People in the news

Rose Polyakova, co-owner and operator of Heart of the Village Inn in Shelburne, has joined the Lipkin Audette Team at Coldwell Banker Hickok & Boardman. She brings a strong background in finance, entrepreneurial experience, a heart for hospitality, and a record of completing a half marathon in all 50 states to her new career as a REALTOR. 

Community Financial Services Group, LLC (CFSG) has promoted Kimberly L. Arms to Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Arms is also a member of CFSG’s Executive Team, where she plays a key role in shaping the firm’s strategic direction and operational excellence.

Community Financial Services Group, LLC (CFSG) has promoted Patrick Talcott to Executive Vice President and Director of Asset Management. In this expanded leadership role, Talcott will oversee CFSG’s asset management strategy and lead a team of Wealth Advisors in delivering customized investment solutions designed to help clients achieve their long-term financial goals.

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.

Freeman French Freeman, Vermont’s leading architectural firm, has announced three promotions at their Burlington-based practice.

Ledyard Wealth Management in Hanover, NH, announced the appointment of Karissa McDonough, CFA, as Chief Investment Officer and Senior Vice President, effective March 30, 2026.

Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO) has announced two leadership appointments: Michael Hale has been named to the Board of Directors, and Betsy Bloomer has been promoted to Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Strategy.

Governor Phil Scott has appointed Republican David Soucy of Barre Town to fill the vacant Washington-Orange seat in the House of Representatives.

Biswas Pradhan (Bis), MPH, MSW, Community Health’s new Director of Population Health and Quality, brings experience, insight, perspective and public health strategy to Community Health’s executive team as population health becomes a vital part of delivering quality health care.

Alex Bunten, director of workforce and education at the Lake Champlain Chamber, has completed the 2025–26 Fellowship for Talent Development, a national program led by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Foundation.

Community National Bank (CNB) President and CEO Christopher Caldwell is pleased to announce the promotion of Amanda (Mandy) Sargent to Assistant Vice President, Financial Officer and Asset Liability Manager.

Health Care and Rehabilitation Services (HCRS), southeastern Vermont’s non-profit community mental health agency, officially welcomed Anne Bilodeau to her new role as Chief Executive Officer on April 1.