After graduating from Colorado State University, moved to the Glenwood Springs/Rifle area and began a career in journalism that spanned over 25 years. She was a key management leader in the start-up of five different publications. Robinson led United Way of Garfield County and was involved with other human services non-profit agencies and causes throughout. As a board member or chair, she helped guide several economic development, social, and political organizations, including second-vice chair of the state Democratic Party. In 1996, Leslie ran for Garfield County Commissioner. Leslie has been actively working on oil-and-gas policies and in politics since the Oil Shale Boom and Bust in the early 1980s. She has been involved with the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission rule making processes for almost a decade. Leslie currently serves as chair of the Grand Valley Citizens Alliance http://www.coloradologic.org/about-logic/staff-board-of-directors/