Vermont Business Magazine The Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Heart of The Shires Brunch on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at the Park McCullough Historic Governor’s Mansion, honoring outstanding community leaders, nonprofits, and volunteers whose service continues to strengthen the civic fabric of Southwestern Vermont.
The sold-out event, presented by Coggins Auto Group and Fidium Business, brought together more than 100 community members, nonprofit leaders, and business partners for a morning of celebration, connection, and gratitude. Guests enjoyed a Vermont-crafted brunch by Powers Market while reflecting on the shared spirit of service that defines The Shires.
“The Heart of The Shires celebration was created to honor and uplift the people and organizations who make Southwestern Vermont such a special place to live, work, and belong,” said Matt Harrington, Executive Director of the Southwestern Vermont Chamber. “These are often our community’s quiet champions—those who lead with compassion, roll up their sleeves, and build connections where it’s needed most. At a time like this, we need that spirit now more than ever.”
Honoring the Legacy of Leadership: Stuart Hurd
The event opened with a heartfelt tribute to the late Stuart Hurd, longtime Town Manager of Bennington, who passed away earlier this year. The Chamber presented a commemorative piece to the Town of Bennington in his honor, recognizing his steadfast leadership, integrity, and commitment to public service.
“Stu reminded us that civility is not weakness, but strength,” Harrington said. “His calm presence in difficult conversations offered a model for how civic leaders can disagree without division and move forward without rancor.”
Tom Haley, Chair of the Bennington Select Board, accepted the piece on behalf of the town, adding, “Stuart didn’t chase the spotlight. He showed up every day to listen and quietly guide Bennington with steadiness and heart.”
Keynote on Resilience: Chelsea Bardot Lewis, Executive Director, VBSR
The keynote address was delivered by Chelsea Bardot Lewis, Executive Director of Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility (VBSR). Her remarks focused on resilience - both personal and organizational - through times of challenge and change.
Using Vermont’s “stick season” as a metaphor, Bardot Lewis encouraged attendees to embrace transition and radical prioritization, sharing lessons from her leadership journey in social enterprise and impact investing.
“Resilience isn’t about pretending things are fine,” she said. “It’s about acknowledging what’s hard, taking care of ourselves and others, and remembering that we grow stronger when we gather together.”
Award Recipients
Heart of The Shires Award – Tom Dee, Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC) Recognized for his visionary leadership, collaboration, and decades of dedication to advancing healthcare in Bennington County and beyond, Tom Dee, President and CEO of SVMC with Dartmouth Health, was honored for guiding his organization through transformative times with integrity and compassion.
Community Leadership Award – The Bank of Bennington
The Bank of Bennington received the 2025 Community Leadership Award for its ongoing commitment to local investment, small business support, and downtown vitality - proving that banking locally is not just good economics, but good citizenship.
Lindy Lynch Volunteer of the Year Award – Courtnay Wilson
The Lindy Lynch Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Courtnay Wilson for her exceptional volunteerism and leadership through the Shires Young Professionals and community organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Second Chance Animal Shelter, Bennington PRIDE, and Window Dressers.
In her remarks, Wilson said, “Being part of a community means giving back. I’ve never felt the kind of acceptance and camaraderie that comes with being part of this area of Vermont. I’m proud to call Bennington my home and look forward to many more years of serving this amazing community.”
Sponsors and Partners
In addition to presenting sponsors Coggins Auto Group and Fidium Business, the event was supported by Vermont News & Media, Abuela’s Plant Boutique & Floral Design Studio, The Shires Young Professionals, VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region, United Counseling Services, and GVH Studio.
Event host Park McCullough Historic Governor’s Mansion and caterer Powers Market helped create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for the region’s doers, dreamers, and difference-makers.
About The Heart of The Shires
Launched by the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce, The Heart of The Shires celebrates the nonprofits, social sector organizations, and civic leaders who strengthen Bennington County’s communities. The event recognizes outstanding service, innovation, and leadership while fostering collaboration across the region.
About the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce
The Southwestern Vermont Chamber advances a thriving regional economy and high quality of life through advocacy, community partnerships, and member services. Learn more at SWVTChamber.com.
(North Bennington, VT) — Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce
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