Mercy Connections is pleased to announce the addition of two strong and vibrant women to their team. Gwen Pokalo and Hannah Hinsley, both former students of the University of Vermont (UVM), have been graciously welcomed into the Mercy Connections community. Both women agree that Mercy Connections feeds the soul, in addition to providing myriad opportunities for professional development.
During her tenure at UVM, Pokalo received her undergraduate degree in Community and International Development and her Master’s Degree in Community Development and Applied Economics with a focus in Entrepreneurial Development. She also managed a small local product store and micro-business incubator at the UVM for four years. Though new, Pokalo is no stranger to Mercy Connections or the Women’s Small Business Program (WSBP). She transitioned into her current position as Women’s Smal Business Program Coordinator after serving as Finance Instructor for the WSBP Program. During that time, she was able to witness the program in action. Seeing women grow and achieve their goals provoked Pokalo to develop a strong faith in the program and a desire to interact with this community of women in an even deeper way.
Hinsley, also a graduate from the Community Development and Applied Economics department at UVM, received her degree in Public Communication. Through education in service-learning classes, and practical experience gained through internships, Hinsley was well prepared to jump into the position of Marketing Coordinator head-first. From the moment she stepped through the doors at Mercy Connections, she felt a strong sense of community among the women there. This community provides Hinsley’s work with the purpose and meaning necessary to help empower women to realize their potential.