Leandre Waldo, former director of communications and engagement at the University of Vermont Health Network — Home Health & Hospice, began work Feb 21 as chief of staff to Saint Michael’s College President Lorraine Sterritt.

“I couldn’t be more pleased to have such an eminently qualified, talented, and energetic person filling this vital role at a crucial time as we launch the strategic plan and conduct myriad other projects of crucial importance for the college,” Sterritt said.

Dinse PC, a full-service law firm in Vermont and upstate New York, has elected Shap Smith as its president and managing partner, effective Jan. 1. He succeeds Jeff McMahan.

Smith is a trial lawyer who advises clients on complex environmental, construction defect, intellectual property and commercial litigation matters. His clients include institutions of higher education and Vermont businesses, insurance companies and policyholders.