Vermont Business Magazine Vermont Lieutenant Governor Molly Gray today unveiled portraits of the three former Vermont women lieutenant governors: Consuelo N Bailey (1955-1957), Madeleine M Kunin (1979-1983), and Barbara W Snelling (1993-1997) in the Senate Chamber of the Vermont State House.
Lieutenant Governor Molly Gray
"Good morning and thank you for joining us for today’s portrait unveiling of former Vermont women Lt. Governors.
"My name is Lt. Governor Molly Gray and I’m honored to serve as Vermont’s 82nd Lt. Governor and the fourth woman to serve in the Office. Consuelo Bailey served from 1955 to 1957, Madeleine Kunin served from 1979 to 1983 and Barbara Snelling served from 1993 to 1997.
"Each of these women spent a lot of time in this Chamber, serving as Senate President. I felt it fitting today, to unveil their portraits in this place where they spent so much time.
"I want to take a moment to thank David Schutz for his help over the last several months, tracking down these historic photos and for his commitment to increasing the visibility and recognition of “Women in the State House.” The portraits we unveil today will add to the existing Vermont State House Exhibit, and will hang in the reception area of my office.
"Before we unveil these portraits, you will hear from David Schutz about the service of Consuelo Bailey. I will be pleased to read a statement from Governor Madeleine Kunin who unfortunately could not join us today and you will hear from Diane Snelling, on the service of her mother Lt. Governor Barbara Snelling.
"I stand on the shoulders of these three prior Vermont women who served as Lt. Governor and paved the way.
"It’s no secret that this building has an abundance of images of Vermont men who have served previously. And while it is true that these images reflect Vermont men who have historically held statewide Office – I must admit, it gets a little lonely walking through these halls and yes, at times, I’ve wondered if I belong! I know I’m not alone!
"I’m a strong believer that if you can’t see it, you can’t be it. Or positively, if you can see it, you can be it. We need more Vermont women and girls seeing themselves at that dais, in this building, and in statewide offices!
Governor Madeleine Kunin
"Thank you Lt. Governor Gray for organizing today’s unveiling and for working to honor the service of the former Vermont women Lt. Governors. I’m sorry I can’t be there in person today for such a significant event. Its important to have portraits of women leaders in the state house to serve as role models for the next generation. I was sworn in as Vermont’s 75th Lt. Governor on January 10, 1979, and I was happy to make a contribution to the state of Vermont.
"Thank you Lt. Governor Gray for putting together today’s event and thank you Vermont State Curator, David Schutz, for continuing to honor the legacy of women in the State House. I look forward to visiting the State House to view the portraits."
In the Senate Chamber Wednesday, Lieutenant Governor Molly Gray, with former State Senator Diane Snelling, unveil the portraits of the three women who served before her: Consuelo N Bailey (1955-1957), Madeleine M Kunin (1979-1983), and Barbara W Snelling. Diane Snelling is the daughter of Barbara Snelling. Courtesy photos.