. Her legacy will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of working alongside her.

In 2005, I first met Dolores when I began my career at the Medical Society. During my very first week, I was invited to attend the spring meeting up in Vail. It seemed like an adventurous start, not knowing a soul. However, Dolores immediately came over to me, greeted me warmly, and invited me to sit beside her. Dolores was very kind but unmistakably in charge. I initially wasn’t sure if she was truly this kind or just feeling the need to keep her eye on the new girl, but either way, I felt immediately at ease. Over the next two decades, I experienced Dolores’ hands-on approach with her physicians. She was truly their friend, and I loved seeing how she interacted with them. Her attention to detail was always so admirable. Mesa County Medical Society has always been in such great hands with Dolores. We will miss her terribly as our colleague as she begins her well-deserved retirement; however, Dolores will continue to be our cherished friend.

Andrea Chase

Arapahoe-Douglas-Elbert Medical Society Executive Director, reflecting on her decades of work as a peer of Dolores Bennett