Vermont Legislative Council Announces New Director and Chief Council
(April 17) The Vermont Legislative Council has announced that Emily
Bergquist will become the new Director and Chief Counsel of the
Legislative Council on July 1, 2008. Bergquist was selected
following a national search to lead the Office of the Legislative
Council, which assists the legislature in drafting bills, providing
research and analysis of legislative and policy issues, and supporting
legislative committee work.
"The Vermont legislature sought a leader with a deep appreciation and
knowledge of the institution, and the vision and readiness to meet the
challenges we face in a changing world," said House Speaker Gaye
Symington. Ms. Berquist has all of these qualities and I look
forward to working with her as she assumes her new position.
Bergquist has worked as an attorney with the Vermont Legislative
Council since 1994, with particular expertise in the areas of taxation
and education finance. Previously, she served as Deputy Tax
Commissioner and General Counsel for the Vermont Department of Taxes,
managing the legal staff and handling major personnel matters for the
entire department. Prior to joining the Vermont Department of Taxes,
Emily was an associate in several law firms. She graduated from
Wellesley College and has a Masters in Philosophy from Rutgers
University. She received her JD from the University of Michigan.
Bergquists hire follows the retirement of Bill Russell,
Legislative Chief Counsel, who is stepping down at the conclusion of
this years legislative session after 35 years of service to the
Vermont legislature. There will be a public reception in Bill
Russell's honor Thursday, May 1 from 2-4 pm in the Statehouse
Cafeteria. All current and former legislators and staff, statehouse
regulars, as well as members of the general public, are encouraged to
attend to thank Bill for his many years of exceptional service, and
wish him well in his retirement.