United Way of Northwest Vermont has promoted Manager of Policy and Strategic Initiatives Emma Paradis and Manager of Learning Education Lisa Grefe to co-directors of Common Good Vermont, United Way’s statewide program dedicated to uniting, strengthening and advocating for Vermont’s nonprofit sector.
Paradis, who joined Common Good in 2021, led the planning and implementation of the inaugural Vermont Nonprofit Summit in 2024 and spearheaded the second annual summit in November with a sold-out crowd of 400 nonprofit professionals. She has led Common Good’s campaign for state and grant contract reform as well as its response to ongoing federal actions.
Grefe, who joined the Common Good team in 2022, has developed exceptional learning opportunities that strengthen Vermont’s nonprofit sector, including the Nonprofit Management and Fundraising and Development certificate programs. She leads the biannual Nonprofit Wages & Benefits Survey & Report, a hallmark resource for nonprofit employers.
Paradis and Grefe will succeed Martin Hahn, who is stepping down from his role as director at the end of January 2026. During his tenure, Hahn helped establish and launch Common Good Vermont’s membership program, a pivotal step in ensuring the program can sustain and expand its impactful work.
“We are deeply grateful for Martin’s leadership during this pivotal time and excited to see Emma and Lisa advance Common Good Vermont’s mission as co-directors,” said United Way Chief Impact Officer Amy Carmola.