Dragonheart Vermont has announced that Jen Butson Williams has joined the organization this spring, stepping into a key leadership role as the nonprofit opens registration for its 20th annual Dragonheart Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival to be held on August 9, 2026. She is now co-piloting this year’s festival alongside longtime Festival Director Vicky Drew, with plans to take on full leadership in 2027.
Jen joins at a pivotal moment for the organization — as Dragonheart Vermont approaches its sponsorship goal and is bringing this year’s festival to life and as paddlers will shortly begin signing up for the milestone 2026 event. The festival unites sport, service, and community, raising critical funds for Dragonheart Vermont and, this year, the Cancer Patient Support Foundation while celebrating the strength and resilience of cancer survivors. The annual Lake Champlain Dragon Boat Festival brings together athletes, survivors, caregivers, and community members in a powerful celebration of strength, teamwork, hope, and joy.
After years of admiring Dragonheart from the shoreline—and following her participation in the 2025 race—Jen officially stepped aboard in Spring 2026. She brings a multidisciplinary background spanning decades of communications, marketing, and event strategy, with prior roles at Ski Vermont, the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing, and the Vermont Arts Council.
“Dragonheart represents the best of what community can be—people coming together in support, in motion, and in celebration,” said Williams. “To step into this role during such a meaningful milestone year is incredibly energizing. This work matters because connection, care, and shared purpose are what carry people through.”
To help make the 20th anniversary festival the most impactful yet, Dragonheart Vermont is actively welcoming individuals, community and sport teams who would like to race and fundraise; this year youth teams (14 - 18 years old) are also being encouraged. Sponsors are needed and receive publicity and other benefits. To get involved, volunteer, or explore sponsorship opportunities, visit:
https://dragonheartvermont.org/festival. To register to race, go to https://secure.qgiv.com/event/2026lcdbf/
About Dragonheart Vermont
Dragonheart Vermont is a nonprofit dragon boat organization committed to strengthening and empowering breast cancer survivors and the greater community through the sport of dragon boating. Through its Festival, Dragonheart has given more than $1.2 million back to organizations across Vermont. For more information, visit: www.dragonheartvermont.org
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